Updated December 18, 2025
A basement cleanout often starts with the simple goal of clearing out a little space, but quickly turns into a much bigger project. Because basements are out of sight, they tend to collect years (or decades) of stored items, from old furniture and boxed belongings to broken appliances and unused exercise equipment. Add in stairs, narrow doorways, and heavier materials, and it’s easy to underestimate how much debris you’ll actually be removing.
That’s why renting a dumpster is one of the easiest and safest ways to handle a basement cleanout.
If you’re planning your first basement cleanout or renting a dumpster for the first time, the big question is usually:
"What size dumpster do I need for a basement cleanout?"
Below, we’ll break down the most common dumpster sizes for basement projects, what each size can realistically hold, and how to choose the right option based on the amount and weight of what’s stored in your basement, without paying for space you won’t use.
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Request availability and pricing from dumpster
rental companies near you.
The Best Dumpster Sizes for a Basement Cleanout
10 Yard Dumpster: Best for Small or Light Basement Cleanouts
A 10 yard dumpster can work well for small basements or partial cleanouts, especially when you’re only removing items from one area rather than clearing the entire space.
A 10 yard dumpster is typically a good fit for:
- Finished basements with limited storage
- Clearing out boxes along walls or in storage rooms
- Old decorations, books, and small furniture
- Light debris from minor basement updates
Typical capacity: 50-70 contractor bags
Best for: Homeowners doing a light declutter or cleaning out only part of the basement
If your basement contains furniture, shelving, or bulky items, this size may fill up faster than expected.
15 Yard Dumpster: Best All-Around Option for Average Basements
For many homeowners, a 15 yard dumpster offers the best balance of space and cost for a basement cleanout. It’s large enough to handle mixed household items without being oversized.
This size works well for:
- Most standard basement cleanouts
- Mixed household junk and storage items
- Medium furniture (chairs, shelving, small couches)
- Boxes accumulated over several years
Typical capacity: 80-100 contractor bags
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want a safe middle-ground size that can handle most basement projects
If you're unsure how much is really down there, this size is often the safest starting point.
20 Yard Dumpster: Best for Full or Heavily Packed Basements
If your basement is packed wall-to-wall or hasn’t been cleaned out in years, a 20 yard dumpster is usually the smartest choice. Basement items tend to be bulkier and heavier, which means space and weight limits matter.
A 20 yard dumpster is ideal for:
- Full basement cleanouts
- Large furniture and solid wood pieces
- Old appliances or exercise equipment
- Shelving units, storage racks, and bulky debris
Typical capacity: 110-130+ contractor bags
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want everything gone in one load without worrying about running out of space
How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size for Your Basement
Before booking a dumpster, ask yourself the following basement-specific questions:
How full is your basement?
Partially full → 10-15 yard
Completely packed → 20 yard
Are you getting rid of furniture or appliances?
Yes → 15-20 yard
No → 10 yard
Do you have heavy items?
Basement cleanouts often include weighty items like old furniture, appliances, or gym equipment. Heavier debris fills dumpsters faster and counts toward weight limits.
A 20 yard dumpster gives you extra breathing room and typically includes a higher weight allowance, often 3-5 tons (6,000-10,000 lbs).
Do you want everything gone in one haul?
If yes, choose the next size up.
It’s almost always cheaper to get a slightly larger dumpster than to order a second one later.
Find dumpsters for your basement cleanout
Request availability and pricing from dumpster
rental companies near you.
Why a Dumpster Is the Easiest Way to Clean Out a Basement
While junk removal services are an option, a dumpster is often the simplest solution for basement cleanouts, especially when stairs and tight access points slow the process.
A dumpster allows you to:
- Load items at your own pace
- Avoid repeated trips up and down basement stairs
- Safely dispose of bulky or awkward items
- Keep the project organized without rushing
- Pay a flat rate with no surprise fees
Having a dumpster on-site also makes it easier to sort items for donation, recycling, and disposal without feeling pressured to finish in a single day.
What You Get with a Local Dumpster Provider
Working with a local dumpster rental company offers several advantages:
- Faster delivery and pickup
- Fair, upfront pricing
- Knowledge of local disposal and weight rules
- Better customer service if your project changes
Search local haulers on Hometown that offer 10 yard, 15 yard, and 20 yard dumpsters so you can choose the size that fits your basement cleanout without overpaying or running out of space.
Conclusion: Most Basement Cleanouts Need a 15 or 20 Yard Dumpster
Because basements often hide years of storage and include heavier, bulkier items, most basement cleanouts require more space than homeowners initially expect. For anything beyond a light declutter, a 15 or 20 yard dumpster is usually the best choice.
The cost difference is often minimal, and the extra space helps ensure your entire basement cleanout is completed in one haul — without stress, delays, or surprise overage fees.
