What can’t be put in a skip bag? In this blog, we outline any relevant regulations and our environmental responsibility, which dictate what can go in a Morley Skips skip bag.
Skip bags are a convenient and durable solution for waste disposal, especially for smaller projects or where space is limited. However, it’s essential to know that not all types of waste are suitable for skip bags. At Morley Skips, we prioritise safety, environmental responsibility, and compliance with UK regulations; this guide will help you to understand what items can and can’t be put in a skip bag and why.
Skip bags are ideal for garden clearances, home renovations, or small construction projects. Once filled, we will collect and dispose of the contents responsibly. However, due to health, safety and environmental concerns, certain materials are restricted.
The following items should never be placed in a skip bag:
1. Hazardous Waste
Hazardous items can cause harm to people, wildlife and the environment, and must be treated with extra care. The following items require specialist handling and cannot be placed into skip bags under any circumstances:
2. Electrical Equipment
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) includes anything with a plug or battery. These must be recycled separately and not placed into general waste or skip bags.
Examples include:
3. Gas Cylinders and Pressurised Containers
Even when empty; gas bottles and other pressurised containers are a serious risk due to their explosive potential and need to be disposed of delicately.
4. Tyres
Tyres are not suitable for skip bags as they are made of materials that require a different recycling process. Disposal must be handled by waste sites that are equipped to recycle rubber responsibly.
5. Upholstered Furniture
Due to updated UK regulations regarding Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), many upholstered items must be collected separately and not included in skip bags.
This includes:
6. Liquids and Fuels
Skip bags are not watertight and cannot safely contain any liquid.
Items such as:
7. Plasterboard
Whilst plasterboard itself is not dangerous, it cannot be mixed with biodegradable waste. When it breaks down in landfill, it can release harmful gases. For this reason, it must be collected separately and not included in skip bags.
8. Clinical and Medical Waste
Used bandages, needles, pharmaceutical items and other clinical waste are all prohibited from skip bags. These materials must be collected by licensed medical waste services.
These rules aren’t here to make waste disposal more difficult; they’re designed to keep everyone safe and protect the environment.
Placing prohibited items in a skip bag can:
If you’re ever unsure about what you can or can’t dispose of in a skip bag, our helpful team is always available to advise.
At Morley Skips, we offer a full range of waste management services. If you have materials that can’t go into a skip bag, we can help you to dispose of them safely. Give us a call and we’ll help you find the right solution for your specific waste needs.
Options include:
Skip bags are a great option for many small-to-medium projects, but like any waste solution, they come with a few guidelines to keep in mind. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to speak to someone who knows the ropes.
With over 25 years’ experience, a dedicated waste transfer station and a friendly team on hand, Morley Skips makes it easy to dispose of your waste safely and legally, without the hassle. We’ll help you choose the right solution for your needs, advise on any restrictions, and get everything booked in quickly.
Arranging your skip bags couldn’t be simpler; you can call our team on 01621 815 287 or book online here.
