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.
\r\n\r\nThat’s why renting a dumpster is one of the easiest and safest ways to handle a basement cleanout.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re planning your first basement cleanout or renting a dumpster for the first time, the big question is usually:
\r\n\r\n\"What size dumpster do I need for a basement cleanout?\"
\r\n\r\nBelow, 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.
\r\n\r\nA 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.
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster is typically a good fit for:
\r\n\r\nTypical capacity: 50-70 contractor bags
\r\n\r\nBest for: Homeowners doing a light declutter or cleaning out only part of the basement
\r\n\r\nIf your basement contains furniture, shelving, or bulky items, this size may fill up faster than expected.
\r\n\r\nFor 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.
\r\n\r\nThis size works well for:
\r\n\r\nTypical capacity: 80-100 contractor bags
\r\n\r\nWho it’s for: Homeowners who want a safe middle-ground size that can handle most basement projects
\r\n\r\nIf you're unsure how much is really down there, this size is often the safest starting point.
\r\n\r\nIf 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.
\r\n\r\nA 20 yard dumpster is ideal for:
\r\n\r\nTypical capacity: 110-130+ contractor bags
\r\n\r\nWho it’s for: Homeowners who want everything gone in one load without worrying about running out of space
\r\n![\"piles](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/piles-of-old-junk-in-basement.png\")
\r\nBefore booking a dumpster, ask yourself the following basement-specific questions:
\r\n\r\nPartially full → 10-15 yard
\r\n\r\nCompletely packed → 20 yard
\r\n\r\nYes → 15-20 yard
\r\n\r\nNo → 10 yard
\r\n\r\nBasement cleanouts often include weighty items like old furniture, appliances, or gym equipment. Heavier debris fills dumpsters faster and counts toward weight limits.
\r\n\r\nA 20 yard dumpster gives you extra breathing room and typically includes a higher weight allowance, often 3-5 tons (6,000-10,000 lbs).
\r\n\r\nIf yes, choose the next size up.
\r\n\r\nIt’s almost always cheaper to get a slightly larger dumpster than to order a second one later.
\r\n\r\nWhile 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.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster allows you to:
\r\n\r\nHaving 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.
\r\n\r\nWorking with a local dumpster rental company offers several advantages:
\r\n\r\nSearch 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.
\r\n\r\nConclusion: Most Basement Cleanouts Need a 15 or 20 Yard Dumpster
\r\n
\r\nBecause 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.
\r\n
\r\nThe 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.
From forgotten storage to bulky furniture, find the right dumpster size for a basement cleanout and avoid paying for space you don’t need.
\r\n","changed":"2025-12-18T14:41:52+00:00"},{"id":"4e4a0c00-8460-5f1d-9909-a229ce4133ce","title":"What Size Dumpster Do I Need to Clean Out My House?","url":"/blog/what-size-dumpster-to-clean-out-house","image":{"path":"/static/4c356c996a37e578782675357c1b6569/residential-cleanout.png","alt":"Furniture and other household junk piled up outside"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"7ce68dc2-095e-5221-a253-7b8b847933db","name":"House Cleanout","slug":"House-Cleanout"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"\r\n\r\n\r\nDifferent cleanup projects require different disposal solutions and temporary dumpster rentals are great options for them all.
\r\n
Residential dumpsters come in a variety of different styles and sizes to accommodate small to large home cleanouts, but choosing the right dumpster size can be the difference between staying within your budget and overspending by hundreds of dollars.
\r\n\r\n![\"Best](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/best-dumpster-sizes-home-cleanouts-info.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nDumpster sizes are measured by their cubic yardage and the most common sizes have 10 yard, 20 yard, 30 yard, and 40 yard capacities.
\r\n\r\nSome companies offer \"mini dumpsters\" that come in 2 yards to 10 yards, and some companies carry odd number sizes, like 15 yard and 25 yard dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nBecause the 10-40 yard dumpsters are by far the most common, they're usually the most cost-efficient as well, so we'll focus on those so that you get the most out of your rental.
