With roughly 40% of landfill waste being paper, its no wonder why consumers and businesses are being called now more than ever to recycle paper as often as possible.
\r\n\r\nWe are all sitting on a huge opportunity to reduce the size of our landfills at a time when landfill \"real estate\" is limited and dwindling by the day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling is a great cause but there are rules you must follow in order to not contaminate a batch of recyclables.
\r\n
Not following these rules can lead to recyclables having to be tossed into a landfill, producing the exact opposite results you were trying for.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over everything you need to know about paper recycling for homes and businesses so you can ensure your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n\r\nAs we've already mentioned, one of the more obvious benefits of recycling paper is conserving landfill space, but that only just scratches the surface of the many benefits of paper recycling.
\r\n\r\nMany of us were taught in school that recycling paper helps to reduce the amount of trees that are cut down, but how many trees are we actually preserving?
\r\n\r\nTo put it in perspective, if all newspapers that were put into production every year were recycled, we could save around 250 MILLION trees each year!
\r\n\r\nFor every ton (2,000 lbs) of paper that is recycled, we save roughly:
\r\n\r\nIf you're more motivated by the economy than you are the environment, don't worry, we've got you covered there too.
\r\n\r\nA new study by Eco-Cycle shows that if the United States could transition to a 75% recycling rate by the year 2030, we would create an estimate 1-2 million new jobs!
\r\n\r\nJobs created by the recycling industry aren't minimum wage jobs, either. The recycling industry offers theirs workers competitive wages and health benefits.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to keep in mind when recycling paper is that it is crucial to keep all paper products clean.
\r\n\r\nIn a mixed recycling bin where you throw aluminum, glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard, you're much more likely to get cross contamination from foods or liquids which can ruin an entire bale of recyclable paper.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe best paper recycling practice is to keep the paper separate from other types of recyclables so that they can remain clean.
\r\n
It's also important to understand the different types of paper products we use and what they can often be lined or mixed with.
\r\n\r\nSome of the old ways that we or our parents were taught to recycle is no longer applicable and can actually contaminate our more current paper recycling processes today.
\r\n\r\nChina is the world's largest purchaser of recycled paper and they have strict rules, requiring that recycled paper have 1% or less of contamination.
\r\n\r\nSo while it used to not be necessary in the past to remove the plastic windows in business envelopes, it can be the difference between contaminating recycled paper that can be repurchased or not.
\r\n\r\nThe best practices for recycling any type of material is to understand exactly what can and can't go in your bin, specifically in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities can handle certain products that others cannot.
\r\n\r\nFor example, most recycling centers can't recycle paper cups because they are actually lined with plastic.
\r\n\r\nThere are, however, some recycling centers that have special machines that can separate this plastic from cups.
\r\n\r\nThat's why it's important to get a list of accepted material directly from your waste management company so that you aren't mistakingly contaminating the paper or other items you're trying to recycle.
\r\n\r\nHere is a list of the most universally accepted paper products that can be recycled:
\r\n\r\nMixed material items like orange juice containers and milk cartons can be recycled in some areas, and not in others.
\r\n\r\nAgain, that's why it's important to do local research before tossing just anything into your recycling bin.
\r\n\r\n![\"Paper](\"/static/3f4bcb7172f50c6afc10ed92918549a3/paper-cup.jpg\")
\r\nThere are many common mistakes well-intentioned people make when recycling paper.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common is tossing in pizza boxes with grease stains.
\r\n\r\nWhile cardboard is a recyclable material, no paper products that are contaminated with food should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf the top half of your pizza box does not have any grease on it, feel free to separate that from the bottom half of your pizza box and put it into your recycling as long as you're sure it's clean.
\r\n\r\nAnother common mistake people make is throwing in paper items that are lined or coated with wax or plastic, like paper cups, milk cartons, juice boxes, receipts, parchment paper, printed photographs, etc.
\r\n\r\nMany recycling centers can't recycle paper with fibers are already heavily refined, like tissue paper.
\r\n\r\nPaper towels and napkins have fibers that are too short to be recycled (but they can be composted!).
\r\n\r\nOne of the more shocking pieces of information regarding paper recycling that is a common mistake, for businesses especially, is that shredded paper cannot be recycled in the same manner as regular paper.
\r\n\r\nThe fibers in shredded paper have been shortened too much and the small pieces often jam recycling machinery.
\r\n\r\nSome facilities allow shredded paper that is contained in plastic bags and kept separate from other full pieces of paper, but not all do.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local facility to learn more.
