Cleaning out your kitchen can feel like an overwhelming project.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nExpired pantry items, unorganized kitchen tools, mismatching or cracked dishes, and messy cabinets can make your kitchen look and feel like a stressful, cluttered mess.
\r\n
Even the dirtiest kitchen cleanout can be completed with minimal stress and relative ease, but only if a good plan is established first.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we'll outline the 5 steps your kitchen cleanout plan should include and how to find the help to get it done.
\r\n\r\n![\"declutter](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/declutter-organize-kitchen-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nIn most instances, people don't want to get rid of every last item in their kitchen.
\r\n\r\nRather, they want to get rid of some and organize the rest.
\r\n\r\nSo, unless you want to get rid of everything in your kitchen, you'll want to start your kitchen cleanout by determining what will go and what will stay.
\r\n\r\nNow, \"what will go\" could end up being sold in a garage sale, donated to a local charity organization, recycled at your local facility, or trashed, so create three separate piles for these categories.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend keeping your pile of things to toss in a place that is easy to access for when it comes time to dispose of it.
\r\n\r\nIf you do want to get rid of everything in your kitchen, the separating aspect of the cleanup can be skipped, and you can go straight step two.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nFor cleanups involving more than a small pile of trash, junk, or debris, we usually recommend renting a roll-off dumpster.
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster is typically big enough to handle a kitchen cleanout, but some rental providers also offer smaller dumpster sizes if your project is very minimal.
\r\n\r\nThe average cost of a 10 yard dumpster is $250-$450 for a one-week rental.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a kitchen packed full of items to toss, or you're gutting out the kitchen itself, you will likely need to rent a 20 yard dumpster or a 30 yard dumpster.
\r\n\r\nOn average, a 20 yard dumpster costs $350-$550 and a 30 yard dumpster costs $450-$650.
\r\n\r\nA quicker alternative to renting a dumpster is hiring a junk removal company to handle the kitchen cleanout for you, or at least the removal and proper disposal of the items you no longer want.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option for those who want the job done as quickly as possible and don’t mind spending a little more money to make that happen.
\r\n\r\nExpect to pay at least a couple hundred dollars (for a small kitchen cleanup) or more to have a junk removal company clean out the entire kitchen for you.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy for homeowners to request quotes from dumpster rental or junk removal companies, making it easier to determine which service is best for your kitchen cleanout project.
\r\n\r\nBegin by clicking \"Find Pros\" at the top of this page, and select the service type you're interested in getting quotes for first: dumpster rental or junk removal.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can browse all the local companies serving your area, read more about the services they offer, see what their customers have to say about them, and request free quotes from as many companies as you'd like.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting three or more dumpster rental quotes and getting multiple junk removal estimates.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes helps to ensure you pay a fair price for the service you decide to go with, and that you get quality work from a professional, reliable company.
\r\n
When you reach out to companies for a quote, be as detailed as you can when describing what you need removed and how much you have.
\r\n\r\nIt's easy to get a dumpster rental quote over the phone, especially when you're clear about the type and amount of debris you have to dispose of.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal quotes, however, usually require sending 1-2 employees to your home in order to provide an in-person quote for the junk removal (unless you only have one or two simple items).
\r\n\r\nAll quotes—both from junk removal and from dumpster rental companies—are free, and you are in no way obligated to hire a company if you don't agree with the price they quote you.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if you do agree with the price a junk removal quotes you for your kitchen cleanout, they typically get started right away.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nOnce your unwanted junk is removed, it's time to finish organizing the items you're keeping in your kitchen.
\r\n\r\nEverything in your kitchen should have a designated spot.
\r\n\r\nMaximize storage space by adding shelving and cabinet organization.
\r\n\r\nMoving forward, limit the amount of new items you bring into the kitchen in order to maintain your newly clean and organized space.
\r\n\r\nIf you must bring new items into your kitchen, it's a good rule of thumb to remove one item in order to reduce the risk of clutter piling up again.
\r\n\r\nFind out how to improve your kitchen:
\r\n\r\nCleaning out your kitchen can feel like an overwhelming project, but even the dirtiest kitchen cleanout can be completed with minimal stress and relative ease with the right plan. Learn the 5 steps your kitchen cleanout plan should include and how to find the help to get it done.
