A rubbish collector has shared a common mistake that residents regularly get wrong with their bins – but they still complain to him.
The Mistake That Angers Bin Men
Keeping up with bin regulations can feel like a full-time job. Rules on what can go where – and when it’s collected – seem to change from one area to the next, and even small updates can catch people out. One week you’re told to separate everything, the next there’s a new list of items that can’t go in recycling – and suddenly you’re left second-guessing every bottle, box or bit of food waste. With councils tightening contamination rules and introducing new schemes, it’s no wonder so many households say it’s hard to stay on top of what’s expected.
Thankfully, though, there are refuse collectors out there who are happy to clear things up. One of them is Ashley, also known as the No1 Binman, who spoke about a common mistake people make with their rubbish.
In an eye-opening TikTok video, the self-described 'binfluencer' said he's often blamed for the error that is actually the residents' fault.
"When Karen screams at you for missing her bin... but she put out the wrong bin," he wrote in the caption.
So there you have it: the error is that many residents put out the wrong bin and then wonder why it hasn't been collected. While it may seem obvious, it's a very easy mistake.
Public Reaction
In the comments section, people were pretty baffled that so many people get it wrong.
One questioned: "How can you get it wrong? Every street has one of those neighbours who's memorised the bin calendar, you always follow their lead!"
However, others said they'd almost made the same error before. A second commenter said: "I never remember what bin it is. I wait for my neighbours to put theirs out so I know."
While a third had a word of warning for all the 'Karens': "Be nice to the binmen and they are nice to you, not hard."
More Tips to Ensure Your Rubbish Gets Collected
- Check your collection day and week – Some areas alternate (e.g., recycling one week, rubbish the next). Use your council’s online calendar or app.
- Put the bin out on time – If your council says “by 7am”, aim for the night before (without blocking the pavement).
- Put it in the right place – Usually at the kerb edge or property boundary, with the lid facing the road if your council requests it.
- Make sure the lid fully closes – Overfilled bins are often tagged and left. Don’t wedge lids open.
- Bag general waste properly – Loose waste can spill when lifted, but tied bin bags help prevent mess and refusals.
- Don’t contaminate recycling – Keep wrong items out (common issues: plastic film, black bags, nappies or food in recycling). Quick rinse containers if needed.
- Keep food waste to the right container – If you have a food caddy, use it. Don’t put food waste in recycling, and use the liner type your council accepts.
- Keep bins accessible – Don’t park cars in front of them, and avoid placing bins behind walls, poles, or on steps where crews can’t safely pull them.
- Separate heavy or awkward items – Don’t put rubble, soil, tiles, car parts, or liquids in the bin – these can be refused for safety.
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