A rubbish collector has warned that people across the UK are making a common mistake with polystyrene on bin collection day. The binman, known as Ashley on TikTok under the handle @Theno1.binman, says many households unknowingly put the material in the wrong bin week after week.
Ashley told his followers that polystyrene often causes confusion, and he reminded homeowners: "Do not ever" put it in certain bins. He explained that the material should go in the general waste bin, not the recycling or plastic bin.
Why polystyrene belongs in general waste
Ashley said: "Make sure you put polystrene in your general waste bin, because so many people get confused and put it in the plastic. Easy mistake to make. They're both made of plastic, but in most places, it's just not worth recycling because it's made of mainly air."
He added: "[Local authorities] say put it in the general waste bin - not the recycling bin, not the plastic bin. Some people, for some reason, like to put things in the paper bin. I know it comes with paper in a box, but still. Do not ever put it in your paper bin."
Dealing with large amounts of polystyrene
Ashley noted at the end of his video that different council areas may vary in their stance, but he said the majority are fairly clear on the rule about polystyrene. He advised that if homes end up with a large amount, such as from unboxing a new appliance, there should be dedicated spaces at the tip or recycling centre in the local area. He urged people to avoid the gamble of using the wrong waste bin.
Another option for getting rid of excessive polystyrene is to use retailer services. When buying large appliances like fridges or washing machines, some stores offer an option at checkout to have the expanded polystyrene packaging taken away and recycled.
Other bin rules to remember
Aside from polystyrene, there is another easy-to-forget rule that could see bins ignored by the council, even if waste is separated correctly. It concerns how bins are put out on collection day.
Most councils ask residents to place bins on the edge of their property, right by the kerb, so collection crews can reach them easily. Leaving bins in the wrong spot, such as behind a fence or too far up a driveway, could mean they are overlooked entirely. Checking local council guidelines is recommended, as rules can differ by area.