\r\n\r\nIf your curbside trash service also offers recycling, having your recycling picked up at the end of your driveway is certainly the most convenient option.
\r\n\r\nFor those who live in areas where this isn't offered, however, there are plenty of other options available.
\r\n\r\nMany communities have drop-off recycling programs or community dumpsters at different drop-off locations for recyclables.
\r\n\r\nMichigan, for example, has a paper and cardboard recycling program called PaperGator where residents can deposit their recyclable paper products into dumpster containers at several designated drop-off locations.
\r\n\r\nVisit Earth 911 to find recycling centers or programs near you. You can type in the specific type of material you'd like to recycle, as well as your zip code, and you'll be shown recycling solutions in your area.
\r\n\r\nIf you're a business or contractor that has large amounts of paper or cardboard to recycle that won't fit in your curbside collection, consider renting a dumpster for your recycling efforts.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you have a lot of paper to recycle but not enough to justify renting a dumpster, consider hiring a junk removal company to haul away your paper for you.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will be able to recycle all your paper and cardboard products on your behalf without you having to lift a finger.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find junk removal services and dumpster rentals for all types of disposals across the U.S., including paper recycling!
\r\n\r\nSearch your zip code, answer a few quick questions about your project needs, and get free quotes from qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn everything you need to know about paper recycling to ensure that your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-15T18:07:46+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"a9d9ebb6-48b6-5ba4-9e62-b2af20557d58","title":"How Much It Costs to Dump at the Landfill","url":"/blog/how-much-it-costs-to-dump-at-landfill","image":{"path":"/static/5b30a1d74cc21e7b693ed398153922f5/landfill.png","alt":"landfill pile of trash"},"tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"When you have a small amount of junk or debris to get rid of, hauling it to the landfill yourself may be an option worth considering.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOn average, landfills in America charge $40-$60 per ton, or around $15-$30 per cubic yard for relatively small loads.
\r\n
However, there are a few things to consider first, like:
\r\n\r\nWhen gas prices are high, the cost of driving to and from the landfill can add up quicker than you'd think.
\r\n\r\nNot to mention, the labor of loading it into the vehicle/trailer, unloading it once you get to the top of the landfill pile, and then cleaning up the vehicle/trailer when you get home.
\r\n\r\nWhile skipping the middle man and taking your trash directly to the landfill yourself can save you money in theory, your time is valuable, so if it's going to cost you a considerable amount of time and money to haul the items to the proper facility yourself, you'd likely be better off having someone else do it for you.
\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find local dumpster rental companies or junk removal services to make the disposal process easy.
\r\n\r\nBrowse companies serving your zip code, read more about each company's services, see what past customers have to say about them, and easily request multiple quotes to ensure you get great services for a fair price.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOn average, landfills in America charge $40-$60 per ton, or around $15-$30 per cubic yard for relatively small loads. When the time and money it takes to haul it yourself isn't worth it, Hometown can help you find local dumpster rental or junk removal services to make the disposal process easy.
\r\n","changed":"2022-06-28T18:12:54+00:00"},{"id":"f7683a14-71e9-5689-8a1a-0e04f19c1d4a","title":"How Much It Costs to Empty a Bagster Compared to a Regular Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/cost-to-empty-a-bagster-vs-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/55b0bfbeba0c781b8e4c4693e1ae6e32/Bagster-pickup-intro.jpg","alt":"Bagster being picked up by Waste Management truck"},"tags":[{"id":"b6b1c3aa-d203-5c85-a336-698781467625","name":"Dumpster Bags","slug":"Dumpster-Bags"},{"id":"a48cf031-6eb2-5dea-8164-b0d5f901dcdf","name":"10 Yard Dumpster","slug":"10-Yard-Dumpster"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"Bagster is an innovative waste removal option brought to market by Waste Management.
\r\n\r\nToday, there are also similar bag-style dumpster on the market.
\r\n\r\nWhile bag dumpsters do have low initial costs, there is an additional fee to have it picked up; this fee can be several hundred dollars in some cases.
\r\n\r\nThe fee to have the Bagster picked up and disposed of typically ranges from $120 to $300, depending on your location.\r\n\r\n
The total cost of a Bagster is comparable to that of a small roll-off dumpster or trailer dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we’ll compare and contrast these options and their average costs.
\r\n\r\n![\"Is](\"/static/a03592b490a65c3318b17784e14d2fad/Bagster-costs.png\")
\r\nBagsters are purchased at various home improvement stores, such as Home Depot and others, at a price of around $20 to $30.
