Missed Collections
Why Your Bin Wasn't Emptied
Common reasons your bin was not collected include a late put-out, open lid, contamination, wrong day, or a bank holiday shift — and how to fix each.
The BinMate blog
Blog
Plain-English guides to UK bin collections, recycling and never missing bin day.
Which Bin?
Can You Recycle Tin Foil in the UK?
Clean aluminium foil and foil trays can be recycled kerbside in many UK areas — use the scrunch test to check. Greasy foil goes in general waste.
Which Bin?
Cardboard Recycling: Which Bin and What Is Accepted
Clean, dry cardboard goes in your recycling bin in almost every UK council area. Learn what types are accepted and the simple pizza-box rule.
Which Bin?
How to Recycle Plastic Bags and Soft Plastics in the UK
Plastic bags cannot go in home recycling bins — drop them at supermarket collection points instead. Kerbside soft plastic collection is coming by 2027.
Which Bin?
How to Dispose of Batteries Safely in the UK
Batteries must never go in any kerbside bin — they cause fires. Find out where to recycle AA cells, lithium packs, and car batteries safely.
Which Bin?
Can You Recycle Glass in Your Home Recycling Bin?
Glass kerbside recycling depends on your council. Learn which glass is accepted, what must never go in the bin, and what England's 2026 rules mean.
Which Bin?
Which Bin Does a Pizza Box Go In?
A greasy pizza box base goes in general waste; the clean lid can be recycled. Learn the tear-and-sort rule and what 2026 recycling rules change.
Missed Collections
How to Never Miss a Bin Collection Again
Missing bin day is easy, especially when bank holidays shift schedules. Here are five reliable ways to remember, from phone alarms to reminder apps.
Food Waste
Food Waste Recycling in the UK: How It Works
From 31 March 2026 English councils must offer weekly food waste collection. Learn what goes in your caddy and whether your council is ready.
Garden Waste
Garden Waste Collection: Costs, Rules, and What Goes In
Most councils now charge £25–£70 a year for garden waste collection. Find out what goes in your brown bin and what happens in winter.
Bin Colours
UK Bin Colours Explained: What Each Bin Is For
UK bin colours are not standardised — a green bin means garden waste in one area and recycling in another. Here is what each colour usually means.
Recycling How-To
What Can Be Recycled in the UK? A Practical Guide
Paper, card, glass, tins, and rigid plastics are accepted at most UK kerbsides — but rules vary by council. Find out what goes where.