How to Clear Out Your Garage (Without Losing Your Mind)
For many homeowners, the garage becomes a black hole of clutter—holiday decorations, broken tools, paint cans from 10 years ago, and who knows what else. If your garage has turned into a catch-all dumping ground, it’s time to reclaim that space. At Five Alarm Dumpsters, we specialize in helping homeowners with easy, affordable junk removal and dump runs so you can clear the chaos once and for all.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to finally tackling your garage cleanout like a pro.
Step 1: Set a Date and Rent a Dumpster
Why Scheduling Matters
Most people put off clearing out the garage because it feels overwhelming. But when you set a date, mark it on your calendar, and rent a roll-off dumpster, you’ve made a commitment—and that’s half the battle.
Dumpster Sizes for Garage Cleanouts
A 12-yard dumpster is perfect for small to mid-size garage cleanouts. For big jobs, a 16-yard dumpster gives you more room for bulkier items like furniture, shelving, and large boxes.
Step 2: Start with a Clean Sweep
Before diving into the piles, sweep out the floors and move everything into the driveway or yard. This gives you a clear view of what you’re working with and forces you to touch every single item—no more ignoring that mystery bin in the corner.
Be Ruthless
If it’s broken, outdated, or hasn't been used in over a year, toss it in the dumpster. No second guesses.
Step 3: Sort Your Stuff Into 4 Categories
Keep, Donate, Sell, Dump
Label four areas as you go through your garage:
Keep – Tools, bikes, lawn equipment you actually use
Donate – Working items someone else might need
Sell – Anything of value you don’t want
Dump – Broken furniture, outdated electronics, worn-out decor
Five Alarm Dumpsters can help you get rid of everything in the "Dump" pile with one easy dump run—no need to make multiple trips to the landfill.
Step 4: Dispose of Hazardous Materials Properly
What Can’t Go in the Dumpster?
Be careful with these common garage items:
Old paint or chemicals
Car batteries
Tires
Gasoline or motor oil
Give us a call; we can typically take small quantities of these items. They just have to be kept separated.
Step 5: Organize What You Keep
Once your junk is gone, organize the items you’re keeping:
Install shelves or pegboards
Use clear bins with labels
Store frequently used items at eye level
You’ll be amazed how much space you actually have when everything’s in its place.
Step 6: Celebrate Your Clean Garage
A clean garage isn’t just about aesthetics—it adds usable square footage to your home and improves safety. Whether you want to park your car, set up a home gym, or just find your screwdriver when you need it, junk removal is the first step to getting there.
Let Five Alarm Dumpsters Help with Your Garage Cleanout
We’re a local, firefighter-owned business serving Hernando, Pasco, and Citrus counties. Our roll-off dumpsters make junk removal fast, simple, and affordable.
Whether you need a one-time dumpster rental or recurring dump runs, we’ve got your back.
Call or text us today to schedule your garage cleanout dumpster drop-off—we’ll help you get that space back in no time.
