What Can You Throw in a Dumpster in Chicago, IL?

What Can You Put in a Dumpster Rental?

Knowing what can go in a dumpster rental can streamline your cleanup process. Common waste materials like household junk, along with debris from construction or home improvement projects, are usually permitted in a dumpster. This encompasses renovation debris such as drywall, metal, lumber, flooring, cabinets, and siding, as well as items gathered during household decluttering. In addition, recyclable materials and organic waste from household usage are typically accepted, further broadening the range of allowable items in a dumpster.

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  Household Junk

  Everyday items, from old clothes to toys, can be discarded in a dumpster. However, keep in mind that electronics, appliances, and hazardous materials often have specific disposal requirements.

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  Wooden Furniture

  Whether it's an old dresser or a broken chair, wooden furniture is usually acceptable in a dumpster rental. Remember, upholstered items might need special attention due to potential flammability.

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  Brick, Asphalt &
  Concrete

  Heavy materials such as brick, asphalt, and concrete are acceptable but may require a specific type of dumpster due to weight limits. Be aware that it's easy to overfill the dumpster with these materials.

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  Home Improvement & Construction Debris

  Items like drywall, tiles, plaster, and other home renovation debris can usually be thrown in a dumpster. However, hazardous materials like asbestos or lead-based paint are prohibited

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  Lumber

  Dumpsters can accommodate clean lumber. Ensure the wood is free from nails or other sharp objects that could potentially damage the dumpster or cause injury.

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  Storm Debris

  After a storm, you can place yard waste such as branches, leaves, and other natural debris in a dumpster. However, always check local regulations regarding biological waste disposal.

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  Shingles

  Asphalt shingles from your roofing project can go in a dumpster. Other types, like wooden or slate shingles, may have different disposal requirements.

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  Tires

  Typically not suitable for standard landfills, tires can be processed with special disposal methods, often requiring recycling or designated programs.

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  Garage Debris

  Miscellaneous items commonly found in garages, including tools, containers, old paint cans, and unused equipment. Ensure hazardous substances are properly separated.

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  Carpeting, Torn Carpets, and Rugs

  These refer to used or damaged flooring materials made of fabric. Before disposal, it's advised to roll and secure them properly.

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  Kitchenware & Glassware

  Old or broken plates, cups, and other dining utensils can be thrown away in a dumpster but should be wrapped thoroughly for safety reasons.

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  Sheds, Doghouses, etc.

  Wooden or metal structures that have been dismantled are acceptable, but should be broken down into manageable pieces to ensure efficient disposal.

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  Shoes & Clothes

  Old or damaged footwear and clothing can be placed in dumpsters, but we encourage donating gently used items or recycling for a more sustainable approach.

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  Upholstered Furniture

  While wooden furniture is generally accepted, upholstered furniture is sometimes allowed depending on local rules and the rental company's rules. Be aware, these items might be treated as bulky waste or require special disposal due to flammability issues.

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  Yard Waste

  Many areas allow the disposal of yard waste in dumpsters but check if there are restrictions. Some places might have composting programs, and there may be limitations on disposing of green waste such as grass clippings or food waste.

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  Appliances

  Major appliances like fridges, stoves, and washers can be put in dumpsters. However, many appliances contain hazardous components and could require specialized disposal or recycling.

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  Electronics

  E-waste like computers, TVs, and printers can be discarded in dumpsters. In many cases, they contain valuable metals that can be recycled, but also potentially hazardous substances which leads some areas to ban their disposal in landfills.

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  Dirt

  We accept dirt in our dumpsters for landscaping or excavation purposes. However, please be aware that there are IEPA regulations for dirt disposal. Some restrictions may apply with other dumpster rentals due to weight limitations. Contact our team for more information on our dirt disposal guidelines and IEPA compliance.

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  Mattresses & Box Springs

  While some waste removal services and regions may not accept these items due to difficulties in disposal and potential recycling options, we are able to accommodate them. Please note that there may be fees involved for the proper disposal of mattresses and box springs.

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  Tree Stumps & Large Yard Debris

  Large items like tree stumps or sizable yard debris may be allowed, but these bulky items can quickly fill a dumpster and possibly exceed weight limits. Be sure to consult with your rental company beforehand.

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  Event Waste

  Most general event waste like paper plates, plastic utensils, and food containers can be placed in dumpsters. However, if you're serving food, remember that food waste may require special handling.

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  Aerosol Cans

  Empty paint cans are typically acceptable. But full or partially full cans could explode under pressure which creates a safety hazard. In many cases, they're prohibited.

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  Air conditioning units

  Please dispose of old or broken air conditioning units properly. Brackenbox guarantees safe and environmentally friendly recycling or disposal of these units.

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  Rubber products

  When it comes to rubber products, you should be mindful of proper waste disposal to reduce environmental impact. Brackenbox will take the weight off your shoulders and dispose of rubber products the right way.