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Chicago Dumpster Rental Rules: What You Can and Can’t Throw Away in a Roll-Off Dumpster

At A City Suburban Dumpsters, we know there’s nothing like a dumpster to help make quick work of the clutter involved in a home improvement project or any type of project that generates waste. But there are dumpster rental rules that need to be followed when you bring one into your project. For example, what can you throw in a dumpster? What can you not throw in a dumpster? While renting a dumpster is a quick and easy process, knowing what you can put in it is of vital importance.

dumpster sizes

The first rule of thumb is size and weight. The larger the dumpster, the more weight it can handle. Should you exceed the weight limit, you will be subjected to additional fees. For example, if you rent a 6-yard unit and exceed the 4,000 lb. limit, the dumpster company will have to pay extra tipping fees at the landfill, which will be passed on to you.

More importantly, there are items that cannot go into a landfill because they are toxic to the environment, and anything that cannot go in a landfill is also prohibited from going in a dumpster. Some items are obvious, such as industrial drums full of harmful substances, but others, such as refrigerators, which pose their own unique risk, are less obvious. We’ll outline in the following sections what you can and cannot put in a dumpster.

Shingles, wooden furniture and landscaping material, such as brush, limbs from trees and sod or grass are common items that can be put into dumpsters. You can also place storm debris, lumber, construction and home improvement materials, concrete, brick and asphalt in your rented dumpster. Old clothing, shoes and other wearables are also common items put in dumpsters.

Items that you can’t put in a dumpster include paint cans that still have paint in them or radiator fluid and old car batteries, solvents and resins, insecticides or propane tanks – none of these items are permissible to place in a dumpster. Check with your local laws, as some areas of the country don’t allow upholstered furniture in landfills. Tires are not allowed in a dumpster. Medical waste, household cleaners and railroad ties are also prohibited.

Waste management roll-off dumpster rules at A City Suburban Dumpsters

Waste management dumpster rules are most often focused on what you can put in a rented dumpster and what you cannot place in them. Fortunately, when you partner with A City Suburban Dumpsters, you have a company on your side that makes it very clear what you can and cannot put in a roll-off dumpster.

While there are many items that can go into a dumpster, you have to be careful about some items, including any that are toxic or dangerous. For example, car tires might seem like an everyday item that could go into a dumpster of any size, but the fact is that you cannot put these in a dumpster because they are not allowed in landfills. This is because 75 percent of the space a tire takes up includes void space, which traps methane gas, causing the tires to rise to the surface, destroying landfill liners.

15 yard dumpster

What can you put in a roll off dumpster?

What can you put in a dumpster? It’s one of the most frequent questions we get at A City Suburban Dumpsters. What can go in a dumpster is any non-toxic, non-flammable household junk and most major appliances. Also, pretty much any debris from construction or home improvements can go into a dumpster as long as it is not toxic. This includes lumber, drywall, flooring, cabinets, siding, roofing and various landscaping debris.

An important question to ask yourself before placing an item in a dumpster is, “is this non-hazardous, non-toxic and safe to be placed in a landfill?” If you can answer “yes,” then it’s most likely okay to place in your dumpster. Whether you’re asking “what can you put in a residential dumpster?” or “what can you put in a construction dumpster?” just ask yourself that question about how hazardous it is and you will be on the right track.

The following waste are allowed to put in a rented dumpster:

Household junk

What household junk can you put in a dumpster?

When our customers rent from us at A City Suburban Dumpsters, many of them are getting rid of household junk. When they ask, “what can I put in a dumpster?” Most of them are pleased to learn that pretty much any of their household junk can go into it.

Household junk you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Old knick knacks
  • Clothing
  • Toys
  • Books
  • Pots and pans
  • Papers or old documents
  • More

Wooden furniture

What wooden furniture can you put in a dumpster?

Can you put furniture in a dumpster? Given that most furniture in households today is made of wood, you can throw furniture in a dumpster. Whether it’s a couch, shelves, tables, cabinets or any other sort of wood, if you’re wondering where to throw away wood furniture, rent a dumpster from us and you’ll have all of your wood furniture refuse hauled away.

