What Can You Put in a Dumpster?
Most household junk, furniture, construction and demolition debris, roofing and yard waste can go in a roll-off dumpster. Hazardous chemicals, liquid paint, batteries, tires, propane tanks, appliances with refrigerant and, in some states, electronics cannot. Rules vary by hauler and state.
Updated 2026-11-05 · Your flat-rate quote includes delivery, pickup and a weight allowance, and it is spelled out before you book. No hidden fees.
Usually allowed
- Furniture and household junk
- Construction and demolition debris
- Drywall, wood and lumber
- Roofing shingles
- Flooring, carpet and tile
- Cabinets and fixtures
- Yard waste and brush (where local rules allow)
- Concrete, brick and dirt (usually as a clean load)
Usually not allowed
Hazardous chemicals
Paint thinners, solvents, pesticides, pool chemicals and other hazardous household waste.
Liquid paint
Wet latex or oil paint. Many haulers accept fully dried latex paint cans; ask first.
Batteries
Car batteries and household batteries. Recycle them at a drop-off site.
Tires
Most landfills and haulers don't accept tires, or charge extra for them.
Appliances with refrigerant
Refrigerators, freezers and AC units need the refrigerant removed by a certified technician first.
Propane tanks and fuel
Gas cans, propane cylinders, motor oil and other fuels.
Electronics
TVs, computers and monitors are banned from landfills in some states.
Asbestos and medical waste
These need licensed handling and never go in a roll-off dumpster.
General guidance only. The local hauler's rules and your state and local laws decide what's accepted. Ask us when you book; some items can go in for an added fee instead of being refused.
What to do with items that can't go in
Check your city or county for household hazardous waste drop-off days, retailer take-back programs for batteries and electronics, and tire recycling. Appliance retailers often haul away old units when they deliver new ones.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a mattress in a dumpster?
Many haulers accept mattresses, sometimes for a fee, and some states require mattress recycling. Tell us when you book.
Can I put paint in a dumpster?
Liquid paint, no. Fully dried latex paint is accepted by many haulers. Oil-based paint is hazardous waste.
Can I put a refrigerator in a dumpster?
Only after a certified technician has removed the refrigerant, and many haulers still charge for appliances.
Not sure what size you need?
Call us with the project and we'll size it with you, then book it with a local hauler.