\r\n","changed":"2022-08-23T20:51:15+00:00"},{"id":"00752788-a989-55e5-8455-6ebe6aff77bc","title":"Solutions to Stop Others from Illegally Dumping Trash in Your Dumpster","url":"/blog/solutions-to-stop-others-from-illegally-dumping-trash-in-your-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/eb4e3b3c8ee9e85324e62709168d0a78/no_trespassing.png","alt":"keep out sign posted on dumpster fence"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"It is illegal to dump trash in dumpsters placed on private property unless given explicit permission by the owner of the dumpster to do so.
\r\n\r\nThis includes dumpsters that are placed on construction sites, commercial dumpsters at businesses, roll-off containers at homes, and other trash receptacles placed on private property.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nEven though it is illegal to dump trash in someone else’s dumpster without permission—doing so could result in $500+ fines and possible jail time—it is still common for passersby to try and sneak their own garbage or items into dumpsters that aren't theirs.
\r\n
The exact laws regarding this issue vary by municipality, but most cities consider this type of illegal dumping a misdemeanor punishable by fines and possible jail time.
\r\n\r\nWhen people add trash to your rented roll-off dumpster without permission, it’s not only illegal, it’s also a headache for you.
\r\n\r\nHere’s why:
\r\n\r\nTo say the least, it is beyond frustrating to spend several hundred dollars on renting a dumpster only to find that trespassers have unlawfully thrown their own waste, junk, and debris into your container.
\r\n\r\n![\"Solutions](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/illegal-dumping-info_0.png\")
\r\nIf possible, the most foolproof way to keep others' items out of your dumpster is to have the dumpster placed inside a fenced-in area or inside a large garage, barn, or outbuilding.
\r\n\r\nMaking it harder for others to access the container greatly reduces the chances of them being able to take advantage of your rental.
\r\n\r\nBecause many people who rent a dumpster don't have a fenced-in yard or a large structure to store the dumpster safely, a more convenient and inexpensive solution is to utilize a tarp when the dumpster is not in use.
\r\n\r\nAll you need is an inexpensive tarp or two and bungee cords for securing them to the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpsters have bars running along the sides of the container for easily hooking bungee cords.
\r\n\r\nTarping off your dumpster is also useful for keeping the contents dry during rain or snowstorms.
\r\n\r\nIf your dumpster includes fabrics or anything that can absorb water, rain can drastically increase the overall weight of your dumpster load, which can lead to incurring overage fees if you go over your included weight limit.
\r\n\r\nEven if your dumpster load only contains wood, metal, or other items that don't soak up water easily, snow can accumulate inside the dumpster if left open during a winter storm, which will increase the weight as well.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nThe likelihood of someone doing something they shouldn't goes up significantly in an area that is dark and hard to get caught.
\r\n\r\nFor this reason, leaving an outdoor light on when your dumpster is in your driveway or placing the dumpster under an exterior light at your business can reduce the chances of someone feeling comfortable tossing something inside.
\r\n\r\nLoad the dumpster quickly. If at all possible, finish loading the dumpster within a day and have it picked up soon after.
\r\n\r\nThe longer the dumpster sits on your property, the higher the risk of an illegal dumping situation.
\r\n\r\nSimilar to keeping your dumpster out of the dark, keeping your dumpster as far from public walkways, like streets, sidewalks, and alleyways, as possible will reduce the chances of someone feeling comfortable walking up to your dumpster and tossing something inside.
\r\n\r\nPlace the dumpster near your home or building rather than on or near the street, especially if it’s in an area with a lot of car or foot traffic.
\r\n\r\nA \"No Trespassing'\" or \"No Illegal Dumping\" sign may be enough to keep people from tossing their trash in your roll-off.
\r\n\r\nThe overall goal is to make it harder for people to feel comfortable treating your dumpster like it's theirs, and a simple warning sign can help.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nIf you’ve noticed trash and junk in the dumpster that’s not yours, look for any identifying labels or markings.
\r\n\r\nIf you are able to get a name, you can contact local authorities and pursue that route.
