\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to getting rid of unwanted items, most would agree: the faster the better. And there's no faster way to get rid of junk than with junk removal pros.
\r\n
We've gathered some tips and tricks to make the junk removal process go as quickly as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/static/78b4801b46b06f8cb4c98929a27e76cb/get-rid-of-junk-fast_1.png\")
\r\nIf you want to get rid of junk as quickly as possible, you need to set aside time that is dedicated to your cleanout project.
\r\n\r\nRather than spending an hour or two after work each night, set aside an entire weekend where organizing and decluttering is your top priority.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen we commit an entire free day to something, we get a lot done at once, which should be the goal when getting rid of unwanted junk in your home, rental, or office.
\r\n
Once we get started, it's easier to maintain your momentum by being able to keep your focus on your project instead of having to stop every hour or two in order to tend to other priorities.
\r\n\r\nSet aside time just for sorting through your junk to get the most accomplished in the shortest amount of time.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"Woman](\"/static/7d6228e31a919c75ba9d4de34129527b/4.png\")
\r\nOnce you've dedicated a free day to getting rid of your junk, it's time to organize.
\r\n\r\nGo through your closets, basement, attic, garage, or wherever else you've stashed rarely used items, and start organizing your belongings into three separate piles:
\r\n\r\nKeep your pile of items to keep a reasonable distance away from your pile to throw away and donate so you don't accidentally mixing items into piles that they don't belong.
\r\n\r\nWhen debating whether or not to keep an item, consider the last time it's been used or seen the light of day.
\r\n\r\nIf it's a non-seasonal item that hasn't been touched in four months or more, you likely won't miss it if it's gone.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if it's broken and you've put it away so that one day you could repair it, consider junking it if you haven't attempted to fix it in over four months.
\r\n\r\nItems that have been replaced or upgraded should be donated, as should items that your family has outgrown.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to donating items, only donate lightly used items that are still in working condition.
\r\n\r\nItems with rips, stains, breaks, or covered in filth should be tossed rather than taken to a donation center.
\r\n\r\nDonating has never been easier than it is today. You can box your items to donate and drop them off at local charities or resale stores, or you can list your items as free items on online marketplaces like Facebook or Craigslist.
\r\n\r\nListing items for free online saves you the hassle of having to drive your items anywhere, as you can make arrangements to have them picked up from your porch with zero contact, but this isn't always an option that works.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"Man](\"/static/37f2e585ee682be0a6cd80f4ddac7f20/3_0.png\")
\r\nNow that you've established a pile of items that you would like out of your home, it's time to delegate some of the heavy lifting and save time by hiring professional junk haulers to help.
\r\n\r\nIf you've gathered a significant amount of unwanted items or have broken electronics and/or appliances, hiring a junk removal company is by far the fastest way to get rid of all these items at once.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk haulers will often take your gently used items to a donation center and will even give you a receipt for the donation if requested.
\r\n
When hiring junk removal services, or any services for that matter, price shopping is always smart.
\r\n\r\nLocal junk removal services tend to be less expensive than large chains due to less overhead, so we recommend calling locally-owned companies for estimates.
\r\n\r\nGetting at least three different junk removal quotes will help ensure you pay a fair, competitive price and receive friendly, helpful service.
\r\n\r\nQuotes can be give over the phone or via email/text message, or they may want to come on-site to provide an in-person quote after inspecting your removal project.
\r\n\r\nIf they provide an in-person quote and you agree to their pricing, they'll perform the junk removal on the spot!
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal services are in and out within an hour or two, which will save you significant time from having to haul your items to the landfill where you will not only have to pay fees, but will also have to manually dump your items.
\r\n\r\nFinding locally-owned junk removal companies is fast and easy with Hometown.
\r\n\r\nBy entering your zip code and answering a few quick questions about your project, you'll be shown verified, licensed removal companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nAll reviews published on Hometown are verified so you never have to question their legitimacy.
\r\n\r\nYou can request free quotes from as many companies as you like so that you can quickly compare pricing and choose the best company for your junk removal project.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nDon't let your decluttering project drag out for weeks or months. Learn the best strategy to get rid of your junk as fast as possible. Find junk haulers near you with Hometown.
