As the festive season approaches, Bedford Borough Council is reminding Bedfordians to check their bin collection dates so changes over Christmas and New Year do not catch them out.
From Friday, 28 November 2025, updated Christmas bin collection calendars, including a printer-friendly version, will be available on the council’s website.
The calendars will cover collection dates from December 2025 through to the end of March 2026. New calendars will then be issued when the new food waste collection service starts at the end of March.
Collection changes
Locals are asked to place their bins out by 6am on their collection day as usual so crews can complete rounds efficiently.
Any extra recycling will be collected if placed in a clear sack or cardboard box next to the orange-lidded bin. Large cardboard boxes should be squashed and folded, then placed neatly next to the recycling bin to help crews handle them safely and quickly.
Christmas and New Year collection dates have been confirmed as:
December 2025
- Monday, 22 December: collections will move to Saturday, 20 December
- Tuesday, 23 December: collections will move to Monday, 22 December
- Wednesday, 24 December: collections will move to Tuesday, 23 December
- Thursday, 25 December: collections will move to Wednesday, 24 December
- Friday, 26 December: collections will move to Saturday, 27 December
Collections on Monday, 29 December, Tuesday, 30 December and Wednesday, 31 December will remain unchanged.
January 2026
- Thursday, 01 January: collections will move to Friday, 02 January
- Friday, 02 January: collections will move to Saturday, 03 January
Normal collection days will resume from Monday, 05 January 2026.
Plan ahead
The council’s Recycling and Waste team is encouraging residents to plan ahead so services can run smoothly and streets remain tidy during the busiest time of the year.
Simple ways to stay organised include:
- Downloading and saving your calendar from www.bedford.gov.uk/Bins
- Taking a screenshot of your collection calendar for quick reference
- Setting recurring alerts or reminders on your phone or digital calendar
- Making a note on a family calendar or a reminder on the fridge
Reduce festive waste
Bedfordians are also being asked to think about how they can reduce waste over the festive period.
Plain, recyclable wrapping paper, without glitter, foil, or plastic coatings, can go in the recycling bin. The council suggests avoiding non-recyclable wrapping paper where possible, and considering alternatives such as reusable gift bags, fabric wraps or recycled paper.
Councillor Nicola Gribble (Independent, Renhold and Ravensden), Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “We appreciate how busy everyone is in the run-up to Christmas, so we want to make bin collection as hassle-free as possible.
“Our crews work hard to keep Bedford Borough clean and green, especially during the festive period, so please help us by being ready for the change in collection dates.
“And remember, there is no need for any early morning dashes in your dressing gown. Stay warm, stay organised and enjoy the season.”
If you have questions about your collection day or need help accessing the calendar, visit the council website or contact the Bedford Borough Council Customer Services team via www.bedford.gov.uk/ContactUs.
