![\"tips](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/decluttering-a-guide-for-success-infographic.png\")
For most people, decluttering your home isn't always a fun and enjoyable experience, but it's something we should all do at least once a year.
\r\n\r\nHometown has put together a useful infographic to help streamline the decluttering process for you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIt's important to keep your home free of clutter for several reasons, primarily for the sake of your mental and physical health.
\r\n
A clean, organized house does wonders to relieve day-to-day stresses and improve the overall safety of your home.
\r\n\r\nWhen you're ready to declutter your home, refer to the below infographic...
\r\n\r\n
Learn more:
\r\n\r\nDecluttering has a number of health and environmental benefits. Learn how to streamline the decluttering process and why it's worth it using our helpful guide.
\r\n","changed":"2022-06-22T17:01:37+00:00"},{"id":"20a07da8-659a-56fa-9d9c-009c68a24559","title":"Rent a Dumpster or Hire a Junk Removal Company?","url":"/blog/rent-a-dumpster-or-hire-a-junk-removal-company","image":{"path":"/static/0b3c0f41e9db144597226912ba5c3dc7/woman-sorting-through-household-junk.jpg","alt":"woman sorting through household junk"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","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":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"635dd995-8794-5ed6-8d6a-b96d843f0775","name":"Dumpster Comparison","slug":"Dumpster-Comparison"}],"content":"Whether you’re tackling a home renovation, construction project, furniture removal, or a general cleanout, two main options will help you manage waste and debris efficiently: dumpster rentals and junk removal services. Both solutions have their pros and cons depending on your project size, timeline, and budget.
\r\n\r\nIn this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you understand the key differences, when to use each service, and how to find reliable dumpster rental companies or junk removal services near you.
\r\n\r\n![\"Dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-vs-junk-removal-info_0.jpg\")
\r\nRenting a dumpster is often the most efficient solution when you want to take control of clearing out your junk or debris yourself. Unlike hiring a junk removal service, which handles the heavy lifting for you, a dumpster allows you to work at your own pace and manage the cleanup on your schedule.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster rental is a simple, straightforward process:
\r\n\r\nThis process is ideal for homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts looking for a flexible and cost-effective waste management solution.
\r\n\r\nIt’s simple—find local companies on Hometown, choose a dumpster size, easily check pricing and availability information, book it online, have it dropped off at your property, fill it up, and have it hauled away.
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster is a great choice in several common scenarios:
\r\n\r\nFlexible Cleanup Timeline: Most dumpster rentals include a 7-day period, allowing you to dispose of junk gradually instead of all at once. This is particularly helpful for large home renovations or seasonal yard cleanups.
\r\n\tDIY Loading: If you don’t mind lifting and loading your debris, renting a dumpster can save money compared to paying for labor through a junk removal service.
\r\n\tLarge Volume Projects: Dumpster rentals are most cost-effective for projects generating at least 7 cubic yards of waste. Roll-off dumpsters typically start at 10 cubic yards, so smaller jobs may not justify the expense.
\r\n\tPermit Requirements: Some municipalities require permits for placing a dumpster on public property, like a street or sidewalk. Your dumpster rental company can guide you through this process to ensure compliance.
\r\n\tDumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards, which indicates how much material the container can hold. Choosing the right size ensures you don’t overpay for unused space or exceed capacity limits.
\r\n\r\nTypical roll-off dumpster sizes include:
\r\n\r\n10 yard dumpster: Perfect for garage cleanouts, shed removals, or small home renovation projects.
\r\n\t20 yard dumpster: Ideal for larger basement or attic cleanouts, minor remodeling, or small roof tear-offs.
\r\n\t30 yard dumpster: Suitable for major home renovation projects or small commercial construction jobs.
\r\n\t40 yard dumpster: Best for complete re-roofing projects, large construction sites, or extensive demolition work.
\r\n\tYour dumpster rental company can help you select the ideal container size based on the type of debris and the scale of your project.
\r\n\r\nMany dumpster rental companies prioritize environmentally responsible disposal. Clean loads, like concrete, asphalt shingles, or metal, are often sent to recycling centers rather than landfills. This helps reduce environmental impact and ensures that recyclable materials are repurposed properly.
