A common mistake could be sabotaging recycling efforts nationwidePhoebe Jobling Property Writer, Tahira Ali, Olivia Williams Senior reporter and Lotti OBrien
08:14, 01 Aug 2025
UK households are being cautioned not to put one prohibited item in their garden waste bins(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
UK households are being cautioned not to put one prohibited item in their garden waste bins, as this common mistake could be undermining recycling systems across the country. My Home Improvements reports that an increasing number of families are unknowingly contaminating their waste collections with soil – a substance many believe is harmless, yet is actually banned by most councils.
While it may seem innocuous, soil is too heavy and therefore difficult to manage, and it often contains pests or diseases that can contaminate entire compost batches. A spokesperson from My Home Improvements said: “It’s one of the most common mistakes we see.
“Soil might look natural, but it causes major issues for councils trying to turn garden waste into compost. Even a little bit can ruin a whole batch” This follows reports of the ‘UK’s most dangerous plant’ causing a toddler to require A&E treatment for second-degree burns”, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Contaminated collections often end up being sent to landfill sites, incurring costs for local authorities and causing environmental harm.
The warning comes as summer gardening hits its peak, with numerous green-fingered enthusiasts busy tidying flower borders, repotting plants, or revamping their outdoor spaces.
UK households are being cautioned not to put one prohibited item in their garden waste bins(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Residents are now being encouraged to carefully check what can and cannot be disposed of in their garden bin by consulting their local council’s website, and to dispose of soil through appropriate channels such as household waste recycling centres, according to the Mirror.
Other items generally not allowed include: Japanese knotweed; food waste; plastic bags and plant pots; pet waste; timber; rubble; and treated wood.
Disposing any of these into your garden bin could result in your waste being left behind, or even worse, you could face a penalty.
Experts advise checking your council’s garden waste guidelines, as each local authority has different regulations.
Moreover, making use of a compost heap and separating items into bags can help avoid any complications.
“Garden bins are not a catch-all for anything green. What feels natural to toss may be harmful to the environment, your community, or the composting process,” the spokesperson added.
“If you’re unsure, always double-check before you throw something away. The five minutes it takes to look it up could save you a £400 fine and a big headache down the line.”