How to Clean Out Junk

"Junk" can refer to unused, unwanted or obsolete items or trash that clutters an area. It can provide a breeding ground for cockroaches and other insects, as well as rodents. Cleaning out junk can drastically improve the appearance and hygiene of your home.

Things You'll Need

• Boxes
• Garbage bags
• Marker

Instructions

1. Contact local non-profit organizations, municipal waste or recycling facilities and/or junkyards to find out information about your local disposal options. Additionally, ask your local municipal waste office if your community has scheduled bulk waste pickup days.

2. Choose a day for your junk-removal cleaning project, preferably around the same time as any municipal bulk waste pickup day. It should also be a day when you don't expect rain or other bad weather and when you will have the time to devote to the project.

3. Set up two large boxes and a large garbage bag in each room of the house. Use the garbage bag for items that can be disposed of in the trash. Mark one box as "Donations"--items you no longer use that will be accepted by a charity. Mark the second as "Junk" for items that require disposal at a special facility.

4. Sort through each room in the house. Place unwanted items in the appropriate boxes or bags.

5. Collect all of the garbage bags and bring them outside to the trash. Gather the "Donation" boxes and place them in an area to be held for pickup by a charity or drop-off. Place the "Junk" boxes on the curbside for pickup or in an area for drop-off.

6. Repeat the process for items in outside buildings, such as a garage or shed, and the yard.

7. Pack any boxes for drop-off in your car or truck. Deliver them to a charity and/or disposal site.

Tips & Warnings

• Facilities that accept junk--pickup or drop-off--may charge a fee. Always check beforehand.

References

• The City of Oklahoma: Solid Waste Management Set Out Guide
• New York State Department of Health: Get Rid of Cockroaches