Estate Cleanout Dumpster Rental: A Complete Guide

Clearing a loved one's home is emotionally difficult, and the sheer volume of belongings can feel overwhelming. A dumpster rental gives you the time and space to work through everything at your own pace. Here's what you need to know.

What Size Dumpster for an Estate Cleanout?

Estate cleanouts typically require larger dumpsters than you'd expect:

• Small apartment/condo: 15-20 yard dumpster
• Average home (3 bedroom): 20-30 yard dumpster
• Large home or hoarder situation: 30-40 yard (or multiple loads)

A lifetime of belongings adds up. We recommend the 20-yard as a starting point for most homes.

Estate Cleanout Dumpster Costs

Budget for:

• 20-yard: $350-500
• 30-yard: $400-600
• 40-yard: $450-700

Ask about extended rental periods — many companies offer 14+ days for estate work at a modest daily fee.

A Compassionate Approach to Estate Clearing

Before the dumpster arrives:

• Take time to walk through the home and identify sentimental items
• Photograph rooms before you start (helps with memories and insurance)
• Gather important documents: wills, deeds, financial records
• Check hiding spots: under mattresses, in coat pockets, taped under drawers
• Set aside items for family members to review

Work room by room:

• Start with the easiest room to build momentum
• Create four piles: keep, donate, sell, dispose
• Take breaks when emotions run high
• Bring help — this isn't a job for one person

What to Do with Usable Items

• Donate: Schedule pickups from Salvation Army, Habitat ReStore, or local charities
• Sell: Estate sales, consignment, Facebook Marketplace, eBay
• Gift: Let family and friends choose meaningful items
• Dispose: Everything else goes in the dumpster

Note: Schedule donations BEFORE your dumpster rental period ends to avoid keeping items you planned to donate.

Items That Need Special Handling

• Prescription medications: Pharmacy take-back programs
• Electronics: E-waste recycling centers
• Hazardous materials: Local HHW collection events
• Firearms: Police department or licensed dealer
• Vehicles: Donate, sell, or junk car services

Timeline Expectations

A thorough estate cleanout typically takes:

• Small home: 3-5 days with a team of 2-3 people
• Average home: 5-10 days
• Large home or heavy accumulation: 2+ weeks

Book your dumpster for longer than you think you'll need. Extension fees are cheaper than rushing through this process.