Not sure which bin to use? You’re not alone. Bin rules can be confusing and they can change depending on where you live.
This guide covers the most common bins. Always check your local council guidelines in the Loci app if you’re unsure.
In this article we provide you general guidance on what you can put in each bin type, but first lets see how you can find the exact information for your local council by using the Loci app.
See what goes in each bin with the Loci app
The Loci app makes it easy for you to find out exactly what goes in each bin for your local council area. Get this information by following these steps.
From the Council services page select Bins collection schedule. From the bottom of the screen you will find the What goes in each container option.
Now you will be directed to your local council information. Example below from the Royal Borough of Kingston council.
General waste bin
This bin is for things that can’t be recycled.
You can put in:
Nappies and sanitary products
Food wrappers and crisp packets
Polystyrene
Broken household items
Pet waste and litter
Don’t put in:
Recycling
Food waste, if you have a food bin
Garden waste
When in doubt, general waste is the last resort.
Recycling bin
This bin is for clean, dry recyclables.
You can usually put in:
Paper and cardboard
Newspapers and magazines
Empty plastic bottles and containers
Tins and cans
Glass bottles and jars
Remember:
Rinse items if needed
Remove food residue
Don’t bag your recycling unless your council says it’s ok
Don’t put in:
Soft plastics like bags and wrappers, unless accepted locally
Food or liquid
Broken glass or ceramics
Food waste bin
If your area has a food bin, use it for all food scraps.
You can put in:
Fruit and vegetable peelings
Leftover food, cooked or uncooked
Meat, fish and bones
Tea bags and coffee grounds
Bread and rice
Use compostable liners if required by your council.
Garden waste bin
This bin is for plant and garden materials.
You can put in:
Grass cuttings
Leaves and weeds
Small branches and twigs
Flowers and plants
Don’t put in:
Soil or stones
Food waste
Treated wood
Some councils charge for garden waste collections, so check locally.
Other collections
Some items need special handling.
These may include:
Batteries
Electrical items
Clothes and textiles
Paint and chemicals
Your council may offer drop-off points or special collections. You can find local details in the Loci app.
Not sure?
Bin rules vary by area. The easiest way to check is in the Loci app, where your council shares the latest local guidance.
Putting the right thing in the right bin helps reduce waste and keeps recycling working properly. It’s a small action that adds up for the whole community.