Smoke damage, ash, burnt items, and potential water damage or foam from extinguishing a fire...these are all things you might face after minor fire damage.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo clean up your home after a fire, whether from a small kitchen or electrical fire or a wildfire, professional cleanup services can help get it done fast.
\r\n
Professional fire damage cleanup and junk removal services can save you time, stress, and risk.
\r\n\r\n![\"fire](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/fire-damage-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nWildfires and house fires, even if not extreme, can cause a decent amount of damage.
\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure the fire is extinguished and your home is safe, we recommend starting to find cleanup assistance ASAP.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nProfessional fire damage cleanup crews have the experience and equipment necessary to safely clean up ash and soot, haul away heavy items and debris, and clear the property of any additional damaged items.
\r\n
Fire damage cleanup crews bag and box up whatever you need removed, and then they haul it away to be disposed of responsibly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFire damage cleanup costs can vary a great deal depending on how severe the damage is, the labor involved with the cleanup, where you live, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor minor fire damage cleanup, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400-$1,000.
\r\n
More extreme fire damage cleanup will be double or triple these costs, if not more, and we often recommend remediation companies for major fire damage cases.
\r\n\r\nFor many fire damage cases, your homeowner's insurance may help pay for the cleanup and repairs, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\nNote: If you live in an area prone to wildfires, it may be difficult to get home insurance that covers wildfire damage due to the risk involved with insuring homes in these areas. However, if you are able to get coverage, it would mitigate or eliminate the cost of paying the pros to clean up and dispose of debris from a covered wildfire loss, leaving you with less stress in the long run.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen your property is affected by a fire, you want to get it handled as quickly as possible, and Hometown gets that.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find qualified junk removal and fire damage cleanup pros in your area, read reviews, and request quotes easily and free of charge.
\r\n
Give as much detail about your project as you can to each company you speak to in order to get the most accurate junk removal quote. Oftentimes, cleanup and hauling companies will need to come out to your property to assess the work and provide a quote.
\r\n\r\nWhenever possible, we recommend getting more than one estimate for your junk removal project to ensure you get the best service for the best price.
\r\n\r\nIf you'd rather clean up the mess yourself, dumpster rental is an ideal option, and Hometown can help with that, too! Just like with junk removal, Hometown can help you find dumpster rental companies in your area. We even make it easy to request multiple dumpster quotes and read reviews.
\r\n\r\nNote: If your property has extreme damage, you will likely need to reach out to a restoration company.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nSmoke damage, ash, burnt items, and potential water damage or foam from extinguishing a fire...these are all things you might face after minor fire damage. Get your home cleaned up fast after a fire with the help of professional cleanup services.
\r\n","changed":"2022-12-06T18:23:50+00:00"},{"id":"756fc3da-dd67-57a3-b164-f949bb2e7990","title":"How to Clean Out a Cluttered Garage Fast","url":"/blog/fastest-way-to-clean-out-garage","image":{"path":"/static/7fed3b7c2129c672e978e1df3a4fbca7/messy-cluttered-garage.png","alt":"cluttered garage filled with kids' toys and sports equipment"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"id":"86e68e5b-9753-5fb4-a2bd-6c49cc8782d3","name":"Garage Cleanout","slug":"Garage-Cleanout"}],"content":"Garages are one of those places in the home that tends to collect various clutter.
\r\n\r\nDisorganized clutter can build up quickly in your garage if you're not careful, making it impossible to park your car in the garage or find items in it when you need them.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOld paint cans, unorganized tools and lawn equipment, slightly-used holiday decorations, old athletic equipment—all of this can build up quickly and can cause your garage to be a cluttered, ugly mess.
\r\n
When considering the process of decluttering and organizing your garage, it can feel like an overwhelming task.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unsure where to start or how to get the job done quickly and stress-free, you're not alone.
\r\n\r\nLuckily, Hometown is here to help answer those questions, and we make it easy to get started.
\r\n\r\n![\"how](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/clean-out-garage-fast-infographic_1.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nArguably the most physically and mentally taxing part of getting your garage decluttered and organized is the labor involved.
\r\n\r\nHauling heavy items out of your garage, lugging around trash and boxes, going through dusty items, and finding a way to get rid of everything you no longer want quickly and safely is exhausting and sometimes dangerous work.
