Recycling & Donations
What Junk Removal Companies Can't Take (and What to Do Instead)
Most household junk is fair game, but a few materials need special handling. Here's what to set aside.
By the INSTA team· 4 min read
Junk removal crews can haul almost anything you no longer want — furniture, appliances, electronics, yard waste and construction debris. A small group of materials, though, is regulated and needs special disposal.
Items we can't accept
- Paint, stains and solvents
- Pesticides, pool chemicals and cleaning chemicals
- Gasoline, motor oil and fuel containers
- Propane and other pressurized tanks
- Asbestos-containing materials
- Medical sharps and biohazard waste
Where these items should go
Counties on the Eastern Shore typically offer household hazardous waste collection days or drop-off sites. Check your county's solid waste or public works department for current dates and locations. Many auto-parts stores accept used motor oil, and propane exchanges accept empty tanks.
Items people assume we can't take — but we can
- Mattresses and box springs
- Refrigerators and freezers (emptied and disconnected)
- TVs, computers and monitors
- Hot tubs (drained and electrically disconnected)
- Construction debris like drywall, lumber and cabinets
Not sure about a specific item? Call or text us and we'll let you know before your appointment.