\r\n","changed":"2022-03-08T22:36:12+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"3c665f9f-5fac-5a5f-a38e-65167013ccc3","title":"How to Get Rid of Unwanted Junk Before Moving","url":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-unwanted-junk-before-moving","image":{"path":"/static/2036ac3743972a20f33b8196fee3c501/moving-boxes.png","alt":"Couple looking at tablet in room full of moving boxes"},"tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"Moving provides an opportunity to take inventory of all your belongings and start fresh in your new living space.
\r\n\r\nDecluttering and getting rid of old or unused items can improve your quality of life, but you might be wondering, \"What do I do with all my old junk?\"
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/static/de8fec9a3d72dba15450cdf83e714e4d/get-rid-of-junk-before-moving-info_4.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nOne option for getting rid of old junk that won't fit in your regular trash bin is to take it to the landfill yourself.
\r\n\r\nWhen hauling items to the landfill yourself, be prepared to wait in line.
\r\n\r\nDepending on where your local landfill is located, wait times may be significant.
\r\n\r\nYou'll be charged based on the weight of your items, which is around $50 per ton on average.
\r\n\r\nTaking your junk to the landfill yourself may be cheaper than renting a dumpster, but consider the cost of travel and the value of your time when deciding which disposal solution is best for you.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe cheapest way to get rid of unwanted belongings is to donate them.
\r\n\r\nThere are several ways to do this:
\r\n\r\nIf your items aren't in decent working condition, donating won't be the right option for getting rid of your old junk before your big move.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those that have a large amount of junk to get rid of, renting a dumpster is the perfect disposal solution.
\r\n\r\nTemporary dumpster rentals allow you to load your unwanted items at your own pace.
\r\n\r\nMost residential dumpster rentals have flexible rental terms, ranging anywhere from a single day to several weeks.
\r\n\r\nThere are different dumpster styles and sizes available on the market to accommodate disposal projects of all sizes while still fitting in your driveway.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to renting a dumpster, the best price can most often be found with a locally-owned and operated company.
\r\n\r\nIt's also best practice to get multiple quotes and shop around before making a decision on who to rent from.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to request free quotes from multiple dumpster companies in your area with a single quote request form.
\r\n\r\nWe do the research for you and present you with a list of licensed, insured, and reputable dumpster rental companies that service your zip code.
\r\n\r\nThe customer reviews are all verified, so you can read about others' experience and make the best, most informed choice when deciding who to rent a dumpster from.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you're someone who doesn't have the time, manpower, physical ability, or desire to load a dumpster yourself, hiring a junk removal crew is the most convenient way to get rid of all your unwanted junk before you move out.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly to dumpster rental, junk removal services can comfortably accommodate disposal project of all sizes.
\r\n\r\nIf you only have a mattress and box spring or maybe just a couple boxes to get rid of, a removal crew can have your items loaded on their truck and hauled off your property within a matter of minutes.
\r\n\r\nLarger, more extensive projects can likely be done within a few hours.
\r\n\r\nUnlike a single flat rate when you rent a dumpster, junk removal companies will charge you based on the amount of space your items take up in their truck.
\r\n\r\nWhile junk removal services can cost more than renting a dumpster for those who have 7 cubic yards or more of junk, the convenience of not having to lift a finger is invaluable to many.
\r\n\r\nUnsure whether renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service is the better option to get rid of old items before your upcoming move? Get free quotes for both services!
\r\n\r\nFill out Hometown's quote request form for both services and compare local companies.
\r\n\r\nFind out who has the best prices, best reviews, and the availability your timeline requires - all in one convenient place!
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nDecluttering and getting rid of old or unused items before moving provides an opportunity to start fresh in your new living space, but you might be wondering, \"What do I do with all my old junk?\". Read about different disposal options available to make your move seamless.
