Putting takeaway boxes in the wrong bin can mean they are not collected, but a binman has now settled the debate on where they should go. The key factor is grease: if a box is greasy, it belongs in the general waste bin, not the recycling bin.
What bin should takeaway boxes go in?
Pizza typically comes in large cardboard boxes, which makes many people assume it can go straight into the recycling bin. Yet, it is not always that simple.
Binman Ashley, who shares tips on his No.1 Binman TikTok account, helped settle the debate over which bin takeaway boxes should go in. He explained: "If it has got loads of grease on the box, then it will go in your general waste bin because they can't wash the cardboard."
Ashley added that some councils may be different and allow the boxes to go into the compost bin, but he said you must check the rules first. The food waste should be removed from the boxes and placed in your food waste bin, if you have one. If the boxes aren't greasy, they can be recycled.
You could also tear off the box lid if only the base is greasy, and recycle that half. Ashley urged: "If it has got grease on it, then it's general waste. There is no point getting your bin being missed or contaminated because it has got that in there."
Why do some bins not get collected?
Wheelie bins might not be collected if they contain unsuitable items. You should always check with your local council to see which items can be placed in the bins in your area.
If you place unsuitable items in the wrong bin, such as food waste in a recycling bin, it can contaminate the bin. This can spoil entire lorry loads. To prevent this, waste collectors are likely not to empty your bin. Your bin may be tagged with a warning notice, and you will be asked to remove the offending items before the next collection date.
When can fines be issued?
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) states that councils have the authority to issue fixed penalty notices when households persistently fail to follow waste collection rules. Residents could face enforcement action if their waste creates an obstruction or nuisance to neighbours.
According to the guidance, fines may be applied where waste blocks access for neighbours, including wheelchair users or parents with buggies; restricts access to pavements or roads by leaving bins or rubbish bags out for days after collection; is likely to attract vermin such as rats or foxes by being left out too early; or creates an unsightly environment through torn bags or overturned bins left on the street.
Prior to any fine being issued, households should be given a written warning setting out why the rules have been breached. Should the problem continue, councils can issue a notice of intent, followed by a final notice after 28 days, specifying the amount owed. The maximum fixed penalty stands at £80.
