Cleaning out the garage can be overwhelming without knowing what is trash and what is recyclable. Keep reading to discover a reliable way to make garage cleaning easier, especially before colder weather sets in.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before diving into a weekend of garage cleaning, gather the necessary supplies:

• Heavy-duty trash bags for waste
• Recyclable bins or boxes
• Storage bins for items you want to keep
• Labels and markers
• Cleaning supplies, like a broom, dustpan, wet/dry vacuum, cleaning solution, and perhaps a power washer
• Gloves and a mask (if dust is a concern)

Step 2: Clear the Space

Start by emptying your garage as much as possible. Move everything outside into your driveway or yard, depending on the weather. This allows you to see everything you have and gives you a blank canvas to work with.

Step 3: Sorting Items

As you remove items, sort them into four main categories:

1. Keep: Items that are still useful or needed
2. Trash: Items that are broken, damaged, or no longer functional
3. Recycle: Items that can be recycled according to local guidelines
4. Donate/Sell: Items in good condition that you no longer need

How Can You Identify What To Keep?

• Condition: Is the item still functional?
• Utility: Will you use it in the next year?
• Sentimental Value: Does it hold significant personal value?

Identifying Trash vs. Recyclable Items

• Trash: Broken tools, damaged furniture, power cords, extension cords, or any items that are no longer usable should be thrown in the trash.
• Recyclable: Metal, glass, certain plastics, and cardboard can typically be recycled. Check What Goes Where? to confirm what is accepted in Rockland County.

Step 4: Responsible Disposal

1. Trash Disposal
   In Rockland County, every town and village has scheduled garbage collection days and bulk curbside pickup days. Confirm your collection and pickup schedule here.
   
   
2. Recycling
   Rockland County offers several recycling programs:
   a. Curbside Recycling: Place your recyclables in the designated recycling bin. Common recyclables include:
   - Metals (cans, aluminum foil)
   - Glass (bottles, jars)
   - Paper and cardboard (flattened)
   - Plastics (check for recycling symbols)
   
   Always rinse containers before recycling to avoid contamination.
   
   b. Drop-off Collection Facility: For household items not accepted in curbside recycling, such as electronics and small metal items – air conditioners and small refrigerators, for example – you can visit our Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility.
   
   Please note that our HHW Facility does not accept large items such as washers, dryers, large refrigerators, or freezers.
   
   
3. Questions About Hazardous Waste?
   If you come across materials like paint cans, batteries, pool chemicals, or used or old gas canisters and are not sure where they should go, contact us at (845) 364-2444 to see if they can be dropped off at our HHW Facility.

Step 5: Organizing What You Keep

Once you’ve sorted and disposed of items, it’s time to organize what you want to keep. Here are some tips:

1. Use Clear Bins: Clear storage bins allow you to see what’s inside without opening them
2. Label Everything: Use labels to easily identify the contents of each bin
3. Use Vertical Space: Install shelves, hooks, or pegboards to maximize storage
4. Create Zones: Designate areas for gardening tools, sports equipment, seasonal items, and other categories for easy access

Ready To Deep Clean Your Garage?

Cleaning out the garage may seem daunting, but with a structured approach, it can be rewarding. By identifying what to keep, what to throw away, and what to recycle or donate, you not only declutter your space but also contribute to a cleaner environment.

In Rockland County, you have plenty of resources to ensure responsible disposal. So roll up your sleeves and transform your garage into a clean, organized, and functional space!