\r\n","changed":"2022-11-16T21:23:29+00:00"},{"id":"e20a874c-4cce-5f5a-a7b2-3168f677b0e0","title":"How to Streamline Your Office Cleanout","url":"/blog/office-cleanout","image":{"path":"/static/b9d524e2c6d50f9bb79c163f1a7b0fea/organize-company-office.png","alt":"organized company office"},"tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"c23bcb0b-96a0-5824-8982-82dd3a7e2c0a","name":"Commercial Cleanout","slug":"Commercial-Cleanout"}],"content":"Maintaining an organized company office is crucial for the productivity and morale of a company’s employees.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFailing to keep an office space organized can negatively impact your company's profits in a number of ways.
\r\n
When it's time for you to clean out your office space, whether to prepare for an expansion, a downsize, a relocation, or simply to get back on track, our guide will help you get it done efficiently.
\r\n\r\n![\"streamline](\"/static/151e8dd28fd00005273b6f2626fb8c6b/streamline-office-cleanout-infographic.png\")
\r\nThe first step of an office cleanout is determining your goals.
\r\n\r\nWhat do you want to accomplish with this cleanout?
\r\n\r\nAre you looking to completely gut out the office and start from scratch with a redesign and new storage systems?
\r\n\r\nMaybe you’re just looking to remove excess junk and organize the stuff you already have.
\r\n\r\nSpring cleaning a year's worth of junk?
\r\n\r\nNo matter the scale of the cleanout, planning it out should be step one.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe next step in cleaning out your company’s workspace is to go through all your items, materials, and equipment to determine what you have.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBy separating items according to purpose, it will be easier to determine what you want to keep, what you want to donate or recycle, what is trash, and the best organization system for your remaining items.
\r\n
Sort through everything and separate things based on the purpose they serve, grouping things to make duplicates clear.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen you come across trash or broken equipment that is not reusable, we recommend renting a dumpster to enable streamlined disposal.
\r\n\r\nIf you anticipate having less than 5 yards of debris, a junk removal company may be the better, less expensive option.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if you have more than 5-7 yards of junk or equipment to trash, then a dumpster rental is the best way to go.
\r\n\r\nYou can rent a roll-off dumpster and have it on location so that you can toss junk as you go, making the office cleanout go as efficiently as possible.
\r\n\r\nIf you need help with the office cleanout, hiring a junk removal company is a great solution.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental companies can provide quotes for their dumpster via phone or text, but most junk removal companies will come on location to assess the project and provide you with a quote for junk removal services in-person.
\r\n\r\nHiring professional junk removal services can help speed up your office transformation.
\r\n\r\nFinding locally-owned dumpster rental and junk removal companies is easy with Hometown. Read customer reviews and request quotes from as many providers as you’d like to ensure you get the best price, availability, and customer service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n\r\nNext, it's time to organize your remaining items and equipment.
\r\n\r\nKeep functionality and accessibility in mind when organizing your office.
\r\n\r\nMake it easy to access the items your employees use frequently.
\r\n\r\nYou can optimize the accessibility of items in your office by strategically installing hooks, hangers, cabinets, overhead storage, and shelving.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nChoosing efficient storage solutions can help create additional floor space and make your office appear larger and brighter.
\r\n
Utilize vertical space and smart storage systems to maximize the square footage and storage capacity in your office.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: 5 Advantages to Keeping an Organized Company Office
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nNow that your office is decluttered and organized, make sure the systems you've put into place are easy to maintain.
\r\n\r\nOnly bring in new items, equipment, or materials when absolutely necessary, and be sure employees don't allow junk to pile up anywhere within the office.
\r\n\r\nKeeping your office in good shape can increase morale and boost profits.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nMaintaining an organized company office is crucial for the productivity and morale of a company’s employees. When it's time for you to clean out your office space, our guide will help you get it done efficiently.