\r\n\r\nDumpster weight is an important consideration when planning your rental. A filled roll-off dumpster can weigh several tons, which can damage driveways, patios, and lawns if not properly managed.
\r\n\r\nFor example, removing a 1,500 sq ft roof can generate approximately two tons (4,000 lbs) of shingles. To prevent damage, many companies place plywood or 2x4s under the dumpster during delivery. This simple step protects your driveway, lawn, or patio from scratches, dents, or cracking.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How to Prevent (and Address) Driveway Dumpster Damage
\r\n\r\nNearly all dumpster rentals enforce weight limits. These limits depend on local regulations and landfill fees. Exceeding the weight restriction can result in additional charges, so it’s critical to discuss your debris type and estimated volume with the rental company. When in doubt, overestimate your load to avoid surprises.
\r\n\r\nBy planning ahead and understanding your project’s debris volume and weight, a dumpster rental becomes a hassle-free solution for efficient waste removal.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nIf you want a stress-free cleanup, hiring a junk removal service may be the best choice. Unlike renting a dumpster, these companies handle all the heavy lifting, loading, and hauling for you. Junk removal services are perfect for a wide range of projects, from home cleanouts and estate clearances to yard debris removal and construction or demolition debris hauling.
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company is ideal when:
\r\n\r\nThese services are designed to be easy and convenient. Pricing is generally based on the type and volume of junk you need removed. Many companies provide free on-site estimates for large projects, while smaller pickups can often be quoted over the phone.
\r\n\r\nProfessional junk removal companies specialize in:
\r\n\r\nThese crews are trained to work quickly and safely, ensuring your property isn’t damaged during the removal process.
\r\n\r\nMany junk removal companies focus on eco-friendly disposal:
\r\n\r\nRecycling: Materials such as metal, cardboard, and electronics are sent to recycling centers.
\r\n\r\nDonations: Gently used furniture and appliances may be donated to local charities like Goodwill or Salvation Army, often with a tax-deductible receipt.
\r\n\r\nAppliance donations: Some locations accept functional appliances for donation.
\r\n\r\nThis approach ensures your unwanted items are disposed of responsibly and may even benefit your community.
\r\n\r\n![\"Junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal-crew.png\")
\r\nThe cost of junk removal varies based on location, volume, and service type. In general, junk removal services cost more than dumpster rentals due to labor. Dumpster rentals are more economical for large volumes of debris. For small cleanups, junk removal can be the cheaper and faster option.
\r\n\r\nImagine you need to remove an old couch and a few boxes from your garage:
\r\n\r\nIn this case, junk removal is the better choice because the volume is small, and you avoid the effort of loading a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nFor larger projects, like a whole-home cleanout or roofing debris, dumpster rental typically offers better value.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Cost | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|
| 10 yard | \r\n\t\t\t$250-$450 | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard | \r\n\t\t\t$350-$550 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard | \r\n\t\t\t$450-$650 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard | \r\n\t\t\t$550-$750 | \r\n\t\t
| Service Type | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Cost | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|
| Minimum charge | \r\n\t\t\t$75-$100 | \r\n\t\t
| A few pieces of furniture | \r\n\t\t\t$100-$300 | \r\n\t\t
| Attic, basement, or garage cleanout | \r\n\t\t\t$200-$800 | \r\n\t\t
| Whole home cleanout | \r\n\t\t\t$500-$1,500 | \r\n\t\t
| Foreclosure or estate cleanout | \r\n\t\t\t$800-$2,000 | \r\n\t\t
| Hoarding cleanup | \r\n\t\t\t$1,000-$3,000 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Note: Costs are higher in cities with a high cost of living, such as New York City or Los Angeles, and lower in rural areas. Travel distance to your property and to recycling centers or landfills can also affect pricing.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service are two of the top ways to declutter or clear out bulk amounts of waste. Read about the cost and benefits of each disposal solution so you can be a more informed customer.
\r\n","changed":"2025-10-30T11:04:47+00:00"},{"id":"91f13003-33ae-5485-bfd1-b666eed04f34","title":"The Health Benefits of Decluttering","url":"/blog/the-health-benefits-of-decluttering","image":{"path":"/static/7ccec8c0ff49748b50ee26a6a047b1c6/health-benefits-decluttering.jpg","alt":"cleaning and decluttering health benefits"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","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":"A cluttered home comes with a myriad of safety and health risks.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDecluttering your home not only rids your space of unsightly junk, but it can positively impact your health, too.
