Hazardous

Used fireworks can still ignite

Soak them in water overnight before they go in a bin.

Used fireworks

Also called: used firework, spent firework, burnt out firework, burnt firework, firework casing, firework tube

General waste

National rules. Choose your council to see its answer.

Your council's answer

The answer can differ by council. Choose your council to see its rules for this item.

How to prepare it

  1. Wait until it is completely finished and cold, then pick it up with strong gloves or tongs
  2. Soak it in a bucket of water overnight so there is no chance of it igniting, or longer if it was lit and didn't go off
  3. Wrap or bag the soaked fireworks and put them in general waste
  4. Never put used fireworks in a recycling bin, and never burn them
  5. Never put anything hot in a bin

National rules

The answer isn't the same in every UK nation. Choose your council to see the one that applies to you.

England, Scotland and Northern Ireland

General waste

This can't be recycled here. Put it in your general waste bin.

This item can't be recycled at home, so put it in your general waste bin.

Wales

General waste

This can't be recycled here. Put it in your general waste bin.

This item can't be recycled at home, so put it in your general waste; check if your council also collects nappies and incontinence pads separately.

Wales-wide guidance, checked 27 Sep 2026. View the source

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