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":"337b59bd-5c55-5206-806a-6469377a1b95","title":"Cardboard Recycling 101: What Homeowners and Business Owners Should Know","url":"/blog/cardboard-recycling-101","image":{"path":"/static/b612765e280e9a4093f3c1563ee081f9/cardboard-1.jpg","alt":"Pile of recyclable cardboard"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"d7a82c6b-3d3b-5d72-ba59-4bdd492bf55f","name":"Cardboard Recycling","slug":"Cardboard-Recycling"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"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":"With over 90% of all products shipped in the US being cardboard boxes, it's no wonder why consumers and businesses are being asked now more than ever to recycle cardboard as often as possible.
\r\n\r\nLandfill \"real estate\" is precious and limited, and we are all sitting on a huge opportunity to reduce our contributions with plenty of recycling options at our fingertips.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling is the environmentally responsible thing to do, but there are rules you must follow in order to not contaminate a batch of recyclables.
\r\n
Not following these rules can lead to recyclables having to be tossed into a landfill, producing the exact opposite results you were trying for.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over everything you need to know about cardboard recycling for homes and businesses so you can ensure your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n\r\nAs mentioned above, one of the more obvious benefits of recycling cardboard is conserving landfill space, but that is only the beginning of a long list of cardboard recycling benefits.
\r\n\r\nMany of us were taught in school that recycling cardboard and paper helps reduce the amount of trees that are cut down, but how many trees are we actually preserving?
\r\n\r\nFor every ton of cardboard that is recycled, 17 trees are preserved, which can absorb around 250 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air each year!
\r\n\r\nFor every ton (2,000 lbs) of cardboard that is recycled, we save roughly:
\r\n\r\nIf you're someone who is less concerned with the environment than you are the economy, there are plenty of economical benefits to recycling cardboard and other materials as well.
\r\n\r\nA new study by Eco-Cycle indicates that if the United States could transition to a 75% recycling rate by the year 2030, we would create an estimate 1-2 million new jobs!
\r\n\r\nThese job creations aren't your run-of-the-mill minimum wage jobs, either. The recycling industry offers their employees competitive wages and health benefits.
\r\n\r\nWith so many benefits to recycling, it's a wonder why anyone would choose not to take advantage of free recycling programs.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to keep in mind when recycling cardboard is that it is crucial to keep all paper and cardboard products clean.
\r\n\r\nIn a mixed recycling bin where you throw aluminum, glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard, you're much more likely to get cross contamination from foods or liquids which can ruin an entire bale of recyclable cardboard.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe best recycling practice is to keep cardboard and paper separate from other types of recyclables so that they can remain clean and free of contaminants.
\r\n
It's also important to understand the different types of cardboard products we use and what they can sometimes be lined or mixed with.
\r\n\r\nWhile most cardboard and paperboard products can be recycled, there are some products that are lined with plastic film or coated with wax, and these items should be thrown away rather than recycled.
\r\n\r\nIt's not unusual for boxes that contain frozen items to be lined with wax or plastic to prevent them from getting soggy, so if you can't verify that your frozen boxes are recyclable, err on the side of caution and throw it away.
\r\n\r\nAnother important note to remember is that cardboard that has embellishments like foil, glitter, or velvet should also be thrown away rather than recycled.
\r\n\r\nThe best practices for recycling any type of material is to understand exactly what can and can't go in your bin, specifically in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities can handle certain products that others cannot.
\r\n\r\nFor example, most recycling centers can't recycle cardboard lined with plastic.
\r\n\r\nThere are, however, some recycling centers that have special machines that can separate this plastic from cardboard or paperboard.
\r\n\r\nAs a general rule, cardboard boxes with mailing labels or packing tape are okay to be tossed into your recycling, but there are some exceptions to this rule at certain facilities.
\r\n\r\nThat's why it's important to get a list of accepted material directly from your waste management company so that you aren't mistakingly contaminating the cardboard or other items you're trying to recycle because rules can vary from one community to the next.
\r\n\r\n![\"Cardboard](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/cardboard-2.jpg\")
\r\nThere are many common mistakes well-intentioned people make when recycling cardboard.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common is tossing in pizza boxes with grease stains.
\r\n\r\nWhile cardboard is a recyclable material, no paper products that are contaminated with food should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf the top half of your pizza box does not have any grease on it, feel free to separate that from the bottom half of your pizza box and put it into your recycling as long as you're sure it's clean.
\r\n\r\nAnother common mistake people make is not breaking down large cardboard boxes when placing them into their recycling bin.
