The inside expert claimed it is a ‘nightmare’ to get rid of
Andrew Nuttall U35 Lifestyle Writer
09:39, 14 Mar 2026
Bin collectors will hate seeing this in any recycling bins (stock photo)(Image: Getty Images)
A bin collector has issued an urgent warning to households across the UK to stop disposing of a common item in their recycling, claiming it creates “too much mess”. Whilst there’s a proper method for handling it safely, failing to follow this guidance could leave your rubbish uncollected.
Ashley, who goes by @Theno1. binman on TikTok, recently shared a video appealing to the public to reconsider before tossing this problematic material in the bin. He explained that it typically “goes everywhere” and is “no good to anyone”.
Whilst it might appear innocuous, paper that’s been shredded into countless tiny pieces can rapidly become a frustrating headache for refuse collectors dealing with it on their rounds throughout the UK. He said: “Stop putting shredded paper in your paper bins.
“It’s not recyclable anyway because people have broken it down too much, it’s too much effort and it costs too much money to recycle it. When we tip it, when it’s cold and windy and wet, it goes everywhere. We have to sweep it up, it’s all stuck to the floor – horrible.”
He added: “Please stop! Just throw it away, that’s what’s going to happen to it anyway. You’ve shredded it, it’s no good to anyone anymore.”
Content cannot be displayed without consent
Numerous UK councils will accept shredded paper in household recycling bins, though it must typically be contained. Ashley recommended using something like a Primark bag, which is also manufactured from recyclable paper material, to place it in.
Standard carrier bags often don’t make the cut for the recycling bin, as they’re typically categorised as “soft plastics” that can jam sorting machinery. Rather than attempting to recycle them at home, many supermarkets offer dedicated recycling bins or collection points that will take these bags.
It takes a lot of effort to recycle shredded paper – but reusing it for something else is a much better alternative(Image: Getty)
A swift online search reveals several other effective ways to dispose of this waste if individuals are committed to reducing their landfill contributions. Google suggests enclosing it in a paper envelope or a cardboard cereal box to keep it contained.
Instead of recycling, people might consider repurposing the item. Further online suggestions include using it for composting or as bedding for small animals.
It’s always wise to check your local council’s specific regulations, as some may not accept it – even when contained.
In another online alert ahead of Easter, the rubbish collection service warned that councils won’t collect waste if people make certain common errors with their Easter eggs. Failure to place items in the appropriate bins could lead to your collection being deemed contaminated.
Council workers won’t risk tainting the rest of the lorry-load collected on that round and will likely leave your full bin behind.