Food and liquid left in packaging can contaminate paper, create smells and reduce recycling quality. Items normally need to be empty, but that does not mean using large amounts of hot water.
Quick answer: empty containers and remove food residue. A quick rinse in used washing-up water is often enough; follow the specific preparation instructions from your council.
Why cleaning helps
Residue can spread onto clean paper and card, attract pests and create problems during sorting. Completely full or partly full containers should not enter dry recycling.
How much cleaning is enough
Scrape out solids and give accepted jars, tins, tubs and trays a light rinse. They do not need to be dishwasher-clean. Let paper and card stay dry.
Items needing special care
Oil, paint, chemicals and medicines require specialist routes. Do not rinse hazardous residue into drains simply to make packaging recyclable.
Check each component
Remove absorbent pads or leftover film where instructed. Lids, pumps and labels may have separate local rules.
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Official sources
Sources checked: July 2026. Local services and national requirements can change.