Post-Christmas clear-outs
Clearing out after the holidays? You’ll be surprised how many everyday household items contain valuable metal.
If you’re searching for scrap collection near me, this guide shows what to look for, how to sort it quickly,
and how to get a quote from WB Phillips Metals.
- Domestic scrap collections (where suitable)
- Fast quoting from photos + postcode
- Friendly advice if you’re not sure what’s what
We cover: Chatham, Canterbury, Gillingham, Maidstone, Rainham, Rochester, Strood (and nearby postcodes).
Call: 07939 201736
Quick post-Christmas sorting checklist (2 minutes)
- Make two piles: “metal only” and “mixed bits”.
- Remove obvious non-metal: plastic, wood, fabric, foam where you can.
- Keep it safe: bag sharp edges and label anything heavy.
- Take 1–3 photos: clear shots help us quote quickly.
Want a quick answer on what’s worth collecting? Get a quote (photos + postcode).
5 metals you can recycle after Christmas
These are the most common metals we see in domestic clear-outs after Christmas — from the kitchen to the garage.
(If you’re unsure, send a photo and we’ll tell you what it is.)
1) Aluminium (the festive favourite)
Aluminium is everywhere after the holidays — it’s lightweight, easy to stack, and ideal for tidy collections.
- Drinks cans
- Clean foil trays and roasting tins
- Lightweight frames or shelves from a clear-out
Tip: If it’s very light and a magnet doesn’t stick, it could be aluminium.
2) Steel (and other ferrous metal)
Ferrous metals are often magnetic and turn up in bulk — great for garage and shed clear-outs.
- Biscuit tins and metal storage tins
- Broken racks, stands, brackets, fixings
- Old metal furniture bits and frame parts
Tip: A simple fridge magnet test is a good starting point.
3) Copper (small bits that add up)
Copper often appears after DIY — replacing lights, tidying cables, or small plumbing work.
Value depends on type and condition, so photos help.
- Wiring and cable offcuts (from small jobs)
- Old extension leads (we’ll advise the best route)
- Plumbing offcuts from repairs
Fastest route: get a quote with photos + your postcode.
4) Brass (often overlooked)
Brass can hide in plain sight — especially if you’ve replaced fittings during a post-Christmas refresh.
- Old handles, hinges and fittings
- Curtain pole brackets and fixings
- Lamp parts and decorative pieces
Tip: Brass is often yellow-gold and usually non-magnetic.
5) Stainless steel (kitchen and household bits)
Stainless is common in kitchen and utility areas, and it stores neatly for collection.
- Kitchen racks, rails and metal shelving
- Sink accessories and removable fittings
- Stainless household items from storage clear-outs
Not sure what you’ve got? Get a quote and we’ll advise.
Doing a bigger clear-out as the weather improves? See our Spring clear-out prep guide for Kent for an easy way to sort scrap early and book ahead.
Searching for “scrap collection near me”?
The quickest way is simple: take a photo of the pile, share your postcode, and we’ll come back with a clear quote.
What we can usually collect from domestic clear-outs
Every load is different, but these are common household items that are often suitable for collection.
If yours is mixed, just send photos and we’ll advise.
- Bagged or boxed metal offcuts and fixings
- Metal shelving, brackets, rails and old fittings
- Clean aluminium cans/foil trays in bulk
- Separated copper/brass pieces from DIY jobs
Items that may need different handling
Some items are part-metal, part-electrical, or need special care. Don’t guess — send a photo and we’ll point you in the right direction.
- Electrical items (mixed materials)
- Gas canisters or pressurised containers
- Hazardous or unknown items
Easiest next step: get a quote (photos + postcode).
How scrap collection near you works
1) Send photos + your postcode
Use the quote page to share what you’ve got and where you are.
2) We confirm what can be collected
We’ll advise clearly if anything needs a different route.
3) Clear quote, then collection
We’ll arrange a practical collection time and keep it straightforward.
FAQs
How do I book scrap collection near me?
Use our quote page to send photos and your postcode. We’ll confirm what can be collected and come back with a clear quote.
Get a quote here.
Do you offer free scrap collection?
It depends on what you’ve got and how it’s sorted. Send photos and your postcode and we’ll confirm the best option.
Is there a minimum amount for collection?
Minimums can vary depending on distance and material type. Share a quick photo and your postcode and we’ll advise honestly.
How fast can you collect?
Collection speed depends on your area and current workload. We’ll offer the soonest practical slot when you request a quote.
How do I know a scrap collector is legitimate?
Check official registers and look for clear business details and straightforward processes.
A reputable collector will happily explain how they work.
Helpful: Register of Scrap Metal Dealers