Waste-paper basket writer picked up (3)
I believe the answer is:
bin
'waste-paper basket' is the definition.
(a bin is a container for waste)
'writer picked up' is the wordplay.
'writer' becomes 'nib' (something which writes).
'picked up' says the letters should be written backwards.
'nib' reversed gives 'BIN'.
(Other definitions for bin that I've seen before include "Storage container" , "Discard" , "Litter container" , "Domestic receptacle for rubbish" , "Wine store; throw away" .)