What the black bin is for
The black bin is for general household rubbish that cannot go in recycling, food waste or garden waste collections. It is the last place to check after you have ruled out the other bins.
What should go elsewhere first
Suitable plastics, glass, metal and cartons should usually be checked against blue-lidded bin guidance. Paper and card belong with the green-lidded bin when clean and dry. Food waste should go in the food caddy, and garden waste should use the brown bin service where subscribed.
Why checking recycling first helps
Checking recycling first keeps useful materials out of general rubbish and helps avoid a black bin filling up too quickly. It also reduces the chance of putting the wrong item in the wrong bin.
Set a general waste reminder
Use the Ipswich bin day checker to see the next black bin collection shown to the app and download a simple reminder.
Official council guidance for unusual items
Bulky items, hazardous waste, electrical items, building materials and anything you are unsure about should be checked with Ipswich Borough Council before disposal.