RESIDENTS across Devon are being reminded to “wash, squash and pop the cap on” when they recycle glass and plastic bottles and jars.

Many people are unsure if they should leave lids on recyclable containers when they recycle from home or make use of bottle banks and Household Waste Recycling Centres.

Recycle Devon has been working with Devon authorities to make recycling as easy as possible for residents.

Following on from industry advice, you can now leave your caps, tops and lids on both your plastic and glass bottles and jars. Simply give the bottle or jar a rinse, squash plastic bottles, put the top back on and recycle as you normally would – even if it’s a metal lid on a glass jar.

Replacing lids, caps and tops will not only ensure they are recycled and Devon maintains its recycling rate, but will reduce volume in recycling bins and recycling lorries.

The preference is that lids are attached to bottles and jars but if this is not possible lids can be recycled according to their material, so metal lids in with cans and plastic lids in with plastics.

All local councils in Devon will collect your plastic bottles - including ones from your bathroom - in your usual household recycling service.

Most authorities will collect your glass bottles and jars.

Residents can check for specific recycling information in their area via the Recycle Devon website .