\r\n\r\nProfessional junk hauling services specialize in cleaning out garages, attic cleanups, basement cleanouts, whole-home cleanouts, heavy item removals, and property cleanups.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are experts at safely cleaning out cluttered spaces, like garages, in record time.
\r\n
Instead of wearing yourself out and spending your entire weekend cleaning out your garage, reach out to local junk removal companies for help and get it done quickly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"messy](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/cluttered-garage-cleanout.png\")
\r\nUnless you want to get rid of everything in your garage, you will want to start your garage cleanout by determining which items you want to keep and which items you want to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know what you want to toss, set those items aside and start a pile, ideally outside the garage.
\r\n\r\nIf you have entire sections of your garage that you know contain items you want them to take, you can simply point those areas out to the junk removers.
\r\n\r\nMaking it clear to junk removers which items you want them to take will help them determine the scope of your garage cleanout and the time and labor it will require.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about decluttering and organizing:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it simple for homeowners to request garage cleanout quotes from companies in their area.
\r\n\r\nJust enter your zip code and browse the junk removal service providers in your city or town.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can read more about their services, see what their customers have to say about them, and request free quotes from as many companies as you like.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting three or more junk removal quotes whenever you can to help ensure you pay a fair price and get quality services from a professional and friendly junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nTip: When you reach out to junk removal companies for a project quote, be as detailed as you can when describing what you need removed and where it's located. If you can provide pictures or video of your junk and where it's located/how accessible it is, this will help ensure you get an accurate estimate and good customer service with minimal contact.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading about junk removal services and costs:
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to provide adequate information, photos, or video of your garage cleanout needs, junk removal companies will likely be able to provide a quote over the phone, via text, or by email.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unable to provide enough context for the junk removers to be able to provide an accurate and informed project estimate remotely, that's OK.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies will typically send two employees to your home or business to provide an in-person quote when the job involves more than just a few items.
\r\n\r\nThese quotes are free and you are not obligated to hire them if you don't like the price they quote you.
\r\n\r\nIf you agree to the price of their garage cleanout services, they get started right away.
\r\n\r\nRead more about hiring junk removal companies:
\r\n\r\n![\"woman](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/declutter-organize-garage.png\")
\r\nPayment is taken once the garage cleanout is complete.
\r\n\r\nNow that your unwanted junk is gone and out of the way, you can now finish organizing your items.
\r\n\r\nUtilize shelves to maximize storage space, label waterproof storage bins to keep items dust- and dirt-free and easy to find, and limit the items you store in the garage moving forward.
\r\n\r\nEverything in your garage should have a designated storage space. And when you bring new items into your garage, it's a great rule of thumb to take one out in exchange to minimize clutter from piling up again.
\r\n\r\nFind out how to improve your garage:
\r\n\r\nFind out the best strategies and where to start with your garage cleanout project to get it done as quickly as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T01:05:18+00:00"},{"id":"4fbc8572-72e2-55ea-825c-3a9bdb2ceae4","title":"Declutter and Organize Your Garage in 5 Simple Steps","url":"/blog/declutter-and-organize-garage-in-5-steps","image":{"path":"/static/fcb977e647df0fd6bafe77289589fb51/plan-garage-cleanout.png","alt":"declutter web drawn in marker including recycle, keep, trash, sell, donate"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"86e68e5b-9753-5fb4-a2bd-6c49cc8782d3","name":"Garage Cleanout","slug":"Garage-Cleanout"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Cleaning out your garage can feel like an overwhelming project.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCobwebs, unorganized tools and lawn equipment, half-empty paint cans, dusty holiday decorations, bags of yard waste, and old athletic equipment all seem to find their way into the garage, leading to an unsightly, cluttered mess.
\r\n
Even the dirtiest garage cleanouts 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 garage 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-and-organize-garage-infographic.jpg\")
\r\nIn most instances, people don't want to get rid of every last item in the garage.
\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 garage, you'll want to start your garage 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 garage, 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 garage cleanout, but some rental providers also offer smaller dumpster sizes if your project is very minimal.
\r\n\r\nThe national average cost of a 10 yard dumpster is $250-$450 for a one-week rental.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a garage packed full of items to toss, you may 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 faster alternative to renting a dumpster is hiring a junk removal company to handle the garage 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 to make that happen.
\r\n\r\nExpect to pay at least a couple hundred dollars (for a small garage cleanup) or more to have a junk removal company clean out the entire garage for you.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it simple for homeowners to request quotes from dumpster rental or junk removal companies, allowing you to easily determine which service is best for your particular project.
