Recycling tins and jars: binman says labels can be left on.

A UK bin collector on TikTok said labels can usually be left on jars and tins, but containers must be emptied and rinsed; national recycling bodies note local councils may set different rules.

A popular UK bin collector answered a TikTok question about whether labels need to be removed from jars and tins. He said labels do not usually have to be scraped off, but he emphasised containers must be emptied and rinsed. The point has been reflected on guidance from national recycling bodies. The article notes recycling rules can differ by local authority. What was reported: - TikTok user @Theno1.binman said you do not normally need to remove paper labels from tins and jars. - He warned that containers should be emptied and rinsed so food residue does not contaminate other recycling. - Recycle Now is reported as saying labels "can be left on" food and drink tins but items must be emptied and rinsed. - Zero Waste Scotland and Wales Recycles said labels can be left on unless a local council advises otherwise. - The article notes some councils have specific restrictions on items such as shredded paper. - The binman previously warned that mixing polystyrene with approved recycling can lead to collections being left; Recycle Now says polystyrene is not commonly recycled and should go in the waste bin. Summary: This reporting clarifies that, across much of the UK, labels on tins and jars are often acceptable when containers are emptied and rinsed. Guidance and acceptable items can vary by local authority, and national recycling organisations note those local rules.