Can you throw a chair in a dumpster? The answer is “yes.” We recommend carefully placing your furniture in your dumpster so you can make the most of the room you have, so be sure to walk the largest items first and pile the smaller furniture pieces on top. Even distribution is the best bet when packing your dumpster.

Wooden furniture you can place in a dumpster:

  • Tables
  • Chairs
  • Bookcases
  • More

9 ways to dispose of your old furniture

Upholstered furniture

What upholstered furniture can you put in a dumpster?

Can you throw furniture in a dumpster, even if it is upholstered? In some areas of the country, upholstered furniture is not allowed in the landfills, but in the Chicago area, it is.

Can you throw a chair into a dumpster? Our recommendation, given how bulky chairs and other upholstered furniture can be, is to break it down. For example, take the time to tear off all the upholstery, cushions and springs. Then disassemble the wooden structure. This will provide you with the most amount of room in your dumpster.

Can you put a couch in a dumpster? Yes, you can. But because this is an especially bulky item, we recommend following the breakdown procedures.

Upholstered furniture you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Couches
  • Recliners
  • Sofas
  • Chairs

Household appliances

What appliances can you put in a dumpster?

Can you put appliances in a dumpster? Can you throw away small appliances? These are common questions, because many home improvement projects include getting rid of old things before bringing in newer, more modern appliances. Fortunately, most appliances (as long as they do not have batteries) are allowed in landfills, which means you can put them in your dumpster.

One of the most important things to know about putting appliances in a dumpster is that if they contain any hazardous fluids, they must be drained before going into the dumpster. For example, refrigerators include freon, the cooling substance in a fridge, and it must be removed before you can dispose of your refrigerator. Water heaters are one of the appliances that aren’t allowed in a dumpster, as they tend to collect gas and can explode or rise up through the landfill and damage the protective liner. If you have more questions about what time you can put in a dumpster, just contact us.

Household appliance you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Microwaves
  • Stoves
  • Dishwashers
  • Washing machines
  • Keurig machine
  • Vacuum
  • Treadmill
  • Water heaters
  • Lawn mower allowed with no gas

Electronics

What electronics can you put in a dumpster?

Customers often ask us if they can put electronics in a dumpster. Given the rate at which technology advances, there are plenty of electronics that can’t be sold and end up in the trash pile. Electronics you can throw in a dumpster include printers, fax machines and other electronics that don’t have batteries or ink in them. Batteries often contain hazardous material, which is why they cannot be put in the landfill or a dumpster.

Electronics you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Printers
  • Fax machines
  • Old DVDs and CDs
  • Other no-battery powered devices

Recycling electronics has become a popular service offered by a number of organizations, so that’s an option if you’d rather not put it in your dumpster. However, if you’re just trying to complete a big cleanout and want to throw all your junk in your dumpster, you can place your electronics alongside other items, such as furniture, old clothes and other junk.

Yard waste

Can you put yard waste in a dumpster?

Many customers want to know if you can put trees in a dumpster. Fortunately, the answer is “yes.” Whether it’s a big landscaping project or a cleanup after a big storm, if you’ve got trees or parts of trees that you need to get rid of, you can put them in a dumpster.

Keep in mind though that if you’re throwing out sod and mulch, these items will only be allowed in the 6 and 10 cubic yard dumpsters. If you have more questions about what you can put in a roll off dumpster where yard waste is concerned, contact us.

Yard waste you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Trees
  • Branches
  • Grass
  • Sod
  • Mulch
  • Brush
  • Vines
  • Stumps and larger yard debris

Box springs

Can you put box springs in a dumpster?

Box springs and mattresses are replaced on average about every 10 years. These bulky items can take up a lot of space, which is why it’s good to use your roll dumpster to get rid of your box springs. While some parts of the country prohibit box springs from being placed in landfills, the Chicagoland area does allow them in the landfills, which means you can put them in your dumpster.

Dry empty cans of paints, lacquers and adhesives

Can you put paint cans in a dumpster?

Can you throw paint cans in a dumpster? That’s a good question, because paint, paint thinner, adhesives, wood stain and lacquer contain hazardous chemicals, including mercury and lead, which means you cannot put these cans in the dumpster.

If you are 100 percent certain your paint cans are completely empty, you can put them in the dumpster. Because dry latex paint is around 99 percent water and one percent rubber, it will be allowed in a dumpster. So, can you throw paint cans in a dumpster? Only if it’s completely empty or if it’s dry latex paint.

