Keep unsuitable materials separate

What Can't I Shred?

Items to remove from paper shredding and materials that should be discussed with Bradshaw before collection or drop-off.

Illustrative paper-shredding sack with batteries, binder metal and electronics kept separately
Illustrative service image.
Part of the Bradshaw group QSS certification GDPR support Four regional locations

Check before mixing materials

Paper shredding equipment is designed for confidential documents, not general waste. Separating unsuitable items helps protect staff, machinery and the quality of recovered paper.

Do not place these in paper shredding bags or boxes

  • Batteries, aerosols, liquids or hazardous material
  • Food waste, wet paper or heavily contaminated packaging
  • Large metal objects, tools or mechanical parts
  • Glass, ceramics or pressurised containers
  • Electronic devices and data-bearing media mixed with paper
  • Large plastic folders or non-paper packaging unless agreed

Media and IT equipment may still be suitable for our separate destruction service. Tell us exactly what you have and we will confirm the right service before you travel or arrange collection.