Whether you're a homeowner looking to dispose of a bin full of old electronics and outdated computers that have piled up over the years, or you're a business owner looking to replace obsolete equipment with newer versions, this guide is designed to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.
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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":"764e72c6-c65f-54b2-91f0-e1443a8e0e6c","title":"DIY vs. Professional Basement Cleanouts: Which Is Right for You?","url":"/blog/diy-vs-professional-basement-cleanouts","image":{"path":"/static/435533ba2385f9a33b791bef57ea336c/cluttered-basement.jpg","alt":"cluttered basement"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"c31df595-00f6-51ea-a7da-584c54e964ba","name":"Basement Cleanout","slug":"Basement-Cleanout"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"8166a9a6-cfd1-559d-bf4f-078487cfcbe2","name":"DIY","slug":"DIY"}],"content":"Cleaning out your basement can be a daunting task, especially if it's accumulated years of clutter and debris. Whether you're preparing to renovate your basement, reclaim the space for storage, or simply declutter, you have two main options: hire professional basement cleanout services or tackle the job yourself.
\r\n\r\nIn this in-depth comparison, we'll explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
\r\n\r\n![\"DIY](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/diy-vs-professional-basement-cleanout-infographic_0.jpg\")
\r\nExpertise and Efficiency: Professional cleanout services have the experience and expertise to efficiently clear out your basement. They know how to sort, organize, and dispose of items, ensuring a thorough and systematic cleanout process. They also have the protective gear needed to clean out a basement while minimizing exposure to dust, dirt, and respiratory irritants.
\r\n\tHeavy Lifting: Basement cleanouts often involve moving heavy and bulky items, often up flights of stairs. Professional services have the necessary equipment and manpower to handle these tasks safely, reducing the risk of injury.
\r\n\tProper Disposal: Professionals are well-versed in local regulations and can ensure that items are disposed of properly, oftentimes donating items first, recycling them second, and trashing them as a last resort. They can also handle hazardous materials, like old paint or chemicals, safely and legally.
\r\n\tTime Savings: Hiring professionals allows you to reclaim your basement space quickly, saving you valuable time and physical effort. This can be especially beneficial if you have a tight schedule or other priorities.
\r\n\tFlexibility: Professionals can handle various aspects of the cleanout, from cleaning out the entire basement for you to simply hauling away the pile of items you separate yourself and simply want hauled away and disposed of properly for you. This ensures a thorough and comprehensive cleanout process, whether you have the pros handle the entire process or just part of it.
\r\n\tCost: Professional basement cleanout services come at a cost, which can vary depending on the size of the job and the service provider. You'll need to budget for this expense, but the cost of the service is worth the convenience and efficiency to many.
\r\n\tLimited Control: When you hire professionals, you have less control over the decision-making process. They may dispose of items that you might have chosen to keep or donate.
\r\n\tScheduling: Scheduling the service may require coordination with the service provider, which can lead to some flexibility limitations.
\r\n\tIf hiring professional basement cleanout services is right for you, Hometown can help. We make it easy to request multiple estimates from local services by filling out our simple quote request form. By requesting multiple quotes, you'll be able to adequately compare services, pricing, availability, and other important hiring factors. Hometown also gives tips and advice for basement cleanouts so you know what to expect from your basement cleanout services. We make it easy to ensure you hire the best company for the job and have a stress-free, streamlined experience.
\r\nCost Savings: DIY basement cleanouts can save you money, as you won't incur the expense of hiring professionals.
\r\n\tControl: You have complete control over the process, including what items to keep, donate, recycle, or dispose of. This can be important if you have sentimental attachments to certain items and want to go through all your items yourself.
\r\n\tFlexibility: You can work at your own pace, allowing you to schedule the cleanout around your availability.
\r\n\tTime-Consuming: DIY basement cleanouts can be time-consuming, especially if you have a busy schedule. It may take longer to complete the job, potentially causing disruptions. On top of that, you'll have to haul your items to the nearest donation center or recycling facility, or rent a dumpster, as most cleanouts involve more than will fit in their curbside trash.
\r\n\tPhysical Effort: Basement cleanouts often involve heavy lifting, moving, and disposing of items, which can be physically demanding and pose a risk of injury.
\r\n\tRisk of Improper Disposal: Without knowledge of local regulations and recycling centers, you may improperly dispose of items, leading to potential fines or environmental harm.
\r\n\tEmotional Attachment: It can be challenging to part with items, leading to indecision and slower progress during the cleanout.
\r\n\tLimited Resources: You may lack the necessary equipment, like a truck or dumpster, to efficiently remove and dispose of debris and large items.
\r\n\tIf handling the basement cleanout yourself is right for you, Hometown can help with that, too! We make it easy to request multiple estimates from local dumpster rental services. Fill out our simple quote request form to request multiple quotes, and adequately compare services, pricing, availability, etc. Hometown also gives tips and advice for dumpster rental so you can know what to expect from your dumpster rental service. We make it easy to ensure you hire the best dumpster rental service for your needs and have a stress-free, streamlined experience.
\r\nThe decision between professional basement cleanout services and a DIY approach depends on your specific needs, budget, and priorities.
\r\n\r\nIf you value efficiency and convenience, professional services are likely the best choice. However, if you have the time, physical capability, and desire for complete control over the process, a DIY cleanout can be a cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nUltimately, the choice should align with your goals for your basement space and your willingness to invest time and effort into the project.
