Commercial wheelie bins are essential for efficient waste management in many businesses,
including those in retail, hospitality, and industrial sectors. Investing time in regular maintenance
can keep these bins in peak condition, minimising replacements, avoiding operational delays,
and even improving hygiene around your premises. Here are some practical tips for maintaining
your commercial wheelie bins from Countrystyle Recycling, whether they’re the compact 240L
or the larger 1100L models.
1. Regular Cleaning to Prevent Odours and Bacteria
Keeping wheelie bins clean is one of the most effective ways to extend their lifespan. Regular
cleaning not only removes unpleasant odours but also helps prevent the buildup of bacteria,
mould, and pests.
Here’s a simple cleaning process:
● Frequency: Clean the bins at least once a month, or more frequently if they’re used for
organic waste.
● Method: Use a hose or pressure washer to rinse the interior and exterior. Avoid harsh
chemicals, as they can damage the bin’s plastic or metal parts over time. Instead, use a
mixture of warm water and mild detergent, or consider eco-friendly cleaning solutions.
● Drying: Ensure the bin is fully dry before closing the lid. A damp environment
encourages mould growth, which can degrade the material.
Consider a regular professional cleaning service if you manage large amounts of waste or food
products.
2. Inspect for Damage and Wear
Wheelie bins are designed to withstand heavy usage, but they can still suffer wear and tear.
Regular inspections help catch small issues before they escalate into major problems.
Inspect the following regularly:
● Wheels and Axles: These are the first to wear out, especially in larger bins like the 660L
and 1100L models. Ensure that wheels roll smoothly and check for any signs of cracks
or breaks. If wheels are damaged, they can often be replaced without needing to discard
the entire bin.
● Lids: A damaged or missing lid compromises hygiene and can cause unpleasant odours.
Make sure the lid hinges are intact and that it closes properly. Broken lids are also
replaceable and can extend the overall life of the bin.
● Body: Check the body of the bin for cracks, dents, or weakened areas. Harsh handling
or exposure to intense sunlight can cause the plastic to weaken, which may lead to
fractures. Small cracks can sometimes be repaired, but larger ones may require a bin
replacement.
3. Avoid Overloading to Prevent Structural Strain
Each bin size has a maximum weight capacity designed to prevent structural strain. Exceeding
this limit can cause cracks, broken wheels, or damaged axles, reducing the bin’s lifespan.
● Know Your Limits: The 240L bins can typically handle about 3 bin bags, while the larger
1100L bins are designed for up to 16 bin bags. Check with your provider, such as
Countrystyle Recycling, for specific weight limits.
● Even Distribution: When loading the bin, spread the weight evenly. Concentrated weight
in one spot can cause the bin to warp or crack under pressure.
● Secure Heavy Waste: If your waste includes sharp or heavy items, wrap or secure them
to prevent internal damage to the bin walls.
Our expert team can provide a comprehensive waste audit to identify the best size bins and
collection frequency for your business. At Countrystyle, we tailor our waste services to your
business, meaning you only pay for what you need.
4. Protect Bins from Harsh Weather
Extreme weather conditions can weaken your wheelie bins over time, especially UV exposure,
which can cause plastic bins to become brittle and crack.
Consider providing:
● Shade for Sun Protection: Prolonged sun exposure can degrade plastic bins, so store
them in a shaded area when possible.
● Wind Safety: In high-wind areas, secure bins to prevent them from tipping over, which
can damage lids and wheels. Use bin locks or place them in protected enclosures.
● Rain and Moisture: Avoid leaving bins in wet areas, as standing water can seep into
wheels and axles, leading to rust or mould.
5. Label and Organise for Correct Use
One often-overlooked aspect of bin longevity is correct usage. Clearly labelling bins for specific
waste types helps prevent them from being used improperly. Countrystyles bins are pre-labelled
for our clients, helping to avoid putting waste in incorrect bins.
● Label for Waste Type: Use labels to indicate whether a bin is for general waste,
recycling, or food waste. Misusing a bin can lead to quicker wear, especially if it’s used
for materials it wasn’t designed to handle.
● Educate Staff: Make sure that employees and staff understand the labels and know
where to dispose of different waste types.
Conclusion
By following these simple maintenance practices, businesses can keep their wheelie bins
functional, durable, and cost-effective over the long term. Regular cleaning, mindful loading, and
routine inspections are key to extending the lifespan of your bins. Remember, taking care of
your waste management equipment not only saves on replacement costs but also ensures a
cleaner, more efficient waste disposal process.