\r\n\r\nEven if you don’t find any identifying markings, it’s not a bad idea to contact authorities to inform them of the issue, especially if you have the dumpster on-site for several more days.
\r\n\r\nPolice would likely increase patrols in the neighborhood, which could be enough to give would-be “trash tossers” a reason to think twice about it.
\r\n\r\nRemember: Dumpster companies are generally not considered liable for other people dumping trash in your rented dumpster, that’s your responsibility as the renter.
\r\n\r\nEven so, it’s worth discussing the issue with your chosen dumpster rental company to see if they have any solutions that could work in your situation.
\r\n\r\nIn extreme cases, the rental company may be willing to work out a deal to provide a second dumpster or offer a discount to rent another dumpster if it is necessary to complete the cleanup.
\r\n\r\nWhen you need help finding a reputable dumpster company to rent from, search your zip code on Hometown.
\r\n\r\nWe publish locally-owned and operated dumpster operations throughout the U.S. to help connect consumers to licensed, insured, and professional disposal services.
\r\n\r\nOur quote request form is easy to use, quick to complete, and helps cut your research time in half!
\r\n\r\nDon't get caught paying for other people's trash. Find out how to prevent others from tossing things in your temporary dumpster with these easy tips.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-02T18:36:29+00:00"},{"id":"145101ab-fe71-59e1-a909-3e5401925dd1","title":"7 Factors That Affect the Cost of a Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/7-factors-that-affect-the-cost-of-a-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/585baea07cf6e39dfa4adc8a2eb1a5b3/calculate-your-rental-cost.png","alt":"factors that affect your dumpster rental bill"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"Renting a dumpster is a great way to get rid of large amounts of trash or debris, but you’re likely wondering how much it will cost you.
\r\n\r\nEvery company is different, but even after you’ve agreed to a quote that fits your budget, there are a number of factors that can affect the cost of your dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we understand the importance of planning and budgeting for your home improvement projects, which is why we’ve compiled everything you need to know about cost variations for dumpster rentals.
\r\n
The average cost to rent a dumpster is anywhere from $300-$500, but the cost you will pay depends on a number of factors.
\r\nWe’ll go over what affects the cost of dumpster rental:
\r\n\r\n![\"factors](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/factors-that-affect-price-of-dumpster-rentals_2.png\")
\r\nThe most obvious factor that will affect the price you’ll pay for a dumpster rental is the size of the dumpster you choose.
\r\n\r\nDumpster sizes are measured by their cubic yardage, and the most common sizes are 10 yards, 20 yards, 30 yards, and 40 yards.
\r\n\r\nA very costly mistake that many dumpster rental customers make is underestimating the amount of space their project will require.
\r\n\r\nOpting for a dumpster that is smaller than you need will require you to rent an additional dumpster, which will end up costing you more than renting one dumpster of a larger size.
\r\n\r\nFor example, say you rent a 10 yard dumpster for $300, but after loading your dumpster, realize that you still have another 10 yards worth of items to be disposed of.
\r\n
\r\nIn this scenario, renting another 10 yard dumpster for $300 to finish your project means that you paid double the price you were expecting to.
\r\n
\r\nIf you had rented a 20 yard dumpster at the average cost of $400, you would have saved a couple hundred dollars.
Continue reading:
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rentals have an included weight limit in their base price.
\r\n\r\nExceeding that included weight limit will have overage fees per additional ton that you add to your dumpster.
\r\n\r\nThese overage fees can add up quickly, especially when disposing of heavy material like brick and concrete.
\r\n\r\nOverage fees vary from company to company, but the average cost is $60-$100 per additional ton.
\r\n\r\nMuch like the size of dumpster containers, underestimating the weight of your debris or garbage can be a costly error that can be avoided by renting a larger dumpster than you think you’ll need.
\r\n\r\nGiving yourself additional space also comes in handy when unexpected hiccups happen during your project, like realizing you need to replace your drywall halfway through your renovation.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nWhen getting dumpster rental quotes from different companies in your area, be sure to be as detailed as possible when describing the type of material you’ll be putting in your dumpster.
\r\n\r\nMany companies will offer discounted rates to dumpsters that are “clean loaded,” meaning that they are only used for one type of recyclable construction material, like shingles or concrete.
