Whether you're a homeowner looking to dispose of a bin full of old electronics and outdated computers that have piled up over the years, or you're a business owner looking to replace obsolete equipment with newer versions, this guide is designed to outline the best solutions to do so.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nProper disposal of e-waste, including electronic devices, like computers, TVs, DVD players, VCRs, phones, tablets, etc., is necessary to ensure potentially toxic materials, like lead, mercury, or cadmium, don't end up in landfills.
\r\n
This is why most e-waste is not allowed to go in your curbside trash collection or a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nInstead, it should be properly recycled to avoid heavy metal contamination and other potential hazards.
\r\n\r\nIn fact, an increasing number of states have banned the disposal of e-waste in landfills or waste-to-energy facilities.
\r\n\r\nInstead, e-waste should go to the proper recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nMany of the materials used in making these products, like plastics, glass, metal, and aluminum, can be recovered and reused to make new models and other equipment.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we'll discuss the 3 main ways to properly dispose of electronics:
\r\n\r\nNote: Before you get rid of your electronics, make sure you erase all personal information on the device. It often isn’t as simple as deleting files. For example, here's how to get your personal data off a laptop. Once you've done that, keep reading to find out your options.
\r\n\r\n![\"electronics](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/electronics-recycling-infographic.png\")
\r\nNearly all electronics manufacturers and retailers offer recycling programs that cater to most of the products they make or sell.
\r\n\r\nFor example, Best Buy offers recycling options for a wide range of electronics, no matter where you bought them.
\r\n\r\nApple's trade-in program offers credit for qualifying products and will also accept and recycle any product that doesn't qualify.
\r\n\r\nAmazon's trade-in program offers gift cards for trading in of any of their Kindle e-readers, tablets, media players, Echo, Ring devices, etc., as well as CDs, cell phones, video games, and more.
\r\n\r\nOffice Depot offers ink and toner recycling, and Staples does too.
\r\n\r\nThere are also a wide range of nonprofit organizations and local community events that accept e-waste recyclables.
\r\n\r\nCall2Recycle makes it easy to find recycling drop-off locations near you. Earth911 also has an extensive recycling database.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nIf your used computer, phone, or other electronic still works, consider donating it to a charity or nonprofit that accepts these items.
\r\n\r\nReach out to local charity organizations to see if they have a desire for your item(s).
\r\n\r\nCharity re-sale organizations, like Goodwill and Salvation Army, typically accept working electronics as donations, too.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf hauling multiple electronics to a nearby recycler seems like a pain or you simply don't have the time—or if you have a large amount of items that you want to get rid of at once, like with a company office cleanout—hiring a junk removal company to handle the electronics hauling and recycling on your behalf is a great option.
\r\n
Whether you have a couple computers or a pile of electronics and other junk, a junk removal company can come out to your property, assess the extent of the work, provide a quote, and get to work right away if you agree to the price.
\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find junk and e-waste removal companies in your area, learn more about them, read customer reviews, and request quotes from multiple companies.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental is typically not an option when disposing of electronics due to city and state restrictions surrounding e-waste recycling.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nProper disposal of e-waste, including electronic devices, like computers, TVs, DVD players, VCRs, phones, tablets, etc., is necessary to ensure potentially toxic materials don't end up in landfills and these items can be recycled. Find out the 3 easiest ways to get rid of old electronics.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-22T17:27:40+00:00"},{"id":"4f939a41-b3f9-57fe-a402-f2d07484a3d0","title":"Dumpster Rental vs Junk Removal for Construction Debris Cleanups","url":"/blog/dumpster-rental-vs-junk-removal-for-construction-debris","image":{"path":"/static/bfc9d42e99b2cc7dc6038a7f2d2e0667/intro.jpg","alt":"Man cleaning up construction debris"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","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":"69819a8e-4e7e-5bc0-a388-5a6b07b6390f","name":"Debris Hauling","slug":"Debris-Hauling"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"Part of tackling any construction or demolition project is figuring out the best way to dispose of all the resulting debris.
\r\n\r\nEven for small construction projects, you cannot simply dump the debris in your weekly trash cart.
\r\n\r\nConstruction and demolition debris should be properly recycled or reused whenever possible by disposing of these materials at the proper facilities.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTwo great construction debris disposal solutions include renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company. Both will get the job done, but there may be reasons why you’d choose one over the other depending on the size of the job and other factors.
\r\n
In this article, we will cover the basics of how to choose between renting a dumpster vs hiring a junk removal company to handle a construction debris cleanup.
