Trash pickup day might seem simple, just put your garbage out and wait for it to be collected. However, many homeowners and businesses make common mistakes that can lead to missed pickups, fines, or messy cleanup. We at Mickey’s Carting would like to list those common mistakes in an effort to help you avoid these top five errors to ensure your trash is collected smoothly and your property stays clean.
Putting Out Trash Too Late or Too Early
Timing is everything when it comes to trash pickup. Most waste management companies have specific windows when they collect garbage. Putting your trash out too early can lead to animals scattering your trash or wind blowing debris all over your yard or street. Leaving it out too late or after the truck has passed means your trash will sit there for an extra week, leading to unpleasant odors and attracting pests.
Tip: Check your local trash pickup schedule and place your bins curbside the evening before or early the morning of your pickup day.
Overloading or Overfilling Trash Bins
Trying to squeeze in every last bit of waste may seem efficient, but overloading bins can cause problems. If your trash bin is too heavy or overflowing, sanitation workers may refuse to pick it up for safety reasons or because it exceeds weight limits. Additionally, overflowing trash can spill onto the street, creating litter and hazards.
Tip: Use multiple bins if necessary or schedule a bulk pickup for large amounts of waste. Secure trash bags tightly and avoid stuffing bins beyond their capacity.
Mixing Recyclables & Trash
Sorting waste correctly is essential for proper disposal and recycling. Many trash pickup services require recyclables and regular trash to be separated. Mixing these can contaminate recyclables, leading to everything being sent to landfill instead. It can also delay pickup or result in fines if your service has strict recycling policies.
Tip: Use designated bins for recyclables and regular garbage. Familiarize yourself with your local recycling guidelines to know what can and cannot be recycled.
Ignoring Bulk Trash or Hazardous Waste Rules
Large items like furniture, appliances, or construction debris usually aren’t accepted with regular trash pickup. Likewise, hazardous waste such as chemicals, paint, batteries, and electronics require special handling and disposal. Placing these items out with regular trash can be dangerous and illegal, and the pickup company will often leave them behind.
Tip: Contact your trash service provider to schedule a special bulk pickup or find out how to properly dispose of hazardous materials in your area.
Neglecting to Secure Trash from Animals & Weather
Unsecured trash can quickly become a neighborhood nuisance. Raccoons, stray dogs, and birds love rummaging through open or loosely tied trash bags, scattering garbage everywhere. Rain and wind can also cause bags to tear or bins to tip over, creating messy cleanup and fines.
Tip: Use sturdy bins with secure lids and double-bag wet or heavy trash. If wildlife is a problem, consider using animal-proof containers or locking lids.
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
Avoiding these common mistakes will save you time, hassle, and possible extra costs. Properly timing your trash placement, correctly sorting waste, securing bins, and understanding what your service accepts will ensure a smooth trash pickup experience every time. Need help or have questions about your trash pickup service? Contact Mickey’s Carting today, we’re here to keep your home and community clean!