\r\n\r\nStart 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.
\r\n\r\nThen, read more about their services, 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 whenever you can to help ensure you pay a fair price for whatever service you choose and get quality work from a professional and reliable company.
\r\n\r\nWhen you reach out to companies for a project quote, be as detailed as you can when describing what you need removed and how much.
\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 companies, on the other hand, will typically send one to two employees to your home or business to provide an in-person quote for the job, unless you only have an item or two.
\r\n\r\nThese quotes are free and you are not obligated to hire them if you don't like the price they quote you.
\r\n\r\nIf you agree to the price of their garage cleanout services, they 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 garage.
\r\n\r\nPurchase additional shelves to maximize storage space, label waterproof storage bins to keep water and dust out, and limit the amount of items you bring into the garage moving forward to maintain your clean, organized space.
\r\n\r\nEverything in your garage should have a designated storage space.
\r\n\r\nIf you must bring new items into your garage, it's a good rule of thumb to remove one item in order to minimize clutter from piling up again.
\r\n\r\nFind out how to improve your garage:
\r\n\r\nEven the dirtiest garage cleanouts can be completed with minimal stress and relative ease, but only if a good plan is established first. Learn the 5 steps your garage cleanout plan should include and how to find the help to get it done.
\r\n","changed":"2022-06-16T19:18:08+00:00"},{"id":"54a858ae-51c0-520d-b97b-2cfd64409b53","title":"How Junk Removal Companies Can Help with E-Waste Disposal","url":"/blog/how-junk-removal-companies-help-with-e-waste","image":{"path":"/static/ebd744cb8592ea79e4a924c543aeaa15/box-of-electronics.png","alt":"person lifting a box of electronics"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"be215651-77bc-59d2-a493-29497c089ec4","name":"Electronics Removal","slug":"Electronics-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"When you have electronics that you need hauled away and disposed of properly, professional junk removal services are a great solution.
\r\n\r\nIf you've never hired these services before, Hometown is here to break down the process so you can finish your home or business cleanup project as soon as possible!
\r\n\r\nOne of the best ways to get the best price, customer service, and availability that fits your schedule is to get different quotes from local e-waste/junk removal providers.
\r\n\r\nHometown's quote request form allows you to quickly describe your electronic waste removal project and send out your quote request to qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nDepending on the size of your e-waste removal project, the companies you speak with may need to come to your location to provide you with an on-site junk removal estimate.
\r\n\r\nSome companies will ask for a photo of your electronic waste via text message or email so they can provide you a quote over the phone, but every company and e-waste disposal project is different.
\r\n\r\nWhether you get quotes virtually or in-person, there will never be a charge for a project quote and you are never obligated to hire.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal providers understand that it's common practice for consumers to shop around and should never put pressure on you to hire before you're ready.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if you get an in-person estimate and you like the price they've quoted you, you can choose to hire them on the spot and they'll likely get to work removing your electronic waste right away.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How to Determine Which Junk Removal Quote Is Best
\r\n\r\nOnce you've gotten a handful of quotes from local junk removal companies, compare the information they've given you and choose the service that will best take care of your e-waste removal needs.
\r\n\r\nIt's important to make sure you're getting a good price, but customer service and availability are just as important, so keep that in mind when choosing a junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know who you'd like to go with, contact the provider and schedule your electronic waste pick-up.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Questions to Ask Junk Removal Companies Before Hiring
\r\n\r\n![\"large](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/e-waste.png\")
\r\nJunk removal companies will send a crew of 1-2 workers to carry your e-waste from your home or business to their truck/trailer.
\r\n\r\nIf you have large or heavy pieces, like old television sets or desktop computers, they may use dollies or other equipment to help them with their loading.
\r\n\r\nIf your pile of electronic waste was piled up on your driveway or sidewalk, they may sweep the area to make sure there is no dirt or debris left behind from your pile.
\r\n\r\nUnless the amount of e-waste is extreme, the removal should be fairly quick and completed within 10-30 minutes.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Recycle Your Electronics With Junk Removal Services
\r\n\r\nOnce electronic waste is loaded onto the truck or trailer, the junk removal company will provide you with an invoice.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, they'll take a card or cash on the spot.
\r\n\r\nIn some circumstances, they'll allow you to call into their office to pay your invoice over the phone.