\r\n
This article will go over some of the best benefits of decluttering your space...
\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"health](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/health-benefits-of-decluttering-infographic_0.jpg\")
\r\nA cluttered home makes it easier for dust, pet hair, and mold to hide in your home, making it the perfect environment for allergens.
\r\n\r\nClutter also contributes to poor ventilation, which can encourage mold growth, especially in warm, humid environments.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDecluttering, cleaning, and organizing your house will eliminate existing allergens and help to prevent the accumulation of them in the future.
\r\n
Make it a habit to regularly dust, clean, and declutter your home to keep harmful allergens in check.
\r\n\r\nHousehold clutter, especially in the bedroom, can lead to disrupted sleep patterns.
\r\n\r\nResearch has linked cluttered bedrooms to poor sleep due to stress and depression.
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you get a good night’s sleep, keep your bedroom (and the rest of your home) clear of any unnecessary clutter.
\r\n\r\nIf you live alone, your clutter can negatively impact your mood.
\r\n\r\nBut if you live with others, like your family or roommates, then your clutter also impacts their mood.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, their clutter can increase your stress levels as well.
\r\n\r\nThis is why it's so important to maintain a clean and tidy space, especially when you share it with others.
\r\n\r\nA clean space not only fosters healthier relationships, but it can also improve our overall emotional and mental health.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nDecluttering your home, in itself, gets your body moving, which can boost your mood.
\r\n\r\nMoving around, gathering and organizing items, packing boxes, and carrying things from one place to another can be quite the workout.
\r\n\r\nSure, it can be tiring, but the work you're doing while moving your body is rewarding on multiple levels:
\r\n\r\nEvery time you declutter and clean your home or office, you're accomplishing two things at once and becoming healthier in more ways than one.
\r\n\r\nClutter has been proven to produce high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can result in anxiety and depression.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to the physical effects, clutter is downright frustrating; you can't find what you're looking for when you need it, and it makes day-to-day tasks more of a headache.
\r\n\r\nTo stay on top of clutter, put away new purchases or old items as soon as possible, and make sure everything has its own 'home.'
\r\n\r\nIt may seem tedious, but doing so will prevent clutter from piling up, and therefore stress from piling up as well.
\r\n\r\nWhen you're doing a deep clean or declutter of your entire home, you're likely to have a huge pile of items that you don't quite know what to do with.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, you can donate much of the items you no longer use at a local charity.
\r\n\r\nFor the items that aren't still useable, we recommend renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company to assist with the junk and waste disposal.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster rental is a great option for ongoing or large projects.
\r\n\r\nComing in multiple sizes—most commonly, 10 yard, 20 yard, 30 yard, and 40 yard—dumpsters can accommodate a decluttering project that's quite large or relatively small.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, you can rent a dumpster for a week or more and fill it up as you go.
\r\n\r\nOnce it's full or your rental period is over, you can have the dumpster picked up and your debris hauled away and disposed of.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal service provider is typically a more cost-efficient option if you have a few large items to dispose of.
\r\n\r\nOtherwise, a dumpster is generally the less expensive choice for junk and debris disposal.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nDecluttering your home can positively impact your mental and physical health. Read about some of the many benefits of decluttering your space.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T02:31:45+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-allentown-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/Philadelphia-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/pittsburgh-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-pittsburgh-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/allentown-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-allentown.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"20 yard dumpsters are the most commonly rented container size due to their versatility and cost efficiency. They are great for lots of projects, including home cleanout projects, yard waste removal, kitchen or bathroom renovations, pool removals, and more.
\r\n\r\nThe nationwide average cost of renting a 20 yard roll-off container is between $350 and $550. Other charges for overages, tonnage, fuel surcharges, late fees, and certain types of debris may also apply. Always ask the dumpster providers you speak to about what the potential for extra charges so you aren’t surprised by anything. Also, be aware that dumpster prices can vary quite a bit from one location to the next, so check out our ultimate dumpster pricing guide and list of dumpster costs in all 50 states to get an idea for what a good price is in your area.
