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":"1744b489-e012-58b2-a12f-a222210406dd","title":"What to Expect When Renting a Dumpster","url":"/blog/what-to-expect-when-renting-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/1103d74e73b39b52ba9ad9a178d0176f/clean-dumpster.png","alt":"Clean roll-off dumpster in parking lot"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Renting a dumpster is a cost-efficient way to get rid of large amounts of trash and debris, but it's not everyday that you have a huge piece of equipment placed on your property.
\r\n\r\nIf you've never rented a dumpster before, this article will help prepare you for what to expect.
\r\n\r\n![\"What](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/what-to-expect-dumpster-infographic_2.png\")
\r\nThe first thing you'll need to do is decide which size and type of dumpster will work best for your project.
\r\n\r\nOur guide will help you determine the perfect dumpster size for your disposal project, but dumpster rental companies are experts at determining what will work best.
\r\n\r\nContacting multiple dumpster rental providers in your area and describing your disposal needs in detail will help you figure out the size of container you'll need, and getting quotes from each company you speak with will help you know what a competitive price is in your area.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to renting a dumpster, locally-owned and operated companies tend to provide more affordable pricing than their nationwide competitors who specialize in weekly municipal trash services.
\r\n
The quickest and most convenient way to find dumpster companies that service your zip code is by searching on Hometown.
\r\n\r\nBy entering your zip code and answering a few questions about your dumpster needs, you'll be able to request free quotes from qualified locally-owned providers near you.
\r\n\r\nHometown only publishes verified reviews from real customers to help you make an informed decision on who provides the best dumpster rental service in your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Waste Management's Dumpster Rental Prices Are Costly Compared to Local Haulers
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAfter you've gotten multiple quotes and choose a dumpster rental company to move forward with, you'll schedule your delivery with a credit card either over the phone or online.
\r\n\r\nBe sure to specify where on your property you'd like the dumpster placed.
\r\n\r\nIf you're renting a roll-off and having it placed in your driveway, we recommend confirming that they will use wood planks or another method to prevent the dumpster from cracking or damaging your driveway.
\r\n\r\nIf you're renting a trailer dumpster, the rubber wheels attached to the bottom will be protection enough and no further precautions will be necessary.
\r\n\r\nMake sure that the area is clear of cars or any other obstructions blocking the dumpster truck's path.
\r\n\r\nReach out to neighbors ahead of time if their parking situation will affect the dumpster company's ability to deliver the containers.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce your rental is placed in your desired area, you can begin filling it.
\r\n\r\nIf you have large, heavy, or oddly shaped items, a roll-off container can make walking in these items easy with their swinging back door.
\r\n\r\nBoth roll-off containers and trailer dumpsters feature an open top, making it easy to throw your items in over the side walls.
\r\n\r\nEvery dumpster has a fill line, so be sure to not overfill your dumpster so that you can avoid overage fees or having to remove items from the dumpster before pick-up can be completed.
\r\n\r\nBe sure you understand what is prohibited from the dumpster so you don't make the mistake of putting unapproved trash into your dumpster.
\r\n\r\nItems like paint cans, rubber tires, and pesticides are examples of common items banned in landfills (and therefore dumpsters) throughout the United States.
\r\n\r\nYou will be subjected to additional fines and fees for not following the dumpster company's rules regarding approved disposal.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Why Roll-Off Containers Are Perfect for Heavy or Bulky Items
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAfter you've finished filling up your dumpster, contact the rental company and schedule the pick-up.
\r\n\r\nSome companies will schedule this at the beginning of the transaction when you schedule delivery and do not require you to call them for pick-up.
\r\n\r\nDumpster quotes and agreements include a specified amount of time that the dumpster will remain on your property.
\r\n\r\nIf you're supposed to contact the dumpster company to arrange pick-up once you're done using the container and don't do so until after the predetermined rental period, you'll be charged a small fee per day in addition to your original amount.