\r\n\r\nBecause recycling is a cheaper disposal method than dumping at the landfill, the savings incurred by the dumpster rental company get passed down to you.
\r\n\r\nYou can also expect a much higher rental cost if you put unauthorized material into your dumpster.
\r\n\r\nThere are standard types of household hazardous waste that are typically banned from being dumped in landfills, causing dumpster rental companies to also ban them from their rentals.
\r\n\r\nIgnoring these rules will not only get you higher fees on your final bill but could have the potential to get you ticketed and fined, depending on your jurisdiction
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"landfill](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/dumping-at-the-landfill_0.png\")
\r\nThe landfill fees near you will have a huge impact on what is considered a competitive dumpster rental price in your area.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental companies are charged by landfills based on weight, and the weight landfills charge per ton is indicative of the cost of living (COL) in that particular area.
\r\n\r\nThe national average landfill tipping fee in 2020 was $53.72 per ton, but can be as high as $140 per ton in places like New York City.
\r\n\r\nWhere you live will come into play in other ways than just landfill fees.
\r\n\r\nIf you live off the beaten path and it takes a significant amount of travel time to get to your location, it’s reasonable to assume that you could be charged more than someone that lives within a few miles of the same rental company.
\r\n\r\nIt’s also important to keep in mind that depending on where you live, you may need to place your dumpster in a public right of way, which will likely require a permit.
\r\n\r\nUsually, dumpster rental companies will apply for and receive the appropriate permits on your behalf, but any fees that they incur for these permits will be passed on to you.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe standard length of a dumpster rental is one week.
\r\n\r\nThis can usually be amended but will depend entirely on the rental company’s policies.
\r\n\r\nIf you only need a dumpster for a day, it’s worth asking if you can have a discounted rate for a quick turnaround time.
\r\n\r\nIf you need to extend the length of your rental, that can usually be accommodated for a modest fee of $10-$20 per additional day, on average.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"choose](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/hire-the-best-dumpster-rental-company.png\")
\r\nWho you hire matters when it comes to the price of any service, and dumpster rental is no different.
\r\n\r\nNational waste management companies tend to charge more for their dumpster rentals than small, locally-owned companies.
\r\n\r\nBeyond just that, no two companies are made the same.
\r\n\r\nSome companies have larger operations, which require higher expenses, and other companies have less overhead fees than others.
\r\n\r\nNot to mention, you never know when a business might be running a promotion.
\r\n\r\nIt’s not uncommon for companies to give senior or military discounts, or to decrease pricing during their slower months.
\r\n\r\nFor these reasons, we highly recommend contacting at least 3 locally-owned companies for a dumpster rental estimate.
\r\n\r\nNot only will this help you find the best price point, but it will also ensure that you get great customer service, too.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to request free dumpster rental quotes from service providers near you.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nLearn about the different factors that affect the cost of a dumpster rental and get tips on how to get the best price.
\r\n","changed":"2022-08-31T19:21:17+00:00"},{"id":"9bc07d5a-30b4-5913-9d83-516fb8a3e880","title":"Is the Bagster a Good Deal or Should I Rent a Dumpster?","url":"/blog/is-bagster-a-good-deal","image":{"path":"/static/1d59e2e7fa78da2421d23f9b1462fd3e/bagster-cost.png","alt":"Full bagster sitting by curb"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"b6b1c3aa-d203-5c85-a336-698781467625","name":"Dumpster Bags","slug":"Dumpster-Bags"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"Most homeowners and business owners know what it's like to have junk here and there that gets set aside to be handled later, only to have the pile grow and grow.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen you get sick of looking at that pile of junk sitting in your garage, basement, or attic, two of the most affordable solutions are renting a dumpster or buying a bag dumpster.
\r\n
This guide is designed to help you determine whether buying a bag-style dumpster is the best deal for your specific debris disposal project or if renting a dumpster from a local provider is the better, more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\n![\"which](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/is-bagster-a-good-deal-infographic.png\")
\r\nThe Bagster bag itself costs roughly $30 regardless of where you live, and you can buy one online via Amazon or in-person at your local Home Depot, Lowe's, Target, etc. The upfront cost of a bag-style dumpster is inexpensive and consistent, but the cost of pick-up is more costly and can vary quite a bit depending on your location.
