In the whirlwind of daily life—work meetings, errands, family responsibilities, and personal time—it’s easy to forget the simple but important task of putting your trash and recycling bins out on the right day. Missing trash day can lead to messy piles, unpleasant odors, and even fines in some neighborhoods.
If you struggle to keep track of trash days because of your busy schedule, don’t worry! This blog shares practical tips and tools to help you stay organized and stress-free, ensuring your trash is always picked up on time.
1. Use a Digital Calendar with Alerts
Most smartphones and computers have built-in calendar apps where you can add recurring trash day events. Set reminders a day or a few hours before pickup time so you get notified in advance.
Tip: Use labels like “Trash Day” and “Recycling Day” and set alerts for early morning or the evening before so you have time to prepare.
2. Subscribe to Local Waste Management Notifications
Many cities and waste management companies offer email or text alerts for trash pickup schedules, changes due to holidays, and special recycling events. Check your municipality’s website and sign up for these notifications to stay updated.
3. Place Your Bins in a Visible Spot
Keep your trash and recycling bins in a convenient, visible location like near your front door or garage. When bins are easy to access and see, it’s less likely you’ll forget to put them out.
4. Create a Trash Day Routine
Incorporate trash day prep into your weekly routine. For example, every Tuesday evening, remind yourself to take out the bins before bedtime. Consistency builds habits and reduces last-minute rushing.
5. Use Smart Trash Cans or Bin Sensors
Some smart trash cans come with built-in reminders or connect to apps that notify you when it’s time to take bins out. Alternatively, small sensors you attach to your bins can send alerts to your phone.
6. Delegate or Share Responsibilities
If you live with family members or roommates, assign trash day duties to different people each week or share reminders in a group chat. Having others involved spreads the responsibility and helps ensure no one forgets.
7. Keep Backup Supplies Handy
Always have extra trash bags, recycling bags, and gloves nearby. Being prepared means you won’t delay putting out your trash because you ran out of supplies.
8. Plan for Holidays and Schedule Changes
Trash collection often shifts during holidays. Mark these changes on your calendar as soon as you learn about them, so you’re not caught off guard.
Bonus Tip: Subscribe to a Trash Roll In/Roll Out Service Like Take Our Trash
If your schedule is packed and you want to save even more time and hassle, consider subscribing to a trash roll in/roll out service such as Take Our Trash. These services handle the task of taking your bins to the curb on trash day and bringing them back once they’re emptied. It’s a great way to stay on top of trash days effortlessly, especially if you have mobility issues or a busy household.
Conclusion
Staying on top of trash days amid a busy life is achievable with a bit of planning and smart tools. Using digital calendars, setting reminders, keeping bins visible, and involving household members can make trash day just another simple task rather than a source of stress.
Start implementing these tips today, and never miss trash day again!