What should not be put in the compost heap

	Bones, meat and fish	These are difficult to decompose and can attract flies and cause bad smells.
	Batteries	These contain contaminating metals that accumulate in the soil.
	Metal, plastic and glass	These are not biodegradable.
Cigarette ends and ash		These are toxic.
	Oils and chemical products	Substances such as turpentine, paint, etc. are toxic and dangerous and should be disposed of in the correct places.
	Magazines	This high quality paper contains lead and cadmium and should be placed in the paper container for recycling.
	Sweepings	Mites and other organisms that could cause poor decomposition.

Newspapers and cardboard	Can only be used in small amounts if the compost is to be used on the garden. Not suitable for market garden or orchard use, as the ink contains chemical residues.
Domestic animal faeces	From cats and dogs, for example. These can transmit diseases.