You may not initially think so, but there is actually a difference between trash services and junk removal. While the terms junk and trash are often used interchangeably, they mean different things and are disposed of differently. 

So, who do you call when you need to get rid of unwanted items in your home? In this blog, we will discuss the differences between trash removal services and junk removal services to help you make a more informed decision for disposal. 

The Difference Between Trash and Junk 

Before we get into the different services offered for waste removal, let’s outline the differences between garbage and junk. Trash (garbage) is typically the term used to describe small, random objects that someone wants to dispose of, whereas junk is usually larger, heavier, and more difficult to move around or dispose of. 

For the most part, garbage is gross. It is comprised mostly of old food or things that you don’t necessarily want to touch after we have thrown them out because it would be unsanitary. Garbage attracts germs, rats, roaches, and various other pests. Certain recyclable materials can also pose sanitation risks: food containers are dirty and wet cardboard attracts mold. 

Junk, however, doesn’t usually pose an outright sanitation risk, but safety risks can become apparent. This is especially true with e-waste such as computers, old phones, TVs, and other electronics, which can have numerous health risks and negative environmental impacts if they are not disposed of properly. 

Now that we have briefly covered a few differences between junk and trash, let’s get into the different functions of garbage removal companies and junk removal companies. 

Repurposing and Recycling

Unless you separate your waste beforehand and take recyclable items to a local recycling facility, trash collection trucks will haul all your garbage to a landfill, where it is dumped and just piles up. Plus, garbage collection services typically limit their recycling to things like paper, plastics, glass, and aluminum cans, so if you had to use a normal garbage removal service for things like old furniture or mattresses, they would likely end up being dumped in a landfill too (if they get taken away). 

Junk removal companies tend to be more environmentally responsible and take the time to dispose of every item they haul away properly. If items can be recycled, they will be taken to local recycling facilities. If the item is able to be donated, they will recommend giving it to a local charity.

Working with a junk removal company can help ensure a reliable and eco-friendly solution for those less-common recyclables.

Small or Large Scale Jobs

Another way to tell if you should call a junk removal company or a trash company is the amount of waste you need to remove. 

Your local trash and recycling department may offer yearly programs designed to help homeowners dispose of large amounts of household waste or bulky items, and many cities offer a trash pick-up day or community dumpster event for this purpose. However, this is not necessarily convenient because these events only happen once a year and typically have limits on the type and amount of debris they accept. 

Junk removal companies are conveniently available to collect bulky items or larger amounts of small items year-round. 

Garbage collection companies haul away everyday household trash, and the vast majority are not willing to accept specific items or pick up an overflowing trash bin. So, if you have anything that won’t fit in your rubbish bin or isn’t allowed, a junk removal company is a helpful alternative. 

The Frequency of the Service

Trash removal services are regular occurrences. Trash bins are usually picked up from your curb on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for a fee, and in most cases, you sign up for regular trash removal services through your city’s Public Works department. 

Junk removal services, however, are one-time services that get scheduled in advance and paid for upon completion. 

A Junk Removal Company Can Help You Dispose of Things Your Trash Service Won’t

A trash collection service collects household garbage, but it has limits. The following items are not accepted by a general garbage service provider:

  • Ammunition & Firearms
  • Logs, stumps, and brush
  • Hazardous waste such as paints and insecticides
  • Bulky furniture, appliances, mattresses, and other bulky items
  • Medical Waste
  • Concrete, gravel, drywall, and metal and other building materials
  • Lawn clippings and yard debris that are too large

A junk removal company can help you get rid of almost all of your trash, whether you’re doing a major remodel, cleaning out a rental, moving, or simply spring cleaning. Junk-Boss can haul heavy and bulky items that are too large to be disposed of by regular trash removal.

Junk Boss is based in Oklahoma and can help with the removal of: 

  • Appliances
  • Furniture
  • Mattresses
  • Yard waste
  • Clothes
  • Carpet and Rug Removal
  • Hot tubs (removal and disposal)
  • Electronics such as TVs and Computers
  • Renovation Debris
  • Bicycles 

We offer residential and commercial junk removal, as well as roll-off dumpster rentals. Get in touch today to find out more about our professional and prompt services.