What Junk Removal Companies Will (and Won't) Take

Before you call a hauler, it helps to know what we can actually take and what we have to legally turn down. Here's the honest list for Rockford.

What we will haul

• Furniture: couches, recliners, dining sets, dressers, bed frames, headboards
• Mattresses and box springs
• Appliances: refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves
• Hot tubs (we'll cut them apart on site if needed)
• Yard waste: branches, leaves, sod, old grills, fire pits
• Construction debris from small remodels: drywall, lumber, flooring, cabinets
• Garage and basement clutter: boxes, totes, bikes, tools, holiday decorations
• Eviction and foreclosure cleanouts: full property contents
• Sheds, decks, and playsets we tear down ourselves
• Electronics: TVs, monitors, computers, printers (we route these to proper e-waste)

What we cannot take

These are legal restrictions, not preference. Even the biggest national chains can't touch this stuff.

• Hazardous chemicals: paint thinner, gasoline, motor oil, pool chemicals, pesticides
• Asbestos (any building material from before 1980 should be tested first)
• Wet paint (dried latex paint in the can is fine)
• Propane tanks that still have gas in them
• Medical waste: needles, prescription drugs, biohazard bags
• Ammunition, fireworks, or any explosives
• Large industrial machinery without prior arrangement

Where to take the stuff we can't

• Winnebago County hosts a household hazardous waste collection event a few times a year. Watch the county website.
• Home Depot and Lowe's accept dried-out latex paint and many lithium batteries for free.
• Rockford-area auto parts stores will take used motor oil at no charge.
• Walgreens and the Rockford Police Department both have prescription drop boxes.

When in doubt, ask

If you're not sure whether we can take something, just text a photo to 815-201-2268. We'll tell you yes or no in a few minutes. Worst case we'll point you to whoever can take it.