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What Can I Put in a Dumpster? A Complete Guide

Published on February 3, 2026

Dumpster filled with household debris

Renting a dumpster allows you to get rid of a lot of waste at once, but it's not a free-for-all. There are environmental regulations and safety rules that dictate what can and cannot go into a landfill. Knowing these rules before you load your dumpster can save you from extra fees or having your load rejected.

✅ Accepted Items

For the most part, non-hazardous household and construction debris is perfectly fine. Here is a list of common items you CAN put in our dumpsters:

  • Household Junk: Furniture (tables, chairs, sofas), clothing, toys, general trash.
  • Construction Debris: Drywall, lumber, flooring, cabinetry, siding, windows.
  • Roofing Materials: Shingles and underlayment (heavy loads may require a specific dumpster size).
  • Yard Waste: Leaves, branches, sticks, and brush.
  • Appliances: Washers, dryers, ovens (must be drained of hazardous fluids).
  • Electronics: Most non-battery electronics like printers and computers (check local e-waste rules).

🚫 Prohibited Items

For safety and environmental reasons, the following items are STRICTLY PROHIBITED in our dumpsters. If these are found, you may be charged a contamination fee.

❌ Hazardous Materials

Paint, oil, gasoline, propane tanks, asbestos, pesticides, and chemicals.

❌ Batteries & Tires

Car batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and vehicle tires are not allowed.

❌ Biohazard/Medical Waste

Needles, bandages, or any other medical waste.

❌ Heavy Materials (Unless Specified)

Concrete, dirt, and brick can make a dumpster too heavy to lift. Please call us if you are disposing of these items so we can recommend the right container.

Common Questions

Can I put a mattress in the dumpster?

Yes, mattresses are generally allowed, though some areas may charge a small extra fee per mattress due to disposal difficulty.

Can I throw away old paint?

Only if it is completely dried out. Wet paint is considered hazardous. You can dry it out by mixing it with kitty litter or sand.

Ready to rent your dumpster?

Now that you know what goes in, get your project started today!

Book a Dumpster Now