\r\n\r\nMake sure to always break down cardboard boxes to preserve space not only in your personal bin, but in the recycling truck.
\r\n\r\nDepending on how large the box is, it may be necessary to cut your cardboard up into more manageable sized pieces.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local facility to learn more.
\r\n\r\nIf your curbside trash service also offers recycling, having your recycling picked up at the end of your driveway is certainly the most convenient option.
\r\n\r\nFor those who live in areas where this isn't offered, however, there are plenty of other recycling options available.
\r\n\r\nIt's becoming more and more common for communities to offer drop-off recycling programs or community dumpsters at different drop-off locations for recyclables.
\r\n\r\nMichigan, for example, has a cardboard and paper recycling program called PaperGator where residents can deposit their recyclable paper products into dumpster containers at several designated drop-off locations.
\r\n\r\nIf you need help locating a community recycling program, visit Earth 911 to find recycling centers or programs near you. You can type in the specific type of material you'd like to recycle, as well as your zip code, and you'll be shown recycling solutions near you.
\r\n\r\nIf you're a business or contractor that has large amounts of cardboard to recycle that won't fit in your curbside collection, consider renting a dumpster for your recycling efforts.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you have a lot of cardboard to recycle but not enough to justify renting a dumpster, consider hiring a junk removal company to haul away your cardboard for you.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will be able to recycle all your cardboard products on your behalf without you having to lift a finger.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find junk removal services and dumpster rentals for all types of disposals across the U.S., including cardboard recycling!
\r\n\r\nSearch your zip code, answer a few quick questions about your project needs, and get free quotes from qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn everything you need to know about cardboard recycling to ensure that your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-17T13:54:08+00:00"},{"id":"65487955-cd22-5646-958a-87b87a9be751","title":"Dumpster Rental for Home Renovations: What to Know and What to Expect","url":"/blog/dumpster-rental-for-home-renovations","image":{"path":"/static/90c7b514b4facc11ce2b90042c20124f/green-dumpster-full-of-renovation-debris.png","alt":"green dumpster full of renovation debris"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-Removal"}],"content":"Renovating your kitchen, basement, or bathroom can be one of the most exciting upgrades to your home, but it also creates a surprising amount of debris. Old cabinets, drywall, flooring, and scrap wood pile up fast, and most household trash bins can’t handle it. That’s where a dumpster rental comes in.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRenting a roll-off dumpster makes cleanup faster, safer, and more efficient, but only if you know what to expect.
\r\n
Homeowners rent dumpsters for all kinds of renovation projects, big and small. You might be:
\r\n\r\nDoing the demolition yourself on a kitchen or bathroom remodel and need a convenient place to toss old materials
\r\n\tHiring a handyman or small crew to handle the demo, but it’s up to you to arrange the dumpster
\r\n\tTackling a full DIY renovation, where you’re managing both demolition and construction
\r\n\tOverseeing multiple contractors for a larger project, and you want to keep waste removal organized
\r\n\tPreparing your home for sale and removing fixtures, furniture, or other junk and debris before staging
\r\n\tNo matter which situation fits you, this guide will help you understand how dumpster rentals work, what questions to know before renting, and how to avoid common mistakes.
\r\n\r\nChoosing the right size dumpster is one of the most important parts of a smooth project. If it’s too small, you’ll pay for multiple hauls; too large, and you’ll overspend on unused space.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
| Project Type | \r\n\t\t\tRecommended Size | \r\n\t\t\tNotes | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|
| Small bathroom remodel | \r\n\t\t\t10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tGreat for tile, drywall, small fixtures | \r\n\t\t
| Kitchen renovation | \r\n\t\t\t15-20 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tCan handle cabinets, countertops, and appliances | \r\n\t\t
| Whole-home renovation | \r\n\t\t\t30 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tBest for large volumes of debris | \r\n\t\t
| Roofing project | \r\n\t\t\t10-15 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tIdeal for shingles and underlayment | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Pro Tip: Always round up in dumpster size if you’re unsure. It’s cheaper to have a little extra room than to pay overage fees for going over the weight limit.
\r\n\r\nBefore booking your dumpster, clarify the details. Every dumpster company operates differently, so it pays to look at the fine print.
\r\n\r\nWhen you book with Hometown, you'll see all pricing details. Each company's transparent pricing details include all necessary information, like the rental period length included in the cost, as well as the cost of extending your rental period, what items you're prohibited from placing in the dumpster, and how much weight is included in the dumpster price and the cost per ton if you exceed that weight.
\r\nMost dumpster rentals last 7-10 days. Companies typically offer the option of extending your dumpster rental period, charging a small fee around $50-$100 per day on average.
