A binman has warned that putting carrier bags in your recycling bin could result in your rubbish not being collected. The warning comes from a TikTok user known as The No1 Binman, who shared advice for households to avoid common recycling mistakes.
Why Carrier Bags Cause Problems
In a video, the binman explained that not all plastics are the same, and councils typically only accept items like bottles, tins, and similar materials. Carrier bags, black bags, and films are usually not accepted because they can damage the machinery at recycling centres.
He said: "Plastic, not all plastic is the same. Ok, so you have thin plastics, you have soft plastics, you have hard plastics, and it depends on the council which they actually take."
Rules Set by Councils, Not Binmen
The binman stressed that the rules are determined by each recycling centre, not by the collectors. He advised people unsure about what to recycle to check their council website or ask the binmen directly.
"It's not our choice. We just get told. So, if there are any plastics that you're unsure about, maybe ask your council website or maybe you can ask the binmen. They might know," he added.
When Rubbish Can Be Refused
Refuse collectors can turn down waste if the recycling is contaminated, deemed excessive, or if the bin is not positioned correctly. However, they are generally obliged to collect household waste unless there is a legitimate reason not to, as councils are required to provide the service.
Carrier bags should be taken to dedicated collection points at larger supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons, and Waitrose, which offer in-store drop-off bins for soft plastics like bread bags and films. If found in your recycling, they can contaminate the entire load, leading to a refused collection.
For specific regulations, residents are advised to visit their local council's website, as rules can vary between councils.