\r\n\r\n![\"Blue](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-rental.jpg\")
\r\nRenting a dumpster is the most common choice when it comes to construction debris disposal.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a cost-effective option for disposing of common construction debris, such as drywall, studs, plywood, windows, cabinets, countertop, insulation, flooring, and much more.
\r\n\r\nThe most common type of dumpster is a roll-off container.
\r\n\r\nThese are the open-top dumpsters commonly used at construction sites.
\r\n\r\nHowever, two other viable options include trailer dumpsters and bag-style dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nRoll-offs are the most widely available and are the best choice for big construction or demolition projects.
\r\n\r\nTrailer dumpsters also work great for small to medium size projects.
\r\n\r\nBag dumpsters, such as Bagster, are suitable for small jobs, such as a small residential wall demolition job.
\r\n\r\nThese are the most common roll-off dumpster sizes:
\r\n\r\nThere are other roll-off container sizes available, such as 12 yards, 15 yards, 25 yards, and others.
\r\n\r\nSome dumpster rental companies specialize in a specific size, such as Bin There Dump That who offers residential-friendly dumpsters as small as 4 yards.
\r\n\r\nTrailer dumpsters typically come in 10 yard or 20 yard varieties. Bag dumpsters usually offer 3-5 yards.
\r\n\r\nFor example, Bagster is a 3 yard dumpster option available for purchase at most home improvement stores.
\r\n\r\nThe cost of renting a dumpster is variable and based on several factors, such as location, dumpster size, and duration of rental. Here are the current national average costs to rent dumpsters of the most common sizes:
\r\n\r\nWe suggest getting several online quotes before hiring a junk removal company. Don’t base your decision on price alone, as the reputation of a company should be a key factor in finding a good junk hauler.\r\n\r\n
Popular bag-style dumpsters, such as Bagster, do not have a flat-rate cost.
\r\n\r\nInstead, you purchase the bag for around $30 online or at a local home improvement store, and then there is a pick-up charge of approximately $150 (varies based on location).
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFrom a total cost standpoint, renting a dumpster is almost always the most cost-effective construction debris disposal option.
\r\n
If cost is the most important factor for you, dumpster rental is the best choice.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal_0.jpg\")
\r\nHiring a junk removal company to load up and haul away the construction debris is the most convenient disposal option available.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies do all the work to remove your debris, which allows you to focus your time on the project itself rather than the debris disposal.
\r\n
This convenience comes at a premium. You’ll likely pay more for junk removal services than you would to rent a dumpster, all factors being the same (amount of debris, location, etc.).
\r\n\r\nA rough estimate of how much you can expect to pay for a residential construction debris cleanup is $350 (small jobs) to $1,000+ (large projects).
\r\n\r\nOf course, the same factors affecting dumpster rental prices apply to junk removal costs, including location and amount of debris.
\r\n\r\nThe complexity of the job can also affect junk removal costs.
\r\n\r\nMany junk removal companies determine costs based on the volume of debris.
\r\n\r\nFor example, they may charge $250 for a quarter-truck load, $400 for a half-truck load, and so on.
\r\n\r\nThe best way to get an accurate price is to search for local companies on Hometown and contact them to get a free online estimate.
\r\n\r\nFor small construction or light demolition projects, junk removal service may actually be a more cost-effective option compared to renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nFor example, a junk removal company may charge $200 to come pick up debris from a small deck removal project, while renting a 10 yard dumpster could cost in the $300 range.
\r\n\r\nIn summary, consider using a junk removal company for small construction debris cleanups and in situations where you want the speed and convenience of using such service.
\r\n\r\nAnother situation where junk removal service makes sense is when you live in an area where dumpsters are not allowed to be placed on-site, such as in a busy downtown area or when HOA rules prohibit dumpsters.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDeciding between renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service for a construction project cleanup can be tricky, but the good news is that both options are the most efficient methods to get the job done.
\r\n\r\nYou really can’t go wrong!
\r\n\r\nHowever, here is the case for using each option:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy for customers to find dumpster rental and junk removal companies in their area.
\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 services.
