What is Mixed Waste?
Mixed waste is a term used to describe a combination of various waste types. A mixed waste skip bin is a popular choice for residential use and also commercial use during the construction, renovation, or demolition of buildings. This waste typically includes a wide range of materials such as bricks, concrete, timber, plasterboard, metal, and plastics.
Proper disposal of mixed waste is essential to prevent environmental pollution and minimise its impact on human health. Recycling is an effective way to reduce the environmental impact of mixed waste. By recycling materials such as timber, and metal, the amount of waste that goes to landfill can be reduced, conserving natural resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Here at Clint’s Skips, we recycle approx. 80% of the mixed waste we collect in our skip bins.

Composition of Mixed Building Waste
The composition of mixed waste can vary depending on the type of cleanup project. However, some of the most common materials found in mixed waste include:
- Concrete and bricks: These materials account for a significant portion of mixed waste. They are heavy and bulky and require special handling and disposal methods.
- Timber: Timber waste is generated from the use of wood in construction projects. This waste can be reused or recycled, reducing the environmental impact of mixed building waste.
- Plasterboard: Plasterboard waste is generated from the installation and removal of plasterboard sheets. It can be recycled or disposed of in landfill.
- Glass and metal: These materials are often used in the construction of windows and doors. They can be recycled and reused. Please note that we cannot glass in our skip bins and this will need to be disposed of separately.
- Plastics: Plastic waste is generated from the use of plastic pipes, fittings, and other materials in construction projects. It can be recycled or disposed of in landfill.
- General Waste: General waste is another type of material that can be found in mixed waste. It refers to non-hazardous waste that may or may not be able to be recycled or reused. General waste includes items such as clothes, whitegoods, cardboard, cabling, bricks, rocks, dirt and electronics. While it does not make up a significant portion of mixed waste, it is still important to dispose of general waste properly to prevent environmental pollution.
Proper Disposal Methods for Mixed Building Waste
Proper disposal of mixed building waste is essential to minimize its impact on the environment. The following methods can be used for the disposal of mixed building waste:
- Recycling: Many materials found in mixed building waste, such as timber, glass, and metal, can be recycled. Recycling reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfill and conserves natural resources.
- Landfill: Landfills are designed to handle non-hazardous waste. Mixed building waste that cannot be recycled can be disposed of in landfill. However, this should be the last resort, as it contributes to environmental pollution.
- Skip Bins: Hiring a skip bin is a convenient and cost-effective way to dispose of mixed building waste. It allows for the efficient removal of waste from the construction site and ensures that the waste is disposed of properly.
Environmental Impact of Mixed Building Waste
The disposal of mixed waste can have a significant impact on the environment. Landfills generate greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. Additionally, the disposal of mixed building waste can lead to soil and water pollution.
Recycling mixed building waste can reduce its environmental impact. Recycling conserves natural resources and reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfill. Proper disposal of mixed building waste can also reduce the risk of pollution and protect the environment.
In conclusion, mixed waste is a significant environmental issue that requires proper handling and disposal. Recycling is an effective way to reduce the environmental impact of mixed building waste. Hiring a skip bin is a convenient and cost-effective way to dispose of mixed waste. Proper disposal of mixed building waste can protect the environment and reduce the risk of pollution.
What mixed waste items can you put in a skip?
The following mixed waste can be put in a skip bin:
- General Waste
- Household Waste
- Green Waste
- Construction Waste
- Toys
- Furniture
- Clothes
- Appliances
- Cardboard
- Metals
- Plastics
What items are not allowed in a skip?
The following construction waste is prohibited and cannot be placed in a skip bin:
- Food
- Glass
- Light Bulbs
- Fluorescent lamps
- Drink
- Paint,
- Chemicals, tires,
- Batteries
- Asbestos
Skip bin sizes for waste cleanups big or small.
Clint’s Skips offers skip bin sizes ranging from 3 to 8 cubic metres to fit all types of waste. Have a browse of our sizes to find the right option for your next project, or give Clint a call and he’ll make sure you get the right fit.