\r\n\r\nThis can be a bit deceiving to some because it does not include the cost to have the filled Bagster picked up by Waste Management.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the cost to have the Bagster picked up by Waste Management typically ranges between $120 and $300 (based on 2022 pricing).
\r\n\r\nThe difference in cost is based on location and not on the amount, weight, or type of junk or debris.
\r\n\r\nIt’s important to note that putting prohibited items in the Bagster or overfilling it may lead to additional charges.
\r\n\r\nThe average total cost of Bagster service is $150-$350, including the cost of the bag, pick-up fee, and disposal.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Now that you know approximately how much it costs to utilize a Bagster, it’s a good idea to compare it to other small dumpster options.
\r\n\r\nA widely available option is a 10 yard dumpster, though some dumpster rental companies offer other small container sizes, such as 8 yard or 12 yard dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nThe average total cost of a Bagster is $150-$350 while a 10 yard dumpster costs $250-$450 on average.
\r\n\r\nAs you can see, the average costs of both options are comparable, but the cost per yard of a 10 yard dumpster is quite a bit less than the cost per yard of the Bagster.
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster costs $25-$45 per yard on average, and a Bagster costs $50-$117 per yard on average.
\r\n\r\nClearly, you get much more bang for your buck with a 10 yard dumpster.
\r\n\r\nEven if you don’t believe the debris from your project will require anymore than a 3 yard dumpster, it’s a smart idea to consider a larger dumpster.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIt’s not uncommon for customers to rent a dumpster that’s too small for the project, which is why we suggest getting a larger dumpster than you think you need to complete the cleanup.
\r\n
Because Bagsters and similar bag-style dumpsters only have about 3 cubic yards of loading capacity, it can be easy to exceed this limit.
\r\n\r\nBy renting a dumpster instead, you can avoid potential overage fees or having to buy a second Bagster to finish the job.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Cost](\"/static/82f234b50cde9b3f2dac4e33df22b0bc/cost-of-two-bagsters.png\")
\r\nEach Bagster pick-up incurs a fee.
\r\n\r\nWaste Management offers a slight discount on the pick-up of additional Bagsters, but the Bagsters must be picked up at the same time in order to receive this discount, and not picked up in separate trips.
\r\n\r\nFor example, if a customer uses two Bagsters in the Grand Rapids, MI area, they will pay $30 for each bag at their local home improvement store ($60 total). They then fill up their Bagsters and contact Waste Management to come pick them up. The pick-up fee in Grand Rapids is $199 for the first Bagster and $146 for the second Bagster, making this customer's pick-up cost $345 and the grand total cost $405 for 6 yards of loading capacity or less.
\r\n\r\nAs you can see, the customer could’ve rented a small dumpster and saved money while also having more loading capacity.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great example of why it’s important to do your due diligence when preparing to rent a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes renting a dumpster easy.
\r\n
\r\nBrowse dumpster rental companies based on your zip code, read customer reviews for each company, and request quotes from multiple dumpster rental providers to ensure you pay a fair price for great service.
Find out more:
\r\n\r\nThe initial upfront cost of a Bagster can be as low as $20 to $30, but the much larger fee is when it comes to the pick-up and disposal. Find out how renting a small roll-off dumpster can save you money rather than buying a Bagster.
\r\n","changed":"2022-05-25T17:14:45+00:00"},{"id":"c907f364-cba8-52ea-be01-fa7ba3cb5bad","title":"Common Misconceptions About Renting a Dumpster","url":"/blog/common-misconceptions-about-renting-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/87b2984b5289618a864e959d91689002/facts.png","alt":"Looking at the facts"},"tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"When you need a large disposal solution for your home, office, or worksite, dumpster rentals are a convenient solution.
\r\n\r\nHowever, there are many common misconceptions about renting a dumpster, and Hometown is here to debunk them.
\r\n\r\n![\"Common](\"/static/0728f4180ce78bb2b53c0a6c14efef3c/misconceptions-dumpster-info_0.png\")
\r\nWhile dumpsters are commonly utilized by companies and contractors, temporary dumpster rentals are an option for anyone who needs one.
\r\n\r\nThere are many different types of dumpsters. The commercial dumpsters you see behind businesses are for long-term rentals and are typically only offered to commercial clients.
\r\n\r\nThere are some companies that will rent this type of dumpster to residential clients temporarily when they have a low inventory of other dumpsters or the customer has special circumstances that require a specific size container.
\r\n\r\nThe majority of dumpsters that are rented out to residential customers for days or weeks at a time are roll-off containers and trailer dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nBoth of these dumpster styles feature an open top (different from commercial dumpsters) and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate all different size projects.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis is true in some cases, not all.