\r\n\r\nDimensions: 12 ft L x 8 ft W x 3.5 ft H
\r\n\r\nAverage Weight Limit: 2-3 tons (4,000-6,000 lbs)
\r\n\r\nAverage Cost: $250-$450
\r\n\r\nPerfect For Small-Medium Size Home Cleaning Projects:
\r\n\r\nDimensions: 22 ft L x 8 ft W x 4 ft H
\r\n\r\nAverage Weight Limit: 2-4 tons (4,000-8,000 lbs)
\r\n\r\nAverage Cost: $350-$550
\r\n\r\nPerfect For Medium Size Home Cleaning Projects:
\r\n\r\nDimensions: 22 ft L x 8 ft W x 6 ft H
\r\n\r\nAverage Weight Limit: 4-5 tons (8,000-10,000 lbs)
\r\n\r\nAverage Cost:$450-$650
\r\n\r\nPerfect For Large Home Cleaning Projects:
\r\n\r\nDimensions: 22 ft L x 8 ft W x 8 ft H
\r\n\r\nAverage Weight Limit: 6-8 tons (12,000-16,000 lbs)
\r\n\r\nAverage Cost: $550-$750
\r\n\r\nPerfect For Very Large Home Cleaning Projects:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most costly yet common mistakes that customers make when renting a dumpster is underestimating the amount of junk, garbage, or debris they have to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nCalculating the amount of trash you have can be notoriously difficult, which is why we recommend renting a dumpster one size larger than you think you'll need if you're on the fence.
\r\n\r\nThe difference between renting a 10 yard dumpster and a 20 yard dumpster is around $100-$200 on average for twice the amount of dumpster space.
\r\n\r\nGoing over your weight limit or having to rent a second or third dumpster, however, can end up costing you anywhere from $75-$450+.
\r\n\r\nMaking sure you understand the terms and conditions of your dumpster rental agreement is crucial to avoid spending more on your dumpster rental than your initial quote.
\r\n\r\nNearly every reputable dumpster rental company has a small list of items that are considered hazardous material that cannot be placed in their dumpsters, like paint, pesticides, rubber tires, freon containing appliances, etc., and adding unauthorized items and material is an instant fee added to your disposal bill.
\r\n\r\nAnother overlooked factor that affects the cost of a dumpster is the company you rent from.
\r\n\r\nIn the majority of situations, renting a dumpster from a small, locally-owned and operated dumpster company tends to cost less than renting a dumpster from a large, nationwide disposal chain.
\r\n\r\nAsk the right questions and get references before hiring anyone to ensure you're getting a competitive dumpster price in your area.
\r\n\r\nExtending your rental duration, not being ready or available for your scheduled delivery, and overfilling your dumpster are all ways you could end up overspending on your rental, so take the time to understand what is and isn't allowed before hiring a dumpster company.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Residential](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/residential-dumpster-2.png\")
\r\nFinding local dumpster providers is fast and easy with Hometown.
\r\n\r\nWe publish local, licensed, and insured dumpster rental companies that have high-quality reputations throughout their communities.
\r\n\r\nBy entering your zip code and answering a few short questions about your disposal project, Hometown will show you a list of local waste disposal companies that service your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about each company and the sizes and styles of containers they provide, read verified reviews from real customers, and request free quotes to compare pricing, customer service, and availability.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you decide you don't have the time, desire, or ability to clean out your home on your own, find local junk removal companies near you instead.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are the quickest way to clear your space of unwanted junk and garbage, so it's certainly an option worth exploring.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nRoll-off and trailer dumpsters come in a variety of different sizes to accommodate small to large home cleanouts. Learn how to choose the right size dumpster to stay within your budget and avoid overspending by hundreds of dollars.
\r\n","changed":"2022-12-06T18:29:17+00:00"},{"id":"6c1fb535-99de-5e00-a82e-185e024c91d2","title":"How Much It Costs to Remove an Oven","url":"/blog/cost-of-oven-removal","image":{"path":"/static/2a2ea7d81a36d561d565b14c2dae90a3/oven-1.png","alt":"Old oven set outside"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"a9043ad0-7b48-5b76-ac8b-67f7b806691f","name":"Appliance Removal","slug":"Appliance-Removal"}],"content":"As one of the most commonly used appliances in the home, there will inevitably come a time when you need to get rid of your old oven.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThere are a few different ways to get rid of an oven and each will affect the price you will pay to remove your unwanted appliance.
