Managing household waste can feel overwhelming. One bin fills up after dinner, another after a quick clean-up, and soon everything ends up mixed together. From food scraps to plastic wrappers and old chargers, most homes deal with far more waste than they realise. Learning how to separate it properly is one of the simplest ways to reduce harm and make everyday disposal more responsible. Knowing what goes where keeps homes cleaner, improves recycling outcomes, and prevents harmful materials from slipping into landfills. Here is a simple, practical guide to help you segregate household waste with confidence. Why waste segregation matters Proper waste segregation is not just about following rules; it has a direct impact on the environment. When organic waste mixes with non-biodegradable materials, it becomes harder to process, often ending up in landfills and producing harmful gases. Separating recyclables guarantees they can be processed efficiently, while compostable waste can return nutrients to the soil. Additionally, segregated waste makes it easier for local authorities to collect and manage refuse, reducing public health risks. Segregated waste makes it easier for local authorities to collect and manage refuse, reducing public health risks. Photograph: (Adobe Stock) The three basic categories to remember Most household waste fits into three broad categories: Biodegradable waste Recyclable waste Hazardous and e-waste Understanding these categories is the first step towards building a simple, effective system at home. 1. Biodegradable waste: Feed the soil, not the landfill Biodegradable waste, also known as wet waste, breaks down naturally and can be turned into compost. Typical items include: Vegetable and fruit peels Leftover food and rice Tea bags and coffee grounds Garden trimmings and flowers Tips: Keep a separate container in the kitchen for organic scraps. Use a compost bin or pit if space allows. Even small apartments can benefit from a vermicomposting setup. Avoid mixing in plastics, glass, or metals, as this contaminates compost and makes it unusable. 2. Recyclable waste: Give materials a second life Recyclables, often referred to as dry waste, include materials that can be processed and reused. This category typically includes: Paper and cardboard Plastic bottles and containers Glass jars and bottles Aluminium cans and metal scraps Recyclables, often referred to as dry waste, include materials that can be processed and reused. Photograph: (CleanLink) Tips: Rinse containers to remove food residue before disposal. Flatten cardboard boxes to save space. Store recyclables in a separate bin to prevent contamination. Check with your local collection service to understand what types of plastics and metals they accept, as rules can vary. 3. Hazardous and e-waste: Handle with care Some items require special attention due to their potential harm to humans or the environment. These include: Batteries and bulbs Old electronics like phones, computers, and printers Medicines and chemical cleaners Tips: Never throw hazardous waste into regular bins. Take e-waste to certified collection points or recycling centres. Store items like batteries and medicines in a secure container until disposal. Proper handling prevents toxic substances from leaching into soil and water, protecting both health and the ecosystem. Keep a separate container in the kitchen for organic scraps. Photograph: (Curly Tales) Simple habits that make segregation easier Colour-code bins: Green for organic waste , blue for recyclables, and red for hazardous or e-waste. Label clearly: Use labels with examples to make sorting easy for everyone at home. Build shared habits: Explain the system to family members so segregation becomes routine. Follow local updates: Waste collection rules change, so staying informed avoids errors. Reduce what you throw away: Cut back on single-use plastics , buy in bulk, and reuse items where possible.