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Garage CleanoutMilwaukee, WIJanuary 2025
Garage Cleanout: 30 Years of Accumulation
Recommendation: 20 Yard Dumpster
Customer Question
Milwaukee, WI
We're selling my parents' home and need to clean out the garage. It's a 2-car garage that hasn't been cleaned in probably 30 years. There's old furniture, boxes of who-knows-what, tools, holiday decorations, sporting equipment—you name it.
I was thinking a 15 yard dumpster but my brother says we need a 20. The 20 yard is about $75 more. We're in Milwaukee and need it for next weekend.
What would you recommend? Is the 20 yard worth the extra money? Also, there might be some old paint cans in there—can those go in the dumpster?
Expert Response
RentADumpsterGuide Team
Based on your description, I'd recommend the 20 yard dumpster. Here's my reasoning:
Why 20 yard over 15 yard:
1. 30 years of accumulation = lots of bulky, awkward items that don't compress well
2. Furniture takes up space even if it's not heavy
3. The $75 difference is nothing compared to needing a second dumpster ($350-400)
About the paint cans:
- Liquid paint is NOT allowed in dumpsters (hazardous waste)
- Empty, dry paint cans are usually OK
- Take liquid paint to Milwaukee's hazardous waste drop-off (free for residents)
Practical tips for your cleanout:
- Start with large items (furniture) to fill the bottom
- Break down boxes and compress what you can
- Set aside anything for donation before it goes in the dumpster
- Work section by section rather than tackling everything at once
Given it's next weekend, I'd book ASAP. Saturday deliveries fill up fast in Milwaukee.
Outcome
Project completed in one weekend with room to spare. The 20 yard was about 80% full. Customer noted they were glad they sized up because the furniture took more space than expected.
Key Insights
- 30+ years of accumulation typically needs 20 yard minimum
- Furniture takes more space than most people estimate
- $75 upgrade cost vs $350+ for second dumpster = easy decision
- Always check for hazardous materials before cleanout
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