Investing in proper waste management infrastructure can have a lot of benefits for your home or business, and of course, the environment. It all begins with selecting one or more wheelie bins depending on your needs. Also known as garbage carts or mobile garbage bins, they’re the key to efficient and ergonomic waste handling in residential neighbourhoods and commercial complexes.
They’re sturdy containers, designed to hold household or commercial waste and offer a convenient way to collect and dispose of garbage. Typically, they feature wheels for easy manoeuvrability and a hinged lid for secure closure. They come in various sizes and materials, and here are a few tips that may help you find the right one for your garbage disposal needs.
How to Choose the Right Garbage Bin
Consider the Size of the Bin
The first step is to determine the appropriate size. Consider the volume of waste generated by your household or business on a daily level and shop for wheelie bins that meet your needs. Mostly it’s plastic, glass, cardboard, etc. The most common sizes out there are 120-, 240-, and 360-litre bins; however, both smaller and larger options are available for small households and commercial facilities.
The main difference between mobile garbage bins for residential and commercial use is the size. There are two- and four-wheeled bins you can choose from. Residential garbage bins range from 80-litre bins to 360-litre bins, while commercial bins go from 140-up to 1110-litre bins.
Knowing and understanding the amount of waste you’re creating and the different sizes available can help you can get an insight into what you’re producing each week and find the bin(s) that would be the perfect solution for your waste management. Think about how many waste and recycling bin bags you’re creating each day and time it by the number of days you dispose of them—is it 2 or 3 times a week, or every day—and then compare it to the number of bags you can fit into each bin.
Consider the Material
Most of these bins are made from durable materials such as high-density polyethene (HDPE). HDPE is made of recycled plastic, and these bins are strong, UV ray-resistant and long-lasting, which makes them a great choice for outdoor use.
Choose the Right Colour
In many regions, colour coding is used to distinguish different types of waste. Green bins, for instance, are usually designated for general household waste, while the blue ones are for recycling materials. That’s why it’s important to check local regulations and guidance to ensure compliance with waste management practices in your area.
Consider the Features
Look for bins that are easy to use, so you move them around without any trouble. Large-diameter handles and solid rubber wheels are some of the most important features to consider for easier use of your waste bin.
Durability and Maintenance
A high-quality bin may seem like a big investment upfront, but it can save you money in the long run as you won’t have to frequently replace your garbage bin. Look for a sturdy, corrosion-resistant wheelie bin that’s easy to clean and maintain to ensure longevity and hygienic waste disposal practices.
An extra tip: To clean your garbage bin, you’ll need a pair of gloves and a hose or pressure washer. Rinse the inside and the outside of the bin thoroughly, and scrub the interior with a mixture of detergent and warm water. Pay attention to corners and crevices, and once it’s all done, rinse again to ensure all residues are washed away. If necessary, use baking soda or a water and vinegar solution to neutralise odours. Wipe down the exterior with a cloth or sponge and a mild cleaning solution. Finally, let the bin dry completely and it’s ready to use it again.
Safety
Plastic garbage bins can pose a fire risk under certain conditions. That’s why it’s important to keep your bin away from external sources of ignition, such as open flames, hot surfaces, etc., to prevent the risk of catching fire.
Benefits of Using a Wheelie Bin
A cleaner, greener, and safer environment is the goal, right? Changing to HDPE garbage bins for the collection of waste and recycling is one of the ways to get closer to the aim. It offers many advantages such as higher recycling levels, better quality recyclable materials, lower rates of injuries for homeowners and staff, less street litter from sack spillage, and more.
Final Thoughts
Effective waste management is important for maintaining a clean and organised community, and mobile garbage bins have become essential. Choosing a high-quality wheelie bin is half the job done, and by considering factors like size, material, and more, you can select a bin that meets your needs for storing waste, from food to garden waste, paper and cardboard, and more.
Last but not least, you can personalise your bin to make sure it’s more recognisable and easier to spot. It’s always a good idea to clearly label it to stop anyone from taking your bin by accident and save some money on a bin replacement.
