What Junk Removal Companies Will and Won't Take

junk from house clean-out

Updated October 8, 2021

It’s important for multiple reasons to do a deep cleaning at least once a year to get rid of items that are no longer being used. 

Whether you need to clean out your garage, basement, attic, or entire home, junk removal services are a fantastic way to get rid of unwanted household items. 

Understanding which items junk removal companies consider acceptable and unacceptable can save you time and money in the long run.

It’s important to understand before you hire a junk removal company what exactly they will and won’t take. 

In this article, we’ll discuss…


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acceptable and unacceptable junk removal infographic

Commonly Accepted Items

Junk removal services are often associated with estate cleanouts, hoarding cleanups, office cleanouts, and other cleanup jobs that are too large for your regularly scheduled municipal waste pick-up services. 

These removal services are often willing to pick up large, heavy items in small quantities, too, like appliances and furniture

While this is not an all-inclusive list, it will help give you an understanding of the types of items that junk removal companies are likely to haul away on your behalf.

Items That Junk Removal Companies Typically Accept:

  • Appliances (microwaves, refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers and dryers, etc.)
  • Furniture (couches, chairs, desks, tables, dressers, etc.)
  • Electronics (computers, TVs, radios, etc.) 
  • Mattresses
  • Air conditioners
  • Clothing
  • Toys and books
  • Construction and demolition debris
  • Yard waste
  • Hot tubs/Spas
  • Exercise equipment
  • Boxes, storage containers, and miscellaneous household trash

Commonly Refused Items

car tires are usually refused by junk removal companies

Assuming that junk removal providers will accept and remove anything you ask them to is a mistake that can end up wasting your valuable time and money, not to mention leave you feeling frustrated.

Sometimes items are not accepted due to safety concerns or lack of PPE for employees, but usually, the reason is due to these items not being accepted at landfills and dumpsites. 

The following list showcases items that are largely unaccepted by junk removal companies throughout the U.S.

Items That Junk Removal Companies Typically Do Not Accept:

  • Household cleaners
  • Car tires
  • Paint cans
  • Motor oil
  • Car batteries
  • Bleach
  • Pesticides
  • Varnish
  • Stain
  • Fertilizer
  • Pool chemicals
  • Medication
  • Asbestos/mold

Similar to our list of accepted items, this list of items that junk removal companies will not take is not definitive and can vary from company to company.

If you’re speaking with a junk removal company over the phone to book services or get a quote, it’s crucial to be as detailed as possible about your project so that there is no confusion or disappointment on the day of your scheduled service.

Learn more:

How to Find the Best Service in Your Area

do your research to find the best junk removal company in your area

Like so many other goods and services, you’re more likely to receive the best customer service from a junk removal company by hiring one that is locally owned.

Unlike national chains, locally-owned businesses rely on the support of their community to stay in business, which means they’re likely to go the extra mile to make sure their customers are happy. 

Hometown’s database of small, locally-owned junk removal and dumpster rental companies is a convenient resource to find vetted service providers in your area. 

You can read reviews from verified, real customers and request quotes from as many companies as you like, free of charge, and free of any commitment. 

We recommend getting at least 2-3 different quotes to ensure that you’re getting the best price, customer service, and availability to best suit your needs.


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