What to do with unwanted large household items?
It can be difficult to get rid of things that are too large to fit into a trash can. Disposal options can often differ depending on where you live and what you are trying to throw away.
Metro’s waste prevention experts can provide info on donation, recycling and disposal options near you. Experts are available to answer questions in Spanish and English. Call 503-234-3000 or submit a question online.
Common items include furniture, mattresses and box springs, appliances, TVs, computers and other electronics.
Over time mattresses sag, couches go out of style, and children grow out of their cribs – and none of these fit into a standard trash can. Some of the most essential parts of household life can become burdensome to get rid of when they are unneeded or unwanted.
Local governments call this “bulky waste,” referring to things that are too large to fit in garbage or recycling bins. Metro, cities and counties are working collaboratively to improve how large household items are collected.
Management of large household item waste is a challenge, and it is especially difficult for people living in apartments, condos, or other multifamily housing where garbage and recycling services are shared. People living in multifamily communities may not know who to contact for pick up or may not be able afford junk hauling services.
Improving large household item collection at multifamily communities furthers region-wide work to address the garbage and recycling challenges for people living in apartments.
Improved services can also support local efforts to increase the reuse, repair and recycling of large household items and may reduce the number of dumped items on public lands.
The goal is that eventually all households in greater Portland can benefit from bulky waste collection service that is accessible, convenient and consistent.