Get more great tips: Hometown Dumpster Rental Blog
\r\n","teaser":"Renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company are two of the best ways to dispose of construction debris following a construction or demolition project. Discover the benefits of using each option and when either is the best choice.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-19T17:31:36+00:00"},{"id":"ce99a8d2-1b31-5d73-8048-f80c75090e47","title":"Decluttering Your Home After Your Kids Move Out","url":"/blog/decluttering-after-kids-move-out","image":{"path":"/static/524a4c6219a89a6fab1ed3e23df789d3/decluttering-1.jpg","alt":"grown child moving boxes out of parents' home as they look on"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Empty nesters, or those looking to downsize, inevitably reach a point when decluttering becomes necessary.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIt makes perfect sense to not hang onto things no longer needed once the kids go off to college or move out to begin their adult lives.
\r\n
Of course, as a parent, you always want to hang onto sentimental items, but often, these items can be consolidated into a few boxes or containers and put into storage.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we'll discuss the benefits of decluttering and downsizing, how to plan out your project, who to hire for help getting it done, and how to get it done yourself.
\r\n\r\n![\"Stressed](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/decluttering-2.jpg\")
\r\nA cluttered home leads to a cluttered head.
\r\n\r\nStudies have shown that living in a cluttered environment can increase stress levels.
\r\n\r\nDecluttering not only makes the house look great, but it also does wonders for the mind.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to the decrease in stress and improved wellbeing, decluttering also makes the home safer.
\r\n\r\nTripping hazards are a real concern, particularly for the elderly or those who are less mobile.
\r\n\r\nThis becomes a major issue during emergency situations, such as a fire, when clutter can impede a quick exit.
\r\n\r\nDonating usable goods and furniture to local charitable organizations is a third benefit of decluttering a home.
\r\n\r\nIt helps support the community and offers tax benefits for you.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Declutter](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/decluttering-3.jpg\")
\r\nAs with any project, making a decluttering game plan is a critical part of achieving success and minimizing stress and headaches. Make this your first action.
\r\n\r\nMake a list, or take mental note, of anything in the house that is no longer needed or will no longer be used now that the kids have moved out.
\r\n\r\nThis may include furniture, TV/gaming area, bed, dresser, clothing, and other clutter accumulated through the years.
\r\n\r\nA pile system can help provide some organization. For example, separate the clutter into five piles:
\r\n\r\nWith this information in hand, it’s time to rally the troops. Get the kids to help, or bribe friends and family with a free lunch to help clear out the clutter.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, contact a junk removal company to get some free quotes.
\r\n\r\n![\"Junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/decluttering-4.jpg\")
\r\nAn effective hands-off approach to decluttering a home is to hire a junk removal company to handle all the heavy lifting.
\r\n\r\nA full-service junk hauling company will handle it all:
\r\n\r\nThe junk removal provider can handle removal of items that can be donated as well as recyclables.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal is a full-service, eco-friendly option that offers convenience and speed in tackling the job.
\r\n
The cost to hire a junk removal company to handle a project such as this can vary based on the complexity of the cleanup, your location, and the amount of junk.
\r\n\r\nExpect to pay a minimum of $300 to $500 for a partial home cleanout.
\r\n\r\n![\"dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/decluttering-5.jpg\")
\r\nWhen downsizing or partaking in a major home decluttering project, a residential dumpster is your best friend.
\r\n\r\nDepending on where you live, a 10 yard dumpster costs an average of $300 for a one-week rental.
\r\n\r\nThis is money well spent to have the convenience of tossing in the clutter and having the dumpster rental company haul it away for you.
\r\n\r\nA decluttering project such as this can usually be completed in a weekend or less.
\r\n\r\nSome dumpster rental companies offer discounted rates for short-term rentals (1 to 3 days) rather than 7+ day rentals. When calling for a quote, be sure to ask about dumpster rental discounts.
\r\n\r\nTo get more decluttering tips and information, check out the links below:
\r\n\r\nEmpty nesters inevitably reach a point when decluttering becomes necessary, especially when you're moving or downsizing your home. Find out the benefits of decluttering and downsizing, how to plan out your project, who to hire for help, or how to get it done yourself.
\r\n","changed":"2022-03-23T22:13:38+00:00"},{"id":"4f2c415e-8754-546d-8197-62d5b1038b96","title":"6 Steps to Cleaning Up After Your Basement Floods","url":"/blog/basement-flood-cleanup","image":{"path":"/static/d861c0f209af871d5b5d4881c4462bd8/basement-flood.png","alt":"rubber boots standing on wet floor"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"c31df595-00f6-51ea-a7da-584c54e964ba","name":"Basement Cleanout","slug":"Basement-Cleanout"},{"id":"9b611674-a2b8-541f-99a9-bfaf0063fc7d","name":"Storm Cleanup","slug":"Storm-Cleanup"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"A flood in your basement, whether from a burst pipe, heavy rain, sewer backup, faulty appliance, or floodwaters, is a huge pain, regardless of the severity.
