How to recycle disposable coffee cups
Paper-based takeaway cups with a thin plastic lining.
Other names include hot drink cups, paper cups, takeaway cups.
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How to recycle disposable coffee cups
Use a reusable cup when practical. Empty disposable cups need a named cup collection because most paper bins cannot process the lining.
- Possible recycling routes
- Specialist recycling schemesRetailer take-back points
Prepare disposable coffee cups for recycling
- Empty the drink
- Remove the lid and sleeve
- Use the marked sections of the collection point
What must stay out
Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.
- Most paper and card bins exclude lined cups
- Compostable cups need a suitable commercial composting route
- Collection schemes can accept cups only, without lids or other packaging
Types of site to check
These site types can list disposable coffee cups. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.
- Specialist recycling schemes
Collection services for items that most household recycling bins cannot accept. Schemes can use shops, postal returns or limited public drop-off points.
- Retailer take-back points
Shops and delivery services that take back selected products or packaging. Rules depend on the product, the retailer and whether you are buying a replacement.
Collection and take-back services
These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.
- Recycle Now
UK recycling guidance with an item directory and a postcode-based recycling locator.
Related item guides
- Cardboard
Clean corrugated boxes, cereal boxes, card sleeves and other dry household card.
- Food and drink cartons
Fibre-based cartons for milk, juice, soup and other food or drink products.
- Plastic pots, tubs and trays
Empty food pots, margarine tubs, meat trays, fruit punnets and similar rigid plastic packaging.
Questions about recycling disposable coffee cups
- Where can I recycle disposable coffee cups?
- Enter your postcode in the local finder to search specialist recycling schemes and retailer take-back points near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.
- How should I prepare disposable coffee cups for recycling?
- Use a reusable cup when practical. Empty disposable cups need a named cup collection because most paper bins cannot process the lining.
Sources for this guide
- Simpler recycling: household recycling in England
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs · Reviewed 14 August 2026
- Recycle an item
Recycle Now · Reviewed 14 August 2026