aluminium
Confidence: high · Place: Germany · Last checked: September 2026
Why
- Aluminium can be recycled almost endlessly and in an energy-efficient way.
- Aluminium packaging belongs in the recyclable waste collection.
- Foil heavily soiled with food residue belongs in the general waste instead.
Before you throw it away
- Remove large food residue, rinsing is not necessary.
- Crumple several pieces of foil into a larger ball so that it doesn’t fall through the sieve in the sorting plants.
What you can make from it
scissor sharpener
- Fold the foil several times to create several layers.
- Cut through the foil several times with a blunt pair of scissors to sharpen the blades.
grill rack cleaner
- Shape the foil into a firm ball.
- Scrub encrustations on the grill rack or baking tray dry or with a little washing-up liquid.