Lumber and wooden materials

Can you put lumber in a dumpster?

Can you throw wood in the dumpster? Given that so many home improvement projects include scraps of wood, it’s fortunate that in most cases, the answer is yes. Untreated lumber and wood from any type of construction project is allowed in a dumpster.

Keep in mind that if your wood has been treated, it is considered hazardous and will need to be disposed of by a professional, so don’t put it in your dumpster.

Metals

Can you throw metal in a dumpster?

There are many types of metal involved in home improvement projects that find their way to the scrap pile. Can you throw metal in a dumpster? The short answer is “yes.” Some of the more common types of metal thrown in dumpsters are copper wire and pipes, aluminum siding, galvanized flashing, nails, iron and steel.

Some metals are recyclable, so if you want to take to a recycling center, contact us for special prices related to this service.

Glass

Can you put glass in a dumpster?

Customers often ask if they can throw glass in a dumpster and the answer is “yes.” Any type of product made of glass is safe to put in a landfill and a dumpster. Whole house window projects that generate many panes of glass will benefit by having a roll-off dumpster on site. Mirrors, insulation (made of a material found in glass), light fixtures and glass from your cupboards are also common items that can be put in a dumpster. You can put as much glass in your dumpster as the weight limit allows.

Event waste

Can you put event waste in a dumpster?

Dumpsters are an excellent way to get rid of event waste generated over the course of an evening. From weddings to family reunions, birthday parties to graduation parties and block parties, they can all lead to a massive amount of refuse that can be difficult to stay on top of with trash bags alone.

What can you put in a dumpster rental following an event? The most common materials are food waste, cups, napkins, table clothes, wrapping paper, paper plates, disposable utensils and more. Call on A City Suburban Dumpsters to bring a dumpster to your event so you have a quick and easy way of cleaning up the mess and have it hauled away.

Construction & home improvement debris

What construction debris can you put in a dumpster?

If you have construction debris after your home improvement project, you might ask “can you put concrete in a dumpster?” Or, “can you throw wood in a dumpster?” There are many questions regarding what you can put in a construction dumpster, and fortunately there are many, many items that wind up in the scrap pile during construction projects that you can throw concrete in a dumpster. For example, you can put concrete, wood and bricks in a dumpster. A roll-off unit can assist you in getting your construction project completed on time, and with all the scrap out of the way, the construction site is also much safer.

Construction & home improvement debris you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Heavy debris
  • Brick and stone
  • Drywall
  • Concrete
  • Wood
  • Plaster
  • Shingles
  • Siding
  • Tiles
  • Insulation
  • Subfloor materials
  • Old countertops
  • Broken bathroom fixtures
  • Windows
  • Any other building materials and debris that remain after the construction project

Heavy debris

What heavy materials can you put in a dumpster?

Construction projects can include materials that are quite heavy, such as concrete, cinder blocks, bricks and much more. So, what can go in a construction dumpster? For example, can you put rocks in a dumpster? How about throwing concrete in a dumpster? Yes, you can place all of these heavy objects in a dumpster. However, keep in mind that heavy debris is only suitable for the 6 and 10 cubic yard dumpsters.

Heavy debris you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Brick
  • Asphalt
  • Broken concrete
  • Cinder block
  • Rocks
  • Marble
  • Dirt
  • Sand

Dirt

Can you put dirt in a dumpster?

When a big landscaping job is part of your home renovation project, you’ll need a place to put all the dirt you want to get rid of. So, can you put dirt in a dumpster? You sure can. Pretty much any material generated in a landscaping project can go in your roll-off dumpster. Leaves, soil, sod, brush, limbs and much more can all go in your dumpster and A City Suburban Dumpsters will come take away for you. The most popular units for these projects are the 6 and 10 cubic yard dumpsters.

Sand

Can you put sand in a dumpster?

Sand is an item we get questions about regarding what can be thrown in a dumpster. Fortunately, you can utilize our 6 cubic yard dumpster for removing sand and other landscaping items, such as bricks, concrete, dirt and asphalt.

Remember, at roughly 12.5 pounds per gallon, sand is quite heavy, which is why you need to make sure you don’t surpass the 4,000 pound weight limit of the 6 cubic yard dumpster.

