It happens to the best of us, you wake up, look outside, and realize the garbage truck already came and your bins are still full. Whether you simply forgot to take the trash out or there was a change in the pickup schedule due to a holiday or weather delay, missing trash day can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are several practical steps you can take to manage the situation until the next scheduled pickup that we at Mickey’s Carting would like to share today.
Check for a Possible Delay
Before assuming you missed the truck, check with your trash pickup service or city sanitation department. Sometimes, delays occur due to holidays, road work, staffing issues, or inclement weather. Many services post updates on their websites or social media pages, and some offer email or text alerts to notify customers of changes.
Call Your Trash Service Provider
If it turns out that your trash day hasn’t been rescheduled and you truly missed it, contact your trash collection company. Some providers offer a one-time courtesy return pickup for missed service, especially if you notify them promptly. There may be a small fee for this, but it could be worth it if your bins are overflowing.
Store Trash Securely
If you have to wait until the next scheduled pickup, make sure your trash is stored properly to avoid odors, pests, and mess. Double-bag items, especially anything that might leak or smell. Keep trash bins in a shaded area and tightly closed to deter animals like raccoons, stray dogs, or insects from getting inside.
Avoid Overstuffing the Can Next Week
Don’t try to cram two weeks’ worth of trash into one bin if it’s not designed for that volume. This can lead to spillage or the sanitation crew refusing to pick it up. Consider breaking up your trash into manageable amounts or placing the overflow in sturdy bags beside your bin if your provider allows it.
Consider a Local Drop-Off Site
Some communities have designated waste drop-off centers or dumpsters where residents can bring excess trash or bulky items. Look into your city’s waste management resources to find a nearby location, and make sure you understand the rules before dropping anything off.
Compost what You Can
If you’ve missed trash day and your bin is filling up fast, composting some of the organic waste may help free up space. Food scraps, vegetable peels, and coffee grounds can go into a compost bin instead of the trash, especially helpful in summer when odors are more likely to become a problem.
Learn for Next Time
Missing trash day can be a great reminder to put some helpful habits in place. Set a recurring phone reminder, post a note near your door, or mark your calendar to take out the trash the night before. You can also check if your provider offers a mobile app or notification system to help you stay on schedule.
Waste Management & More in Amagansett, Aquebogue, Baiting Hollow, Calverton, Cutchogue, East Hampton, East Hampton North, Greenport, Jamesport, Laurel, Mattituck, Montauk, Nassau Point, Northville, Northwest Harbor & Riverhead in East End of Long Island, New York
Missing trash day is annoying, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. With a few smart moves, you can handle the inconvenience and prevent it from becoming a recurring issue. A little preparation and communication go a long way toward keeping your home clean and trash-free. Call Mickey’s Carting for trash pickup services.
