Christmas is a time for celebrations, gifts, and family gatherings – but it’s also a time when household waste increases dramatically. Many well-meaning homeowners unknowingly make disposal mistakes over the festive period that can harm the environment, block drains, or even pose safety risks.
To help you stay on Santa’s nice list this year, here are five common Christmas disposal mistakes – and what to do instead.
1. Throwing old string lights in the regular bin
Those tangled fairy lights that finally gave up this year may look harmless, but they contain wiring and small electronic components that shouldn’t go in household rubbish. When disposed of incorrectly, they can contribute to landfill pollution.
Do this instead:
Take old lights to a local electrical recycling point or WEEE collection facility.
2. Incorrect battery disposal from new toys
Christmas morning often means toys that require batteries – and plenty of them! Used or unwanted batteries thrown in general waste can leak harmful chemicals and pose fire risks, especially lithium batteries.
Do this instead:
Store used batteries safely and recycle them at a designated battery collection point.
3. Pouring cooking grease down the drain
After a big festive meal, it’s tempting to wash leftover fats and grease down the sink. Unfortunately, grease solidifies as it cools, leading to blocked pipes and costly plumbing issues.
Do this instead:
Allow grease to cool, collect it in a container, and dispose of it with appropriate waste or at a recycling facility where available.
4. Disposing of aerosols with household waste
From cooking sprays to festive decorations, aerosols are common at Christmas. Even when empty, they can still be hazardous if crushed or incinerated.
Do this instead:
Check local guidance and dispose of aerosols through proper recycling or hazardous waste collections.
5. Mixing hazardous cleaning products
Post-Christmas clean-ups often involve strong cleaning products. Mixing leftover chemicals or pouring them down drains can release harmful fumes or damage water systems.
Do this instead:
Keep products in original containers and follow local disposal advice for hazardous household chemicals.
A little extra care goes a long way. By disposing of festive waste responsibly, you help protect your home, your community, and the environment – while avoiding unnecessary hazards.
