Can you recycle a jigsaw puzzle? They’re mostly cardboard, so technically yes, but generally the pieces are too small to be processed properly. Still, if you really wanted to try, putting all the pieces back in the box and taping the lid shut might work. Although honestly, why throw one away at all? People love second-hand puzzles, even incomplete ones, as long as you warn them first. Derbyshire Council suggests donating or selling them, and Reddit had some brilliant reuse ideas too, including turning old puzzles into wreaths, coasters and even earrings.

This episode of Recycled Content, is the 'Rubbish or Not' from episode 46 of Talking Rubbish, which first aired on 12th June 2025.

While every effort has been made to provide the most accurate information, recycling guidance changes quickly and some advice may become outdated over time. Always check with your local council for the rules that apply to recycling in your area. On the main Talking Rubbish podcast, we include an additions and corrections section where we update anything we may have got wrong.

These clips come from the weekly show, Talking Rubbish - The Recycling Podcast

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