Waterloo Region’s new waste collection program is officially underway, and if your neighbourhood has been talking about it, you’re not alone.
Some residents love the new carts, others are still adjusting to new pickup days, and many people are simply figuring out the new routine. Like most changes to everyday habits, it comes with a bit of a learning curve.
The good news is that once you understand a few simple tips, curbside collection becomes much easier.
Here are a few practical ways to make sure your garbage, recycling, and organics are picked up smoothly every week.
Give Your Carts Some Breathing Room
One of the biggest changes with the new system is how collection trucks pick up waste.
Instead of workers lifting containers manually, many trucks now use mechanical arms to grab and empty the carts. That means spacing matters.
To avoid missed pickup:
• Leave about 2 feet (roughly 0.5 metres) between carts
• Keep the arrows on the lid facing the street
• Place the handles toward your house
• Keep carts clear of parked cars, snowbanks, or mailboxes
When carts are too close together or blocked, the truck may not be able to grab them safely.
A Helpful Recycling Update: Meat Packaging
One positive change many residents may not realize yet is that more items can now be recycled.
In many cases, clean meat trays and meat packaging that previously went into the garbage can now go into your blue box.
A good rule of thumb:
• Remove excess food
• Give the container a quick rinse
• Place it in the recycling bin
Small changes like this help keep more material out of the landfill.
Use Liners to Keep Bins Clean
One concern many people have with larger carts is keeping them clean.
A simple solution is using liners in your indoor containers and green bin.
Helpful options include:
• compostable liners for food scraps
• newspaper or paper towel layers
• reusable bin liners that can be washed
These small steps can reduce odours and make it much easier to keep your bins tidy.
For garbage carts, tying bags securely before placing them in the cart can also help prevent spills or leaks.
Set a Reminder for Your New Pickup Day
Another adjustment for many households is that collection days may have changed.
If you haven’t already, it can be helpful to:
• check your updated collection calendar
• use the Region’s waste reminder app
• set a simple phone reminder
After a few weeks, the new schedule usually becomes second nature.
A Little Patience Goes a Long Way
Whenever a community rolls out a new system, there’s always an adjustment period.
Some people are thrilled about the larger carts and automated collection. Others are still figuring out the new routine.
Either way, a few simple habits—spacing carts properly, keeping bins clean, and knowing what can be recycled—can make a big difference.
And before long, putting the carts out will feel just as normal as the old system did.
Living in Waterloo Region
One of the things that makes Waterloo Region a great place to live is how communities continue improving services like recycling and waste diversion.
Small changes at home add up to a big impact across the region.
And if you’re thinking about moving within the area—or just curious about neighbourhoods and local living—I’m always happy to help.
Charlotte Ferguson
📱 519-575-1804
Thinking about your next move? Let’s chat mortgages + MLS® today.