\r\n\r\nBagster pick-up costs range from $120-$300, making the total cost to use a Bagster $150-$350, or $50-$117 per cubic yard.
\r\n\r\nBagster pick-up costs are all-inclusive, meaning whether you fill your bag completely or halfway, the pick-up fee will be the same (as long as the load is 3,300 lbs or less).
\r\n\r\nFor most general household junk and random furniture, you can fill the entire 3 yard bag while remaining within the weight restrictions of the bag and the truck that picks it up.
\r\n\r\nHowever, for heavy debris disposal, like concrete, brick, or soil, you are limited to filling the bag 1/3 of the way, or one cubic yard's worth of debris. Bagsters can be a costly disposal choice for heavy debris when you have more than a single cubic yard of it.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster typically costs slightly more than a dumpster bag, but it holds more than 3x more debris and usually has less restrictions. With that said, it is possible to find 10 yard dumpsters that cost less than Bagsters in certain areas with certain providers.
\r\n\r\nOn average, 10 yard dumpsters cost $250-$450, or $25-$45 per cubic yard.
\r\n\r\nThere are as number of factors that affect dumpster pricing:
\r\n\r\nLike the prices for Bagster pick-up, dumpster rental prices fluctuate from one town to the next.
\r\n\r\nThe rental period included with a dumpster's price varies by hauler, but 7-14 days is common. If you need your dumpster for longer, this can be arranged with the dumpster rental company ahead of time. (They often charge a per-day or per-week fee on top of the normal cost.)
\r\n\r\nWith such a wide price range for dumpster rental across the country, the best way to find out what a fair price is in your area is to get multiple dumpster rental quotes from local providers.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\n![\"dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-with-bricks.png\")
\r\nComparing the cost of a Bagster and regular dumpster rental is not like comparing apples to apples because a 10 yard roll-off dumpster holds 3x more debris than the Bagster.
\r\n\r\nThe Bagster costs $150-$350 for 3 yards or less, making a $250-$450 10 yard dumpster rental much less expensive per cubic yard.
\r\n\r\nFor many parts of the country, a 10 yard roll-off is the smallest dumpster available to rent, so this comparison represents the real life options available to most people with relatively small-scale disposal needs.
\r\n\r\nTo truly compare the cost of a Bagster vs a dumpster rental in your area...
\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find local dumpster rental services, read customer reviews, and reach out to as many providers as you'd like to compare each company's price.
\r\n\r\nWaste Management makes it easy to see how much Bagster collection would cost in your area.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the average cost of a Bagster per cubic yard is $50-$117 and the average cost of a 10 yard dumpster rental is $25-$45 per cubic yard, making traditional dumpster rental the better deal.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know exactly what the price is for dumpster rental and Bagster pick-up in your area, you'll be able to have a clear picture of which dumpster option is the best choice for you.
\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nMain image via One Project Closer
\r\n","teaser":"When you get sick of looking at that pile of junk sitting in your garage, basement, or attic, two of the most affordable solutions are renting a dumpster or buying a bag dumpster. Find out which option is the best deal.
\r\n","changed":"2023-06-26T20:04:34+00:00"},{"id":"f5065422-22c3-548d-938b-985ea3f6c05f","title":"Creating the Perfect Home Office in 4 Steps","url":"/blog/creating-the-perfect-home-office","image":{"path":"/static/198d2bce143f73403d3929faa4811eef/home-office-1.jpg","alt":"woman having video conference in home office"},"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":"be215651-77bc-59d2-a493-29497c089ec4","name":"Electronics Removal","slug":"Electronics-Removal"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"With the number of people who primarily work from home tripling between 2019 and 2021, more and more people are creating home offices that suit their needs. Whether you're working with a large or small space, there are several things to keep in mind to create a cohesive work environment from the comfort of your home. We'll go over how to set up a home office in 4 simple steps so that you can make the most of your space and stay focused while you're working from home.
