Most household items are fair game. A handful of things — hazardous chemicals, full propane tanks, certain electronics — need a different program. Here’s a straightforward breakdown.
Items typically accepted
Furniture
· Couches and sectionals
· Loveseats and armchairs
· Mattresses and box springs
· Bed frames and headboards
· Dressers, armoires, and wardrobes
· Dining tables and chairs
· Desks, bookcases, and shelving
· Patio furniture
Appliances
· Refrigerators and freezers
· Washers and dryers
· Stoves, ovens, and ranges
· Dishwashers
· Microwaves
· Water heaters
· Window AC units
· Small appliances
Household junk
· Boxes and bags of misc. items
· Books, kitchenware, decor
· Children’s toys and gear
· Exercise equipment
· Carpets and rugs
· Lamps and small fixtures
Yard and outdoor
· Branches and clippings (bagged or bundled)
· Bagged leaves and grass
· Old fencing, sheds, playsets (often)
· Patio sets and grills
· Planters and pots
Construction debris (light)
· Drywall scraps
· Old cabinetry
· Light demo from a small project
· Doors and trim
Office and commercial
· Desks and office chairs
· Filing cabinets
· Retail fixtures
· Restaurant equipment (case by case)
Items typically not accepted
These items usually require a specialized disposal route rather than a standard junk pickup. Denver-area residents can often handle them through the city’s household hazardous waste program, e-cycle events, or dedicated drop-off locations.
Hazardous materials
· Wet paint, solvents, and cleaning chemicals (dried latex paint is sometimes OK)
· Motor oil, gasoline, and antifreeze
· Pool chemicals
· Asbestos-containing materials
· Lead-based paint or shingles
Pressurized or flammable
· Full propane tanks
· Pressurized fire extinguishers
· Compressed gas cylinders
· Fireworks or ammunition
Medical and biohazard
· Sharps and needles
· Prescription medications
· Biohazard or medical waste
Electronics (often separate program)
· CRT TVs and monitors (special e-waste handling)
· Some flat-panel TVs (varies by provider)
· Computer batteries and UPS units
Other restricted items
· Live animals or animal waste
· Human waste or septic content
· Tires (sometimes — ask the provider)
Not sure about an item?
When in doubt, describe it on the quote form — the local provider can confirm whether they’ll take it before they show up. That’s usually faster than guessing, and it avoids the awkward situation of paying for a trip the hauler can’t complete.
For genuinely hazardous items, the City and County of Denver runs a Household Hazardous Waste program for residents. Information about hazardous waste, e-cycle drop-offs, and large item programs is generally available on the city’s Solid Waste Management website.
Common questions about what providers take
Can a junk removal provider in Denver take a full refrigerator?
Yes. Most private haulers in Denver will pick up refrigerators, freezers, and window AC units. Because these contain refrigerants that must be recovered before recycling, the provider may charge an additional handling fee compared to other appliances.
Can I leave a propane tank with my junk pickup?
Generally no. Full or partially full propane tanks are pressurized and most haulers will not take them. Empty, valve-removed tanks may be accepted in some cases. Propane exchange locations and household hazardous waste drop-off events are the safer option.
Will junk removal take old paint cans?
Fully dried latex paint with no liquid remaining is often acceptable. Wet paint and oil-based paints are considered household hazardous waste and need to be handled through a dedicated drop-off, not a junk pickup.
Do junk haulers take old TVs and computers in Denver?
Some do, some don't. Older CRT TVs and monitors usually require specialized e-waste handling and may not be included in standard pickups. Newer flat-panel TVs are more commonly accepted. Ask the provider when you get a quote.
Have a list? Request a quote.
Tell us what needs to go and where it is — a local provider can confirm what they’ll take.
Thanks — your request was received. We’ll review the details and may share
them with a local provider who can contact you about pricing, availability, and next
steps.
