First, you’ll want to know that there is nothing illegal about placing garbage in a dumpster. However, there are certain items that you should not place in a dumpster.
There are some obvious items, such as furniture, electronics, medications, and chemicals. The less obvious items include baby food, diapers, cat litter, and nail polish.
While you’re preparing to rent a dumpster, you need to check the company’s rules regarding what can go in the bin.
Some companies may refuse to accept a particular item, while others allow almost anything. You also want to be sure that the company accepts hazardous materials.
Some companies may ask you to fill out a hazardous waste statement. This gives you the option to include any items that you think might be dangerous.
If the company isn’t willing to accept these items, you could use an online search to find another company that what can go in a dumpster rental?
A Word of Caution
Make sure to select a reputable company. Steer clear of signing contracts with businesses that seem to be merely going through the motions. The more you research the company, the easier it will be to assess whether they are worthy of your investment.
For more information on choosing the right service, visit How to Choose a Dumpster Rental Company, or learn about the Benefits of Renting a Dumpster for Your Construction Project
What You CAN Throw Away?
Here are the five most common things you should never put in a dumpster:
Garbage and Trash
For items that can’t be recycled, composted, or repurposed, it’s best to dispose of them in a trash bin for collection. When dealing with non-hazardous waste, use trash bins made of plastic or metal. Notably, metal bins are durable enough to hold up to two tons of material.
Paint, Paint Thinner, or Oil-based Cleaning Products
Paint and solvent-based products cannot be recycled, composted, or reused due to the presence of toxic solvents. These substances pose significant health risks if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin.
Learn more about safe disposal options in our post on How to Handle Hazardous Materials When Renting a Dumpster.
Electronics
Numerous electronic devices and media are made with valuable metals that can be easily recycled. If you’re uncertain about the recyclability of your old gadgets, consider contacting a nearby electronics recycling company. They can assess your items and figure out if they can be processed for beneficial reuse.
Related Post: How to Properly Recycle Electronic Waste?
Flooring Materials
Floating flooring like carpet and tile is not suitable for recycling or disposal in a landfill.
Household Appliances
If you must dispose of household appliances, check with your local municipal or government office about what regulations apply in your area.
What You can’t Throw Away?
Some items that are not allowed in dumpsters are:
Plastic items. If you notice that one of the bins is leaking or has an unpleasant odor, it’s likely that the contents are not actual garbage.
Garbage Bags
These are not recyclable and should only be placed in bins.
Tires
Disposing of tires in a dumpster is permitted if they are securely attached to the lid or wall and firmly fastened as necessary. If the tires end up on the dumpster floor, ensure they are tightly bound to prevent shifting.
Before disposal, thoroughly inspect the tires for any damage, including holes, cuts, or signs of wear. If such issues are detected, avoid placing the tires in the dumpster.
Fertilizer and Pesticides
They are hazardous and should only be disposed of in proper landfills.
Freon
It’s a toxic gas that can cause lung problems if inhaled.
Chemicals
Dumpster rentals are not meant to hold chemicals, and you should never dispose of them in a dumpster.
Explosives
You cannot throw dynamite in a dumpster.
Motor Oil
Dedicated facilities exist for accepting and responsibly disposing of used oil. It is advisable to refrain from disposing of motor oil in a dumpster as it can cause a messy situation by dripping onto your floors and walls.
Oil drums
These are large containers designed specifically to contain oils or other liquids. Do not dispose of oil drums in a dumpster.
Solvents
They can hurt the environment.
Petroleum Products
Petrol, gasoline, and diesel are all considered dangerous substances that should never be thrown away in a dumpster.
Paint
Any paint that you have left over should not go into a dumpster, as it may harm the soil.
Electronics
Most electronics should not be thrown.
FAQs Related to What can go in a Dumpster Rental?
What’s the difference between a dumpster and a garbage can?
A dumpster is designed for disposing of various types of waste, including trash, recycling, and yard waste. On the other hand, a garbage can is specifically intended for non-disposable trash that cannot be thrown away.
If you’re looking for more insights on waste management, you can explore What You Need to Know About Dumpster Rental Services.
What can I put in a recycling bin?
Recycling bins are for items that can be recycled. You can put any kind of plastic, paper, glass, metal, and cans in a recycling bin.
What do I need to know about dumpsters?
The first thing you need to know is that dumpsters are rented by the week. You can rent a dumpster for one week, one month, or even longer.
What size dumpster do I need?
The size of the dumpster you need depends on how much waste you’re going to be putting in it. The size of a dumpster also depends on the location where you’re placing it.
How do I know which size is right for me?
It’s best to look at the size of your property and then measure it to see how many cubic yards you’ll need.
Do I have to pay extra for a roll-off dumpster?
Yes, you will usually have to pay more for a roll-off dumpster.
How do I know if it’s going to cost more to rent a roll-off dumpster?
You’ll be charged more for a roll-off dumpster because it requires more labor.
What are the different types of dumpsters?
There are three main types of dumpsters: roll-off, front-load, and rear-load.
What do I need to know about recycling?
Recycling is a good thing. You can recycle bottles, cans, paper, and plastics.
How do I know if I need to pay extra for recycling?
You may be charged extra for recycling. If you’re going to recycle, you should check with your city or town hall first to see what they charge.
What is a skip bin?
A skip bin is a container in which you can put your recyclables. The container will be picked up and taken to a recycling center.
Can I rent a dumpster and still have a roll-off dumpster?
Yes, you can rent a dumpster and a roll-off dumpster at the same time.
Do I have to pay extra for a front-load dumpster?
Yes, you will usually have to pay more for a front-load dumpster.
What is the difference between a roll-off and a front-load dumpster?
A roll-off dumpster has a lid on the top. A front-load dumpster has a front opening.
What is the best type of dumpster for me?
It depends on what you’re going to be putting in it. If you’re going to be putting a lot of recyclables in it, then a roll-off is probably the best choice.
What are the different types of recycling?
There are many different types of recycling. You can recycle paper, plastic, aluminum, glass, and cardboard.
Do I have to pay extra for a recycling center?
Yes, you will usually have to pay more for a recycling center.
Where can I recycle my items?
Many cities have recycling centers where you can take your recyclables. You’ll need to check with your city or town hall to find out where the nearest recycling center is.
What is a composting center?
A composting center is a place where you can put your organic waste to be turned into soil.
Do I have to pay extra for a composting center?
Yes, you will usually have to pay more for a composting center
What is the difference between composting and recycling?
Composting is turning your organic waste into soil. Recycling is taking your recyclables and turning them into something else.