Overview
- A TikTok user known as The No1 Binman says bins may be left uncollected if carrier bags or other soft plastics are found in household recycling.
- He explains that thin films, carrier bags and black bags can jam sorting machinery, so many areas only accept rigid plastic bottles and similar items.
- Refuse crews can lawfully refuse pickup for contamination, side waste, incorrect presentation or safety concerns under council guidelines.
- Collection rules are set by councils and recycling centres rather than bin crews, and accepted materials vary by area.
- Shoppers are advised to take soft plastics to in‑store drop‑off points at major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons and Waitrose, and to check local council guidance.