\r\n\r\n![\"Creating](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/home-office-info_0.jpg\")
\r\nDeciding where to set up your home office can be half the battle, especially for those who are working with a limited amount of space. A good place to start is to consider which areas of your home are perhaps utilized the least and/or provide the most privacy.
\r\n\r\nSecluded areas, like guest rooms, storage rooms, basements, and attics, make ideal home offices because they're separated from the most used areas of your home, like your living room, bedroom, and kitchen. If you're limited on space and don't have the ability to dedicate an entire room to a home office, the corners of your living room, dining room, bedroom(s), or even sunroom can provide a comfortable office setup that you can consciously separate from the rest of the room with a little effort.
\r\n\r\nWherever you decide to set up your home office, it's important to consider any noise or traffic that could interrupt your productivity. A home office with a window next to your noisy neighbors' barking dogs is a recipe for distraction, while a home office in your living room can quickly turn into a nightmare if you live with other adults or children. You'll want to make sure that you're able to separate your workspace from your living area in order to maintain your productivity day in and day out.
\r\n\r\nWhen possible, we recommend choosing a space with the most natural light. Studies show that those who work in offices with windows and natural lighting have more energy and experience less eye strain when working on their computers, making them also less likely to experience tension headaches.
\r\n\r\nIf you decide that your attic or basement is the ideal place for your home office, you may need to do some light remodeling work to get it into the right condition for your office. Oftentimes, this includes tearing down interior walls or putting up drywall. If you need to perform any interior demolition, turn to local interior demolition or remodeling professionals in your area to help you get it done safely and efficiently.
\r\n\r\nOnce you choose the perfect area of your home to turn into a home office, you'll want to clear the area of non-work related items. Removing storage items, old electronics, and general household clutter is a small action that can make a huge impact on the effectiveness of your home office.
\r\n\r\nIf you're setting up your office in an area that was previously used as storage, you'll want to find another area to store your items, or at the very least, a different way to store them in order to make room for your new office setup.
\r\n\r\nOnce you start sorting through your items to make room for your new home office, it's possible that you'll discover you have much more \"junk\" to get rid of than you realized. When you start to notice you have a growing pile of items that are no longer being used or bringing you joy, consider hiring a junk removal company to help relieve you of your unwanted belongings.
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company allows you to forget about the taxing, manual labor involved in hauling your unwanted items to a donation center or landfill and allows you to direct your focus to more important matters, like setting up your home office.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are known for being able to haul away your unwanted items in a matter of minutes, donating salvageable items to local charities, recycling items that are accepted in local recycling programs, and disposing of the rest. Even if you only need to remove a single piece of furniture or a small box of electronics, a junk removal service can quickly and conveniently do that, too.
\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest advantages of hiring a junk removal company to help you clear out space in your home is not only how quickly they can get it done, but how much easier the project (and your life) becomes when they take care of the heavy lifting, loading, and logistics. If you'd rather do the hard work yourself, consider renting a temporary dumpster. You can get rid of unwanted clutter efficiently and affordably by renting a dumpster from a local provider.
\r\n\r\nFinding junk removal and dumpster rental companies that service your area is easy with Hometown. By entering your zip code and answering a few quick questions about your junk removal project, you'll be shown licensed and insured junk removal companies or dumpster rentals near you. You can request free quotes from local companies to compare pricing, availability, and customer service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Neutral](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/home-office-2.jpg\")
\r\nHow you choose to design your home office can make a big impact on your work productivity and personal satisfaction. If you work a full-time job, your home office could quickly turn into one of the most used areas of your home, so it's important to design it in a way that is welcoming and to your taste, all while promoting productivity.
\r\n\r\nThe color of your walls, type of flooring, type of lighting, furniture, storage, and decor are all things you should consider when designing your home office.
\r\n\r\nThere are certain colors that promote creativity, productivity, and a sense of calm, and using these color palettes for your home office can help set you up for success.
\r\n\r\nAccording to psychology, cool blue and navy blue tones promote creativity and visionary thinking, while beige greens and yellow greens are some of the most stress-reducing shades you can paint a home office for a calm environment.
\r\n\r\nIf you can't (or don't want to) paint your home office, starting with a neutral wall color allows you to bring in decor and office furniture with any color pallet you'd like.
