What Items Can You Not Throw in a Dumpster?

Dumpster services fill a critical need for residential and commercial users alike. However, using a residential or commercial dumpster requires care. Certain items are not acceptable to throw in a dumpster, and some things are even hazardous. Whether you’re renting a dumpster in Hartford, Bloomfield, Windsor, or Simsbury, check this list to be sure you’re using it properly.

What Items Can You Not Throw in a Dumpster?

Paints and Lacquers

Paint, paint thinner, wood stain, and lacquer may not be thrown in dumpsters due to the possibility of lead or mercury. Lead and mercury can be hazardous to human health and the environment. These substances need to be taken to special household hazardous waste facilities. You may, however, throw latex paint cans in the dumpster if the paint inside is removed or completely dry.

Adhesives

Glue, epoxy, and other adhesives must not be thrown in a dumpster. These substances can leak and or spill and stick to other things in the dumpster or the dumpster’s interior. These items also need to be taken to special household hazardous waste facilities for safety and to preserve the integrity of the dumpster.

Ink and Ink Cartridges

Ink pens and ink cartridges used in printers can break or spill. When that happens, the dumpster and landfill equipment can be stained or damaged. Check your local office supply store to find out if they collect or recycle ink cartridges or other ink you no longer need. Your local recycling facility may also accept ink waste.

Medical Infectious Waste

Medical supplies that have come in contact with human or animal blood or other bodily fluids may not be thrown in a dumpster. This can include used syringes or sharps, fabric contaminated with human blood stains, animal carcasses, or any other items that could be contaminated and hazardous to the health of anyone handling dumpster material. Consult your health department for information on how to dispose of these items.

Non-Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline batteries are fine, but please avoid throwing non-alkaline batteries in a dumpster. Some examples of non-alkaline batteries include computer batteries, rechargeable batteries, car batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Use your local recycling center for these items.

Other Hazardous Materials

Additional materials that should not be dumped in our dumpsters include oils, fuels, and propane tanks. Appliances like refrigerators and hot water tanks should also never be placed in a dumpster. Used tires should be recycled at your dealer or car repair center, never in a dumpster.

Safe Use of Dumpster Services in Hartford, Bloomfield, Windsor, and Simsbury

We appreciate you taking care to follow safe dumping guidelines so that our dumpsters and processing equipment stay in great condition and our personnel remain safe. Don’t hesitate to contact us with questions about the safe disposal of any item.

Working together with you allows us to continue to provide the same reliable, safe service we’ve provided for over 35 years. Call Windsor Sanitation today to rent a dumpster for your residential or commercial use. We’re here to serve your needs!

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