\r\n","changed":"2022-02-22T22:12:59+00:00"},{"id":"bc80414f-8abd-5dc5-84c4-60dbe6a19e54","title":"Debris Removal: The Complete Guide to Getting Rid of Anything","url":"/blog/debris-removal-the-complete-guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything","image":{"path":"/static/bd2804301ae2c375ac6dbf68d306b1f9/debris-removal-guide.jpg","alt":"close-up view of concrete in a dumpster"},"tags":[{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-Removal"},{"id":"3274bb7f-9541-5ca1-b9b4-ed1c88a96480","name":"Rock Brick Dirt Dumpsters","slug":"Rock-Brick-Dirt-Dumpsters"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"04fd2ebe-e793-5a68-9f65-b5be6a2552ea","name":"Household Junk Dumpsters","slug":"Household-Junk-Dumpsters"},{"id":"d1824a81-ae42-587c-9dd3-2efa674e423f","name":"Construction Dumpsters","slug":"Construction-Dumpsters"}],"content":"What’s the best way to get rid of _______? Not all wastes are destined for the trash can. If you have large amounts of debris or you have items that are banned by your local waste hauler, you need to find the right disposal option. In this debris removal guide, we’ll take a look at various types of waste, debris, and junk as well as the best ways to dispose of them.
\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"debris](\"/static/bb3cd6da7b4051fdb5396428ebfabc04/debris-removal-methods-infographic.png\")
\r\nRecycling or reusing debris is the best possible option because it's great for the environment and your wallet. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans only recycle about 1/4 of a potential 267.8 million tons each year. Always recycle, reuse, or donate materials when you can, but if this is not an option, it's time to start considering the next disposal options.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nDumpsters come in a wide range of sizes, from 3 cubic yard dumpster bags to full-size 40 cubic yard construction dumpsters. Dumpsters are an ideal solution for remodeling projects, house cleanouts, demolition, yard waste disposal, roofing, construction, and recycling in bulk. Ranging in cost from $250-$550 on average, dumpsters are an affordable way to get rid of all types of debris. Only place approved items in your dumpster, and avoid putting any prohibited or hazardous items inside, or you can expect to be charged an additional fee.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal is a great disposal option for household junk, large pieces of furniture, and other tough-to-dispose-of or bulky waste. Junk removal is the most convenient option, as they handle the removal and disposal for you, whether it be hauling the junk to a local donation center, recycling it, or hauling it to the nearest landfill as a last resort. Due to the all-inclusive level of service, junk removal can become costly for larger cleanups, so it’s something to consider when choosing whether you should rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you have a truck and/or trailer, hauling the debris yourself to a local landfill may be an option. The average cost to haul waste yourself is less than the average cost to rent a roll-off dumpster, but the trade-off is it's less convenient and takes longer. The time it takes you to drive and drop off the debris at the nearest landfill can be substantial depending on your location. Also, if you need to dispose of hazardous materials, it will require a permit to haul, so be sure to research the laws in your area regarding the types of waste you are allowed to haul and the types of debris accepted at local landfills. (Some accept only C&D debris and not household trash). Household hazardous waste (HHW) facilities safely process and recycle potentially toxic wastes, such as e-waste, household cleaners, paint, chemicals, medicines, and liquids. Some communities host HHW events on an annual or biannual basis, or you can find your nearest HHW drop-off location at Earth911.com.
\r\n\r\nFind out more: Cost of Hauling Waste Yourself vs Renting a Dumpster
\r\n\r\n![\"Household](\"/static/3ae9b07cc67e834be57288bfbe5a8a5b/household-trash-and-garbage-disposal.jpg\")
\r\nThe waste and junk disposal methods discussed above are not always an option for everyone in every situation. Below, we'll discuss the most common types of waste and debris and the ideal ways to dispose of each type properly.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nExamples: household garbage, old furniture, broken toys, packaging materials
\r\n\r\nThis category of waste includes anything you’d typically put in your waste bin. Generally, this category of waste is taken care of via your waste hauler’s curbside collection service. However, there are multiple situations that require additional means, like hoarding situations, foreclosure cleanups, moving, and special events that generate a lot of trash. When you have more than your curbside roll cart can handle, a roll-off container works great for bulk amounts of household trash.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, hiring a junk removal company to pick up the trash for you is a convenient disposal method, too, and it may be a more cost-effective option for smaller jobs (less than a few cubic yards of waste). You could also haul these wastes to the landfill yourself if you live within close proximity of one. Disposal of appliances containing Freon, paints, liquids, lead-acid batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, and other household hazardous wastes (HHWs) require special handling. These wastes shouldn’t be mixed in with your household garbage. Contact your city’s solid waste department to find the nearest HHW facility, or visit the city’s website for more information.
