A binman known as the No1 Binman is urging households to label their food waste caddies with a number to prevent them from blowing away during autumn winds. Ashley, who shares tips on TikTok, warned that unmarked food waste bins could end up far from home, and it is not the binmen's fault.
Why Food Waste Bins Go Missing
Ashley explained in a TikTok post to his 214,600 followers: "It's that time of year where the wind starts picking up and if you have a food waste bin and don't have your number on it, it could end up a million miles down the road." He noted that food waste bins are light, so after being emptied and set down, they can be carried away if not brought in quickly.
He added: "It's not the bin men's fault, it's because they don't weigh a lot. So once you take the food out, they get put down and if they're not taken in straight away, they could end up down the road."
How to Prevent the Problem
Ashley advised households to ensure their food waste bin has a number clearly marked on the top. He said these stickers can be applied to both food waste bins and general waste bins. "The bin men will make sure it goes right back outside your house and then it's up to you to go and get it," he added.
Tips for Managing Your Food Waste Bin
With cooler autumn temperatures, it is recommended to empty your kitchen caddy every two to three days to prevent dampness, fruit flies, and mild odours. Always line the caddy with council-approved compostable or biodegradable liners to keep it clean and prevent leaks. Cool hot food completely before placing it in the bin to avoid condensation, and tie a tight knot in the liner before dropping it into the outdoor kerbside bin to keep the larger bin clean and secure.