Storm debris

What storm debris can you put in a dumpster?

There’s no telling what a storm will leave behind, but the refuse is often substantial. As for storm debris and what can go in a dumpster, you can put just about anything storm-related into a dumpster as long as it is not toxic. For example, broken limbs, brush, dirt and trash can go in the dumpster, as can vinyl siding or roofing that has been damaged by a storm. If your home has been flooded because of a storm, you can also place numerous household items in the dumpster.

Storm debris you can throw in a dumpster:

  • Household debris
  • Roofing materials
  • Wood
  • Siding
  • Flooring
  • Carpeting
  • Building materials
  • Yard waste and landscaping debris

Learn more about renting a dumpster for storm damage cleanup

Shingles

Can you put shingles in a dumpster?

One of the more common reasons our customers rent from us is that they need a dumpster rental for throwing out old roofing shingles. You can put shingles in a dumpster and make way for the workers to install the new roofing system, making the process go much smoother.

At A City Suburban Dumpsters, we offer the 10, 15 and 20-yard dumpsters that are often the most popular sizes for roofing jobs. Once your dumpster is full or your project is complete, we will pick up the dumpster and get rid of all your waste.

Learn more about renting a dumpster for shingle removal

Flat roof

Can you put flat roof materials in a dumpster?

Does your project involve a flat roof? Flat roof materials will fit perfectly in our dumpsters. Some of the more common items involved in flat roof projects include metal decking, single-ply TPO or PVC material, EPDM rubber, wood, spray foam and modified bitumen. All of these items can be placed in a dumpster. If you still have questions about what you can put in a roll-off dumpster, just contact us and we’ll guide you through what’s acceptable.

What can you not put in a roll off dumpster

What can you not put in a dumpster includes anything prohibited at the landfill, which is almost always related to toxic materials or items that can damage the landfill, such as tires or hot water heater tanks. The list of things that can go in a dumpster is quite lengthy. In comparison, the list for what is not allowed in a dumpster is far from substantial, but still important to know.

One of the first questions you should ask yourself if you are hesitant to place something in a dumpster is, “is it hazardous?” If you can answer yes to that question, you should not place it in the dumpster. Some of the more common items in a home or in the yard that should not go in a dumpster include car batteries, refrigerators, railroad ties (which are treated with a toxic compound), chemicals, paint, engine oil, detergents, flammable or corrosive materials.

The following waste is not allowed in a rented dumpster:

Refrigerators

Can you put refrigerators in a dumpster?

Refrigerators don’t last forever, so when it comes time for you to get rid of your old one, you might ask if you can put a refrigerator in the dumpster. Refrigerators include a toxic substance called freon that cools the air in the unit, which is why it would be dangerous to the environment to place it in a landfill.

If you can certify that your refrigerator has been drained of the toxic substances by an HVAC professional, some landfills will allow you to dump it there. Our recommendation at A City Suburban Dumpster is to contact your local appliance retailer and inquire about their disposal services, some of which are free.

Air conditioners

Can you put an air conditioner in a dumpster?

Can you throw an air conditioner in a dumpster? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Similar to refrigerators, air conditioners contain toxic substances, namely freon, which is a substance used to cool air.

If you have an air conditioner that you need removed, contact a local appliance retailer and inquire about their disposal services.

Hot water tanks / water heaters

Can you put hot water tanks in a dumpster?

What you can not put in a dumpster includes hot water heaters. The problem with these is that the majority of these units is void space. Decomposing organic waste produces high amounts of methane gas, which can potentially fill voids in tires, hot water tanks and other items that have an excess of voids. The gas causes the items to rise up out of the ground and puncture protective linings in the landfill, which is why you can’t put them in your dumpster.

Electronics

What electronics can you not put in a dumpster?

Can you put electronics in a dumpster? What electronics can’t be thrown away in a dumpster? These are good questions to ask, as some electronics contain environmentally hazardous materials, including lead, mercury and silver. When placed in a landfill they will leach into the groundwater, creating a health hazard. Some electronics also contain compounds that retard flames, which are also toxic. Fortunately, most communities have programs for recycling electronic waste, which is often referred to as E-waste, and they can help you get rid of your old equipment.