\r\n\r\nExamples: concrete, shingles, lumber, carpeting, flooring, siding, metal, renovation debris
\r\n\r\nResidential and commercial construction or demolition projects typically require the use of a dumpster, though hiring a junk removal company or driving the debris to the landfill yourself may be an option if there is a relatively small amount of debris. Some U.S. cities require C&D debris to be dropped off at dedicated construction and demolition landfill facilities where it is separated and recycled.
\r\n\r\nConcrete and asphalt are both very heavy, dense debris that are best disposed of in a roll-off dumpster. Most dumpster rental companies require concrete to be separated from other wastes, and it must be \"clean loaded\" in a smaller container, such as a 10 yard bin, to ensure it does not become too heavy of a load for the roll-off truck to handle.
\r\n\r\nThis is another heavy debris, so shingles are generally loaded in a separate dumpster and not in mixed loads. Shingles are recycled in most municipalities.
\r\n\r\nWood has a potential to be reused if salvaged properly. Reclaiming wood and selling or donating it is one way to cut down on disposal costs for a project.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company offers the most convenient disposal solution for carpet disposal. Renting a dumpster or having your waste hauler pick it up are also valid options. Many waste haulers require the carpeting to be cut down to a specified length, like 4 ft. lengths, so that may add to the inconvenience of going this route.
\r\n\r\nFlooring material is salvageable in many cases. This would, again, help cut down on disposal costs. If reclaiming the wood isn’t an option, other cost-effective solutions include renting a roll-off or hiring a junk removal company to pick it up.
\r\n\r\nCertain types of siding, such as cedar, are highly desirable, and people will often take it off your hands. Simply posting a listing on Craigslist is an easy way to accomplish getting rid of cedar or wood siding while also cutting down on disposal costs. Vinyl siding is typically disposed of in a dumpster or picked up by a junk removal company. A dumpster is generally the more cost-effective option for a whole-house siding replacement project.
\r\n\r\nExamples: cabinets, tubs, sinks, toilets, countertops, floors
\r\n\r\nMuch of this material can be reclaimed. Other materials can be disposed of in a roll-off container or by a junk removal service. Most waste haulers do not accept renovation debris via curbside service, though some will pick it up for an additional fee.
\r\n\r\nBulk amounts of steel, aluminum, copper, and other metals should be recycled, as metal is a valuable commodity. You can eliminate disposal costs and make a few bucks by dropping off metal scraps at a local scrap yard. If you cannot haul the metals yourself, some metal recyclers may be able to pick it up on-site, or you can post an ad on Craigslist for free pick-up.
\r\n\r\nExamples: tree limbs, bush trimmings, grass clippings
\r\n\r\nBeing that it’s an organic waste, yard debris is best disposed of by composting, but dumpsters and junk removal companies are good options, too, as dumpster companies and junk removal service providers will drop off the yard wastes at the proper facility.
\r\n\r\nNote: Most waste haulers don’t allow yard debris mixed in with general waste.
\r\n\r\nHeavy yard wastes, like downed trees/logs, are best handled by professionals who have the right equipment to safely load and haul away such debris. Most junk removal companies have the right equipment to take on this type of project.
\r\n\r\nConsider starting a compost pile if you have the space to do so. Composting is an easy and inexpensive disposal option for yard debris, plus it produces nutrient-rich compost ideal for farming, landscaping, and flower gardens.
\r\n\r\nBe sure you know the laws regarding yard waste disposal in your area. Some cities have made yard debris composting mandatory. In this case, you’d need to have the debris dropped off at the proper composting facility. It may not be accepted at the municipal landfill, so be sure to do your due diligence. Search your city’s solid waste authority website or give them a call to learn more.
