Before you start on a home clean out, office renovation, or a home remodel, there are some things that you should be aware that you can’t throw in your roll-off dumpster. Sure, Dumpstermaxx will deliver your rental roll-off dumpster right to your location in Baltimore, and then pick it up once it is filled; but there are some definite rules about what can and can’t be thrown out. Here is a list of ten things that you cannot throw in a dumpster.
Electronics
That old home computer and clunky monitor you want to get rid can’t be thrown in a dumpster. Not only do computers and the monitors have toxins in them, you likely have financial information and personal details still on the hard drive. All it takes is an enterprising hacker to spot your computer sticking out of a dumpster, and your information will be compromised. Some computer manufacturers will take your computer back for free, but make sure you have erased all personal information. Baltimore residents can dispose of your computer by taking it to one of the three recycling locations. Here is what they accept at those locations according to the county website:
- Audio equipment
- Cables, cords and communication wires
- Central Processing Units (CPUs), laptops and servers
- Computer accessories and peripherals (including mice, keyboards, power supplies, scanners and printers)
- Computer parts (including circuit boards, chips, cards and hard drives)
- Music playing devices
- “Smartwatches” and fitness trackers
- Tablets and e-readers
Televisions cannot be recycled and need to be dropped off county disposal facilities.
Batteries
Batteries are filled with toxic materials and cannot be put in a landfill. In Baltimore, there are several locations that take old batteries.
- Radio Shack.
- Home Depot.
- Advanced Auto Parts.
Contact these retailers about their battery disposal programs before taking your batteries to their locations so that you can package them properly.
Paints and Solvents
Paint and solvents are liquids that when put in a landfill in large quantities can seep into the groundwater and contaminate it. Many superfund cleanup sites are due to paint being disposed of in the ground. Contact Baltimore County for disposal instructions.
Automotive Fluids
Old motor oil, transmission fluid, and engine coolant can’t be thrown in your roll of dumpsters. Here are several locations in Baltimore where you can recycle oil.
- Pep Boys
- Auto Zone
- Monro/BG
Pesticides, Cleaning Agents, and Other Chemicals
The motto with these chemicals should be “when in doubt, don’t throw it out”. Contact Baltimore County to find out what chemicals can and can’t be thrown in your dumpster.
Mattresses
Mattresses and Box Springs are not allowed to be thrown in your roll-off dumpster. Contact Baltimore County for disposal instructions.
Tires and Appliances
Tires, and large appliances like stoves, and dishwashers aren’t explicitly forbidden from being disposed of, but your roll-off dumpster may exceed its weight limit due to these heavy items and can cost you extra. Contact Baltimore County for instructions on disposal of refrigerators and air conditioners.
So, think about what you are throwing in your dumpster before doing it. You may save money by doing so and help the environment as well.
If you live in the greater Baltimore area and want and need to rent a dumpster, and have questions about what can be thrown away, contact Dumpstermaxx. Call us or fill out our online contact form. One of our knowledgeable and efficient staff will be happy to help you. We will set up a time on your schedule when we can deliver your rental roll-off dumpster. When you have filled it, we will pick it up and take it away. So, if you have questions and about renting a dumpster and what you can throw in it, Dumpstermaxx will answer them and steer you on the right path to renting a roll-off dumpster that best fits your needs.