Electronics you can't throw away in a dumpster:

  • Old TVs
  • Computers
  • Cell phones
  • Car batteries
  • Computer batteries
  • Lead-acid batteries
  • Lithium ion batteries
  • Rechargeable batteries
  • Silver oxide batteries
  • Other

Mattresses

Can you put mattresses in a dumpster?

You probably never considered your mattress to be a biohazard, but many of them are, as they often contain bodily fluids, bed bugs and other matter that are not good for the environment. That’s why when you ask if you can throw a mattress in a dumpster, the answer is most likely a big “no.” A more prominent problem is that these items are quite bulky and take up a lot of space in a landfill, and when they do eventually break down, they can cause sinkholes in the landfill. Also, machines used at landfills to process waste can be damaged by the materials used to make mattresses. And while the answer to the question “can you put a mattress in a dumpster?” is “no,” fortunately, most communities have disposal centers that will process your used mattress.

Whole tires

Can you put tires in a dumpster?

Can you throw tires in a dumpster? The answer is “no.” The majority of the space a tire takes up in a landfill is void space, which can fill with methane gas, rise up through the soil and puncture protective linings used in landfills.

If you have tires you need to dispose of, take them to an auto parts store that will recycle them for you. Also, tires can be recycled and used in asphalt and in other industrial materials.

Wet cans of paints, lacquers and adhesives

Can you throw paint cans in a dumpster?

Many of our customers want to know if they can put paint cans in a dumpster. Because many paints, stains and lacquers contain toxic lead and/or mercury, they are not allowed in dumpsters because these items, when they are placed in a landfill, can leach into the groundwater.

Also, keep in mind that adhesives, like epoxy and glue, should also stay out of your dumpster, because they can cause items to adhere together, perhaps even to the wall of the dumpster, making it exceedingly difficult to empty a dumpster and cause issues with keeping it clean for the next customer. Can you put dry or empty paint cans in a dumpster? Fortunately, the answer is “yes,” as they will be emptied of their toxic contents.

Chemical cleaners and solvents

Can you put cleaners in a dumpster?

Unless your cleaner is an organic product, it cannot go into a dumpster. Most cleaners contain chemicals that are hazardous to the environment, which means they are not allowed in a landfill. If your cleaner container is completely empty and contains zero residue, it can be tossed into your dumpster.

Batteries

Can you put batteries in a dumpster?

Batteries fall into that category of items that cannot be put in a dumpster. Car battery disposal, alkaline battery disposal and lithium battery disposal are all prohibited in your roll-off dumpster because they contain hazardous chemicals that will harm the environment if placed in a landfill. For example, most batteries contain mercury, cadmium or lead, as well as sulfuric acid, which will contaminate the water supply. Furthermore, common batteries, including lithium-ion batteries used in laptops and smartphones, can catch fire, which is not something you want happening in your dumpster and something landfills definitely want to prevent from happening.

If you want to get rid of your car battery, most auto shops can help you with disposing of them. There are also programs set up to dispose of all types of batteries, including rechargeable ones. You can also drop them off at the City of Chicago's Household Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility (HCCRF).

Fluorescent light bulbs

Can you put fluorescent light bulbs in a dumpster?

Fluorescent bulbs contain toxic mercury, which is why they are on the list of what is not allowed in a dumpster. You will need to recycle these items rather than put them in your dumpster. You can recycle your bulbs (or fluorescent rods) at the City of Chicago's Household Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility (HCCRF).

Hazardous materials and liquids

Can you put hazardous materials in a dumpster?

What items cannot be put in a dumpster? That’s an important question because hazardous waste dumpster rental issues can be a real environmental problem. Make sure that any substance you put in your roll-off dumpster is not hazardous. This will include everything from motor oil to asbestos, pesticides to flammable liquids or gasses, automotive fluids to medical waste.

Hazardous materials you can't throw away in a dumpster:

  • Asbestos
  • Pesticides
  • Contaminated soils or absorbents
  • Motor oil and other automotive fluids
  • Medical waste
  • Ammunition and explosives
  • Medicines and prescriptions
  • Liquid mercury
  • Radioactive items
  • Other household chemicals: toilet bowl cleaner, shower/tile cleaner, carpet cleaner, rust remover

Asbestos

Can you put asbestos in a dumpster?

