What Are the Different Types of Recycle Bins?

by | May 11, 2025 | Recycle Bins | 0 comments

Recycle waste bin

In today’s environmentally conscious world, proper waste segregation is essential—and recycling bins play a critical role in helping homes, businesses, and institutions manage waste sustainably. At Kejani Cleaning Services Limited, we believe in educating our customers on the best recycling solutions to fit their needs.

In this post, we’ll explore the different types of recycle bins, including color codes, materials, shapes, sizes, and use cases, particularly within the Kenyan context.


1. Color-Coded Recycling Bins (By Waste Type)

Color-coding is a global standard used to make segregation intuitive and easy. In Kenya, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) supports the following standard color guidelines:

๐Ÿ”ต Blue Bin – Recyclables (Plastic, Paper, Cardboard, Glass, Cans)

Used in offices, homes, and public spaces to collect clean recyclable items.

๐ŸŸข Green Bin – Organic/Biodegradable Waste

Used in kitchens, restaurants, and gardens for food scraps, grass, and biodegradable matter.

๐Ÿ”ด Red Bin – Hazardous Waste

Used in medical facilities, labs, or industrial sites to collect harmful chemicals or biohazards.

๐ŸŸก Yellow Bin – Clinical/Infectious Waste

Commonly seen in hospitals and clinics for syringes, gloves, dressings, etc.

โšซ Black Bin – General Waste (Non-recyclable & Mixed)

For waste that cannot be recycled, such as contaminated wrappers, broken glass, or tissue paper.


2. Types of Recycle Bins by Material

๐ŸŸฆ Plastic Recycling Bins

  • Lightweight and affordable

  • Available in many colors

  • Indoor and outdoor use

  • Not ideal for high-heat areas

๐ŸŸฅ Metal Recycling Bins (Stainless Steel or Galvanized Steel)

  • Highly durable and rust-resistant

  • Ideal for outdoor and institutional use

  • Can be branded and customized

  • Heavier than plastic bins

๐ŸŸซ Wooden Recycling Bins (Decorative Use)

  • Mostly used in premium indoor settings like malls or hotels

  • Not waterproof unless treated

  • Eco-friendly, but less common for high-traffic areas


3. Types of Recycling Bins by Shape and Design

โœ… Single-Stream Bins

  • One compartment for mixed recyclables

  • Simple for users but sorting happens off-site

โœ… Multi-Stream Bins

  • Multiple compartments (usually 2-5)

  • Helps with immediate on-site sorting

  • Ideal for institutions and public parks

โœ… Stackable or Modular Bins

  • Save space in offices and apartments

  • Allow color-coded labeling

  • Convenient for tight spaces

โœ… Pedal Recycling Bins

  • Hands-free operation

  • Hygienic option for kitchens, hospitals, and schools

โœ… Swing Lid and Open-Top Bins

  • Easy to access in high-traffic areas

  • Suitable for clean recyclables like paper or bottles


4. Sizes of Recycle Bins

Size (Litres)Use Case
10L – 20LDeskside or home office
30L – 60LKitchens, schools, small offices
100L – 120LShared spaces, cafeterias, outdoor bins
240L – 360LIndustrial use, estates, large institutions
660L – 1100L (Wheelie Bins)Commercial and municipal recycling

At Kejani Cleaning Services, we supply bins ranging from compact 10L to industrial-grade 1100L sizes.


5. Specialized Recycle Bins

โ™ป๏ธ E-Waste Recycling Bins

  • For batteries, phones, laptops, and cords

  • Labeled with electronics symbol

๐Ÿงด Bottle & Can Recycling Bins

  • Designed with bottle-shaped holes

  • Encourage source separation

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Paper Recycling Bins

  • Labeled clearly for use in offices, schools, and banks

๐Ÿ›ข๏ธ Oil/Grease Bins

  • Used in restaurants and industrial kitchens

  • Usually metal with tight seals


6. Indoor vs Outdoor Recycle Bins

FeatureIndoorOutdoor
MaterialMostly plastic or decorative steelGalvanized steel, weather-resistant plastic
LockingOptionalOften comes with locks/lids
Use CaseOffices, kitchens, hospitalsStreets, campuses, estates, parks

7. Custom Recycle Bins in Kenya

Kejani Cleaning Services Limited also offers custom recycle bins branded with:

  • Logos

  • Waste stream labels

  • Institutional colors

  • Multilingual signage

Custom bins are ideal for government offices, universities, hospitals, and businesses aiming to promote environmental responsibility.


8. Where to Buy Recycle Bins in Kenya

We supply a full range of recycle bins across Kenya through our online store:

๐Ÿ”— Browse Recycle Bins on KejaniCleaning.co.ke

We offer:

  • Bulk discounts

  • Delivery countrywide

  • Custom branding

  • Expert guidance on color coding and NEMA compliance


Conclusion

Recycling bins come in many shapes, sizes, materials, and colors—each designed for specific types of waste. Whether you’re a homeowner, facility manager, school administrator, or restaurant owner, the right recycling bins can drastically improve hygiene, compliance, and environmental impact.

Ready to upgrade your recycling system? Contact Kejani Cleaning Services Limited today for professional waste management products and guidance tailored to your institution.

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