\r\n
We'll go over all your oven removal options and the average cost of each so you can determine which service will best suit your needs.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/haul-away-oven_2.png\")
\r\nListing your unwanted oven as a free item for pickup on internet marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can be a great option if it's still in working condition or if there is someone local who will scrap it for parts.
\r\n\r\nBy creating a listing with a detailed description of your oven and the condition it's in, as well as clear, well-lit photos, you may get lucky and attract the attention of the right \"buyer\" at the right time.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBe cautious when making the decision to give away your address to strangers online. Do your due diligence by checking the interested party's public profile to see if there are any red flags and signs of a catfish or untrustworthy character.
\r\n
Arrange for pickup during the day and make sure you aren't the only person in the home when a stranger comes to pick up your free oven.
\r\n\r\nIf you have the strength and equipment to safely move your oven to the road or on your porch, contactless pickup is an even safer way to carry out this exchange.
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to place the oven at the road, you could avoid making an online listing by simply taping a piece of paper to the appliance with the word \"FREE\" written on it.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Person](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/oven-3_0.png\")
\r\nIf your oven is in clean and working condition, you could look into donating it to a local charity or resale store.
\r\n\r\nNot all donation centers will accept appliances, so make sure to call ahead before hauling your heavy oven all around town.
\r\n\r\nIt may require some patience to do some research and find a group home or donation center that has a need for your working oven.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDonating is a step more involved than listing an item for free pickup as it requires you to physically remove and load your heavy appliance into a vehicle or trailer large enough to safely haul it.
\r\n
This should never be done without the assistance of others or with safe loading and hauling equipment, like dollies/hand trucks and ratchet straps.
\r\n\r\nIf you have any health concerns, including back/neck pains, heart problems, or breathing issues, we strongly recommend having someone else do the work for you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis method only applies if you have bought a replacement oven that is scheduled to be delivered to your home and installed by the company you've purchased it from.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe removal and hauling of your old oven might be built into the installation cost, or they may offer this service at an additional charge.
\r\n
Not all companies offer this service, so being clear with your expectations and asking questions before scheduling delivery is important so you aren't stuck with your old oven in the middle of your kitchen after they've installed your new one.
\r\n\r\nIf they do not offer this service, we recommend trying one of our other methods prior to delivery.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/oven-2_1.png\")
\r\nHiring a junk removal service to remove your oven may not necessarily be the cheapest option, but it is typically the fastest and requires the least amount of effort.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find local junk removal companies that service your zip code.
\r\n\r\nYou can contact multiple junk removal companies in your area for quotes to remove an oven and to find out when their services would be available.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies have availability within the week, if not that same day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhere your home is located, where your oven is located, the time of year, and who you hire will all impact how much your oven removal will cost and how quickly it can be done.
\r\n
The average cost to have a junk removal company remove an oven is $75-$150.
\r\n\r\nThe best pricing will almost always be given by locally-owned junk removal companies when compared to their larger competitors.
\r\n\r\nIf you have some other junk to remove from your garage, kitchen, basement, or spare rooms, it's worth asking how much it would cost to have the removal company remove those items while they're there.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal crews are experts at getting rid of heavy, bulky, or large amounts of trash and junk at once.
\r\n\r\nTheir goal is to be in and out as quickly as possible while leaving you with a fresh new space void of old clutter.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster is a great way to get rid of old appliances if you have a large amount to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nIf you only have one or two items to get rid of, hiring a junk removal company could be cheaper and less labor for you.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a home's worth of appliances to get rid of, however, renting a dumpster is a great way to get rid of these items fast.
\r\n\r\n10 yard and 20 yard dumpsters are common for getting rid of several appliances and range in price from $250-$450.
\r\n\r\nRoll-off dumpsters feature an open top and a swinging side door to make it easy to walk in and unload heavy, bulky items, like ovens or dishwashers.
\r\n\r\nJust like with junk removal, local dumpster rental services tend to offer the best pricing and customer service than their large chain competitors.
\r\n\r\nThat's why Hometown has made it easy to find locally-owned dumpsters rental services near you.
\r\n\r\nYou can request multiple free quotes, read real customer reviews, and get answers to common dumpster rental questions.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nAs one of the most used appliances in your home, there will eventually come a time when you need to replace your oven. Learn about the many ways to get rid of your old oven and the average cost and time it takes for each method.
