Categories Junk Removal

The Surprising Benefits of Junk Removal for Your Mental Health

Ever looked around your place and thought, “Wow, where did all this stuff come from?” If your space is starting to feel more like a storage unit than a home, it might be time to call in some backup—like “You Junk It… I Dump It.” Believe it or not, getting rid of all that extra stuff doesn’t just clear your floor space; it can seriously boost your attitude. Here’s the lowdown on how a good junk clear-out can be a total game-changer for your mood and mind.

1. Less Mess, Less Stress

It’s simple: clutter can crank up your stress. Ever feel a weird tension lift when you finally clean up your room? That’s what we’re talking about. Getting rid of the junk means your place looks better, and your mind feels lighter. It’s like hitting a big ol’ reset button on your daily grind.

2. Boost Your Brainpower

When your space is cluttered, your brain’s trying to process a million things at once. That’s a lot of extra noise. Clear out the junk, and you might just find you can think clearer and get stuff done faster. It’s like upgrading your brain’s RAM by simply cleaning house.

3. Happy Vibes Only

There’s something satisfying about hauling out stuff you don’t need. It’s not just about cleaning up—it’s about conquering chaos. That feeling when you’ve cleared out a ton of space is pretty sweet. Plus, an uncluttered space can actually make you feel happier and more upbeat. Who knew taking out the trash could be a mood booster?

4. Sleep Like a Log

Ever try sleeping in a messy room? It’s no chill. But when your bedroom is clear, and everything’s in its place, catching those Z’s gets a whole lot easier. It’s about creating a calm zone where you can really relax and let the day go.

5. Unleash Your Creative Genius

A clean space is like a blank canvas. It’s amazing what ideas pop up when you’re not distracted by piles of stuff everywhere. Whether you’re into painting, writing, or just brainstorming life’s mysteries, a junk-free zone can help those creative juices flow.

6. Navigate Life’s Twists and Turns

Big changes like moving, new jobs, or even just tackling a new year can feel less daunting when you’re not surrounded by stuff you don’t need. Clearing out the old makes room for new possibilities—literally and figuratively. It’s about giving yourself the physical and mental space to adjust and thrive.

7. Live Better, Naturally

Once you get a taste of that sweet, organized life, you might just find yourself making better choices all around. Eating right, sticking to your workout plan, or picking up that guitar that’s been collecting dust—turns out, when your space is in order, you feel more in control and ready to live your best life.

Bottom Line

So, yeah, junk removal might sound like just another chore, but it’s actually a stealthy way to boost your wellbeing. “You Junk It… I Dump It” isn’t just about hauling away stuff you don’t need—it’s about helping you reclaim your space and your peace of mind. Ready to lose the mess and stress? Give us a shout, and let’s make some space for the good stuff in life.

Edmonton green and black bins in an alley
Categories Junk Removal

Should I Recycle, Compost or Throw It Away?

Navigating the proper disposal of everyday waste in Edmonton can play a significant role in our community’s environmental health. With a robust system designed to encourage recycling and composting, knowing what goes where is essential for effective waste management. Here’s a guide to help you decide whether to recycle, compost, or throw away your waste, including common items like pizza boxes and dog poop.

1. Recycling: What Goes in the Blue Bags?

Edmonton’s blue bag recycling program is geared towards a variety of materials, primarily focusing on clean recyclables:

Metals and Glass: Clean tin cans, aluminum foil, pie plates, glass bottles, and jars are recyclable.

Paper and Cardboard: Newspapers, magazines, office paper, and flattened cardboard boxes are accepted. Pizza boxes, however, can be tricky; only place them in the recycling bin if they are free of food residue and grease. If a pizza box is soiled, it should go into the compost bin instead.

Plastics: Containers and packaging labeled with recycling symbols #1 through #7 are recyclable. Ensure they are rinsed and free of food.