\r\n\r\nBe sure to discuss payment before hiring services so that expectations are clear ahead of time for both parties.
\r\n\r\nAfter your e-waste is loaded and payment is arranged, the pros will then transport your electronic waste to a local electronics recycling center for it to be properly disposed of.
\r\n\r\nFew states allow electronic waste to be dumped in landfills, so that is extremely rarely the disposal method of choice for junk removal companies.
\r\n\r\nIf you are concerned about where your e-waste is going, be sure to ask the different companies you speak with how they intend on disposing of your e-waste.
\r\n\r\nHauling your electronic waste to a local charity or electronic waste recycling facility is typically the best solution.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've paid your invoice and your e-waste is removed, all that is left to do is enjoy your newly clean space.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nWhen you have electronics that you need hauled away and disposed of properly, professional junk removal services are a great solution. If you've never hired these services before, Hometown is here to break down the process. Learn what to expect from professional e-waste removal services and how to find the right company for the job.
\r\n","changed":"2022-10-07T18:41:33+00:00"},{"id":"40199077-d6db-5e4a-9b14-8605e4788425","title":"How to Get Rid of Exercise Equipment","url":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-exercise-equipment","image":{"path":"/static/20f69ee22892c71d2dad9d862d511850/exercise-equip.jpg","alt":"row of exercise bikes in gym"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"1e45c637-f541-57aa-bc46-d9d831cafe4c","name":"Furniture Removal","slug":"Furniture-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"Whether you have exercise equipment that no longer works or you've decided to free up some space for items you'll actually use, getting rid of exercise equipment isn't typically a one person job.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are the fastest, most convenient way to get rid of your old treadmill, row machine, exercise bike, or bench press.
\r\n\r\nIf you've never used a junk removal service before, we'll go over everything you need to know about getting rid of your unwanted exercise equipment in the fastest, easiest way possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/exercise-equipment-removal-info.jpg\")
\r\nExercise equipment that is no longer in working condition will need to be recycled or disposed of rather than sold or donated.
\r\n\r\nFor electronic exercise equipment, like treadmills or exercise bikes, local e-waste recyclers will likely accept these items for the most environmentally responsible disposal. Predominately metal items, like bench presses or free weights, are usually accepted by scrap metal recyclers.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in an area that doesn't have these types of recyclers nearby, disposal at a landfill may be your only option.
\r\n\r\nRegardless of the disposal method that makes the most sense in your situation, junk removal services offer the handiest option when you don't have the time, strength, vehicle, or desire to haul and dispose of your exercise equipment yourself.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are trained to load up your unwanted items quickly and safely, being sure to cause zero damage to your walls and property. They'll load up your unwanted items, like workout equipment, into their truck or trailer, safely secure them, and haul them to the nearest recycling center or landfill. Oftentimes, these services are available the same or next day.
\r\n\r\nThese types of companies typically send a crew of two with the proper tools and equipment to safely remove heavy items and mitigate the risk of injury or damage to property. This is especially helpful in cases where you have a large treadmill or exercise bike to remove, as these items tend to be bulky, heavy, and difficult to move.
\r\n\r\nThe cost of exercise equipment removal will vary based on many different factors, including how much space your equipment takes up in the junk removal company's truck or trailer, disposal fees in your area, ease of access, where you're located, who you hire, and more.
\r\n\r\nWith that being said, the following chart depicts national average costs for the removal and disposal of popular types of workout equipment.
\r\n\r\n| Type of Exercise Equipment | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Cost for Removal | \r\n\t\t
| Treadmill | \r\n\t\t\t$150-$250 | \r\n\t\t
| StairMaster | \r\n\t\t\t$150-$250 | \r\n\t\t
| Exercise Bike | \r\n\t\t\t$100-$200 | \r\n\t\t
| Row Machine | \r\n\t\t\t$100-$250 | \r\n\t\t
| Bench Press | \r\n\t\t\t$75-$150 | \r\n\t\t
| Free Weights | \r\n\t\t\t$75-$250 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Learn more:
\r\n\r\nExercise equipment that is still in working condition can be donated to local charity resale stores, community centers, or individuals.