\r\n\r\nIf your situation requires that you have to place your dumpster rental blocking any part of a public right-of-way, a permit is required.
\r\n\r\nThis includes streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and alleyways.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPlacing a dumpster rental on your personal property, like your driveway or yard, typically does not require a permit.
\r\n
There are some areas that require a permit regardless of where the dumpster is placed, like in certain zip codes of Chicago or New York City.
\r\n\r\nIt is up to your local municipality whether a permit is required or not for temporary dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nA reputable dumpster rental company that services your area will know if a permit is necessary in your case or not, and if they are, they will typically obtain the permit on your behalf.
\r\n\r\nRead on: The Process of Obtaining a Dumpster Rental Permit
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMost residential dumpsters are designed to be able to fit in single-car driveway.
\r\n\r\nUnless your driveway isn't designed for an average size vehicle, finding a dumpster that fits in your driveway shouldn't be a problem.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRenting the correct dumpster size is important to make sure you don't spend more than necessary.
\r\n
Renting a 15 yard dumpster when you only have 8 yards worth of debris will cost you more than renting a more appropriately sized 10 yard dumpster.
\r\n\r\nOn the contrary, renting the smallest dumpster size because it has the lowest price may require renting a second dumpster if you underestimate the amount of debris, trash, and junk you have to throw away.
\r\n\r\nUnderestimating the amount of trash you have is a common mistake that new dumpster rental customers often make that can result in them spending 2x the amount they initially intended on spending.
\r\n\r\nDumpster companies are great at helping you choose the right dumpster size for your disposal project, which is why being as descriptive about your project as possible is important when speaking with different dumpster pros.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Why Large Dumpsters Sometimes Cost Less Than Small Dumpsters
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHeavy roll-off containers can damage a structural weak driveway, but it is rare and there are many ways to prevent driveway damage when renting a dumpster:
\r\n\r\nThe average cost of a dumpster rental in the U.S. falls between $250-$550.
\r\n\r\nIf you rent the dumpster for a standard 7 day rental period, that's only about $36-$79 per pay to get rid of hundreds of pounds of trash.
\r\n\r\nWhen you look at the amount of trash and debris you can eliminate with a single dumpster, the cost ends up being comparable or less than the price you pay for your weekly municipal trash service.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIt's no secret that the commercial dumpsters that sit at apartment complexes or behind restaurants can smell awful, especially during warm weather.
\r\n\r\nWhen you rent a residential dumpster from a reputable company, however, they are disinfected and power washed between uses so that you're presented with a clean, well-kept container.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you're worried about your neighbors being annoyed with a dumpster sitting in your driveway for a few days, consider how much better your property will look once all the trash/junk/debris is cleared from your yard or home.
\r\n\r\nEveryone has house projects from time to time and there are plenty of dumpster rental companies who take pride in making sure their containers look professional and presentable.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nEvery dumpster company has a list of items that are not allowed in their containers.
\r\n\r\nIt's important to thoroughly read through your dumpster agreement and make sure you understand the terms and conditions so that you aren't fined or charged any additional fees.
\r\n\r\nA list of commonly banned items in landfills, and therefore most dumpsters, include but are not limited to:
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: What Can I Put in a Dumpster?: A Quick Guide to What's Allowed in Roll-off Containers
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDumpsters are heavy duty, sturdy containers, but the trucks that carry them have limitations.
\r\n\r\nDumpster trucks can only safely lift and maneuver so much weight, which is why companies limit the amount of weight that can go inside each dumpster.
\r\n\r\nAdditionally, dumpster companies are charged a fee at the landfill that is based on the weight of the items in the container.
\r\n\r\nSo, going over the included weight limit will cut into the dumpster company's profits and you'll be sent a bill to compensate them for the cost of your additional weight.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: A Comprehensive Guide to Dumpster Weight Limits
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nNot only is renting a dumpster easy, but Hometown makes it easier than ever before.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWe understand that getting the best price and customer service is important, and the best way to do so is to get multiple quotes from locally-owned and operated companies in your area.
\r\n
You can read verified reviews from real customers and read more about each company to help you find the best company to accommodate your disposal needs.
\r\n\r\nOur simple quote request form takes less than a minute to complete and allows you to quickly reach out to multiple qualified companies near you for free dumpster rental quotes.
\r\n\r\nThere are many misconceptions about renting a dumpster. Read our article to learn more about which common assumptions about renting a dumpster are true and which aren't.
\r\n","changed":"2022-09-01T19:09:40+00:00"}],"code":"dumpster","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"blogPages"}}}, "staticQueryHashes": []}