2. Composting: What Goes in the Green Bin?

Edmonton has made strides with its composting program, allowing for a wide range of organic materials to be composted:

Pet Waste: Dog poop can be placed in the green bin. Use certified compostable bags or paper bags for disposal to ensure it breaks down properly within the city’s composting system.

Food Scraps: All food waste, including meat, fish, bones, dairy, and bread, is compostable.

Yard Waste: Includes leaves, grass clippings, and small branches.

Soiled Paper Products: Paper towels, napkins, and greasy pizza boxes that cannot be recycled due to contamination.

3. Garbage: What Should Be Thrown Away?

Items that can’t be recycled or composted should be placed in your black garbage bin:

Special Waste: Items like light bulbs, diapers, and hygiene products must be bagged securely and disposed of in the garbage.

Non-recyclable Plastics: Includes plastic bags, wrap, and any plastics without a recycling symbol.

Polystyrene Foam: Often found in take-out containers and packing material.

Broken Glass and Ceramics: These materials cannot be recycled and should be disposed of carefully.

5. Maximizing Your Impact

To further reduce your environmental footprint:

Community Engagement: Participate in local environmental initiatives to help maintain a clean and sustainable community.

Reduce and Reuse: Consider if an item can be reused or repurposed before deciding to recycle or compost it.

Stay Informed: Rules and guidelines for waste management can change. Use resources like the city’s WasteWise app for up-to-date information and tips on proper disposal.

When to Hire a Junk Removal Company

There are times when managing large, bulky, or hazardous waste might be beyond what local disposal services can handle. If you’re undertaking a major home renovation, cleaning out a property, or dealing with items that are not suitable for regular waste collection services, hiring a professional junk removal company like “You Junk It… I Dump It” can be your best option. Such companies are equipped to handle large volumes of waste responsibly and efficiently, ensuring that everything is disposed of according to local regulations, with a commitment to recycling and repurposing wherever possible.

a person sitting on the floor with a pile of trash
Categories Junk Removal

New Year, New Space: Declutter Your Home

As the New Year approaches, it’s a perfect time to embrace the saying, “out with the old, in with the new.” Decluttering your home not only refreshes your living space but also clears your mind, setting a positive tone for the year ahead. Whether you’re looking to clear out old furniture, get rid of accumulated junk, or responsibly dispose of electronic waste, “You Junk It… I Dump It” is here to help you make your New Year’s resolution a reality.

Start Fresh – Clean Out the Clutter

The New Year is an ideal moment for a thorough cleanout. From your garage to your attic, our team can help you dispose of unwanted items responsibly. We offer a convenient and hassle-free service that takes care of all the heavy lifting, sorting, and disposal, allowing you to enjoy a cleaner, more organized home.

Environmentally Friendly Junk Removal

At “You Junk It… I Dump It,” we are committed to protecting the environment. We ensure that your junk gets recycled, donated, or disposed of responsibly. Our team goes the extra mile to separate recyclables and salvageable items to prevent unnecessary landfill waste, aligning with your eco-friendly goals for the New Year.

Safe Electronic Disposal

Did you receive new gadgets over the holidays? Not sure what to do with the old ones? We can help. Electronic waste needs to be handled and disposed of properly to avoid harming the environment. Our electronic disposal service ensures that your old electronics are processed in compliance with all local and federal regulations, giving you peace of mind while upgrading your tech.

Big or Small, We Haul It All

No job is too big or too small for “You Junk It… I Dump It.” Whether you’re clearing out a few items or undertaking a major cleanout, our flexible services are designed to meet your specific needs. Our friendly team is ready to assist you, ensuring that your junk removal process is smooth and stress-free.