\r\n\r\nLocal resale stores, like Goodwill or The Salvation Army, will often take exercise equipment that is in clean and operable condition. You may also want to consider looking up youth homes, halfway houses, senior centers, women's shelters, LGBTQ+ centers, refugee organizations, homeless shelters, or other community programs and reaching out to see if any of them would be interested in your unwanted exercise equipment. Oftentimes, creating a post in Facebook groups for your designated area offering up items for free can attract several \"buyers\" happy to take your unwanted items off your hands.
\r\n\r\nIf you can't find a group or individual willing to come and haul away your equipment donation for free, junk removal companies are a great alternative.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies are happy to haul your unwanted fitness equipment to the donation center of your choice, handling all of the lifting, loading, and transporting so that you don't have to. They can even provide you with an itemized donation receipt for tax purposes if you request one.
\r\n\r\nThe cost for junk removal services with the intention to have the items donated rather than disposed of is comparable but can sometimes cost slightly less. Because the junk removal company will not have to pay for landfill or recycling fees, they may pass those savings onto you when you have your items donated for free. There are also added savings if you itemize your tax deductions and make sure to get a receipt of your donation from the junk removal company on your behalf.
\r\n\r\nRead On: Donate Your Unwanted Items Easily with Junk Removal
\r\n\r\nWhether you choose to have your unwanted exercise equipment donated, recycled, or disposed of, there is no safer or easier way to do so than with the help of junk removal services, and there is no better way to find a qualified junk removal provider in your area than with Hometown.
\r\n\r\nThe junk removal companies that we publish are vetted to insure they are licensed, bonded, and insured to perform the services they offer, and we only publish reputable companies who provide a quality customer experience.
\r\n\r\nOur single quote request form makes it convenient to get multiple quotes that allow you to compare the cost, customer service, and availability of each service provider you chat with.
\r\n\r\nYou simply enter your zip code, answer a few short questions about your equipment removal needs, and select up to 3 providers in your area to request a quote from. We'll even match you up with local services if you don't feel like looking through their profiles yourself.
\r\n\r\nHometown knows the type of quality service you deserve and offers the quickest and easiest way to compare your options all in one easy-to-use place.
\r\n\r\nTry our free quote request form today and have your unwanted workout equipment hauled away in no time!
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nFind out how junk removal services can help you get rid of unwanted exercise equipment. Learn about disposal options, average costs, and how to find local services.
\r\n","changed":"2023-06-12T12:59:08+00:00"},{"id":"3e3f9fde-23e9-5a0e-8dcd-684ef5d1e07d","title":"Plastic Recycling 101: Everything You Need to Know","url":"/blog/plastic-recycling-101","image":{"path":"/static/1b7535fe757b69ca493ed923f9ec5778/plastic-recycling.jpg","alt":"Father and daughters sorting through plastic to place into recycling bin"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"51c3fa1e-5e47-57dd-903e-10a9699d3a72","name":"Plastic Recycling","slug":"Plastic-Recycling"},{"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":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"}],"content":"The average time it takes for plastic to start decomposing in landfills is 700 years!
\r\n\r\nKnowing this, it's no wonder consumers and businesses are being called now more than ever to recycle plastic as often as possible.
\r\n\r\nWe have a great opportunity to reduce the size of our landfills at a time when landfill \"real estate\" is limited and dwindling by the day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling is a great cause 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 plastic recycling for homes and businesses so you can ensure your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n\r\nAs we've already mentioned, one of the more obvious benefits of recycling plastic is conserving landfill space, but that only just scratches the surface of the many benefits of plastic recycling.
\r\n\r\nMany of us were taught in school that recycling helps keep our environment healthy, but exactly how do our efforts impact the earth?
\r\n\r\nFor every ton (2,000 lbs) of plastic that is recycled:
\r\n\r\nIf you're more motivated by the economy than you are the environment, don't worry, we've got you covered there too.
\r\n\r\nA new study by Eco-Cycle shows 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\nJobs created by the recycling industry aren't minimum wage jobs, either. The recycling industry offers theirs workers competitive wages and health benefits.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to keep in mind when doing recycling of any kind is that it is crucial to keep all recycling products clean of any oil, grease, food, or beverage.
\r\n\r\nNot making sure to clean out plastic condiment containers or glass sauce jars can contaminate whole batches of recyclables, making your well-intentioned efforts cause more harm than good.
\r\n\r\nA shocking revelation to many well-intentioned recyclers is discovering that not all plastic can be recycled.
\r\n\r\nAlways read the labeling on your recycling bin and do some independent research by reading your recyclers' website to discover exactly what types of plastic can and cannot be recycled at their facility.
