I think the key is that whatever the consequence is, it is linked to whatever the child has done, and it is done with the adult. It is not a punishment.
A consequence is showing the child that his/her behaviour has consequences, repercussions (but sometimes, these are a bit hard to pin down, so we make them more tangible). A punishment is being made to do something by someone more powerful than you, which will breed resentment.
So, you would only use 'take out the bins' if, for instance, your DD refused to put her rubbish in the bin, and you would explain why...'DD, I feel angry when I see that you leave your rubbish around, as I like a clean house and I don't like having to pick up other peoples' tat. Please put it in the bin.' If she says no, you say 'DD, that's not fair. As a consequence of you not dealing with your own rubbish, you'll have to deal with everyone else's now!' Then you get her to come with you, and together you take the rubbish out, and point out (nicely!) why it's important that we all pull our weight.
Similarly, you would use sorting the socks/laundry if that consequence fit the circumstances-for instance, she stopped you doing it at a convenient time for you...'DD, I had to stop folding the washing to deal with your tantrum/door slamming/whatever, so the consequence for that will be that you come and help me do it now,'
You see, the idea is that you are teaching her to be a good citizen, and take responsibility for the actions she chooses. You want her to act responsibly, not just 'do as she's told', because one day, you won't be there to tell her what to do/how to behave, and she needs to be able to work out the consequences of her choices!
It works best when you can point out the consequence before they do things...'Ds, if you choose to throw that vase and it smashes, the consequence will be that I sell your Fire Temple on Ebay and use the money for a new vase'...make sure it's something you're prepared to do, in case they call your bluff!