Dumpster Bags vs. Dumpsters
If you have a big cleaning or remodel project coming up, or are moving, you’ve probably already spent a lot of time researching your options. And, if you’ve seen dumpster bags touted as a budget-friendly alternative to dumpster rental at Home Depot or your local home improvement store, you’re probably intrigued. And we don’t blame you, who doesn’t want to save a buck, right?
But there are a few things to consider, beyond cost, when choosing between a disposable dumpster and a roll off dumpster.
Although both options share some similarities, there are some important differences to take into account:
| Bagster/Other Bag | Dumpster Rental | |
|---|---|---|
| Size: | 3 yards | 10, 15, and 20 cubic yards |
| Weight Limit: | Up to 3,300 pounds of debris. | Between 4,000 and 6,000 pounds |
| Placement: | 5 feet away from structures and 16-18 feet from the road | Almost anywhere on your property that the truck can access |
| Pickup: | Schedule within pickup window | Schedule an exact time & date |
| Measurements | 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, 2.5 feet high | 14 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, 3.5 feet high |
As you can see, a waste removal bag may be a good choice for smaller jobs, like carpet removal, single room cleanouts and small renovations. A roll off dumpster is better for larger projects.
One last thing to consider is what you’re throwing away, and whether it’s allowed in the container.
Accepted Materials
Bags
You can fill these with most construction debris, household junk and heavy debris and yard waste, depending on your area. Bulky items like sofas or other big furniture pieces won’t likely fit well. Keep in mind that the bags are picked up by a crane so it’s important to leave space at the top for the handles to be grabbed.
Roll Offs
Most non-hazardous junk or debris is allowed in a dumpster. This includes large furniture, household junk, shingles (see our FAQ Page for more information about shingles), siding, yard waste and some appliances. Dumpsters are billed by weight, and can be filled to the top of the sides. Anything higher than that is generally left behind.
Important – Hazardous Materials
Keep in mind that neither option accepts hazardous materials or chemicals. It’s unlawful to put radioactive, volatile, highly flammable or infectious materials in a dumpster. You will want to contact your local landfill to learn how to dispose of these in your area.
Dumpster Bag – Challenges
One of the biggest challenges with the bags is overflowing. This picture below is an actual job that we were called to. After overfilling the bag, this renovator ended up having to rent a dumpster for the overflow.
While we all want to save money, this is an example of how going the cheaper route can backfire. In this case, renting a 10 yard dumpster would have allowed him to accommodate twice as much junk, and saved him money in the long run.
Did you know that a 10 yard dumpster can accommodate more than twice the amount of junk as one of those bags? So you would need to purchase and haul away 3 bags instead of one 10 yard dumpster. That would end up costing you over $500! One of our 10 yard dumpsters costs $309!
So, looking at the photo, which makes more sense to you? Dumpster or bag?
The moral of this story? There are certain things you should never skimp on: a good cut of steak, education, soft toilet paper, and yes, your garbage removal needs!
Spring has almost sprung! Time to clean out your house or do that renovation you have been putting off. Give The Dumpster Divers a call to help with that project. We will deliver your dumpster and place it wherever you like. Then you fill it up at your convenience and we will haul it away when you’re done. How easy is that?
If you are close to Shrewsbury and don’t have that much trash, we will even work out a reasonable price to come haul it away in a pick-up truck. The Dumpster Divers are always willing to work out the best deals for our customers.
Give us a call today at 508-925-5245.