\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\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 plastic or other items you're trying to recycle.
\r\n\r\nRecyclable plastic is numbered to indicate what type of plastic it is.
\r\n\r\nPlastic with a recycling label of 1 or 2 is almost always accepted at any plastic recycling facility, plastic labeled as 3 almost never goes in your recycling, and plastic with a label of 6 is only accepted by some plastic recycling plants.
\r\n\r\nCompostable plastic should never go into your recycling bin with other non-biodegradable plastic and should be composted for the most environmentally-friendly disposal.
\r\n\r\nAs the world becomes more eco-conscious, plastic grocery and shopping bags are starting to be labeled as recyclable, but it is very important to do research about your particular recycling facility and what materials they accept.
\r\n\r\nWhile many of these types of grocery bags are labeled as recyclable plastic no. 2, some recycling plants have the proper machinery to recycle these types of plastic bags or film while others can suffer serious repercussions if these types of plastic are put through their machinery.
\r\n\r\nThrowing plastic bags into your recycling bin that is being transported to a recycling plant that does not accept these items can do serious damage to the machinery it gets sent through, sometimes causing shut downs and delays for whole business days until the proper repairs can be made.
\r\n\r\nIn these instances, you can typically return the recyclable plastic bags back to the establishment that gave them to you so that they can responsibly recycle them for you.
\r\n\r\nHere is a list of the different number classes that plastic falls into:
\r\n\r\nThe most commonly recycled types of plastic are 1 and 2.
\r\n\r\nIn some circumstances, some types of 4, 5, and 7 plastic can be recycled.
\r\n\r\nVery rarely, some types of 3 and 6 plastic can be recycled.
\r\n\r\nIt can feel overwhelming when you first make the conscious effort to recycle, but it really is more straight-forward than it looks at first glance.
\r\n\r\nGet used to looking for the recycling symbol on different types of plastic and check for a number in the center of it.
\r\n\r\nAfter you've made sure you understand what types of materials are accepted at your recycling facility and once you get used to checking plastic for their number categories, it really does become second nature.
\r\n\r\nIf you're lucky enough to live in an area that offers a free curbside recycling program, take advantage of the program to save space in your trash bin and save money on monthly household disposal costs!
\r\n\r\nThere are many common mistakes well-intentioned people make when recycling plastic.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common is tossing in plastic that isn't labeled as recyclable or contributing recyclable plastic that isn't accepted at your particular recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nIt's also important to crush items like plastic water bottles when possible.
\r\n\r\nDoing so will help conserve space in transfer trucks and recycling bins.
\r\n\r\nAnother common mistake people make is throwing in plastic containers that haven't been cleaned and rinsed of whatever product they were containing.
\r\n\r\nPlastic cutlery can be too lightweight to be picked up as plastic by recycling machines, placing them in a paper recycling section which can then contaminate and ruin entire batches of recycled paper.
\r\n\r\nThat's why it is so important to make sure what your particular recycling center accepts, because not all recycling machines are made the same.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local recycling facility to learn more.
\r\n\r\n![\"young](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/plastic-recycling-2.jpg\")
\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\nBetter yet, if you live in California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Oregon, or Vermont, you can return plastic soda bottles to the place you purchased them to get your bottle deposit back.
\r\n\r\nFor those who live in areas where this isn't offered, however, there are plenty of other options available.
\r\n\r\nMany communities have drop-off recycling programs or community dumpsters at different drop-off locations for recyclables.
\r\n\r\nVisit 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 in your area.
\r\n\r\nIf you're a business or contractor that has large amounts of plastic 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 plastic to recycle but not enough to justify renting a dumpster, consider hiring a junk removal company to haul away your plastic waste for you.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will be able to recycle all your plastic products without you having to lift a finger, and will donate salvageable items on your behalf.
\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 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 plastic recycling to ensure that your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-01T20:40:38+00:00"}],"populars":[],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"When hiring a junk removal company, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150 for a small project, like single-item removals, or as much as $2,000 or more for a large cleanup, like a whole-home cleanout.
