Coronavirus (COVID-19): disposing of waste

Defra have published guidance on how to dispose of your personal or business waste, including face coverings and personal protective equipment (PPE), during the coronavirus pandemic. This guidance applies in England only and is for non-healthcare settings.

If you need to throw away used face coverings or PPE, such as gloves:

• dispose of them in your ‘black bag’ waste bin at home or at work, or a litter bin if you’re outside
• do not put them in a recycling bin as they cannot be recycled through conventional recycling facilities
• take them home with you if there is no litter bin – do not drop them as litter

You do not need to:

• put them in an extra bag
• store them for a time before throwing them away (unless you are self isolating)

If you’re self isolating

To dispose of any face coverings or PPE you or members of your household use when self- isolating, you should:

• double bag them
• store them for 72 hours before putting them in a ‘black bag’ waste bin

Do not put them in a recycling bin.

Remove PPE carefully, and avoid touching the inside of your face covering.

After you remove your PPE or face covering, wash your hands or use hand sanitiser.

Full details can be found in the guidance here.