Any form of a blade, whether it is a knife (new or old), should not be placed directly into the trash bin since it could cause harm to anyone. Blades can easily damage processing and garbage trucks, necessitating pricey repairs and posing a risk to worker safety. That is why in this article you will get to know how to dispose of kitchen knives UK safely and legally.
There are steps that you can follow to safely dispose of the knife but if you don’t want to dispose of them, then alternating methods are also provided from which you can choose and be sure you’re contributing to everyone’s safety.
HOW DO I DISPOSE OF OLD KITCHEN KNIVES SAFELY UK
Nowadays, most waste pickups are automated, so refuse collectors don’t physically handle the waste, which significantly reduces the possibility of someone getting cut or hurt when handling a bin bag with a knife or blade inside of it.
However, we never know the situation that’s why you should secure your knives in something that will prevent them from slicing somebody to be safe. So the following are the steps on how to dispose of old kitchen knives UK safely.
- To prevent the knives’ blades from being able to cut through the wrapping, it’s ideal to use something to hide the knife’s point; cork or rubber are acceptable choices.
- Then totally cover the knife with several layers of newspaper or simple paper.
- Then apply at least 2 layers of tape on the paper so that it does not come off.
- Next, carefully fold a piece of cardboard over the knife and again secure it with tape.
- Put your double-wrapped knife in a cardboard box or other container for added security.
- To draw attention to the contents and identify the box’s contents, write “Sharp Items” or “Kitchen Knives” on them.
- The knife is now prepared for disposal after being safely contained in the box or container. Place the box in your regular trash can.
5 SUBSTITUTE TECHNIQUES FOR GETTING RID OF OLD KNIVES
Safe, eco-friendly alternatives exist for discarding used knives if disposal alone doesn’t suffice to satisfy your needs. Here are five possibilities on how to dispose of cutlery UK rather than throwing them in the trash.
1. SHARP THE OLD KNIVES
Sharpen your old kitchen knife set to give it a new life, instead of throwing away or sharing with others. Without much work or price, dull blades can be brought back to a razor-sharp edge.
The sharpening procedure can extend their lifespan by several times with no waste. Savings are possible since a high-quality knife sharpener typically costs significantly less than a high-quality pair of knives.
2. TAKE THE KNIVES TO THE RECYCLING CENTER
How to recycle kitchen knives? Recycling kitchen knives is better than landfill disposal, as with anything else, to reduce waste. Sustainability of local trash facilities for knife disposal depends on the type of metal used to make them. The best kitchen knives are made from high-carbon stainless steel, with well-balanced handles for comfortable use.
Find out whether there is a scrap metal recycler in your area, they are common in the UK. Make careful to wrap the knives in newspaper and cardboard as stated above before going to the recycling facility.
3. DONATE THE KNIVES
You might consider donating your blades if their quality is good enough. Local businesses and individuals may appreciate knives as gifts for friends, family or as donations to charity shops.
You can also search online for a variety of charities that might be ready to accept your knives. When donating your kitchen knives to the charity, make sure to thoroughly wash them and, if possible, quickly sharpen them. Ensure to follow the directions while packing the knives properly.
4. SELL THE KNIVES
How to get rid of old kitchen knives UK? Selling knives in good condition is an option if you’re bored with them and want to try trendy ones. Selling knives to individuals under 18 years old is prohibited in the UK, so exercise caution.
You must post your old kitchen knives with an age verification if you plan to sell them online. However, don’t forget to follow the steps to safely pack the knives.
5. TAKE KNIVES TO THE POLICE STATION
Since you’re curious about how to dispose of kitchen knives legally then taking your knife to the police station would be a great option. If you don’t want to dispose of your knife but at the same time want to get rid of it too, then simply take your knife in safe packaging to the police station.
In the UK police will accept the knife and the authorities will be able to properly dispose of them in this way, old knives won’t end up in the hands of any reckless or dangerous people.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The conclusion of how I dispose of old kitchen knives safely UK is that there are many ways to do so. If your knife has a good condition simply sharpen it for reuse, sell it, and give it to charity or donate them, if not so then take it to a recycling center or give it to the police in the UK.
However, the simplest method of them all is to simply pack them by following the above-mentioned steps and throw them into the dustbin for the well-being of both people and animals as well as the environment. Always put safety first when handling sharp things, and never try to get rid of them without taking the necessary safety measures.