\r\n\r\n| Job Size | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Cost | \r\n\t\t\tExample Project | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|
| Small | \r\n\t\t\t$75 - $200 | \r\n\t\t\t1 - 2 pieces of furniture or appliance | \r\n\t\t
| Medium | \r\n\t\t\t$400 - $800 | \r\n\t\t\tRemove all furniture and appliances from the house. Foreclosure, hoarding or eviction cleanups. | \r\n\t\t
| Large | \r\n\t\t\t$1,000 - $5,000 (or more) | \r\n\t\t\tDebris removal from garage demolition. \r\n\t\t\tCommercial building cleanouts. | \r\n\t\t
There are multiple factors that can influence the cost of junk removal, including:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal costs vary from one location to the next. For example, customers in Los Angeles or New York City will pay more for junk removal than those in a smaller suburb would pay for the same size project.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of junk that needs to be removed plays a big role, too. For example, big cleanups will require a larger truck or trailer and more labor hours to complete the job. The same is true for complex cleanups, like having to carry heavy items down multiple flights of stairs or removing an old piano that needs to be disassembled in order to remove it safely.
\r\n\r\nCertain types of waste, junk, and debris cost more to dispose of than others, like hazardous materials, which have more stringent environmental laws, safety concerns, and disposal requirements.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Rent a Dumpster or Hire a Junk Removal Company?
\r\n","place":null,"code":"junk-removal"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"montana/commercial-waste-management-page-nd"},{"title":"Dumpster rental","url":"montana/dumpster-rental-page-nd"}],"modal_project_types":[{"name":"Cleanout an Interior Space","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":542,"label":"Cleanout - Basement","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":543,"label":"Cleanout - Commercial","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":544,"label":"Cleanout - Estate","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":545,"label":"Cleanout - Garage","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":546,"label":"Cleanout - Hoarding","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Cleanup an Exterior Area","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":547,"label":"Cleanup - Storm Recovery","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":557,"label":"Trash Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":558,"label":"Yard Waste Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Construction & Demolition","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":548,"label":"Construction Debris Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":552,"label":"Light Demolition","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Large Item Removal","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":540,"label":"Appliance Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":541,"label":"Carpet Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":550,"label":"Furniture Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":553,"label":"Mattress Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":554,"label":"Refrigerator Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]}],"codes":[{"name":"Residential Trash Service","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Residential_Trash_Service","code":null}},{"name":"Excavating","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Excavating","code":null}},{"name":"Septic Tank Service","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Septic_Tank_Service","code":null}},{"name":"Portable Toilets","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Portable_Toilets","code":null}},{"name":"Storage Containers","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Storage_Containers","code":null}},{"name":"Portable Offices","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Portable_Offices","code":null}},{"name":"Temporary Fencing","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Temporary_Fencing","code":null}},{"name":"Equipment Rental","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Equipment_Rental","code":null}},{"name":"Dumpster Rental","code":"dumpster","paths":{"name":"Dumpster_Rental","code":"dumpster-rental"}},{"name":"Junk Removal","code":"junk-removal","paths":{"name":"Junk_Removal","code":"junk-removal"}},{"name":"Commercial Waste Management","code":"comercial-trash-service","paths":{"name":"Commercial_Waste_Management","code":"commercial-waste-management"}}],"seo_desc":[{"name":"Junk Removal","code":"junk-removal","kg_homepage_seo_desc":"Junk Removal","kg_kpp_seo_desc":"Get rid of