\r\n","teaser":"You have two main options when cleaning out your basement: hire professional basement cleanout services or tackle the job yourself. Explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
\r\n","changed":"2023-10-05T21:23:41+00:00"},{"id":"00978826-53b2-5f1e-aa6a-5671ef43a5d6","title":"How Much Does Hoarding Cleanup Cost?","url":"/blog/hoarding-cleanups-costs-considerations-and-disposal-options","image":{"path":"/static/d0e3c619e49524a40516837405e3f2b5/hoarding-cleanup.jpg","alt":"room full of old, dirty clutter and household items"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8d15e244-391b-564d-8e25-ec23f4896b56","name":"Hoarding Cleanout","slug":"Hoarding-Cleanout"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"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":"Hoarding goes far beyond collecting items. Recognized as a mental health condition, hoarding is a rather common disorder, affecting as many as 1 in 20 people. When it's time to face a hoarding situation and come up with disposal solutions, this guide can help.
\r\n\r\nThere are so many benefits to cleaning up a cluttered house, and it goes beyond that of the house itself. Cleaning your house promotes a calmer, more peaceful state of mind.
\r\n\r\nCleaning out your home also...
\r\n\r\nThere’s a definite line between being a collector and a hoarder. While both situations involve the accumulation of “things,” collectors generally have a sense of pride in whatever it is they collect, and will keep things organized if not on display. Collectors tend to stick to a budget when adding to their collection and are well aware of the debt consequences of purchasing more than they can afford to spend.
\r\n\r\nA hoarder’s mentality, on the other hand, is not connected to pride, and they often actually feel embarrassed of the amount of things they've accumulated. This is why it's so important to be supportive and work on the cleanup at a pace the hoarder is comfortable with. Helpers will need patience during most hoarding cleanups, so do your best to keep a positive, supportive attitude during the project. Aside from the mental preparation involved in helping during a hoarding situation cleanup, it’s also important to prep for the potential dangers involved in such a project.
\r\n\r\nRisks associated with hoarding cleanups include:
\r\n\r\n![\"Family](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/hoarding-cleanup-team.jpg\")
\r\nThe first step to addressing any hoarding situation is to assemble a team of supportive and motivated people that the individual trusts.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe decluttering and cleanout process is incredibly difficult on those who hoard, so it’s important to have lots of support, motivation, and even a bit of tough love in some cases.
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A family member or close friend should be in charge of assembling a team and addressing the hoarding cleanup plan with the hoarder.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"different](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/declutter-options.jpg\")
\r\nSeparate items of value, like furniture, household items, unopened packages, and other items that could be of benefit to others. These items can then be sold or brought to local charitable organizations. Recyclables, like newspaper, cardboard, plastics, metals, and building materials, can also be separated and brought to the nearest recycling facility. Keeping as much junk and debris out of landfills as possible is the most eco-friendly solution.
\r\n\r\nYour dumpster rental provider can help you optimize an eco-friendly disposal strategy, and some even offer discounts for clean-loaded dumpsters containing only recyclables; just ask!
\r\n\r\nOrganizations such as Habitat for Humanity will often come pick up gently used furniture and other home goods for free. Call your nearest Habitat ReStore or Salvation Army for details.
\r\n\r\nWith a team in place, it’s time to determine how you will go about organizing everything. In hoarding situations, there is often a lot of junk mixed in with a lot of items that can be used or sold. A dumpster rental will give you a convenient place to catch all the items you need to throw out, like broken furniture, old newspapers and magazines, large quantities of trash, and other old household items. Hiring a junk removal company to handle the hoarding cleanup is a convenient alternative, but a large job will cost thousands of dollars for a whole-home complete cleanout. The cost of renting a dumpster is half that or less in most cases.
\r\n\r\n| Roll-off Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Rental Cost | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$250-$450 | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$350-$550 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$450-$650 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$550-$750 | \r\n\t\t
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Dumpster rental costs vary from city-to-city and from one contractor to the next, so it's important to get multiple quotes before signing a contract. This ensures you get the best services without overpaying.
\r\n\r\nSpecialty cleanup companies focused on hoarding situations may be an option in your area. These hoarding cleanup services are like specialized junk removal service providers. They are experts in safely and efficiently removing junk, but they are also experienced in handling hoarding specifically. Search local junk removal companies to find one who has experience handling hoarding situations.
\r\n\r\nIt's common for a hoarding cleanup service to charge somewhere between $0.75-$2.50 per square foot of living space overtaken with junk, garbage, and waste, plus an additional cost of $25-$60 per hour, per laborer.
\r\n\r\nHoarding cleanups are major projects. Not surprisingly, projects of this magnitude require a large dumpster or junk removal solution. A large hoarding project will generally require a 30 or 40 yard dumpster for the average-sized home, and disposal costs can add up quickly if multiple dumpsters are required to complete the job. Large dumpsters can cost $450 on the low end, and up to $750+ on the hight end for a seven-day rental period. If a junk removal service is hired for the job, you can expect to pay at least double the cost of renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nCall several dumpster providers and get a quote from each. Use the information gathered to negotiate a discount or a longer rental period.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPlan ahead and contact several dumpster rental providers or junk removal companies 1-2 weeks or more in advance.
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If you can't choose between two sizes, then go with the larger size. The difference in price is less compared to having to potentially rent a second dumpster to finish the job. Some dumpster rental companies offer discounts for seniors, military, veterans, etc. Be sure to ask.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nThere are several ways to address a hoarding situation. Learn the various strategies, costs involved with hoarding cleanups, and other considerations.
\r\n","changed":"2023-04-28T13:36:12+00:00"}],"populars":[{"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":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/Pittsburgh-dumpster-rental.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":"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":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-allentown-pa","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"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"One cubic yard is 3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft. A kitchen stove takes up approximately 1 cubic yard. A sofa takes up roughly 3-4 cubic yards. A refrigerator is roughly 2 cubic yards in size.
\r\n\r\n20 yard dumpsters are the most commonly rented size container because of their versatility. They are an economical choice for a variety of situations.
\r\n\r\nHere are some examples of when a 20 yard bin makes sense:
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
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