\r\n\r\nStatistics show that more than 14,000 people experience a water disaster of some kind every day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe fallout and cleanup involved with a basement flood doesn't have to be overly stressful, and Hometown is here to help.
\r\n
In this guide, we'll outline the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"basement](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-flood-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\nRegardless of the cause of your basement flood, your first question will likely be, \"What do I do now?\"
\r\n\r\nThe first step is to make sure you and any other residents are not putting yourselves at risk.
\r\n\r\nWhenever entering a flooded home or area, be sure you're wearing protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves.
\r\n\r\nWading through dirty water or touching items that have come into contact with flood water can expose you to pollutants, like bacteria, mold, chemicals, etc.
\r\n\r\nIn cases of more extreme flooding, make sure the house is safe to enter first.
\r\n\r\nKeep an eye out for telltale signs of structural damage, like buckling floors or walls or warped or cracked foundations.
\r\n\r\nWe also recommend taking photos and video of the damage and documenting cleanup efforts in case you need to submit them to your insurer.
\r\n\r\nAdequate documentation will allow the insurance adjuster to accurately assess the damage and your loss.
\r\n\r\nImmediately contact your utility companies if you suspect any damage has occurred to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
\r\n\r\nSafety is always more important than salvaging household items, so be wise as you assess the structural integrity of your property.
\r\n\r\nEven a small amount of water can cause an electrocution hazard in your home, so we recommend cutting the power to your home to mitigate your risk, even if there is a widespread power outage.
\r\n\r\nLocate your electrical panel and turn off the main breaker and each fuse switch.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, unplug appliances, equipment, or machinery if they are at risk and prop them up on blocks to keep them out of rising water whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nA backup generator can be a huge asset during floods because they allow for an electric sump pump, water vacuums, fans, and lights to run without putting yourself at risk of electrocution.
\r\n\r\nWe also advise shutting off your gas or reaching out to your gas company to do it for you if your home uses natural gas.
\r\n\r\nIf your home experiences serious flooding, a qualified electrician will need to inspect, clean, and dry the power box before you can turn the power on again.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure your safety is not at risk, the next thing you need to do is stop the water from rising if possible.
\r\n\r\nIf a pipe has burst or a broken appliance is leaking, turn off the water supply to your home immediately.
\r\n\r\nIf your home is flooding due to a storm or natural disaster, call your city to make sure the storm drains are open and cleaned out to ensure the water recedes as quickly as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"water](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-water-seepage.png\")
\r\nYour homeowner's insurance may be able to help pay for flood damage remediation and repairs if it's included in your policy.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nInsurance companies classify water damage differently and are typically very strict about what they will and won't cover.
\r\n
In many cases, water damage is preventable with adequate home maintenance.
\r\n\r\nBecause of this, insurance providers only cover very specific circumstances.
\r\n\r\nThe most common types of coverage include:
\r\n\r\nFlood damage is not covered in your standard homeowner's insurance policy, but a separate policy can be purchased from government-backed National Flood Insurance Program.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area, you can buy a policy through a private insurer in order to meet your mortgage requirements and federal mandates.
\r\n\r\nHowever, surface water, like rain, rivers, lakes, or oceans overflowing, is excluded.
\r\n\r\nDamage from your pipes bursting is typically covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if your pipes are slowly leaking over a longer period of time, this damage is excluded.
\r\n\r\nA home insurance policy typically includes water overflow under the water damage clause, but you will need to add water backup coverage.
\r\n\r\nWater Backup Coverage includes the backup of water from a drain, pipe, or sump pump.
\r\n\r\nWater overflow water is usually clear and relatively clean because it's never entered the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nWater backup water is often dark brown or black and grainy because it comes from deeper within the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nYou can generally purchase water backup coverage as an add-on coverage when you first purchase your policy in increments of $5,000 of protection.
\r\n\r\nWater damage caused by a storm is likely covered by your standard homeowners policy if the water enters from above ground level.
\r\n\r\nGroundwater seepage is not covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nWater seepage is when water seeps into your home via porous material or tiny holes due to groundwater levels rising or excess water in the soil causing hydrostatic pressure against your home's foundation.
\r\n\r\nFollow all the instructions laid out by your insurance company when it comes to the clean up and restoration process.
