The Best Times to Get Rid of Junk
Spring cleaning doesn't always have to happen in the spring
Highlights
The best times to get rid of junk are often in the winter and the middle of the week.
Junk removal companies offer services year-round and have seasonal sales.
Getting rid of junk before a move, after a deep clean, or during renovation is common.
Always plan junk removal ahead of time when possible.
The best times to get rid of junk depends on your circumstances, but January and February are often the best months to nab junk removal deals. Winter is the offseason for deep cleans, offering more time slots and seasonal sales after the holidays.
That being said, you'll also need to consider local demand, the day of the week, and what you need to toss in the first place. Here's what to know before calling the local junk removal team.
The Best Times to Get Rid of Junk
When we're talking about price, the best times to get rid of junk are in the winter months, Monday through Thursday. Weekends throughout the spring, summer, and fall are the most popular times, which can increase the price.
On the other hand, you can't always wait to ring in the new year to get rid of that old refrigerator. The best times to get rid of junk also include:
Right before moving
Before a major home renovation
During a DIY home renovation
When you replace an appliance
After a deep clean
Before painting a room
Before installing carpeting
Factors That Affect the Best Junk Removal Times
Preparing for junk removal may look daunting at first glance, but it's never a reason to keep that bag of old bathroom tiles just sitting in the garage. Here are some ways to determine the next time for junk removal and why costs and convenience change with each season.
Time of the Year
Junk removal companies often offer seasonal specials during months of low demand to boost business. Most home renovation projects dip in January and February but pick up in the warmer months, especially spring and fall.
Make sure to keep an eye on deals that encourage business during popular junk removal times as well. Spring cleaning specials, summer home renovation deals, and fall landscape cleanups may inspire deals as well.
"When planning renovations or construction projects, coordinating dumpster rentals with project timelines can optimize cost-effectiveness. Renting a dumpster for the duration of the project ensures convenient waste disposal without unnecessary delays or rush fees."
— Sean Foley, President of redbox+ Dumpsters
Day of the Week
You're most likely to get a deal on junk removal if you have a flexible schedule. Weekends are naturally popular, which can drive up removal and dumpster rental prices. If Monday through Thursday is an option for you, ask about midweek deals when you speak with your junk removal team.
Advanced Scheduling
Last-minute appointments are always going to drive up prices for home services, but it's not always possible to avoid them. Appliances die and renovations happen without notice. If you know you have a renovation on the horizon, schedule your junk removal ASAP to get the best time slot.
Local Demand
If you live in a neighborhood with heavy leaf cleanup, frequent renovations, or—in the worst case scenario—a flood risk, demand may push the price up in your area. Expect a slightly longer wait to get an appointment for pickup or dumpster rental.
The Worst Time to Get Rid of Junk
While there is no bad time to get rid of junk, per se, you'll pay more in the spring, summer, and fall during high-demand seasons. Last-minute calls for unexpected junk removal will also raise the price. Overall, however, junk removal companies offer year-round and last-minute services for a range of projects.
Cost of Junk Removal
Junk removal costs between $60 and $240 on average, but prices can reach up to $600 for some large items or dumpster rentals. Appliance removal costs are on the higher end. For example, water heaters cost up to $200 to remove, and hot tubs can push the price to $600.
You can also sign up for lawn debris removal services, which will range from $100 to $250 when you hire a professional landscaper.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Who hauls junk away and how often can you handle it on your own? Well, you have options. In some towns, e-waste and recycling centers allow homeowners to drop off specific items on their own. Furniture, scrap metal, and lawn debris are commonly accepted items.
You may also be able to arrange for free pickup of air conditioning, refrigerators, and other appliances through your city's municipal waste program.
Junk removal versus dumpster rental is also a common DIY debate, as home renovators may prefer to have a dumpster on-site during the project. In any case, DIY junk removal is a viable option in some cases, but hiring a professional will ensure the items get to the right place quickly and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cheapest junk removal option is often through your city's bulk trash and recycling program, but this depends on the item in question. If your city doesn't accept the type of debris you want to remove, hiring a local junk removal team or renting a dumpster is your best bet. Additionally, research local dumps open to the public if the debris safely fits in your car.
Separate your junk pile into three categories: trash, recycling, and donations. Many cities offer bulk trash and recycling pickup for free or a small fee. Specialty items, such as those with refrigerant, will also require a special appointment. You can also speak with a junk removal service to create a plan for getting rid of junk over the course of a large project.
Reducing household waste is the best way to save money on junk removal costs in the long run. Reusable kitchen, pantry, and cleaning supplies will make a large dent, as will creating an easy compost and recycling system in your home. Additionally, create an ongoing practice of recycling, donating, or repurposing items that are ready to go.