\r\n\r\nJust like with delivery, be sure there is an unobstructed path for the dumpster truck to safely access the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nIf you've overfilled the container, the dumpster company may ask you to remove items until the dumpster is safe to transport, or they may do so themselves and leave the remaining items for you to dispose of.
\r\n\r\nMaking sure to follow all rules and guidelines provided to you by the company you hire will ensure a simple, fast, and smooth dumpster delivery and pick-up.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you've never rented a dumpster before, read this article to find out how to prepare and what you can expect.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T02:50:53+00:00"},{"id":"756fc3da-dd67-57a3-b164-f949bb2e7990","title":"How to Clean Out a Cluttered Garage Fast","url":"/blog/fastest-way-to-clean-out-garage","image":{"path":"/static/7fed3b7c2129c672e978e1df3a4fbca7/messy-cluttered-garage.png","alt":"cluttered garage filled with kids' toys and sports equipment"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"id":"86e68e5b-9753-5fb4-a2bd-6c49cc8782d3","name":"Garage Cleanout","slug":"Garage-Cleanout"}],"content":"Garages are one of those places in the home that tends to collect various clutter.
\r\n\r\nDisorganized clutter can build up quickly in your garage if you're not careful, making it impossible to park your car in the garage or find items in it when you need them.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOld paint cans, unorganized tools and lawn equipment, slightly-used holiday decorations, old athletic equipment—all of this can build up quickly and can cause your garage to be a cluttered, ugly mess.
\r\n
When considering the process of decluttering and organizing your garage, it can feel like an overwhelming task.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unsure where to start or how to get the job done quickly and stress-free, you're not alone.
\r\n\r\nLuckily, Hometown is here to help answer those questions, and we make it easy to get started.
\r\n\r\n![\"how](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/clean-out-garage-fast-infographic_1.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nArguably the most physically and mentally taxing part of getting your garage decluttered and organized is the labor involved.
\r\n\r\nHauling heavy items out of your garage, lugging around trash and boxes, going through dusty items, and finding a way to get rid of everything you no longer want quickly and safely is exhausting and sometimes dangerous work.
\r\n\r\nProfessional junk hauling services specialize in cleaning out garages, attic cleanups, basement cleanouts, whole-home cleanouts, heavy item removals, and property cleanups.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are experts at safely cleaning out cluttered spaces, like garages, in record time.
\r\n
Instead of wearing yourself out and spending your entire weekend cleaning out your garage, reach out to local junk removal companies for help and get it done quickly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"messy](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/cluttered-garage-cleanout.png\")
\r\nUnless you want to get rid of everything in your garage, you will want to start your garage cleanout by determining which items you want to keep and which items you want to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know what you want to toss, set those items aside and start a pile, ideally outside the garage.
\r\n\r\nIf you have entire sections of your garage that you know contain items you want them to take, you can simply point those areas out to the junk removers.
\r\n\r\nMaking it clear to junk removers which items you want them to take will help them determine the scope of your garage cleanout and the time and labor it will require.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about decluttering and organizing:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it simple for homeowners to request garage cleanout quotes from companies in their area.
\r\n\r\nJust enter your zip code and browse the junk removal service providers in your city or town.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can read more about their services, see what their customers have to say about them, and request free quotes from as many companies as you like.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting three or more junk removal quotes whenever you can to help ensure you pay a fair price and get quality services from a professional and friendly junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nTip: When you reach out to junk removal companies for a project quote, be as detailed as you can when describing what you need removed and where it's located. If you can provide pictures or video of your junk and where it's located/how accessible it is, this will help ensure you get an accurate estimate and good customer service with minimal contact.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading about junk removal services and costs:
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to provide adequate information, photos, or video of your garage cleanout needs, junk removal companies will likely be able to provide a quote over the phone, via text, or by email.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unable to provide enough context for the junk removers to be able to provide an accurate and informed project estimate remotely, that's OK.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies will typically send two employees to your home or business to provide an in-person quote when the job involves more than just a few items.
