Collection and sorting guidance
Dry recyclables
Keep paper, packaging, metal and glass separate where the local service provides dedicated containers or bags; follow the label on the actual receptacle.
Food and garden waste
Use the separate organic-waste route only where it is available for the property or district.
Residual waste
Use mixed waste only for material that cannot follow a reuse, recycling, food-waste or special-waste route.
Bulky and hazardous
Electrical items, batteries, paint, chemicals, medicines, tyres and bulky waste require a dedicated collection point, booking or take-back service.
Bin and bag colours
Use the labels and instructions supplied by the local service. The colours below apply only within the scope stated for each stream.
Blue — Paper and cardboard
Clean paper and cardboard
Reykjavik household bin systemGreen — Plastic packaging
Accepted plastic packaging
Reykjavik household bin systemBrown — Food waste
Accepted food scraps
Reykjavik household bin systemGrey — Mixed waste
Non-recyclable household waste
Reykjavik household bin systemBefore you dispose of an item
- Check the official schedule and access rules for the exact address.
- Keep batteries, electronics, chemicals and medicines out of ordinary household bins.
- Confirm accepted materials and opening hours before travelling to a drop-off point.