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What Can Be Put in a Dumpster? Dos and Don’ts

Not everything belongs in a dumpster, and the wrong toss could cost you. That old couch or car battery might seem like fair game, but tossing the wrong item into your rental dumpster could lead to surprise fees—or worse, a fine.

 

Whether clearing out a garage, renovating a room, or hauling yard debris, it pays to know the rules. Here’s what you can (and can’t) throw in, plus tips for handling the junk that needs special care.

The Dos: What Can Go in a Dumpster

Roll-off dumpsters can handle a lot, from weekend cleanouts to full-on remodels. Most rentals accept a wide range of household junk, yard waste, and construction debris without a problem.

Here’s what you can usually toss without thinking twice:

 

  • Household waste. If it’s safe for the regular trash, you can probably toss it in the dumpster. Old blankets, unwanted toys, beat-up rugs and curtains, and other non-organic, non-recyclable trash are safe to dispose of.

    Items like books, paper, and cardboard can also go in, but they may be better off recycled. Check with your local recycling center to see if they’ll accept these materials.

     

  • Unwanted furniture. Do you have an old sofa, dresser, mattress, or other unwanted or broken furniture? A dumpster is a perfect way to get rid of it. However, make sure you comply with local waste management laws.

     

    For instance, the City of Charleston prohibits disposing of mattresses and furniture that aren’t dry, clean, or free of infestations. Wet or dirty furniture can contain mold, mildew, and pests (bedbugs, termites, etc.), making disposal unsafe for workers and harder for facilities to process.

     

  • Old appliances. You can generally toss old appliances like washing machines, ovens, and dryers in the dumpster, provided they don’t contain any hazardous materials.

    Refrigerators and HVAC units may contain refrigerants like Freon™, which are hazardous. Contact your local waste authority to learn how to dispose of them safely.

     

  • Other waste. You can also use a dumpster for renovation and construction debris, such as old tile, drywall, wood, and shingles. Yard waste, including brush, branches, and even small logs, is usually fine, too.

Adhering to your dumpster’s size and weight limits is important, no matter what you’re tossing. For instance, a 10-yard dumpster holds up to 10 cubic yards of debris, or roughly 2,500 lbs. of loose yard waste. Going over those limits may cost you extra in fees or pickup delays.

The Don’ts: What Can’t You Throw in a Dumpster

Dumpsters are tough, but they’re not a free-for-all. Certain items are off-limits due to safety risks or local regulations. Tossing in the wrong thing could lead to fines or extra fees.

Here’s what not to throw in your dumpster:

Asbestos

If you’re planning to renovate or demolish an old home, some of its flooring, walls, ductwork, or insulation materials may contain asbestos, which is known to cause cancer and other health risks. Don’t remove it yourself—hire a certified disposal service instead.

 

Wet Paints and Lacquers

Oil-based paints, lacquers, and staining materials contain toxic metals like lead and mercury. These materials are classified as hazardous and are often banned from local landfills and dumpsters. Instead, check for local paint drop-off sites or hazardous waste collection facilities to get rid of them. 

However, dried and bagged latex paint is usually safe to toss—just ensure it’s completely solid before throwing it in.

 

Electronics and E-Waste

Old electronics don’t belong in a dumpster—they’re classified as e-waste and must be recycled properly. That includes TVs, computers, printers, phones, gaming consoles, and accessories like remotes and chargers.

Drop them off at an e-waste recycling center or check if your city offers pickup days for electronics.

Batteries

Batteries—whether AA, car, or lithium-ion ones from phones and laptops—should never be thrown in a dumpster. If damaged, they can leak harmful chemicals or even spark fires.

Here’s how to dispose of batteries safely:

  • Small alkaline batteries. Technically, you can toss small amounts of AAs, AAAs, Ds, and 9V batteries in the trash if they’re bagged, but it’s much better to take them to a store with a battery recycling bin—many hardware and electronics stores offer this.

  • Lithium batteries. Take them to an electronics store or a local e-waste recycling center. Never throw them in the trash or dumpster.

Car batteries. These contain lead and acid, so they’re strictly off-limits for regular disposal. Most auto parts stores or repair shops will take them, or you can drop them off at a recycling facility.

Rent a Dumpster in Charleston Today

Are you tackling a cleanup, renovation, or landscaping project in Charleston? Langston Dumpster Rental makes it easy to get the right dumpster for the job.

 

With 23 years of local experience, we offer affordable pricing and fast delivery on 10-, 15-, and 20-yard dumpsters—no hidden fees, no surprises. Book in minutes and get your dumpster the same day or by the next morning.


Clear your clutter safely and quickly. Contact us or book online to get started.

FAQs

Anything that is generally safe to throw in the trash, yard waste, and construction debris is 100% safe to dispose of in your dumpster rental. You can also dispose of appliances and furniture, provided they aren’t toxic, don’t contain hazardous materials, and aren’t dangerous to handle.

Yes, provided they aren’t wet, excessively dirty, or infested with bedbugs or other contaminants.

Yes, as long as they don’t contain any toxic or hazardous materials like refrigerants or batteries. If the appliances you want to dispose of are mainly electronic, such as TVs or old computers, recycle them at your local e-waste disposal center instead.

Looking for a dumpster rental? We’re here to provide fast, reliable, and affordable services for all your waste disposal needs. Whether it’s a home project or a commercial job, count on us to make cleanup easy and efficient.

Contact Us

Charleston, SC

trey@langstondumpsterrental.com

843-364-9360

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Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM – 3 PM
Sunday: Closed

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