Are you one of the 5% of people in the U.S who suffer from a hoarding disorder (Mayo Clinic Health System)? At one point, you might need to get rid of the unnecessary stuff.
If that time has come, you’ll quickly learn that one thing is clear: hoarding cleanouts can be overwhelming. In these situations, choosing the right dumpster rental can make a huge difference in how efficiently and safely the project is completed.
In today’s post, we’ll walk you through the most important factors to consider, including dumpster sizes, pricing, and practical tips for a smooth and stress-free rental process.
Why Dumpster Rentals Are Essential for Hoarding Cleanouts
Hoarding situations can fill every available inch of a home, from closets and basements to kitchens and even bathrooms. Items may range from broken furniture and old newspapers to expired food and even hazardous materials. Renting a dumpster provides a centralized, contained, and efficient way to manage the disposal process.
Professional hoarding cleanout services often recommend having a dumpster on-site for faster turnaround and safer work environments. Instead of wasting time on multiple dump runs, a roll-off dumpster allows everything to be collected in one location and hauled away once the job is complete.
Step 1: Assess the Volume of Waste
Before you start calling rental companies, walk through the property and get a rough estimate of how much material needs to be disposed of. While it doesn’t need to be exact, having a general idea helps you choose the correct dumpster size and avoid overpaying or underestimating your needs.
For hoarding cleanouts, a good rule of thumb is to overestimate slightly. It’s much better to have a bit of extra space than to run out halfway through the cleanup.
Step 2: Understand Dumpster Sizes for Cleanouts
Dumpsters come in various sizes, usually measured in cubic yards. The most common sizes for residential cleanouts are:
- 10-yard dumpster– Holds about 3 pickup trucks’ worth of debris-ideal for small spaces or light cleanouts.
- 20-yard dumpster– A popular choice for moderate hoarding cleanouts, offering plenty of space without being too bulky.
- 30-yard dumpster– Suitable for larger homes or when dealing with heavy or dense material.
- 40-yard dumpster– Ideal for whole-house hoarding cleanouts with significant amounts of waste.
For many cases, a 20- or 30-yard dumpster will meet the needs of a hoarding cleanup. If the property includes large furniture or appliances, a larger size may be worth considering.
One of the best dumpster rental decisions you can make is to choose a size based on the volume and weight of the materials you plan to remove. If in doubt, consult our experts at WRS Dumpster Rental, and they will help you make the right call.
Step 3: Check for Permits and Restrictions
Depending on where the property is located, you may need a permit to place a dumpster on the street or sidewalk. Some cities have specific guidelines or time limits for how long a dumpster can stay in a particular location.
Also, be aware of what can and cannot go into the dumpster. Most companies prohibit the disposal of hazardous materials, such as:
- Paint
- Batteries
- Medical waste
When working in a hoarding environment, it’s common to come across these items, so have a plan for separating and disposing of them safely.
Step 4: Consider the Rental Period and Flexibility
Dumpster rental companies typically offer rental periods ranging from a few days to a few weeks. Hoarding cleanouts can take time, especially if the homeowner is emotionally attached to their belongings. Choose a provider that allows for flexibility if you need to extend your rental.
Also, consider how quickly the company can deliver and pick up the dumpster. Reliable timing is essential to keeping your cleanout on track, especially if multiple teams are working on-site.
Step 5: Compare Rental Costs for Hoarding Cleanup
Pricing can vary widely based on your location, the dumpster size, rental duration, and the type of waste being disposed of. Be sure to ask about the rental costs for hoarding cleanup specifically, as this may influence the quote. Some companies may offer flat rates, while others charge based on weight or type of debris.
Ask for a complete breakdown of what’s included in the price:
- Delivery
- Pickup
- Disposal fees
- Overage charges
This will help avoid surprises later on.
Keep in mind that the cheapest option isn’t often the best. A company that offers responsive customer service, clear guidelines, and flexible scheduling may be worth a slightly higher price for the peace of mind they provide.
Step 6: Use These Dumpster Rental Tips for a Smooth Experience
Even with the right dumpster, poor planning can slow down your progress. These practical tips will help you avoid common mistakes and keep your hoarding cleanout on track.
- Clear a space: Make sure there’s a flat, accessible spot for the dumpster.
- Load efficiently: Break down large items and load the dumpster evenly to maximize space.
- Keep safety in mind: Wear gloves and masks when handling debris, and don’t overload the dumpster past the fill line.
- Communicate with your team: Let everyone involved know what items go in the dumpster and what should be set aside or handled differently.
- Schedule your pickup in advance: Book your dumpster pickup ahead of time to avoid delays or additional fees.
- Check for prohibited items: Before loading, review the list of restricted materials to avoid fines or the need for re-sorting later.
Hoarding Cleanouts Done Well!
Tackling hoarding cleanouts is no small job, but choosing the right dumpster rental can simplify the process and keep your project on track. From selecting the right size to understanding rental costs and safety tips, a well-thought-out plan helps ensure an efficient cleanup.
Are you looking for the best dumpster rentals available?
At WRS Dumpster Rental, we strive to make the process quick and easy, whether you live in Kent County, DE, or Montgomery County, PA. We offer fast service, affordable rates, friendly local support, and knowledgeable advice. With a wide range of residential and commercial dumpster sizes, we’re ready to handle any job, big or small.
Get in touch and let us help you tackle your hoarding cleanout with confidence and ease.