Schedule Your Junk Removal Today

Ready to tackle your clutter and start the New Year on the right foot? Contact “You Junk It… I Dump It” today. Booking is easy—just give us a call or visit our website to schedule a pickup time that works for you. Let’s make 2025 a year of clean spaces and fresh starts!

a person holding a saw and carrying a christmas tree
Categories Junk Removal

Disposing of Old Christmas Decorations & Trees Responsibly In Edmonton

The holiday season in Edmonton is magical, with twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and beautifully decorated homes. But when the holidays are over, you’re left with one pressing question: What do you do with all those old decorations and your Christmas tree?

Improperly disposing of holiday items can harm the environment and clutter your home. Let’s explore the best ways to responsibly get rid of Christmas decorations and trees in Edmonton, with tips on recycling, repurposing, and how You Junk It… I Dump It can make it effortless.

What to Do with Old Christmas Decorations

1. Recycle Broken Lights

Christmas lights are beautiful, but they don’t last forever. Instead of tossing broken or outdated lights into the trash, recycle them. Edmonton’s Eco Stations accept old lights as part of their electronic waste recycling program. This keeps hazardous materials like plastic and copper wiring out of landfills.

2. Donate Usable Decorations

If you have decorations in good condition that you no longer need, consider donating them. Local charities, thrift stores, or Edmonton-based community groups often accept holiday items to help families in need. Popular places like Goodwill Alberta can turn your unwanted decorations into cherished items for someone else.

3. Repurpose Where Possible

Before you toss old decorations, think creatively. Broken ornaments can become part of DIY craft projects, while garlands and wreaths can be refreshed with new greenery. Repurposing is an eco-friendly way to give your decorations new life.

How to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree

Once the holidays are over, your Christmas tree also needs a plan. Edmonton offers a few environmentally friendly options for disposal:

1. City of Edmonton Tree Recycling Program

The City of Edmonton offers a tree recycling service every January. Remove all decorations, tinsel, and stands, then leave your tree at the curb by the scheduled collection day. These trees are turned into mulch, which is used in parks and gardens around the city.

2. Drop-Off Locations

If you miss the curbside collection, you can drop off your tree at one of Edmonton’s Eco Stations or other designated tree recycling locations. These sites ensure your tree is processed sustainably.

3. Professional Junk Removal Services

If you don’t have the time or means to handle tree disposal, a professional junk removal service like You Junk It… I Dump It can help. We’ll collect your tree and ensure it’s disposed of or recycled properly, saving you the hassle.

Dealing with Holiday Waste

In addition to trees and decorations, the holidays often leave behind extra waste like gift wrap, packaging, and broken items. Here’s how to handle them responsibly:

  • Recycle: Edmonton’s blue bag system accepts most types of wrapping paper, boxes, and cardboard. Avoid putting foil or glitter-covered paper in the recycling; these should go in the garbage.
  • Compost: Natural wreaths and garlands can be added to your compost bin, as long as they’re free of wire or synthetic decorations.
  • Junk Removal: For larger items like old furniture or electronic decorations, junk removal services can take the stress out of cleanup.

Why Choose Professional Junk Removal?

At You Junk It… I Dump It, we specialize in helping Edmonton residents manage post-holiday cleanup. Whether it’s bulky items, old decorations, or even your Christmas tree, we make it easy to clear your space responsibly. Here’s why we’re the go-to choice:

  • Convenience: We handle everything, from pickup to proper disposal.
  • Eco-Friendly: We prioritize recycling and donating usable items to minimize waste.
  • Local Expertise: As an Edmonton-based business, we know the best recycling and donation centers in the area.

Make Holiday Cleanup a Breeze

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the last thing you need is to worry about cleanup. Let You Junk It… I Dump It take care of it for you. From Christmas trees to old decorations, we ensure everything is disposed of responsibly, so you can start the new year with a clutter-free home.

