Things to Avoid Throwing in a Dumpster

Dumpsters are for garbage, not for your old couch. If you’re unsure what to do with an old piece of furniture or a pile of clothes, don’t just throw it in the trash!  

Always note that most dumpster rental companies have policies regarding the items you throw inside the dumpster. If you don’t follow these rules, you will pay hefty fees. 

If you don’t want to pay these fees, here are a few things you should avoid when renting a dumpster from a reputable dumpster rental Broken Arrow company. 

Don’t Throw Car Batteries inside a Dumpster 

Before tossing your used car batteries in the dumpster rental, consider the environmental hazards they could cause. Car batteries contain lead and sulfuric acid, which can seep into the ground and contaminate water supplies. 

 They can also release hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, car batteries are one of the most common causes of fires at recycling facilities.  

So next time you’re getting rid of your old car battery, make sure you throw it properly – not in the dumpster. 

Don’t Throw Car Old Cans of Paint inside a Dumpster 

It’s happened to the best of us. We cleaned the garage and found a few old paint cans. The paint is old, and we’re not sure what color it is anymore, but we don’t want to just throw it away. So, we toss it in the dumpster rental, thinking we’ll just get rid of it later. Unfortunately, that’s not the best idea. Here’s why: 

Paint cans are made of metal, which can rust and leak chemicals into the ground if not disposed of properly. Plus, many paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can harm the environment. When VOCs are released into the air, they can contribute to smog formation and other air pollution problems. 

So, what should you do with your old paint cans? The best option is to take them to a local hazardous waste facility for proper disposal. But if that’s not possible, you can also try to find a recycling center that accepts metal cans. 

And, of course, always read the labels on your paint cans before you dispose of them – some paints may require special disposal procedures. 

Don’t Throw Medical Waste and Animal Remains inside a Dumpster 

Throwing medical waste and animal remains in a dumpster rental might seem like an easy way to get rid of them, but it’s illegal in many states. Not only is it a health hazard, but it can also lead to fines and penalties.  

Medical waste includes anything that comes into contact with blood or bodily fluids, including bandages, gauze, and syringes. It can also include infectious materials, such as cultures and tissues.  

On the other hand, animal remains can include anything from dead animals to animal parts. 

In some states, it’s illegal to dispose of deceased pets in a dumpster rental. So, before tossing medical waste and animal remains in the dumpster, check your local laws first. Otherwise, you could face some severe consequences.