\r\n\r\nExamples: kitchen stove (range), microwave, washer, dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company for removal of one or several appliances is a quick and cost-effective method of removal. Junk haulers charge a minimum fee of anywhere from $50 to $125, so expect to be charged at least that amount for the appliance removal.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster works well for disposal of a whole home's worth of appliances, such as during a major renovation project or demolition. Choose a bigger dumpster than you think you need. Why? Most roll-off containers have rounded bottoms, while most appliances are bulky and square. So while you may have 10 cubic yards worth of appliances (10 kitchen stoves equals approximately 10 cubic yards), the appliances will consume greater than 10 cubic yards worth of space inside the dumpster. In this example, a 20 yard bin may be the better choice.
\r\n\r\nSave on disposal costs by donating working appliances to local charitable organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity. Some locations may even pick them up for free, so be sure to ask! Alternatively, you can sell appliances that are still in good shape via Craigslist, Facebook, or by other means.
\r\n\r\nExamples: lead-acid batteries, fluorescent bulbs, household cleaners, motor oil, chemicals
\r\n\r\nThis class of wastes should never be mixed in with the general waste stream, so avoid putting household hazardous wastes in the waste bin, dumpsters, burning it, burying it, or using any other unsafe disposal method. Doing so can taint drinking water, harm local wildlife, produce unsafe crops at local farms, and pollute the air. Dispose of HHWs by dropping them off at a local HHW processing facility. Some communities also host annual or biannual HHW pickup events where you can drop off a wide range of hazardous wastes found in your home.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies and some dumpster rental providers will accept HHWs if you discuss it beforehand. There may or may not be additional fees for handling/hauling of hazardous materials—it depends upon the company and local laws governing HHW handling. Find a household hazardous waste recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nHere’s a quick breakdown of common types of HHWs:
\r\n\r\nCommon A, AA, AAA, D, and similar dry-cell batteries can be thrown away with your trash. However, car batteries and other larger batteries need to be properly recycled.
\r\n\r\nThis includes motor oil, antifreeze, household cleaners, fuel, and other toxic/flammable liquids. Motor oil can be safely dropped off for recycling at a local oil change facility or car dealership that provides service. Other liquids can usually be dropped off at an HHW facility or cleanup event.
\r\n\r\nFluorescent bulbs (CFLs) shouldn’t be mixed in with household trash. They contain small amounts of mercury. Drop these off at the nearest recycling facility that accepts CFLs. Some retailers, such as Lowe's and IKEA, also accept CFLs for proper recycling. Learn more about CFL recycling.
\r\n\r\nDispose of medications at your local cleanup event or HHW processing facility.
\r\n\r\nIf you do not have access to this type of event or facility, you can dispose of medicines in the following manner:
\r\n\r\nHighly-flammable, combustible, and explosive wastes can be dangerous when mixed in with the general waste stream. Local laws dictate the proper way to dispose of wastes, like fuel, oil, fireworks, lighter fluid, matches, and others.
\r\n\r\nWet paint must be dried before throwing it away. You can mix bulk amounts of paint with sand or similar material to dry it quickly. You can safely throw empty, dry paint cans into the trash or a rented dumpster. The one exception is if the paint is very old and may contain lead. It is unlikely this will be an issue considering lead paint was banned in 1978 (although lead-based paint was still sold for several years after that). If it’s a very old can of paint you need to dispose of, play it safe and bring it to a local recycling facility for proper disposal.
\r\n\r\nExamples: paper, cardboard, plastics, metal
\r\n\r\nDespite the slight downturn in recycling noted in recent history, access to recycling services is pretty extensive these days. For bulk amounts of recyclables, you have several options. Renting a dumpster is a quick and easy option for DIYers. Clean load it with recyclable materials only and the rental company may offer a discount. Junk removal is usually more expensive than renting a dumpster but is also much more convenient. Dropping recyclables off at a recycling center is the most cost-effective method for handling a low volume of recyclables. Posting an ad on Craigslist or Freecycle is another cheap and convenient way to get rid of recyclables. The potential downsides include having to wait potentially days or weeks (if ever) before finding someone to pick it up, and this method is generally limited to working well for valuable recyclables, such as metals.
\r\n\r\nBring scrap metals, like copper pipes, steel, brass fittings, iron, junk cars, etc., to a local metal scrap yard to get paid for your scraps. Some recycling facilities will even purchase bulk amounts of paper, cardboard, and plastics. For example, Padnos is a full-service recycler serving most of the State of Michigan and will purchase most types of recyclables (in bulk amounts).