\r\n\r\nPaints, solvents, tires, electronics, and appliances often aren’t allowed due to disposal regulations. Ask for a full list so you can plan ahead.
\r\n\r\nWeight limits vary by dumpster size and material type. Heavy debris like concrete or roofing shingles can reach the limit quickly. Knowing how much different C&D debris weighs or how much general junk weighs will help you know you're renting the right size for your project.
\r\n\r\nIf the dumpster will sit on the street or sidewalk, your city may require a dumpster permit. Your provider can usually help you obtain one.
\r\n\r\nMake sure there’s enough clearance for the delivery truck and protect your driveway with plywood if needed.
\r\n\r\nThe driver will need a clear, flat surface for placement. Move vehicles out of the way, and if possible, mark your preferred spot with cones or tape. Placing plywood under the dumpster helps protect driveways from scratches or cracks. Oftentimes, companies provide boards for under the dumpster themselves.
\r\n\r\nOnce you’ve filled the dumpster, it will be picked up on the scheduled pick-up day. However, you can often call and let the company know your dumpster is ready for pick-up if you're done filling it before your rental period is up. Some companies require 24-48 hours’ notice, so keep that in mind as well. If your project runs long, don’t wait until it’s full. Extend your rental before it expires to avoid daily overage fees.
\r\n\r\nPro Tip: Take photos of your driveway or yard before and after delivery. It helps resolve any disputes if damage occurs, though this is rare.
\r\n\r\nKnow when major demo days will happen and time delivery accordingly. Having the dumpster arrive too early or late can waste money.
\r\n\r\nSeparate heavy materials like tile or concrete from lighter items. This helps balance weight and makes recycling easier.
\r\n\r\nKeep waste below the top edge of the dumpster. Most haulers won’t pick up an overloaded container for safety reasons.
\r\n\r\nAsk your provider about recycling options for metal, wood, or cardboard. Some companies offer discounts for recycling clean loads.
\r\n\r\nIf multiple people are using a dumpster, like on a job site, label what goes in which dumpster to prevent accidental dumping of prohibited items or contaminating \"clean loads.\"
\r\n\r\nRenting too small a dumpster. It’s the most common mistake, but is easily avoidable. Estimate how many cubic yards (3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft or roughly the size of a kitchen stove) of debris you have and estimate how much the debris will weigh.
\r\n\tIgnoring prohibited item rules. Tossing in paint cans or electronics can result in fines. Different companies have different prohibited items. When you book with Hometown, you'll be provided clear information on what is and
\r\n\tNot checking weight limits. A half-full dumpster with dense debris can still exceed limits. If you're disposing of heavy debris, make sure you abide by the company's directions. Often, you're limited to filling the dumpster halfway or less.
\r\n\tOverfilling or blocking access. If your dumpster is filled above the fill line inside, or if there is insufficient access, the truck driver has the right to refuse pickup if it’s unsafe to pick up the dumpster and haul it,.
\r\n\tForgetting about permits. Many neighborhoods and HOAs have placement rules and limits to how long a dumpster can be placed in your driveway. Check before delivery and make sure you abide by said rules to avoid any HOA headaches.
\r\n\tSchedule delivery early in the week for better availability and quicker swap-outs.
\r\n\tCheck weather forecasts. Cover your dumpster if rain or snow is predicted to prevent water-logging debris and adding weight. Learn more about preparing for rain or severe weather during a dumpster rental.
\r\n\tDon't assume volume equals weight. Heavy debris like concrete, stone, or tile can quickly reach weight limits, so double check how much weight is included in the dumpster's price before booking.
\r\n\tCheck driveway clearance for trucks. Some residential driveways and streets are too narrow, requiring on-street or off-street parking. If that's the cases, you'll likely need a dumpster permit.
\r\n\tWhether you’re doing your own demolition, coordinating with a handyman or local demolition company, or managing a full home renovation, understanding how dumpster rentals work will save you time, money, and stress. By asking the right questions and planning ahead, you’ll keep your project running smoothly from demo to cleanup.
\r\n
\r\nNeed help finding a reliable dumpster rental service near you? Use Hometown to compare local providers, request quotes, and get your renovation cleanup handled the right way.
Learn how to choose the right dumpster for your renovation, avoid common mistakes, compare prices, and keep your project cleanup fast and simple.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-18T15:17:30+00:00"},{"id":"20c332c4-322a-5438-996e-aa61f5b27ffb","title":"How Many Garbage Bags Fit in a Dumpster?","url":"/blog/how-many-garbage-bags-fit-in-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/fcc47edc2db413a4b88370c90388a582/trash-bags-in-a-dumpster.png","alt":"trash bags in dumpster"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"e814d78d-e3c3-5606-bb65-731daf3cd048","name":"Dumpster Sizes","slug":"Dumpster-Sizes"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"If you're planning a deep home cleaning, office cleanout, or other trash-producing project, dumpster rental is a great option!