Asbestos has been banned since 1989, but prior to that, this flame retardant was used extensively in home and many other products. It is a carcinogen, which is the main reason why it is not allowed in landfills or in dumpsters. If you encounter asbestos in your home, it needs to be removed by a certified professional.

Contaminated soils & absorbents

Can you put contaminated soils and absorbents in a dumpster?

What is not allowed in a dumpster includes anything hazardous, such as soils and other adsorbents that have been contaminated. If you suspect the soil you want to remove is contaminated with any type of toxic/hazardous substance, do not put it in your dumpster.

Medical infectious waste

Can you put medical waste in a dumpster?

What can you not put in a dumpster? Medical waste is definitely something that is not allowed. Medical waste dumpster issues are a problem because these materials are considered infectious and require specialized disposal. Any materials used in medicine or that have come into contact with bodily fluids cannot be put in your dumpster. Other medical waste includes bandages and needles. Make sure to bring in a licensed professional to remove any of your medical waste.

Flammable materials (Oils, fuels & propane tanks)

Can you put flammable materials in a dumpster?

Most homes have flammable materials in them, generally in the garage, basement or shed. This includes various oils and fuels, as well as propane tanks, gas tanks and other combustible items. Unfortunately, these cannot be placed in a dumpster as they are a serious safety hazard. Even if the canisters that held flammable substances are now empty, they could still hold fumes and are considered dangerous and should not be placed in your dumpster.

Inks and resins

Can you put ink in a dumpster?

While dumpsters are not spotless or completely sterile environments, you can’t place any type of ink or resin in your dumpster, as they will cause long-lasting stands, as well as damage equipment and make it more difficult for the waste to be removed. Refer to your local recycling centers or retailers and inquire about leaving your ink or resin with them.

Freon (Refrigerators, freezers and AC units)

Can you put freon in a dumpster?

Freon is the agent used to cool the air in refrigerators, coolers, freezers, etc. And because freon is a toxic substance, it cannot go into a dumpster. The only way you will be allowed to place your refrigerators, AC units or freezers in a dumpster is if you have the freon professionally removed. You can also inquire with area retailers about having these items picked up, particularly if you’re buying new from them.

Corrosive waste

Can you put corrosive waste in a dumpster?

In order to prevent anyone coming into contact with the corrosive contents of a dumpster, no such materials are allowed in them. Corrosives, which includes antifreeze, bleach, drain cleaner and ammonia, among many others, can burn skin, but are also environmental hazards. These substances can also cause damage to marine life.

Corrosive waste you can't throw away in a dumpster:

  • Rust remover
  • Oven cleaner
  • Chlorine bleach
  • Automotive lead-acid batteries
  • Swimming pool chemicals
  • and more

Industrial waste (drums, barrels)

Can you put industrial waste in a dumpster?

While few households will contain drums full of industrial waste, industrial dumpster rental customers should know that their industrial waste cannot go into the dumpster. These containers should be handled by professionals who will remove them, keep them out of the landfills and safely dispose of them.

Can different waste be mixed in a single roll-off dumpster?

When you have your roll-off dumpster rental delivered, feel free to mix your waste as you wish. As long as it can be dumped in a landfill, what you can throw away in a dumpster rental includes a mix of debris. However, be sure that you place your heavy debris, such as concrete, cinder blocks, brick and dirt in a dumpster of its own, which should be a 6 or 10-yard dumpster.

While you can use one dumpster to throw all types of waste, keep in mind that to get the most out of your space, break down items and place the heaviest materials at the bottom. Distribute your waste evenly through the dumpster. Also, do not pack in material above the top of the dumpster, as this can lead to debris flying out while in transit.

20 yard dumpster

What happens when you break the dumpster rental rules?

Renters assume responsibility for the dumpster while it is in their possession. In cases where the renter knowingly breaks dumpster rules and places prohibited items in the dumpster, such as damaging corrosives, glues and resins or ink, additional charges will be applied. Dumpsters will not be removed from the property until the problem is solved. Furthermore, renters will be liable for costs covering the repair of the dumpster.

Dumpster rental rules often cover renters being accountable. Dumpster companies hold themselves accountable by notifying the proper authorities when their units have been used for disposing of hazardous items that put others at risk of injury or death. This could result in fines and other penalties for the renter.

