Commercial waste
Dry mixed
recycling (DMR)
One bin for dry recyclables
Simpler Recycling ready- Dry mixed recycling (DMR) collects paper, card, plastic and metal (sometimes glass) in one bin, sorted at a facility afterwards.
- It's a simple way for businesses to recycle and supports Simpler Recycling compliance.
- Keep it clean and dry — contamination from food or liquids can spoil a whole load.
- Food waste and general waste still go in their own separate bins; DMR is for dry recyclables only.
If separating every type of recycling into its own bin sounds like a hassle, dry mixed recycling is the answer many businesses use. Here's what it is and how to make the most of it.
What dry mixed recycling is
Dry mixed recycling (DMR) is a single bin for your clean, dry recyclables combined — typically paper, card, plastics and metals, and sometimes glass. Rather than you sorting each material, the mixed load is separated later at a materials recovery facility.
What goes in — and what doesn't
In: clean paper and card, plastic bottles and packaging, cans and tins, and (where accepted) glass. Not in: food waste, general waste, and anything wet or contaminated.
Keep it clean and dry
The one rule that matters: contamination spoils recycling. Food residue, liquids or the wrong items can downgrade or reject an entire load, so a quick rinse of containers and keeping food out of the DMR bin makes a real difference.
How it fits Simpler Recycling
Under Simpler Recycling, businesses must separate dry recycling and food waste from general waste. DMR covers the dry recycling part in one convenient bin, while food waste and general waste stay separate. It's a practical way to stay compliant without juggling multiple recycling streams.
Want recycling set up simply and compliantly? We compare commercial waste and recycling collection across licensed UK carriers. Call 0845 862 1947 or get in touch — free, no obligation.
Dry mixed recycling keeps recycling simple: one bin for your dry materials, kept clean, with food and general waste separate. It's an easy way to recycle more and meet the rules.