\r\n\r\nHowever, choosing a dumpster size that's too small or too big can end up costing you more than you need to pay.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nChoosing the right dumpster size is important, and understanding how many trash bags can fit inside a dumpster is hugely helpful in making sure you do just that.
\r\n
Dumpster sizes are labelled by yardage. 10 yards, 15 yards, 20 yards, 30 yards, and 40 yards are some of the most common roll-off container sizes available for rent.
\r\n\r\nThis yardage indicates roughly how many cubic yards (3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft) the roll-off dumpster holds. However, exactly how much your dumpster can hold will depend on the type of debris and how much it weighs, too.
\r\n![\"how](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/how-many-trash-bags-fit-in-dumpster-infographic.png\")
\r\n1 cubic yard can hold roughly 6 garbage bags, which means...
\r\n\r\n10 yard dumpsters can hold 55-65 garbage bags on average.
\r\n\r\n15 yard dumpsters can hold roughly 82-98 garbage bags.
\r\n\r\n20 yard dumpsters hold 110-130 garbage bags in most cases.
\r\n\r\n30 yard dumpsters can typically hold 170-190 garbage bags.
\r\n\r\n40 yard dumpsters can hold 230-250 garbage bags on average.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about choosing the right dumpster size:
\r\n\r\nChoosing the right dumpster size is important, and understanding how many trash bags can fit inside a dumpster is hugely helpful in making sure you do just that. Learn how many garbage bags fit in the most common dumpster rental sizes so you don't get overcharged.
\r\n","changed":"2022-07-27T20:32:29+00:00"},{"id":"79be4cf3-e8f0-51f4-a3a9-434890996447","title":"Renting a Dumpster for Home Cleanouts","url":"/blog/renting-a-dumpster-for-home-cleanouts","image":{"path":"/static/ac41bd06a8b652bc72efd7ea3f029b2c/home-cleanout-dumpster-rental.jpg","alt":"dumpster with household junk and debris in dumpster"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"7ce68dc2-095e-5221-a253-7b8b847933db","name":"House Cleanout","slug":"House-Cleanout"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"id":"04fd2ebe-e793-5a68-9f65-b5be6a2552ea","name":"Household Junk Dumpsters","slug":"Household-Junk-Dumpsters"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"There are many circumstances that might call for a full home cleanout.
\r\n\r\nEvictions, foreclosures, hoarding situations, and estate cleanouts are some examples of opportune times to utilize local dumpsters for rent in your area.
\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you've never had to rent a dumpster for yourself, don’t be intimidated.
\r\n\r\nEven though these pieces of equipment are big, renting a roll-off dumpster is a relatively inexpensive and easy process.
\r\n\r\nIn this article, we’ll discuss:
\r\n\r\n![\"barn](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/house-cleanout-junk.jpg\")
\r\nCleaning out a home, whether it's yours or someone else’s, will most likely involve the disposal of items that your local waste management company won't pick up.
\r\n\r\nOld appliances, electronics, light fixtures, and clothing are all examples of items that should never be disposed of in your curbside residential trash can.
\r\n\r\nIf you plan on going the DIY route instead of hiring a junk removal company to haul away the items from a full house cleanout, renting a dumpster from a local company is a great way to save money while still being convenient.
\r\n\r\nThe convenience of having a dumpster on location compared to having to haul individual truckloads to your local landfill yourself will have a significant impact on the time it takes you to complete your cleanout project.
\r\n\r\n![\"different](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/different-dumpster-sizes_0.jpg\")
\r\nRoll-off dumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards and typically come in 10 yard, 20 yard, 30 yard, and 40 yard sizes.
\r\n\r\nFor a 2,500 sq ft 4-bedroom, 3-bath house, a 20 yard dumpster is likely a good option.
\r\n\r\nA home this size that also needs new windows, carpet, or siding will likely need a dumpster double the size, and opting for a 40 yard dumpster will provide plenty of space to dispose of all your unwanted items and debris.
\r\n\r\nFor a basic home cleanout of a home larger than 2,500 sq ft, or in extreme hoarding cases, 30 and 40 yard dumpsters will be your safest bet.
\r\n\r\nYour local, reputable dumpster rental company will be able to help you decide exactly which size dumpster will work best for your project.