Be sure to read your dumpster rental contract before using the dumpster and ask questions of the company you’re dealing with if you are unsure about what you can put in your dumpster. At A City Suburban Dumpsters, we make a point of offering our customers all the information they need so they don’t break any rules or regulations.

big dumpster rental

How do you throw away items that cannot go in a dumpster?

While it might be an inconvenience that some items are not allowed in a dumpster, there are responsible and easy ways to get rid of them. For example, if you’ve got electronics piling up and you want them removed, most communities have E-waste programs set up for residents who need to get rid of their potentially toxic junk. Furthermore, if you have items that fall under the medical waste category, there are also professionals who will accept these items for you.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency sets up one-day collections for waste, such as used motor oil, lawn chemicals, herbicides, oil-based paints, old gasoline, mercury, cleaning products and a host of other substances. Unfortunately, this one-day collection event does not allow you to bring propane tanks, smoke detectors, explosives, lead acid batteries, needles or any type of medical waste.

Get a free consultation about what can you throw in a rented dumpster in Chicagoland

Don’t leave anything to chance – always inquire about items you suspect might not be allowed in the dumpster. What can you not put in a roll-off dumpster? There are plenty of items that you might think are acceptable, but are not. If you have questions about what you can throw in a dumpster, contact us at A City Suburban Dumpster and we’ll inform you.

It’s not uncommon for our customers to do plenty of research in advance of a project, only to find out that their waste will not be allowed in a dumpster, or that they will need to rent one for heavy items and another for regular household items. We’ll work with you to ensure you get what you need, when you need it.

Common questions about what items are allowed and not allowed in a roll-off dumpster

Two of the most important things to know when renting and using a dumpster is what is allowed in a dumpster and what is not allowed in a roll-off dumpster. There are many household items that you will want to throw in your unit, but you actually are prohibited from doing. It can get confusing, because some appliances, such as toaster ovens and washing machines are allowed in dumpsters, others, like refrigerators and old televisions are not.

Can you put a printer and fax machines in a dumpster?

At A City Suburban Dumpsters, we will accept all fax machines and other electronic devices that do not contain batteries or ink. Can you put your printer in a dumpster? Yes, as long as they don’t contain ink cartridges.

Can you put a TV in a dumpster?

Can you put a TV in a dumpster? Unfortunately you can’t, as these electronics contain waste that are an environmental risk. The reason you can’t throw an old TV in a dumpster is that it may contain (especially older televisions) lead, which is toxic, and flame retardants, which are also an environmental hazard. Some older televisions contain toxic substances like cadmium and mercury. Ask your local E-waste program leaders about scheduling a drop off or pick up of your old television.

Can you throw computers in a dumpster?

Most laptop computers contain lithium-ion batteries that are not allowed in landfills. Desktop computers, while they don’t house toxic batteries, are chock full of metals that are not safe for the environment, so be sure NOT to place computers, cell phones or electronics that have batteries in them in a dumpster.

Can you throw a microwave in a dumpster?

While many homeowners prefer to recycle household items, including microwaves, you can throw a microwave in a dumpster with A City Suburban Dumpsters. Illinois does not include microwaves in its E-waste list of banned items, so they are accepted in landfills.

Can you put a dishwasher in a dumpster?

Fortunately, most of the household appliances that wear out and need to be tossed can be disposed of in a dumpster. Can you put a dishwasher in a dumpster? Yes, these bulky items are allowed in your roll-off dumpster.

Can you throw away a keurig machine in a dumpster?

Coffee lovers go through their share of coffee makers. And while some last longer than others, they will eventually wear out. Can you throw away a Keurig machine into your dumpster? Yes, you can put it in your roll-off dumpster that you rent from A City Suburban Dumpsters. If you wish, you can remove the recyclable parts, such as the aluminum and metal filters prior to putting it in the dumpster.

Can you throw a vacuum in a dumpster?

Many household items break down over time, including cleaning equipment. So, can you throw a vacuum in a dumpster? Yes, you can throw your vacuum into your roll-off dumpster.

Can you put a treadmill in a dumpster?

