What to Do if You Miss Garbage Day

Uh-oh, you missed garbage day. Maybe you forgot, maybe you overslept, or maybe the garbage truck was playing hide-and-seek. Whatever the reason, now you’re stuck with a bin full of trash and some big questions—like, “What do I do now?” and, “Why didn’t I set a reminder?”

Don’t worry, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has your back (and your trash). Missing garbage day might stink—literally—but it’s not the end of the world. With a little planning (and a bit of recycling), you’ll have things under control faster than a raccoon opening a trash can.

What if I miss garbage day?

The trouble with missing garbage day is pretty obvious—the trash doesn’t magically take itself out. Instead, it starts piling up, and with that comes the potential for unpleasant odors, pests, and a curious squirrel or two wondering if you’ve got snacks.

Missing pickup can be especially tricky during big trash weeks, like after a big party, a move, or a major pizza night (those boxes don’t fold themselves). But don’t worry; we’re here to help you turn this stinky situation around.

9 things you can do if you forgot to take out the trash

1. Contact your local waste disposal and request a pickup

Your first step might be to call your local waste management service. Many offer the option to request a special pickup—for a small fee, of course. Think of it like sending the trash truck an encore invitation.

2. Ask a neighbor for bin space

Got a neighbor with a little extra room in their garbage bin? Borrowing a bit of their bin space might just save the day–just remember to bin-d over backward to return the favor. 

3. Find a local drop-off site

Most communities have waste drop-off locations where you can bring your trash. It’s a great option if you missed the truck because, let’s face it, garbage doesn’t have time for fashionably late. A quick online search should help you find the nearest spot.

4. Securely store garbage at home

If you don’t have other immediate options, store the garbage safely until the next collection. Use strong bags, seal them tight, and keep them in a cool, shaded area to prevent odors and keep unwanted “guests” (like the neighborhood raccoon) at bay.

5. Call a local removal service

If it feels like the trash is winning this battle, call in the experts! 1-800-GOT-JUNK? makes garbage disappear faster than a magician’s rabbit. They’ll handle it all—heavy bags, awkward items, and even that mystery container in the back of your fridge. Consider them your cleanup dream team.

6. Sort recycling to minimize your garbage

Recycling is a great way to lighten the load. Paper, plastic, cans, and more can head to your local recycling center, freeing up your garbage bags for the real heavy hitters. Bonus points if you sort everything neatly—we promise, the Earth will thank you later.

7. Set aside compostable items

Kitchen scraps like vegetables, coffee grounds, and eggshells are perfect candidates for composting. Start a compost bin or pile and watch your food waste transform into a garden superstar. Who knew garbage could be so down-to-earth?

8. Minimize how much trash you create

Until your next collection day, try to generate as little trash as possible. Reuse where you can, opt for products with less packaging, and use this time to eat those leftovers lurking in the fridge (consider it scavenger success).

9. Plan ahead for the next garbage collection

Mark your calendar, set an alarm, or write a sticky note for next week’s garbage day. Make it impossible to forget.

Pro tip: Add “taking out the trash” to your to-do list—it’s the rare task where taking it out is the whole point.

Where can I take my trash if I missed garbage day?

For those who really need the trash out ASAP (we get it), local disposal options are your friends. Look for drop-off sites, recycling centers, or specialized facilities for things like electronics and hazardous materials.

If the idea of navigating the disposal maze feels overwhelming, give 1-800-GOT-JUNK? a call. They know all the tricks for handling your trash removal. Big bags, old furniture, yard waste—you name it, they’ll take it.

Call 1-800-GOT-JUNK?

When missing garbage day feels like the final straw (or coffee stirrer), don’t sweat it. The team at 1-800-GOT-JUNK? makes clean-ups stress-free and simple. They’re here to haul it all, from your standard household garbage to bigger junk that won’t fit in your usual bin.

Book your service with them today, and say goodbye to trash troubles! P.S. They promise to make it a rubbish-free experience you’ll love.

Blog by our friends at 1-800-GOT-JUNK?