\r\n","place":null,"code":"20-yard-dumpster"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-emmaus-pa"},{"title":"Junk - Clean-up or Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/emmaus-pa.html"}],"bread":{"title":"Dumpster rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-emmaus.html"},"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":"20 Yard Dumpsters","code":"20-yard-dumpster","kg_homepage_seo_desc":null,"kg_kpp_seo_desc":null,"kg_seo_label":null,"kg_state_seo_desc":null,"kg_panel_page_seo_desc":"Get the best deal on a 20-yard dumpster in PLACE_NAME. Compare local prices on medium dumpsters and book online, hassle-free with Hometown!"}],"pros":"31506, 16855, 36015, 18302, 36040, 34275, 27420, 21252, 23126, 32742, 30065, 21057, 25079, 18741, 31666, 31764, 30825, 17062, 19840, 39301, 38369, 38368, 38367, 37646, 37510, 37508, 37507, 20618, 33340, 21000, 32917, 23473, 32453, 31152, 30994","profiles":[[{"id":"31506"},{"id":"16855"},{"id":"36015"},{"id":"18302"},{"id":"36040"},{"id":"34275"},{"id":"27420"},{"id":"21252"},{"id":"23126"},{"id":"32742"},{"id":"30065"},{"id":"21057"},{"id":"25079"},{"id":"18741"},{"id":"31666"},{"id":"31764"},{"id":"30825"},{"id":"17062"},{"id":"19840"},{"id":"39301"},{"id":"38369"},{"id":"38368"},{"id":"38367"},{"id":"37646"},{"id":"37510"},{"id":"37508"},{"id":"37507"},{"id":"20618"},{"id":"33340"},{"id":"21000"},{"id":"32917"},{"id":"23473"},{"id":"32453"},{"id":"31152"},{"id":"30994"}]],"code":"20-yard-dumpster","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"ppp20"},"cards":{"16855":"\n\t\t\t\t\tThe expert team at MP Custom Services has proudly served the Lehigh Valley since 2012 offering a wide range of key services for residential and commercial...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAt 360 Demolition & Excavating Company, our roll-off containers come in 15 and 20 yard sizes to accommodate a wide range of disposal projects. Swinging side doors make for...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"360](\"/static/8067268fbc195a63ac4fa5b5c6405eb9/360-Demolition---Excavating-logo.png\"/){kind=logo}
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSee all\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tPrime Services, LLC is a well-established provider of several key outdoor services, including roll-off dumpster rental. We carry four container capacities, and our 20 cubic yard...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAs our largest bin, the 20 yard roll-off container from Dumpster Dudez is able to handle the biggest cleanups. This container features a compact footprint at...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tGreen Terra Disposal offers speedy and affordable service along with eco-friendly disposal solutions. We are committed to sustainability; in fact, we recycle about 85% of our...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"Green](\"/static/febe2629a8074a0cc96fb9521ca125e1/Green-Terra-Disposal-logo.png\"/){kind=logo}
\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAt redbox+ Dumpsters of Lehigh Valley, our ELITE dumpsters combine a roll-off container with an integrated portable restroom, all for one competitive price. We also...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tFrankie Services LLC is a local family-owned company providing superior dumpster rental and junk removal services throughout the greater Reading, PA area. We strive to provide excellent service at affordable rates. Offering high-quality dumpster rentals of varying sizes, our roll-off...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBerks-Lehigh Dumpsters & Hauling is a family owned and operated roll-off dumpster company offering 15 and 20 yard containers for residential and light commercial use. We have upfront...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tC&R Container Service can tackle ALL your tough jobs. With over 28 years in the industry, you can trust our quality dumpsters for a variety of cleanup projects, like C&D debris, yard waste, household junk, and everything in between. \n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tA+ Dumpster Solutions LLC has been providing reliable and prompt waste removal services for over 20 years! We offer a versatile range of roll-off containers, including 10, 12, 15, 16, 20,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tFor over 25 years, Junk Removal Pros Plus has been providing high-quality dumpster rental services throughout Westminster, PA and neighboring communities. Check out our 20 yard dumpsters,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWe know you’ve got work to do, so let Trash Talkers handle the cleanup with our convenient dumpsters. We’ve got dumpsters in all...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t