Overview
- A St Helens refuse worker told residents via the council’s TikTok that wrapping paper, gift bags and many Christmas cards are not accepted in the borough’s paper recycling.
- Recycling advisers recommend the scrunch test for wrapping paper, but anything with foil, glitter, plastic coatings or glue should go in general waste even if it stays scrunched.
- Rules vary by area, with Manchester saying plain paper greetings cards and unembellished wrapping can go in the blue paper-and-card bin once decorations are removed.
- Wiltshire guidance includes placing batteries and fairy lights in a plastic bag with blue‑lidded recycling, taking fake trees to recycling centres, and using green waste collections or local charities for real trees.
- Councils remind residents of holiday collection changes and potential penalties for incorrect disposal or leaving bins out at the wrong times, with reported fines typically ranging from about £60 to £200.