Using Bin Finder

Find a bin

Search for a town or postcode, or choose Use my location and allow your browser to use your location.
Choose a bin type if you need one. Browse the results in the list or on the map.
Open a bin to check its location, access notes and latest dated update. Choose Get directions for a walking route.

You can browse without an account. Log in to save a bin to your account.

Add a public bin

Check the map first to avoid adding a bin that is already listed.
Choose Add a bin and log in if asked.
Place the pin at the bin's exact position. You can adjust it on the map or enter coordinates.
Choose the type, give it a useful name and add a street or landmark. Include any access restrictions or accepted materials you know, then submit it.

Only add bins that the public can use. Do not add private or household bins, or include anyone's personal details. Your username appears with your contribution.

Leave or update a review

Open a bin you have visited and go to Community updates.
Log in, choose a rating and say whether the bin was available, full, damaged or missing.
Add any useful detail and post your review.

You have one review per bin and can update it after another visit. You cannot rate a bin you added yourself.

Report a problem

Open the bin's page and choose Report a problem.
Log in, choose the problem and add details that will help someone check it.

Reports go to Bin Finder for a map check. They do not contact the council or arrange an emptying or repair.

Choose the right bin type

Always check the label on the bin. Accepted materials vary by location.

General waste: Rubbish accepted by the bin's signage.
Dog waste: Bins marked for bagged dog waste.
Recycling: Public recycling bins. Check which materials they accept.
Glass: Collection points marked for glass bottles or jars.
Food waste: Public or community collection points that accept food waste.
Clothes and textiles: Donation banks for clothing and textiles. Check whether they accept bedding, curtains or worn textiles.
Shoes: Donation banks that accept footwear. Follow the instructions about condition, pairing and bagging.
Books: Public donation banks for books. Check whether they also accept items such as CDs or DVDs.
Other donations: Charity or reuse banks for other items. Describe what the bank's label says it accepts.

For donation banks, check the charity or operator's label and accepted items. Keep donations dry and do not leave bags beside a full bank.

Check the date of an update

Locations and reviews come from the community and are not independently verified. The condition shown comes from the most recently updated review. Its date tells you when that update was made, not whether the bin is available now.

If a bin is full or unavailable, use another suitable bin or take your rubbish home.