\r\n\r\nWait to begin any repairs or demolition until your insurance company has sent an adjuster to your home to assess the damage or has given you authorization to move forward.
\r\n\r\nKeep track of all the damage by taking photos and video of the entire process, documenting conversations with your insurer, and maintaining consistent, clear communication.
\r\nRemoving water as quickly as possible after your basement floods is important in order to minimize any damage to flooring, carpets, drywall, etc.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAct quickly to limit damage to your home and avoid further problems down the road.
\r\n
If you have a sump pump, this is the best choice for removing large amounts of water.
\r\n\r\nBuckets or a hose to siphon the water are your next best bets.
\r\n\r\nA wet vac can suck up relatively small amount of standing water from carpets and floors.
\r\n\r\nIf the flooding is minimal, mopping up the water with towels or an absorbent mop head is typically sufficient.
\r\n\r\nThe longer the water is allowed to sit in your basement, the more extensive the damage is likely to become.
\r\n\r\nOnce the bulk of the water is removed, open your windows (if it's dry outside) and utilize fans and dehumidifiers to move air and dry out your basement and belongings. Running the air conditioner or furnace can be helpful, too.
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to dry out your basement and belongings in less than 24-48 hours, you can likely get away without removing or tossing too much.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, remember to document the entire process as you go, taking photos and video of the level of flood damage.
\r\n\r\nWater damage can be sneaky and penetrate the structure of your home, causing trapped moisture pockets, which can lead to hidden mildew and mold within your walls or beneath your floors and eventually, structural damage.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend using a moisture meter to ensure moisture doesn't go undetected.
\r\n\r\nIf the flood damage is extensive, you'll want to contact a qualified flood restoration company to take any additional steps to ensure your home is adequately dried out, repairs are made, and the structure is safe for years to come.
\r\n\r\nIf the cause of the flood is covered by your homeowner's insurance, you will need to get authorization from your insurer before beginning cleanup, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the faster you can dry things out, the less damage you'll experience.
\r\n\r\nAs soon as it's safe to do so, separate any water-logged items and air them out. (Don't forget to document!)
\r\n\r\nThe quicker you can remove salvageable items, the better chance you have of saving them.
\r\n\r\nIf an item has been exposed to water for more than 24-48 hours, they likely contain mold spores and should be thrown out.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, we recommend throwing out any food that has been in close proximity to flood water, not just the food that has come in contact with it.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a decent amount of items to get rid of, whether it's random household items, furniture, appliances, or carpeting, a junk removal company can help haul it away quickly and safely.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you'd rather do the work yourself, renting a dumpster is another great option.
\r\n\r\nHometown specializes in helping homeowners find junk removal services and dumpster rentals in their hometown. Browse companies in your area, read customer reviews, and request quotes from multiple providers to ensure you get the best price for great services.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf your basement flood was caused by a burst pipe or broken appliance, a qualified local plumber should be one of your first calls.
\r\n\r\nA plumber will be able to stop the leak, fix the pipe, and resolve any plumbing issues that contributed to the flood.
\r\n\r\nMany plumbers will also recommend restoration companies to help remove any water and restore your property, but don't allow any restoration company to begin any work before your insurance company has the chance to send an adjuster to look at the damage and assess your claim.
\r\n\r\nFind reputable demolition contractors in your area to help you complete any structural or renovation-related work. We also recommend getting multiple quotes from demolition contractors before signing a contract to ensure you don't overpay.
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nA flood in your basement is a huge pain, regardless of the severity. Learn the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2022-02-09T15:23:23+00:00"},{"id":"9efa1144-fb97-58fd-b866-d6c68623a8a1","title":"Donate Your Unwanted Items Easily with Junk Removal","url":"/blog/donate-unwanted-items-easily-with-junk-removal","image":{"path":"/static/a33f0aba2e92360da49b5767c58c406a/donate-1.png","alt":"Person signing digital invoice while junk removal worker holds boxes"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"When you have gently used or outdated items that are in clean, working condition, the most responsible way to get rid of them is to donate them. There are countless benefits to donating your unwanted belongings, like freeing up storage space in your home, keeping items out of landfills, helping those less fortunate, stimulating your local economy, and potential tax breaks, just to name a few.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you have heavy items to donate, like old furniture sets, or if you have a few boxes or bags full of belongings to donate and don't have the time, physical ability, or desire to load, haul, and unload your donations, hiring a junk removal company is the perfect solution.