Contact us today to schedule your post-holiday junk removal service in Edmonton. We’ll help you wrap up the season in the most sustainable and stress-free way!

a row of garbage cans
Categories Junk Removal

What Goes in Which Bin in Edmonton: A Guide to Proper Waste Sorting

Properly sorting your waste is essential to keeping Edmonton clean, reducing landfill contributions, and supporting the city’s zero-waste goals. Edmonton’s waste management system includes three primary containers: the Black Bin (Garbage), the Green Bin (Organic Waste), and Blue Bags (Recycling). Understanding what goes where ensures that waste is handled efficiently and responsibly.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what belongs in each bin or bag.


Black Bin: Garbage

The black bin is for items that cannot be composted or recycled. While the goal is to minimize waste sent to the black bin, it’s necessary for non-recyclable and non-compostable materials.

What Goes in the Black Bin:

  • Non-Recyclable Plastics: Plastic utensils, straws, Styrofoam, and chip bags.
  • Soiled Items: Dirty diapers, pet waste, and used tissues or paper towels.
  • Broken Glass or Ceramics: Place sharp objects like broken glass in a secure container before disposing to prevent injuries.
  • Vacuum Bags and Dust: These materials cannot be composted or recycled.
  • Textiles: Old clothing or linens that are too damaged to donate.

What Doesn’t Go in the Black Bin:

  • Hazardous materials (e.g., batteries, paint, chemicals) – take these to an Eco Station.
  • Electronics – recycle at designated drop-off locations or Eco Stations.

Green Bin: Organic Waste

The green bin is for compostable materials, including food scraps, yard waste, and other biodegradable items. The contents of green bins are turned into compost, which helps reduce landfill waste and supports environmental sustainability.

What Goes in the Green Bin:

  • Food Scraps: Fruit and vegetable peels, meat, bones, dairy, and eggshells.
  • Yard Waste: Grass clippings, leaves, small branches, and plant trimmings.
  • Compostable Paper: Pizza boxes (without plastic liners), paper napkins, and paper food containers.
  • Coffee Grounds and Filters: Used coffee grounds and tea bags (if compostable).

What Doesn’t Go in the Green Bin:

  • Plastics, including compostable plastic bags (use only city-approved liners).
  • Rocks, large branches, or treated wood.
  • Glass, metal, or other non-organic materials.

Blue Bags: Recycling

Blue bags are for clean and recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass. Sorting your recycling properly ensures that materials are processed efficiently at Edmonton’s recycling facilities.

What Goes in Blue Bags:

  • Paper and Cardboard: Newspapers, magazines, cereal boxes, and flattened cardboard.
  • Plastic Containers: Rigid plastics labeled with recycling symbols #1 to #7 (e.g., bottles, jugs, and tubs).
  • Metal Containers: Aluminum and tin cans, clean aluminum foil, and empty aerosol cans.
  • Glass: Clean jars and bottles (remove lids).

What Doesn’t Go in Blue Bags:

  • Plastic bags and wrap (take these to a recycling depot instead).
  • Soiled paper or cardboard (e.g., greasy pizza boxes).
  • Hazardous materials (e.g., paint cans, propane tanks).

Additional Tips for Proper Sorting

  1. Rinse Containers: Remove food residue from recyclables before placing them in blue bags.
  2. Flatten Cardboard: Save space by flattening boxes and cartons.
  3. Use Approved Liners for Green Bins: Edmonton requires certified compostable liners for organic waste.

What to Do with Hazardous or Specialty Items

Some items, like electronics, large appliances, and hazardous waste, don’t belong in any of these bins. Instead, take them to an Eco Station for proper disposal or recycling. Items like batteries, paint, and old electronics are handled safely to protect the environment.


Keep Edmonton Clean and Green

Sorting your waste properly helps reduce landfill contributions, conserves resources, and keeps Edmonton’s recycling and composting programs running smoothly. By understanding what goes in the black bin, green bin, and blue bags, you’re doing your part to support a sustainable future.

If you have bulky or unusual items that don’t fit into these categories, You Junk It… I Dump It offers eco-friendly junk removal services to ensure responsible disposal. Contact us today for a hassle-free solution to your waste removal needs!