Many customers ask, “can you put a treadmill in a dumpster?” If you don’t want to recycle your old treadmill or other exercise equipment, you can put them in your unit and A City Suburban Dumpsters will haul it and your other junk away for you.

Can you put a lawn mower in a dumpster?

If you’re wondering if you can put a lawn mower in a dumpster, the answer is “yes,” but only if it contains no oil or gas. So, if your old mower has cut its last blade of grass, make sure it is free of all fluids and place it in the dumpster.

Can you put a fridge in a dumpster?

Can you throw a mini fridge in a dumpster? What about a regular-sized fridge? Refrigerators contain a toxic substance called freon, which is used as a coolant. Therefore, they are not allowed in landfills, which means you can’t put a fridge in a dumpster. This also pertains to freezers or any appliance that contain freon or any other type of toxic cooling substance.

Can you put a toilet in a dumpster?

Bathroom renovations are one of the more popular DIY projects taken on by homeowners. Can you put a toilet in the dumpster? Yes, it is safe to throw a toilet in a dumpster, along with your old floor tiles, tub and other refuse created while demolishing a bathroom and building up a new one.

Can you put a couch in a dumpster?

A City Suburban Dumpsters delivers all waste to landfills that will accept couches and other types of furniture. So, if you want to know if you can put a couch in a dumpster, the answer is “yes.”

At A City Suburban Dumpsters, we know there are many questions our customers have that need to be answered, that’s why we are focused on making sure renting a dumpster is as easy as possible. From helping you get the right size dumpster to ensuring you know what can and cannot go in them, count on A City Suburban Dumpsters to be your partner in assisting you with your next project.

Same day rentals

Get your dumpster delivered and picked up at NO EXTRA CHARGE.

Low prices why?

Shop around and you’ll find prices are up to 20% lower than our major competitors.

Online ordering

Enjoy our secure dumpster ordering service online 24/7.

Easy process

The simple and worry-free process - no hassles, no stress.

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Order a Dumpster Online!
If you need same-day dumpster rental service or extended services, order a dumpster online or contact us and let’s talk about how we can help.
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How to rent a dumpster

You should be able to rent a dumpster without having to become a scholar about all things dumpster to get what you need. That’s why we have developed a method for ordering the right size unit extremely easy and without second-guessing yourself.
Step 1
Order online or over the phone
Not comfortable with the online method? Give us a call and we’ll walk you through your options.
Step 2
Dumpster is dropped off
Schedule a date, time and place, and your dumpster will be delivered as advertised.
Step 3
Fill it up and call us back
Once your dumpster is full or you are finished with the job, call us and we’ll retrieve it.
Step 4
Dumpster is picked up
We’ll pick up your dumpster at the pre-arranged time, or when you call. No worries about tipping fees - we take it to the dump for you.

Call now at 773-295-0303 for a fast reliable same day dumpster rental

Dumpster rental is easy at City Suburban Service Inc.: simple process of choosing, delivering and picking up a roll off dumpster makes it hassle free. Our roll off dumpster sizes vary from 6 to 30 yards to suit all of your needs. We even provide same day dumpster rental. With a simple phone call our roll off dumpsters can be delivered and picked up in Chicagoland and suburbs, including: Aurora, Arlington Heights, Batavia, Berwyn, Bolingbrook, Blue Island, Bloomingdale, Brookfield, Burbank, Burr Ridge, Calumet City, Carol Stream , Chicago Heights, Cicero, Crest Hill, Darien, Des Plaines, Dolton, Downers Grove, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Flossmoor, Frankfort, Frankfort Square, Gooding Grove, Harvey, Hickory Hills, Hinsdale, Hoffman Estates, Homewood, Joliet, La Grange, Lemont, Lincolnwood, Lisle, Lockport, Lombard, Lyons, Matteson, Maywood, Melrose Park, Midlothian, Mokena, Montgomery, Morton Grove, New Lenox, Naperville, North Aurora, Oak Brook, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Oak Park, Orland Park, Oswego, Palatine, Palos Heights, Park Forest, Park Ridge, Plainfield, Romeoville, Roselle, Saint Charles, Schaumburg, Stickney, Tinley Park, Warrenville, Westchester, West Chicago, Wheaton, Wheeling, Woodridge and other surrounding cities. Contact us for reliable, efficient and professional dumpster rental service.