A refuse collector has explained why overflowing wheelie bins are sometimes left uncollected, saying the decision comes down to local council rules rather than the binmen themselves.
Ashley, who posts on social media as the No 1 Binman, said each local authority sets its own rules for what can and cannot be collected, and those rules are passed down to the crews carrying out the rounds. Problems arise when guidelines are updated but workers are not told promptly, leading to inconsistencies in what gets taken and what gets left behind.
Council rules determine collections
Ashley said: "It's all down to the council. It's nothing to do with the binmen, it's just what we get told. It's all down to the council and their procedures in place. They tell the binmen. Unless the binmen haven't been told, and then they just go in accepting the [overfilled] bins. Then that's up to the council to remind them."
Within his own council area, Ashley confirmed that bins must be fully closed before they will be emptied. He explained that the reasoning is rooted in two key concerns: the safety of those doing the collecting, and the protection of residents' property.
Why lids must be closed
He added: "The council that I live in, they say the bin has to be closed, so that's what I'm going to do. It makes more sense for the lid to be closed."
"One, when you move the bin, not everything falls out. Perfect sense. Especially when it comes to glass and plastics and stuff, and the glass comes out and smashes all over the floor. You don't want that outside your house."
"Secondly, if the [binmen] put it up and it rips the lid off, if you pay for your own bin, you're not going to be very happy with losing the lid off it. And the council won't be very happy about having to replace the lid. So that's the reason why we get told to make sure the lid is closed on the bins."
Pests and street cleanliness
Keeping the bin lid shut throughout the week also serves another purpose — keeping pests away from rubbish. Open bins attract flies, rats and foxes drawn by the smell of household waste.
The Bin Factory Outlet warns: "Leaving your bin lid open isn't just about unsightly rubbish, it's an open door for unwelcome guests! Think swarming flies, scavenging rats, and even curious foxes – all drawn to the tempting smells escaping from your bin. These pests aren't just a nuisance; they can spread diseases throughout your neighbourhood. Rats, for example, are known to carry illnesses that can be harmful to both people and pets."
A closed lid also helps contain odours and reduces the risk of litter being spread by wind or animals, which can affect the cleanliness of the street and the environment more broadly.
Mixed experiences across the country
The response to Ashley's post online showed how widely experiences vary across the country. Some residents revealed their bins are collected without a lid at all, while several binmen said they are happy to take overfilled bins under certain conditions.
One commenter wrote: "I dont even have a lid on my bin. It broke off about 5 years ago. Never had an issue, my bin men are amazing! They even put it back where it belongs after emptying and pick up any extra bags that don't fit into the bin."
A fellow refuse collector added: "I will take open bins, but please people, stop putting loose bottles and rubbish on the top of it. Bag it up so it doesn't go everywhere as soon as we move the bin!"