\r\n
![\"person](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/donation-2.png\")
\r\nJunk removal services are designed to help homeowners, renters, landlords, office managers, and others quickly get rid of unwanted items as quickly as possible.
\r\n\r\nIf you are someone that itemizes their tax deductible donations and require a donation receipt, make sure you discuss this before hiring a junk removal service. More often than not, junk removal companies take pride in being an environmentally-friendly disposal solution and donate or recycle the items they haul away as often as possible, whether their customers request this or not. Because of this practice, you'll need to make sure the company that you hire keeps your items separate from the other items they donate so that they can provide you with the proper paperwork if you require a donation receipt.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nMost areas have nationwide donation centers and resale stores, like Goodwill and The Salvation Army, but it's worth looking into local options as well. Instead of having a junk removal company haul your unwanted items to the closest donation based resale store, consider finding organizations that will place your unwanted clothes and household items directly into the hands of people in need.
\r\n\r\nWomen's shelters, schools, foster care programs, LGBTQ+ centers, refugee organizations, churches, and homeless shelters are all examples of organizations you should search for in your area to donate your items to. Do a quick Google search or post in a community Facebook group to find these types of organizations that will accept donations in your area,
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to donate your items on your behalf is a great solution if you:
\r\n\r\nWhen you're ready to find a junk removal service near you, search your zip code on Hometown. We help consumers connect with responsible, licensed junk removal and dumpster rental companies across the U.S. By filling out our quote request form, you'll be able to send your request to up to 3 local providers in your area who will provide you with a completely free hauling estimate.
\r\n\r\nWhen possible, donating your unwanted items is best. Learn how junk removal companies can help you streamline the donation process for the fastest results.
\r\n","changed":"2023-04-30T18:41:57+00:00"},{"id":"dc73f79b-69d2-5034-a203-5ba8b17c8314","title":"The Best Way to Handle an Estate Cleanout","url":"/blog/best-way-to-handle-estate-cleanouts","image":{"path":"/static/581bdcaab4d990af9c69fdf4d87fad0c/estate-cleanout-how-to.png","alt":"room in home with old furniture and knick knacks"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"68ebf442-93d0-56cf-9891-e7a9d9bf7874","name":"Estate Cleanout","slug":"Estate-Cleanout"}],"content":"Estate cleanouts are typically a stressful and emotionally taxing job.
\r\n\r\nWhen tasked with handling the estate of a deceased loved one or the marital home during a divorce, junk removal companies can be a priceless asset.
\r\n\r\nJunk haulers often specialize in estate cleanouts and know how to remove items the family doesn't want quickly and tactfully.
\r\n![\"infographic](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/best-way-to-handle-estate-cleanout-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Whole-home cleanouts are never a fun project, but estate cleanouts can be especially exhausting.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies minimize the stress of estate cleanouts by handling the manual labor involved, allowing you to direct your focus to more important matters.
\r\n
Experienced junk removal companies understand that cleaning out an estate can be a stressful, vulnerable time for you and your family, and will offer as much, or as little, assistance as you'd like.
\r\n\r\nProfessional junk haulers have the ability to empty out an entire home full of unwanted items, donate salvageable items to local charities, recycle items whenever possible, and dispose of the rest.
\r\n\r\nThey also can remove a single room's worth of items, clean out a basement, garage, or attic, or load up a pile of items or junk you've set aside.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, families utilize junk removal companies' services after the family has had time to go through the items or host an estate sale.
\r\n\r\nThen, what's left over is hauled away and taken care of properly.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a large number of electronics and appliances that are out of date and unable to be used, or old furniture you can't (or don't have the time to) sell, junk removal companies will recycle or donate them for you, making them especially helpful in these situations.
\r\n\r\nCommon items junk removal companies take:
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nLearn how to streamline the process of an estate cleanout in the most efficient way with professional junk removal services.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T00:21:19+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Alaska/Anchorage-AK-dumpsters.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"alaska/junk-removal-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alaska/commercial-waste-management-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"Junk removal companies charge a minimum amount just to come out to your location, which typically ranges anywhere from $75 to $150. If you have one or two items you’re getting rid of—like a TV, sofa, or small pile of yard debris—you’ll probably be charged the minimum amount.
\r\n\r\nWhen comparing apples to apples, hiring a junk removal service is typically more expensive than dumpster rental because of the convenience factor and the added labor involved with junk removal.
\r\n\r\nWith that said, there are situations when hiring a junk removal company is the best option:
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Compare the Cost of Junk Removal to Dumpster Rental
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