Trash service is a necessary expense for most households, but that doesn’t mean you can’t reduce your costs.
Contents
- 13 Ways To Save Money On Trash Service
- 1. Compare Providers
- 2. Negotiate Your Rate
- 3. Share Service with a Neighbor
- 4. Downsize Your Trash Bin
- 5. Recycle More
- 6. Compost Organic Waste
- 7. Look for Community Drop-Off Points
- 8. Take Advantage of Bulk Waste Days
- 9. Avoid Extra Fees
- 10. Opt for Pay-As-You-Throw Programs
- 11. Utilize Free Recycling Programs
- 12. Reduce, Reuse, and Donate
- 13. Look for Senior or Low-Income Discounts
- Final Thoughts
13 Ways To Save Money On Trash Service
Whether you’re looking to cut your utility bills or adopt a more sustainable lifestyle, here are practical ways to save money on trash service.
1. Compare Providers
Not all trash service providers charge the same rates. Research the companies in your area to find the most affordable options. Check for discounts, flexible plans, and extra fees that might be hidden in the fine print.
2. Negotiate Your Rate
If you’ve been using the same trash service for years, you may have room to negotiate. Call your provider and ask for a better rate. Mention competitor pricing to strengthen your case.
If you don’t generate much waste, consider splitting trash service with a neighbor. Sharing a single bin can reduce costs for both households.
4. Downsize Your Trash Bin
Most trash companies offer bins in various sizes. If you’re not filling your current bin, switch to a smaller one to lower your monthly fee. Pair this with recycling and composting to further reduce waste.
5. Recycle More
Recycling isn’t just good for the environment; it can also save you money. Separate recyclable items like paper, glass, and plastic to reduce the volume of your trash. Many cities offer free or discounted recycling services.
6. Compost Organic Waste
Composting reduces the amount of organic waste you throw away. Kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other biodegradable materials can be turned into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Many municipalities even offer free or low-cost compost bins.
7. Look for Community Drop-Off Points
Some areas have free or low-cost community drop-off points for trash and recycling. If you’re willing to transport your waste yourself, this can eliminate the need for a regular trash service.
8. Take Advantage of Bulk Waste Days
Many municipalities offer free bulk waste pickup days. Save large items like furniture or appliances for these events instead of paying extra for removal.
9. Avoid Extra Fees
Be mindful of extra fees for items like yard waste, bulky items, or additional bags of trash. Plan ahead to avoid overage charges or find ways to dispose of these items through free or alternative services.
10. Opt for Pay-As-You-Throw Programs
Some communities offer pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) programs where you pay based on the amount of trash you generate. This can be an incentive to produce less waste and save money.
11. Utilize Free Recycling Programs
Many stores and organizations offer free recycling programs for specific items, such as electronics, batteries, or plastic bags. Take advantage of these programs to reduce your trash load.
12. Reduce, Reuse, and Donate
The less you throw away, the less you pay. Reduce waste by buying only what you need, reusing items, and donating goods that are still usable. Thrift stores, charities, and online platforms like Freecycle can help you find new homes for unwanted items.
13. Look for Senior or Low-Income Discounts
If you’re a senior citizen or qualify as low-income, you might be eligible for discounted trash service rates. Check with your provider or local government for details.
Final Thoughts
Saving money on trash service requires a mix of research, negotiation, and lifestyle changes. By adopting more sustainable habits and exploring alternative options, you can cut costs while doing your part for the environment. Start with one or two tips and watch your trash-related expenses shrink!
