Binmen could refuse UK meals waste assortment if one frequent merchandise is noticed in bin

A binman has warned that your food waste may not be collected if it’s been left out incorrectly, with one common item causing major problems for councils

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Whilst it’s hardly a favourite chore, taking out the bins is a task we all have to tackle. However, a binman has warned that your rubbish might not be collected if a certain item is spotted inside. Unbeknownst to many, refuse collectors can actually decline to take away your waste if it’s been incorrectly disposed of, and there are specific rules you need to adhere to ensure it’s whisked away.

A chap known as The No1 Binman on TikTok recently dished out some crucial advice about food waste disposal – ignore it at your peril unless you fancy being stuck with stinky rubbish. This expert tip is well worth bearing in mind, as it could significantly impact how frequently your waste is collected.

And this isn’t the only nugget of wisdom he’s imparted lately. Just a few weeks back, he highlighted another common blunder that can prove costly.

In a video posted online, he queried: “I have a question. ‘Where is cat litter meant to go?’ I’m not sure where you put it at the moment.”, reports the Mirror.

“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.

“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.

“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.”

What many don’t realise is that countless items end up in food waste bins when they absolutely shouldn’t be there. Here’s what you need to be aware of. Bin crews are within their rights to reject your rubbish for several reasons. They frequently do this when collections breach local authority rules, such as contaminated recycling, overweight containers, or “side waste” (extra bags dumped beside the bin).

They may also turn down bins with lids that won’t shut properly or those containing inappropriate items (like food scraps or soft plastics ending up in the wrong receptacle). When collections are missed, crews typically leave behind a sticker detailing the problem.

Regarding cat litter, this should absolutely never go into your food waste collection. It belongs in your household rubbish bin, preferably double-bagged to protect sanitation staff.

Feline waste harbours dangerous organisms like Toxoplasma gondii, which won’t decompose properly through conventional composting methods. Even biodegradable varieties still contain urine and excrement, which pose health hazards and can spoil food waste treatment processes.

This can pose health hazards and cause unpleasant smells. Furthermore, this error could result in refuse collectors declining to pick up your food waste.

Your food waste bin is likely to be rejected if cat litter is discovered within it. This is due to the fact that it can readily contaminate a load, hence it will not be removed.

Recycling regulations can sometimes differ slightly across various regions of the country. If you’re uncertain about any aspect, it’s advisable to consult your local council website for additional information.

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