Are bin colours the same everywhere?

No. Colours can differ between countries, cities, operators and even buildings. Use the label and official local instructions.

What if the container colour and label disagree?

Follow the printed label and current official service instruction rather than colour alone.

No. Collection schedules can vary by address and should be checked with the local service.

Local sorting guide

Use the colour, printed label and scope together. The guide below does not replace address-specific collection schedules.

Verified 2026-08-095 local streams

Quick sorting reference

Madrid, Spain

Yellow

Plastic and metal packaging and drink cartonsMadrid municipal system

Blue

Clean paper and cardboardMadrid municipal system

Green

Bottles and jarsMadrid municipal system

Brown

Accepted food and organic wasteMadrid municipal system

Orange / grey

Non-recyclable household wasteMadrid municipal system; container appearance can vary

Always read the label on the actual container. Colours are not globally standardised.

Confirm that the guide applies to your municipality, neighbourhood or operator.
Read the label on the container and check the accepted product format.
Keep batteries, electronics, chemicals and other special waste out of ordinary household streams.