What Belongs in the Green, Brown, and Black Bins in Kildare?

Getting your waste sorting right is one of the easiest ways to help the environment. Whether you’re new to Kildare or just need a quick refresher, this guide explains what goes into each bin — green (recycling), brown (organic/food waste), and black (general waste).

🟩 Green Bin – Recycling

Your green bin is for clean, dry recyclables. Make sure items are loose — not bagged — and free from food or liquids.

✅ YES – Put These in:

• Paper (newspapers, magazines, letters, leaflets)
• Cardboard (flattened boxes, cereal boxes, cartons)
• Plastic bottles and containers (milk, shampoo, detergent)
• Aluminium cans and tins
• Clean milk and juice cartons (Tetra Pak)

❌ NO – Keep These Out:

• • Glass (use bottle banks instead)
  • Food or liquid-soiled items
  • Clothing
  • Food
  • Polystyrene

🟫 Brown Bin – Organic/Food Waste

Your brown bin is for compostable kitchen and garden waste. This waste is turned into compost or biogas!

✅ YES – Put These in:

• Food scraps (fruit, veg, meat, fish, bones)
• Tea bags, coffee grounds
• Plate scrapings
• Cooked and raw leftovers
• Garden waste (small branches, leaves, grass)

❌ NO – Keep These Out:

• Plastic bags (unless compostable)
• Liquids (oil, milk, soup)
• Glass or metals

⬛ Black Bin – General Waste

Your black bin is for items that can’t be recycled or composted. This bin has the highest cost per lift, so it’s best to minimise what goes in.

✅ YES – Put These in:

• Nappies
• Tissues and paper towels
• Soiled food packaging
• Non-recyclable plastics (e.g. greasy crisp wrappers, soiled cling film)

❌ NO – Keep These Out:

• Recyclables (they belong in the green bin)
• Food waste (use the brown bin instead)
• Hazardous items (batteries, light bulbs, paint — see special disposal)

📥 Download the Full Guide

Need a fridge-friendly version? Download our printable bin sorting guide here.