Junk removal tips to follow:

Have items you don’t want to take with you? Did your new home come with someone else’s “treasures”? Consider donating. Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, and others may accept some of these items. Check their policies in advance. These non-profit organizations re-sell many items, keeping items out of landfills and creating jobs. Pick-up is often available.

Junk removal companies. You’ve seen their commercials on television, their services come at a premium, but are often the quickest way to rid yourself of unwanted items. Call more than one company for estimates and guidelines.

Rent a dumpster. If you are rehabbing your new home, chances are you are already planning on hiring a dumpster. Dropped off and picked up at your home, this is a convenient way to clear junk and debris.

Doing it yourself? Understand the rules and regulations of your local waste collector as well as municipal dumps. Know what can and cannot be picked up at your curbside and what you need to do in advance to make sure the pick-up goes smoothly. Do you need to call in advance, wrap the mattress, box spring or furniture in plastic? When is your local dump open for public drop off? What is their policy regarding amounts, access and are permits needed?

If you live in a community with a homeowner’s association, make sure you follow their guidelines, and they may even have tips and resources to help make this messy task easier.

Keep it safe. While clearing out unwanted junk, look for leaks from appliances that might contain freon or other materials. Check with your municipality on proper removal methods. Be sure that doors are removed from refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, and dishwashers if you have moved them outside to prevent curious children or animals from becoming trapped. Paints, solvents, and other potentially toxic and flammable items need special care and disposal, as do batteries, electronics, and light bulbs. Again, check with your community for guidelines. Wear thick work gloves when handling items unknown to you and any other safety items (such as a mask) and steel-toed shoes if you have concerns.