What to do if you forget bin day in the UK? Bin man advice

The simple trick a bin man says works if you miss bin collection <i>(Image: Jam Press/@theno1.binman)</i>
The simple trick a bin man says works if you miss bin collection (Image: Jam Press/@theno1.binman)
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A bin worker has shared exactly what to do if you forget to put your bins out and his advice is surprisingly straightforward.

Refuse collector Ashley, who shares tips with thousands of followers online, says there is one thing people should do immediately if they realise too late.

In a video, Ashley explains that timing and approach make all the difference.

He said: “If you forget to put your bin out, I’ve got a solution for you.”

He warned against simply asking from a distance, adding: “What you don’t do is walk up and just tell them you forgot because nothing can happen.”

Instead, he says there is a much better way.

The simple trick that works

Ashley explains that physically bringing your bin to the crew gives you a much better chance.

He said: “If you bring the bin with you and say ‘sorry, my fault completely, forgot to put my bin out on time, can you empty it?’

“They’re more likely to say yes if you have the bin with you.”

He added: “If you realise you forgot, carry on taking it to the dustcart and you’re more likely to get it collected.”


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The tip has been widely shared online, with many saying they have done the same thing in the past.

One person said: “That’s why I remind myself the day before. I take it out the night before.”

Another added: “One man drove the bin to us two weeks ago since he forgot to put it out.”

Others joked about the reality of rushing out late, with one saying: “Imagine me running down the street with my full heavy bin.”

For anyone who forgets bin day, the advice is clear: Act quickly, take the bin to the collection crew, and ask politely. It might just save you waiting another week.

Have you ever missed bin day? What are your top tips? Tell us in the comments below.

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