your junk now at the best price! Get a better deal when you compare quick quotes from the top junk removers in PLACE_NAME.","kg_seo_label":"Top 3 Junk Removal Services","kg_state_seo_desc":"Find the best junk removal companies in STATE_NAME. Compare verified reviews and get prices to clean out and haul away your unwanted debris.","kg_panel_page_seo_desc":null}],"pros":"","profiles":[],"code":"junk-removal","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"kpppages"},"cards":{},"enabledBooking":[33029,19333,33361,19092,30685,17311,31941,19985,31972,30226,30207,18811,19595,24494,31797,33199,20339,33031,33286,20627,21590,30180,32928,30557,27415,30445,22407,21189,24650,24949,25262,32768,22640,39738,33449,31701,18721,38075,33922,32660,20873,27252,19800,30465,33445,34054,22852,30964,32374,19014,22847,19404,31679,15952,24407,32532,19482,17839,17007,18182,28511,19484,17390,18502,21736,34014,16150,18449,31981,30336,34372,17741,37479,25031,23111,33408,20761,18309,16149,33486,23935,31542,38351,32924,20450,34600,31866,19451,32395,34537,38020,35059,31068,34274,30646,20364,32909,24211,21935,22735,18028,32909,24211,21935,22735,18028,33292,33700,31754,25263,16397,35632,33271,35669,39020,23787,19209,34926,38356,16386,35750,35593,35543,23801,32154,32705,31506,22500,35095,18807,33298,35886,38151,38710,32821,31099,32031,33313,28651,18168,31976,35745,36008,33511,25371,32587,35723,35277,18141,35900,15702,30297,38258,32106,31861,30155,30684,28366,30106,35894,25367,33347,17627,35634,35924,30536,31242,23994,33108,30466,35860,33323,30707,24447,24496,36274,38499,30980,33447,35846,33140,30254,33169,31613,30584,21337,30157,38074,31288,34968,31285,18778,37864,30935,18026,35957,18336,25036,30135,30011,21858,35809,39096,28933,32355,16102,27166,35967,22348,20592,30566,22889,20243,27421,28312,28268,30561,35945,21885,35697,33386,30145,22093,24018,32747,18111,22831,35997,27418,18285,28226,31581,20724,33999,35986,18720,38283,31696,35993,30559,24571,30179,20639,19078,21652,32546,27416,30229,22391,36012,26357,38300,19436,16038,25006,18302,36009,27420,35998,21549,32004,30108,35943,36018,17923,31604,36000,38053,36025,32687,32168,35970,19629,34713,16433,36029,31408,24427,19317,17105,20117,15159,36039,36042,38333,33222,36048,30396,34726,38291,17547,36015,35872,37802,21454,31593,36064,39094,37485,35773,30421,30184,32314,36063,36068,38363,33277,17249,36080,17939,35784,30966,31387,23563,18098,36079,33430,24322,20069,17229,38396,32758,31179,32318,20196,36124,31831,36148,27557,31378,16283,24123,33243,36176,34331,36341,32017,36396,25213,33206,30014,16855,35209,25130,15958,35921,17754,30085,31565,31739,30096,21573,38429,36448,30439,24279,32141,30146,16489,31070,32201,30095,30426,30027,23241,16997,30073,36437,22449,27727,32992,36317,38246,31433,22977,39183,36351,34020,36509,30990,38098,16880,33446,17125,30493,16366,36580,37928,32619,30359,36229,30597,22550,20895,30394,33499,19420,17435,16701,36646,31903,20383,22503,36691,27411,36493,35976,36721,15484,30535,20847,36799,36623,31868,31793,30290,35974,33414,36898,36652,37073,36870,30381,36915,36891,32058,36890,20619,21865,36911,37772,36720,16848,37369,36889,33393,37101,36976,30453,15795,36918,30457,32889,23130,37157,37156,21728,37133,30760,37085,22666,37109,37183,31856,37045,36995,37587,37115,33171,37297,37129,15096,32147,36645,37343,37356,30993,31544,32799,38042,33159,37423,37458,18530,37236,39214,37705,34917,37715,36983,36985,32366,37305,37577,37858,37720,37689,37362,37580,37806,30385,34001,37976,37991,38002,37612,37882,37969,37779,38223,38172,38009,38017,37898,38447,17241,37906,37904,23339,38016,17929,32358,38740,38078,37568,37914,37239,38592,37707,37520,38666,37480,38316,37800,16490,37886,37394,38222,37696,37652,38208,38695,38705,38698,38433,38315,38390,38411,38247,38825,38734,38481,38716,38835,16449,38652,36904,38209,38670,19342,33888,18277,33336,38624,38915,38767,37402,37750,31653,38676,38887,38920,38919,38975,38384,38713,38794,39068,38282,38804,37586,37501,28802,17676,38443,39087,23301,32929,37872,38668,39132,39116,30042,38780,23588,38981,39138,37576,39109,39079,38426,38594,39331,37634,39432,39274,36987,37525,38730,39408,39060,39372,39474,39558,19046,39231,39511,39411,38556,30851,39314,39741,38039,32732,20593,38913,31661,38090,39725,39713,39795,31836,39826,15648,32301,39483,39462,32656,39678,39798,24903,39752,20569,15830,39658],"schemaOrg":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Hometown Dumpster Rental","item":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"ND","item":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com/North-Dakota/index.html"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Page","item":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com/montana/junk-removal-page-nd"}]}],"sponsoredProfiles":[],"sponsoredCards":{},"sponsoredPros":"","typicalPricesData":null}}, "staticQueryHashes": []}