1NT Response: The Dustbin Bid

The 1NT response to one of a suit opening is often called 'the Dustbin Bid' as you use it for all your rubbish hands of 6-9 points. It can be somewhat confusing as it's the only NT bid that doesn't promise a balanced hand. It denies:-

a 4-card fit with partner's suit

a suit you can bid at the 1-level

enough points to bid at the 2-level

It is a last resort bid when no other bid describes your hand. After a 1♣ opening, however, you will always be able to show support or a new suit at the 1-level, so you can use the 1NT response on hands with 8-10 points and no 4-card major.

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