\r\n","changed":"2022-03-01T20:41:05+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Michigan","place":"Grand Rapids, MI","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"michigan/commercial-waste-management-grand-rapids-mi","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Michigan","place":"Detroit, MI","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Michigan/junk-removal/detroit-mi.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Michigan","place":"Grand Rapids, MI","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Michigan/Grand-Rapids-Dumpster-Rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Michigan","place":"Ann Arbor, MI","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Michigan/ann-arbor-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Michigan","place":"Ann Arbor, MI","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"michigan/commercial-waste-management-ann-arbor-mi","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Michigan","place":"Detroit, MI","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"michigan/commercial-waste-management-detroit-mi","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Roll Off Containers","body":"Roll-offs: These are the most popular choice for a wide range of cleanups, including construction jobs, demolition, household cleanouts, roofing work, and more. Roll-offs are rented for a temporary basis and the rental provider drops it off, picks it up and disposes of the debris for the customer. Sizes range from 10 to 40 cubic yards.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Commercial dumpsters: These bins are used by businesses for weekly trash removal needs. Sizes generally range from 1-to-8 cubic yards. The waste hauler empties the container at a set interval, similarly to that of weekly trash pickups offered to residences.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Dumpster trailers: These are used similarly to roll-offs. The difference is that these waste bins are on wheels, making them ideal for softer ground. Not all waste haulers offer dumpster trailers. Sizes are generally smaller compared to roll-offs.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Bag-style dumpsters: These are designed for small amounts of renovation or demolition debris (e.g., 3 cubic yards or less). They’re made from tough materials that are flexible, yet strong. The “Bagster” is a popular bag-style waste container that’s available at most home improvement stores or through waste hauling companies. You’ll generally pay for the bag and for disposal costs.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Learn more about roll-off dumpster sizes and costs:
\r\n\r\n\r\n","place":null,"code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"michigan/commercial-waste-management-east-jordan-mi"},{"title":"Junk - Clean-up or Removal","url":"michigan/junk-removal-east-jordan-mi"}],"modal_project_types":[{"name":"Cleanout an Interior Space","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":542,"label":"Cleanout - Basement","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":543,"label":"Cleanout - Commercial","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":544,"label":"Cleanout - Estate","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":545,"label":"Cleanout - Garage","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":546,"label":"Cleanout - Hoarding","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Cleanup an Exterior Area","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":547,"label":"Cleanup - Storm Recovery","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":557,"label":"Trash Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":558,"label":"Yard Waste Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Construction & Demolition","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":548,"label":"Construction Debris Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":552,"label":"Light Demolition","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Large Item Removal","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":540,"label":"Appliance Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":541,"label":"Carpet Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":550,"label":"Furniture Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":553,"label":"Mattress Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":554,"label":"Refrigerator Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]}],"codes":[{"name":"10 Yard Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"10_Yard_Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"20 Yard Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"20_Yard_Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"Construction Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster","paths":{"name":"Construction_Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster"}},{"name":"Roll Off - Dumpsters for Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","paths":{"name":"Roll_Off_Dumpsters_for_Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}}],"seo_desc":[{"name":"Roll Off Dumpsters","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","kg_homepage_seo_desc":null,"kg_kpp_seo_desc":null,"kg_seo_label":null,"kg_state_seo_desc":null,"kg_panel_page_seo_desc":"Rent a roll-off dumpster in PLACE_NAME. Compare local roll-off container companies and get the lowest price on a temporary rental."}],"pros":"36142, 36130, 19899, 35436","profiles":[[{"id":"36142"},{"id":"36130"},{"id":"19899"},{"id":"35436"}]],"code":"roll-off-dumpsters","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"ppprolloff"},"cards":{"19899":"\n\t\t\t\t\tAt Area Waste, we are Northern Lower Michigan’s all in one waste removal solution! Area Waste offers efficient garbage pickup services, construction dumpsters, and...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWe are Construction Waste Services North, a locally operated team based in Williamsburg that understands exactly what it takes to keep a Northern Michigan job...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBig cleanup on your hands? We’ll help you clear it out without the hassle. GFL’s Elmira Hauling & Transfer Station delivers dumpsters fast, picks...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tNeed a roll off dumpster in Traverse City? GFL Environmental’s local team delivers fast, reliable service for homeowners and businesses alike. Choose from multiple...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t