Liz Jarvis, a senior waste manager at Devon County Council, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service wrapping paper and Christmas cards could usually be recycled if they were not covered in plastic or glitter.
Ms Jarvis added food was a “number one nemesis” in terms of waste, with a 2022 analysis showing roughly a third of black bin waste as food.
“If you think you’ve bought something you don’t really need, then don’t forget that it can most likely be frozen and used another day,” she said.
A reminder has been issued by both councils about not putting old batteries in rubbish bins as they can cause fires.
“Take them to a supermarket or your local household waste and recycling centre for recycling,” Cornwall Council said.
Ms Jarvis added some electrical items could be taken to repair cafes – where people can take items to be fixed – to get a new lease of life.