\r\n\r\nWood, laminate, vinyl, tile, and carpet are all acceptable flooring for an office, but you may need or want to bring in additional rugs or mats specifically for your home office setup.
\r\n\r\nThick carpet is not conducive to rolling office chairs, so you may want to opt for a plastic rolling chair mat to make it easier to move around in your office chair.
\r\n\r\nTile flooring with deep ridges may be annoying to slide over with your rolling office chair, so a plastic mat or non-shag rug can make your home office feel more comfortable and less distracting.
\r\n\r\nIf you want to rip up your old flooring and replace it for your home office, hire an interior demolition contractor. HometownDemolition.com can help you find local contractors in your area that are licensed, insured, and reputable. Get free quotes to compare pricing, customer service, and availability.
\r\n\r\nWhile natural lighting is best for working environments, there will likely be times of the day and even periods of the year where additional lighting will be necessary.
\r\n\r\nBright florescent and LED lights do the best job of keeping you alert and awake, which can be helpful when you're nearing towards the end of a long work day. You'll want to avoid warm, yellow lightbulbs (2,000-3,000 Kelvin), as these tend to promote relaxation and a \"coziness\" that is associated with the comfort of home living. Higher Kelvin light bulbs (4,000-6,500 K) create a brighter, bluer hue that is perfect for illuminating your office and keeping you active, alert, and concentrated.
\r\n\r\nYou'll want to make sure that you have storage in your home office that is specifically for your work belongings only. Mixing your paperwork and other work items in with your personal belongings can create plenty of issues, like lost or misplaced documents.
\r\n\r\nBuying an office desk with built-in storage is a great place to start, but additional tools for organization can be especially helpful. For example, if you have to store and access many paper documents, consider purchasing a mini filing cabinet.
\r\n\r\nThere are also plenty of different types of desktop organizers that help to keep office supplies organized and easily accessible. Similarly, there are drawer organizers you can purchase for your cabinet and desk drawers that will help keep all your different office supplies and products neat and tidy.
\r\n\r\nAdd shelving above your computer desk to take advantage of the available wall space in your home office area. These added shelving units can not only help store items you'll need, but they can also be used to display personal items or decor.
\r\n\r\nDecorating your home office helps to lift your mood, increase productivity, and boosts overall energy. Working in an environment that is cheerful and makes you happy while also being functional and promoting productivity is the perfect recipe for a successful home office.
\r\n\r\nFramed photos of loved ones or milestone accomplishments can be self-motivating during stressful times when you need an extra push to stay on course.
\r\n\r\nFinally, the type of furniture and equipment you outfit your office with should be a point of focus when creating a home office.
\r\n\r\nWorking at a desk, sitting in a chair, or using a keyboard that is not ergonomic can create posture issues that can lead to long-term health issues, like arthritis or chronic neck and back pain. Creating an ergonomic work environment promotes a neutral position for your body to sit and work in for long periods of time.
\r\n\r\nThere are plenty of products on the market that are ergonomic and specifically built to promote healthy posture, so look for this description when shopping for office furniture and computer accessories, like a keyboard and mouse.
\r\n\r\nAnother option is to opt for an adjustable standing desk. Sitting at a desk for long periods of time every day can increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Adjustable standing desks can be lowered to allow for sitting, and then adjusted to your perfect height to allow a comfortable standing position while you work on your computer.
\r\n\r\nLearn some of the most impactful actions you can take when creating a home office to make the most of your space and help you keep focus while you're working from home.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-13T15:55:31+00:00"},{"id":"d05f3dc3-11a7-5a02-a9b9-994186074152","title":"5 Ways to Dispose of Leftover Waste That Didn't Fit in Your Dumpster","url":"/blog/5-ways-to-dispose-of-leftover-waste","image":{"path":"/static/6c08a8b1cb1e72cf6505d25bdc72e69d/Dispose-of-the-leftovers-intro-photo.jpg","alt":"Roll-off dumpster overflowing with household waste"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"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":"It's something that we at Hometown recommend often: If you're in doubt when deciding which size dumpster to rent, we recommend choosing the larger one.