\r\n\r\nIf they seem unwilling or unable to help you decide, we recommend calling other service providers in your area.
\r\n\r\nThe national average cost of a 10 yard dumpster is $250-$450, a 20 yard dumpster is $350-$550, a 30-yarder is $450-$650, and a 40-yarder is $550-$750.
\r\n\r\nIt is important to note that these are only national averages, and the actual price that you pay will depend on where you are located and the scope of your project.
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster in Charleston, SC, for example, costs around $460 on average, compared to Dallas, TX where the same size dumpster starts at around $220.
\r\n\r\nThrowing away hazardous materials, like microwaves, car tires, and mattresses, can also tack on additional fees depending on your state and local waste policies.
\r\n\r\nAn experienced dumpster rental company will offer you helpful insight to guide you through what to expect for your project.
\r\n\r\nRead verified reviews and compare dumpster rental services in your area.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading about dumpster rentals:
\r\n\r\nFind out why renting a dumpster is an easy and affordable tool to help you with your home cleanout, eviction, hoarding situation, estate cleanout, and more.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-19T16:44:39+00:00"},{"id":"8b6ecccb-e12f-526d-bedc-6d78a75f37d4","title":"What Can You Put in a Dumpster Rental?","url":"/blog/what-can-you-put-in-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/6a26c4cc193f55dd3a5af7afd02f45bc/1-dump.png","alt":"Blue construction dumpster full of concrete "},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"69819a8e-4e7e-5bc0-a388-5a6b07b6390f","name":"Debris Hauling","slug":"Debris-Hauling"}],"content":"Renting a dumpster is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get rid of large amounts of waste from home cleanouts, remodels, or construction projects. However, not everything can go in a dumpster, and loading the wrong items can lead to unexpected fines and extra fees that drive up your total cost.
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we know how important it is to get the most value from your dumpster rental. This guide explains what you can and can’t throw in a dumpster, including common prohibited items and disposal tips to help you avoid additional charges and stay compliant with local regulations.
\r\n\r\n![\"what](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/what-can-go-in-a-dumpster-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nBefore loading your dumpster, it’s crucial to understand what items are prohibited. Most dumpster rental companies deliver their containers to local landfills and must follow strict rules to avoid penalties. These rules are set by federal, state, and local regulations, so always ask your dumpster provider about items that are banned at the landfill they plan to use.
\r\n\r\nImproper disposal of prohibited items can create hazardous byproducts, contaminating soil and local water sources. To stay compliant and avoid extra fees, make sure you communicate clearly with your dumpster rental company about the materials you plan to dispose of.
\r\n\r\nMany of the following materials are typically banned from landfills:
\r\n\r\nEven if local regulations differ, putting prohibited items in a dumpster can result in additional fines and fees. When in doubt, always provide a detailed description of your disposal needs to your dumpster rental company. They can advise you on safe and legal alternatives.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nMost non-hazardous items are allowed in dumpster rentals, making them ideal for a wide variety of projects. Common materials include:
\r\n\r\nEven accepted items have limitations due to safety and disposal regulations. The heavier your materials, the less you can load without exceeding the dumpster’s weight limit.
\r\n\r\nExample:
\r\n\r\nNot all dumpster rental companies operate the same way. Your choice can affect:
\r\n\r\nSome companies accept items that others do not. That’s why it’s important to be transparent about your disposal needs when requesting quotes.
\r\n\r\nRequest at least three quotes to compare price, services, and disposal options.
\r\n\r\nRead verified customer reviews to ensure you’re renting from a reputable company.
\r\n\r\nAsk questions about weight limits, accepted items, and scheduling.
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we make this process simple:
\r\n\r\nBy planning ahead and comparing options, you can save money, avoid fees, and complete your project efficiently.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nNot everything can go in a roll-off dumpster. Learn what items are allowed and prohibited in your dumpster rental to stay compliant and avoid additional disposal fees.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-03T17:44:15+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Maine","place":"Portland, ME","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Maine/junk-removal/portland-me.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Lewiston, ME","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Maine/junk-removal/lewiston-me.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Portland, ME","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"maine/commercial-waste-management-portland-me","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Lewiston, ME","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Maine/dumpsters-lewiston.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Bangor, ME","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"maine/commercial-waste-management-bangor-me","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Bangor, ME","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Maine/dumpsters-bangor.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Dumpsters for Rent","body":"There are many factors that influence pricing, which is why it's important to call at least two dumpster rental companies for quotes before booking one. It ensures you get the best rate possible. Below you'll find the primary factors rental providers use to determine your rate:
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Dumpster Rental Pricing Guide
\r\n