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 chair and planter in a yard
Categories Recycling

10 Creative Ways to Upcycle ‘Junk’ Items

Before you toss that old chair or empty jar in the trash, consider this: with a little creativity, what seems like junk can become something useful and beautiful. Upcycling not only saves items from the landfill but also adds unique, personalized touches to your home. Here are 10 creative ways to give new life to items you might otherwise discard.


1. Turn Old Furniture into Garden Décor

Got an old chair or dresser? Instead of tossing it, repurpose it for your garden. A chair can become a quirky flower planter, and dresser drawers can serve as rustic garden beds. With a coat of weather-resistant paint, your “junk” can become a charming outdoor feature.

2. Use Mason Jars for Storage

Empty mason jars or other glass containers make perfect storage solutions. Use them to organize kitchen staples like spices, pantry items, or utensils. For a decorative touch, paint the jars or add labels to fit your style.

3. Transform Wooden Pallets into Furniture

Wooden pallets are versatile upcycling gems. With some sanding and staining, they can be turned into coffee tables, bookshelves, or even a rustic bed frame. Pallets are perfect for adding a trendy, industrial vibe to your space.

4. Make a Jewelry Holder from an Old Frame

Repurpose an old picture frame into a jewelry holder. Remove the glass and replace it with wire mesh or hooks to hang necklaces and earrings. Paint the frame in a fun color to match your décor.

5. Turn Tin Cans into Planters

Don’t throw out those empty tin cans! They make excellent planters for herbs or small flowers. Decorate the cans with paint, burlap, or ribbon for a charming, eco-friendly addition to your windowsill or garden.

6. Convert Old Ladders into Shelving

An old wooden ladder can be repurposed into a unique shelving unit. Lean it against a wall and use the rungs to display books, plants, or decorative items. It’s a great way to add a rustic touch to any room.

7. Create a Chalkboard from an Old Mirror or Windo

Have an old mirror or window lying around? Turn it into a chalkboard. Apply chalkboard paint to the surface, and you’ve got a functional and stylish memo board for your kitchen, office, or kids’ room.

8. Build a Pet Bed from a Suitcase

An old suitcase can become a cozy pet bed with just a few adjustments. Remove the top half, add a cushion or blanket, and your furry friend will have a stylish, upcycled place to rest.

9. Use Wine Corks for a Bulletin Board

If you’ve collected a stash of wine corks, put them to good use by making a bulletin board. Glue the corks onto a wooden board or an old frame, creating a functional and eye-catching spot to pin notes and photos.

10. Repurpose T-Shirts into Tote Bags

Turn old T-shirts into reusable tote bags by cutting and sewing them. This simple project is not only eco-friendly but also a fun way to give sentimental shirts a new purpose.


Start Upcycling Today

Upcycling isn’t just about being environmentally friendly—it’s also a way to flex your creative muscles and personalize your space. The next time you’re about to throw something away, think about how it could be transformed into something beautiful or practical.

And if you have items that truly can’t be upcycled, let You Junk It… I Dump It help you responsibly dispose of them. We’re committed to eco-friendly junk removal in Edmonton, ensuring your items are recycled or donated whenever possible. Contact us today for a clutter-free, sustainable solution!