\r\n\r\nThese quotes are free and you are not obligated to hire them if you don't like the price they quote you.
\r\n\r\nIf you agree to the price of their garage cleanout services, they get started right away.
\r\n\r\nRead more about hiring junk removal companies:
\r\n\r\n![\"woman](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/declutter-organize-garage.png\")
\r\nPayment is taken once the garage cleanout is complete.
\r\n\r\nNow that your unwanted junk is gone and out of the way, you can now finish organizing your items.
\r\n\r\nUtilize shelves to maximize storage space, label waterproof storage bins to keep items dust- and dirt-free and easy to find, and limit the items you store in the garage moving forward.
\r\n\r\nEverything in your garage should have a designated storage space. And when you bring new items into your garage, it's a great rule of thumb to take one out in exchange to minimize clutter from piling up again.
\r\n\r\nFind out how to improve your garage:
\r\n\r\nFind out the best strategies and where to start with your garage cleanout project to get it done as quickly as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T01:05:18+00:00"}],"populars":[{"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":"Allentown, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-allentown.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/philadelphia-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-philadelphia-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":"Allentown, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-allentown-pa","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":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-south-gibson-pa"},{"title":"Junk - Clean-up or Removal","url":"pennsylvania/junk-removal-south-gibson-pa"}],"bread":{"title":"Dumpster rental","url":"pennsylvania/dumpster-rental-south-gibson-pa"},"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":"30 Yard 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":"Get the best deal on a 30-yard dumpster in PLACE_NAME. Compare local prices on large dumpsters and book online, hassle-free with Hometown!"}],"pros":"19330, 37751, 37738, 37737, 37661, 37643, 37638, 37509, 35119, 33349, 20777, 16790","profiles":[[{"id":"19330"},{"id":"37751"},{"id":"37738"},{"id":"37737"},{"id":"37661"},{"id":"37643"},{"id":"37638"},{"id":"37509"},{"id":"35119"},{"id":"33349"},{"id":"20777"},{"id":"16790","remove":1}]],"code":"roll-off-dumpsters","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"ppprolloff"},"cards":{"19330":"\n\t\t\t\t\tDon Hill General Hauling offers full-service waste hauling services, including dumpster rental and junk removal. From small junk pick-ups to larger-scale construction or demolition cleanups,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCCI Waste Recycling Services, Inc offers full-service waste hauling services. We have a large stock of dumpsters available for residential, commercial or industrial projects. We’...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tABL Dumpster is a locally operated dumpster rental provider based in Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania, dedicated to supporting homeowners, contractors, and businesses throughout Wayne County with...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRLE Enterprises is a roll‑off dumpster provider headquartered in Moscow, Pennsylvania, leveraging decades of local heavy‑haul and waste management experience to support residential,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBig Up Dumpsters is a locally owned and operated company that has been providing essential waste management solutions for over a decade in the Scranton...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCarl's Dumpsters & Hauling is a family and locally-owned business in Northeastern Pennsylvania, committed to providing exceptional customer support for reliable trash removal and hauling services....\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tKeystone Container Service Inc has proudly served homeowners, contractors, and businesses throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania for over 20 years. We are a trusted choice for reliable dumpster...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tDiaz Disposal is a locally owned and operated company offering fast, reliable dumpster rental services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. We...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tGhost Dumpsters 570 is a licensed and insured dumpster rental and junk removal provider based in Waymart, Pennsylvania, serving communities throughout Northeast PA. We specialize in...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tNew Age Container Services is a locally rooted dumpster rental provider based in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, known for serving homeowners and contractors across northeastern Lackawanna, Susquehanna,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tG.M. JONES Enterprise is a locally rooted waste removal and dumpster rental provider operating out of Dunmore in the Scranton‑area of Northeastern Pennsylvania,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t