Refuse collector and social media personality Ashley, known as the 'binfluencer,' has urged UK households to place their house numbers on bin lids rather than the sides to prevent bins from being misplaced or stolen. In a TikTok video, he explained that side numbers are often invisible to workers handling bins from various angles.
Why Lid Numbers Matter
Ashley stated: "Don't come moaning to me when your bin hasn't been returned to outside your house. If you don't have a number on your bin, how are we going to know [where to put it]?" He emphasized that during collection, bins are pushed or pulled, making side numbers hard to see. "If we're pushing or pulling it, we can't see the front or see the back. We can sometimes see the sides, but if we're holding more bins then we won't be able to see there as well," he added.
Simple Fix to Avoid Hassle
By marking the lid clearly, residents ensure the number is visible from any angle, aiding both collection crews and anyone returning a lost bin. Ashley concluded: "This is why - if you put it on the lid - we can see it no matter what angle we're looking at it from. So get them now and you can stop moaning at me about not getting your bin back. Problem solved."
Public Reaction
The advice sparked mixed responses. One TikTok user commented: "You just reminded me I need to get some. Thanks!" However, another viewer expressed frustration: "Could you please teach other councils' bin men that my number is on my lid and all four sides and still they leave it four doors down."
Additional Tips to Secure Your Bin
- Put the bin out as late as possible (e.g., morning of collection if allowed). Then bring it back in as soon as you can to avoid it being moved or blown away.
- Add a distinctive colour band/stripe (spray paint or outdoor tape) so it’s recognisable at a glance.
- Put a contact postcode/house number inside the lid (helps if someone finds it and wants to return it).
- Store your bin safely behind a gate/fence or in a bin store/bin shed where possible.
- If theft is an issue, install a motion light covering the bin area.
