One binman recently outlined essential food waste protocols that households should follow to avoid being stuck with putrid, festering rubbish. He shared his advice online
The binman shared his guidance on food waste (stock image)(Image: chanakon laorob via Getty Images)
Whilst nobody relishes the task, emptying the bins remains an unavoidable household duty. However, one binman has issued a stark warning that your rubbish could be left uncollected if a particular item is discovered inside. What many don’t realise is that refuse collectors have the authority to refuse your waste if it hasn’t been disposed of correctly, and specific regulations must be observed to guarantee collection.
A TikTok user operating under the name The No1 Binman recently outlined essential food waste protocols that households should follow to avoid being stuck with putrid, festering rubbish. His professional guidance deserves attention, as failing to comply could seriously affect collection frequency.
This isn’t his first helpful intervention either. Just weeks earlier, he’d already drawn attention to another common mistake that can land residents in hot water.
In footage shared online, he explained: “I have a question. ‘Where is cat litter meant to go?’ I’m not sure where you put it at the moment.
“It does not go in your food bin. Do not put it in there. Some councils allow you to put it in with the compost, but you have to remove the poo and all that sort of stuff out of it, and then the rest can go in there.
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“Most councils, if you don’t have that, will tell you to put it in your general waste, and I suggest you put it in a bag and not just loose in the bin because, if it doesn’t all get emptied, that’s just going to go solid at the bottom of your bin, and it’ll get heavier and heavier and heavier, and it’s no good to anyone.”
He added: “You’re going to have to clean it out yourself. The best thing, when you change it, is put it in a bag, put it in your general waste bin, not in the food.
“Never in the food. You’re not going to reuse that. Check with the council about a compost bin if you have one. You’re welcome.”
Many households remain unaware that certain items frequently placed in food waste bins simply don’t belong there. Understanding the rules could save you considerable hassle.
Why bin collectors may refuse to take your rubbish
Waste collection crews are entitled to reject your bins for various reasons, and they regularly do so when council regulations are breached – whether that’s contaminated recycling, excessively heavy containers, or “side waste” (additional bags placed alongside the bin).
Bins may also be left uncollected if lids won’t close properly, or if inappropriate materials appear in the wrong receptacle, such as food waste mixed with soft plastics. Typically, rejected bins are tagged with a sticker outlining the issue.
Regarding cat litter specifically, this must never go into your food waste collection. It belongs exclusively in general waste, preferably sealed in a bag to protect sanitation staff.
Feline waste harbours dangerous pathogens, including Toxoplasma gondii, which cannot be eliminated through conventional composting methods. Regardless of biodegradable labelling, it still contains urine and excrement, both classified as hazardous materials that risk contaminating food waste treatment facilities.
This can create health risks and lead to foul odours. Moreover, this mistake could mean refuse collectors decline to take your food waste altogether.
They will often turn away your food waste bin if cat litter is present inside. This material can easily contaminate an entire load, meaning it won’t be collected as a result.
Recycling regulations can occasionally vary between different parts of the country. If you’re unsure about anything, check your local authority website for further information.