Households that order takeaways may be unsure which bin to use for the leftover containers, trays and packaging. Getting it wrong could mean the bin is not collected on collection day, leaving rubbish to pile up until the next scheduled pick-up.
Which bin should takeaway containers go in?
Pizza often arrives in large cardboard boxes, leading many to assume they can go straight into the recycling bin. However, it is not always that simple. Binman Ashley, who offers guidance on his No. 1 Binman TikTok account, has addressed the question of which bin takeaway containers belong in.
He clarified: "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 noted that some councils may allow the boxes in the compost bin, but he stressed that residents must check the regulations beforehand.
Food remnants should be separated from the boxes and placed in the food waste bin, if available. If the boxes are free from grease, they are suitable for recycling. Alternatively, if only the base of the box is greasy, the lid can be torn off and recycled separately. Ashley advised: "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 may be left uncollected if they contain inappropriate items. It is always worth checking with the local council to find out which items are allowed in the bins in the area. Placing unsuitable items in the wrong bin, such as food waste in a recycling bin, can contaminate the entire contents — potentially spoiling whole lorry loads of otherwise recyclable material.
To combat this, waste collectors may refuse to empty the bin. A warning notice could be attached, and residents will be required to remove the problematic items before the next scheduled collection.
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.
Before any fine is handed out, households must first receive a written warning detailing the nature of the rule breach. If the issue persists, councils are entitled to issue a notice of intent, followed by a final notice after 28 days, stating the sum owed. The maximum fixed penalty is set at £80.