\r\n\r\nFood and organic scraps can be composted. Not all food scraps are ideal for composting, however. Wastes that are excellent compost materials include:
\r\n\r\nSee a complete list of compostable items and learn how to get started. Do not compost meats, cheeses/dairy, plastics, fats, dirty paper/paper towels, breads, dog/cat wastes (grass-eating animal wastes are ok), or processed foods. If you have a bulk amount of food or organic waste to dispose of, discuss solutions with your waste hauler or a dumpster rental provider near you.
\r\n\r\nRead more: Let’s Talk About Food Waste
\r\n\r\nTires are banned for disposal in landfills in the majority of states within the United States. Instead, they can be recycled or reused. Bring old automobile tires to a tire retailer for recycling. There may be a small fee involved in some cases. Alternatively, you can sell or give away tires that still have some tread left. Recyclers, artists, and companies that work with rubber may also take them off your hands for free. Post an ad on Craigslist, Facebook, or Freecycle.org to get started. Junk removal companies also haul away tires, and this is a cost-effective and convenient option if you have a large number of tires to offload.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFound on drywall, paint, roofing materials, and other building materials. These toxic substances are more prevalent in older homes or commercial buildings. Before starting a renovation, demolition, or construction project in an older home, be sure to have it tested for asbestos, mold, and lead paint.
\r\n\r\nWhen left alone, asbestos isn’t harmful. But once asbestos fibers are released into the air, they become a danger. Renovation and demolition is when asbestos is most likely to be released into the air. Exposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and lung problems.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How to Determine If Your Home Contains Asbestos
\r\n\r\nAvoid dangerous mold by controlling moisture inside your home, repairing leaks, and cleaning up after natural disasters. Mold can often hide behind walls. If you spot a large area of it, it’s best to leave the removal to the professionals. In terms of disposal, a mold removal specialist will properly discard of the materials for you. Otherwise, you can dispose of small quantities of moldy materials in a dumpster if the debris is bagged or wrapped in plastic.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How to Safely Remove Mold from the Home
\r\n\r\nHow you dispose of lead paint debris depends upon how much of it is present and what your state’s laws are regarding disposal. If a sample of the debris contains less than 100 milligrams of lead per kilogram, you can typically dispose of it like regular municipal waste. If concentrations of lead are greater than that benchmark, special disposal procedures must be followed. It’s best to hire a lead paint abatement specialist to test for lead paint and to dispose of it if necessary. To summarize, asbestos materials always require special disposal procedures, while mold and lead paint tainted debris can be disposed of the same way you would any other C&D debris as long as the levels are low.
\r\n\r\nRent a dumpster for larger cleanups, or hire a junk hauler to come pick up smaller amounts of debris. Always inform the rental company or junk removal provider that the debris is tainted.
\r\n\r\nExamples: motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, cleaners, brake fluid
\r\n\r\nMost chemicals and liquids are required to be disposed of at a licensed household hazardous waste (HHW) facility. Cities that do not have such a facility will typically hold HHW collection events once or twice per year where you can drop off chemicals and other hazardous wastes. Used motor oil can be brought to an oil change facility or auto parts store for proper recycling. Call ahead just to be sure.
\r\n\r\nNever dispose of auto fluids or chemicals in the trashcan or a dumpster. Refer to Earth911 for more information and to find a local automotive fluids recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nExamples: computers, TVs, VCRs, DVD players, tablets, phones, other electronic devices
\r\n\r\nElectronic waste, or e-waste, is growing in the U.S., and proper disposal of this debris is often misunderstood. Most e-waste is not allowed in the general waste stream; it should be properly recycled to avoid heavy metal contamination and other potential hazards. Some states, including California and New York, have banned disposal of e-waste in landfills or waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities. Instead of throwing e-waste in the trash, it should go to the proper recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Recycle Your Electronics With Junk Removal Services
\r\n\r\nFind out how to dispose of common household wastes, debris, and general junk. Learn the most cost-efficient and eco-friendly disposal options for nearly every type of debris.
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