\r\n\r\nRenting a larger dumpster usually costs no more than $50-$100, but running out of room in the smaller dumpster and having to rent a second dumpster to get rid of all your waste can end up costing you anywhere from $250-$750 on average.
\r\n\r\nEven with this rule of thumb in mind, situations can arise where the dumpster you rented isn't big enough to accommodate all of your debris.
\r\n\r\nIf you run out of room in your dumpster rental and still have junk/garbage/debris to dispose of, there are several removal options available.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/leftover-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nCost
\r\n\r\nIf you have 5+ yards of debris left over, renting an additional dumpster is the most efficient strategy.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, the dumpster company will haul your dumpster to the landfill to be emptied and then return it back to you to be refilled.
\r\n\r\nThe rental process is quick, and a dumpster can accommodate a large capacity of waste or debris.
\r\n\r\nIdeally, you’d want to plan ahead and rent a dumpster that’s big enough to handle all your debris in one trip, but estimating the amount of debris from a project is not an exact science, so a second dumpster makes sense in cases where you’ve greatly underestimated it.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nCost
\r\n\r\nIf a trailer or truck is available, hauling the excess to the local landfill yourself is a valid option.
\r\n\r\nThis does require some extra effort and a lot more time, but it can be a very cost-effective disposal method.
\r\n\r\nThis strategy is best for small amounts of waste or debris, as multiple trips to the landfill can take up quite a bit of time, incurs additional fees, and is twice as much legwork for you.
\r\n\r\nLandfill dump fees vary by location and type of debris. Some cities have recycling rules for certain types of debris, such as concrete or roofing shingles.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your city to ensure you follow all laws.
\r\n\r\nRelated reading:
\r\n\r\nCost: Varies greatly depending on type, volume, and weight of waste, generally starts at $150 and goes up from there
\r\n\r\nHiring junk removal services is the easiest and usually the fastest way to get rid of your leftover debris, junk, or yard waste.
\r\n\r\nWhen you hire a junk removal provider, they come to your job site, load up your waste, and haul it to the nearest landfill or recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nAll of the heavy lifting, loading, and manual labor is left to the pros so that you can focus on more important aspects of your project.
\r\n\r\nSome companies will allow you to send them photos or video so that they can quote you a price over the phone or via email, while others will need to send one or two crew members over to do a walk through to provide an in-person estimate.
\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes allows you to compare pricing, availability, and the type of customer service you can expect from the company you hire.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to get multiple quotes from locally-owned and operated junk removal and dumpster rental providers that service your area.
\r\n\r\nEnter your zip code, answer a few short questions about your waste removal, and you'll be given up to 3 different quotes to compare and ultimately choose the best service for your cleanup.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nCost: $40+ per yard
\r\n\r\nYour weekly trash hauling company may offer a “special wastes” or bulky item pickup option for some types of waste or debris.
\r\n\r\nThere are additional fees on top of your regular weekly trash service for this type of pick-up.
\r\n\r\nGet in touch with your municipal waste service to learn more about what they will accept and when.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCost: FREE
\r\n\r\nThis is a viable option for gently used goods but would not work for general wastes, damaged items, or most types of construction wastes.
\r\n\r\nDonating your materials or giving them away for free is a great option for undamaged furniture, reusable lumber, kid’s toys, home decor, and more.
\r\n\r\nYou can drop off your gently used items at local restore stores (like Goodwill) or list items for free curbside pickup online (like Facebook Marketplace).
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCost: Negotiable
\r\n\r\nThis option may not be available very often, but it’s worth a try if one of your neighbors is in the middle of a project or about to start one.
\r\n\r\nSharing a dumpster can cut your costs in half, or more.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nLearn about the easiest ways to dispose of leftover debris following a home project, cleanout, or other disposal job. Compare the pros, cons, and costs of each disposal method when you have more garbage than your dumpster will allow.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-13T21:11:25+00:00"}],"populars":[],"tips":[{"name":"Dumpsters for Rent","body":"There are multiple factors that go into the quote a rental company offers. The key is calling two or more companies to ensure you're getting the best price.
\r\n\r\nThe key factors influencing dumpster rental rates include:
\r\n\r\n