A binman has settled the debate on what to do with your wheelie bin when you go on holiday. Ashley, who runs the No.1 Binman account, advised followers to put their bin out before they leave, so it will be empty when they return.
What to do with your bin while away
Ashley was responding to a follower who asked what to do with their bin while on holiday or in hospital. He said: "If you're on holiday and need your bin collected, put your bin out before you go on holiday. Then, when you get back, it will be empty."
If you are away for a longer period and another collection takes place before you return, the waste collectors will not empty the bin because it will be empty. For those in hospital, Ashley suggested: "If you are in hospital, ask a neighbour to put your bin out."
Alternative options and council rules
If neither option is suitable, Ashley said you can leave your bin "within six feet of your property," such as a drive or front garden. This can prevent it from being blocked by a car or blocking the pavement.
He added: "Every council is different, and some councils might say you have to put it on the kerb side. Then that's what you are going to have to do."
Follower tips and potential fines
Ashley's followers also shared their own approaches. One said: "Always do the neighbours when I do ours, no effort." Another added: "If you're nice to your bin men and let them know you will be away, they will collect it and put it back (well we do anyways)." A third commented: "Or be nice to your bin men and they will come up the drive and collect it for you."
Leaving bins out on non-collection days can lead to fines in some areas. Councils can issue fixed-penalty fines if waste obstructs neighbours or restricts access to the pavement or street, or if it is likely to attract vermin. Always check with your local council for the rules in your area before leaving your bin out when you go away.
