Find places to recycle plastic bags and film near you

Find a nearby place for plastic bags and film

Set your location to search close to home. The finder only shows places linked to this item.

How to recycle plastic bags and film

Use bags again where possible. Many supermarkets collect selected soft plastics, but the accepted list at the collection point is the final guide.

Possible recycling routes

Specialist recycling schemesSoft plastic collection pointsRetailer take-back points

Prepare plastic bags and film for recycling

• Empty bags
• Remove receipts and food
• Keep film clean and dry

What must stay out

Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.

• Cling film, compostable bags and heavily soiled film can be excluded
• Local kerbside rules vary
• Do not leave full bags beside a shop collection point

Types of site to check

These site types can list plastic bags and film. 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.

• Soft plastic collection points

  Shop collection points for clean plastic bags, wrapping and flexible packaging. Each scheme has its own accepted list.

• 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.

• TerraCycle UK

  Brand-funded collection programmes for selected packaging and products that normal household recycling services may not accept.

Related item guides

• Bubble wrap

  Clean flexible plastic bubble wrap used to protect parcels and household goods.

• Crisp packets

  Empty flexible plastic snack bags, including metallised plastic packets.

• Pet food pouches

  Empty flexible pouches used for wet pet food and treats.

• Plastic pots, tubs and trays

  Empty food pots, margarine tubs, meat trays, fruit punnets and similar rigid plastic packaging.

Browse all item guides

Questions about recycling plastic bags and film

Where can I recycle plastic bags and film?

Enter your postcode in the local finder to search specialist recycling schemes and soft plastic collection points 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 plastic bags and film for recycling?

Use bags again where possible. Many supermarkets collect selected soft plastics, but the accepted list at the collection point is the final guide.