How to get rid of junk in Knoxville, TN?

Step One: Sort Before You Toss

Here’s the golden rule of junk removal: Don’t just throw everything in one big pile. Sorting before you start chucking things will save you time, stress, and potentially even money, especially if you’re using city pickup, hauling to a convenience center, or hiring a junk removal company.

Think of it like decluttering with a strategy instead of chaos.

Group Items by Category

Start by creating 4 basic piles:

1. Keep – Stuff you still use or truly want to hang onto
2. Donate – Gently used furniture, appliances, clothing, decor
3. Recycle – Cardboard, metal, electronics, batteries, etc.
4. Trash – Anything broken, moldy, hazardous, or beyond saving

This helps avoid accidentally tossing reusable items or ending up with a mixed pile that a junk hauler might charge extra to sort later.

Label or Box Up Loose Items

For easier loading or drop-offs:

• Bag small items like wires, batteries, and hardware
• Use cardboard boxes for clothes, kitchenware, and books
• Tape labels to anything questionable so you remember what’s in it

If you’re planning to use a pickup service or haul it yourself, this makes moving things 10x faster—and safer.

Set Aside Special Disposal Items

Some things need their own process:

• Paints, chemicals, oil, and solvents (see Section 6)
• Large electronics (old TVs, monitors)
• Appliances with refrigerants (like AC units or freezers)

Mark them clearly so you don’t mix them with regular junk.

Quick Tip: Doing this part right means fewer trips, fewer fees, and smoother junk removal overall.

Know What the City Will (and Won’t) Take

So, you’ve sorted your junk, stacked it near the curb, and are waiting for the city to whisk it all away? Not so fast. The City of Knoxville has specific guidelines for bulk trash pickup, and knowing the rules can save you from a pile of frustration—and a possible code violation.

Let’s break down what Knoxville Public Works will handle, and what you’ll need to deal with another way.

1. Knoxville Bulk Waste Pickup Program

Knoxville offers a free bulk item pickup service for city residents. Here’s how it works:

• Schedule a pickup by calling 3-1-1 or using the online form at KnoxvilleTN.gov/311
• Set items by the curb no earlier than 6 p.m. the day before
• Pickup is usually done within a few business days

Accepted items include:

• Couches, chairs, mattresses, and bed frames
• Broken furniture
• Rolled carpet (tied and under 4 ft long)
• Non-Freon appliances (like microwaves or ovens)

This is a great option if your pile is manageable and your junk meets the criteria.

2. Items NOT Accepted Curbside

The city won’t take everything, so keep the following off the curb:

• Electronics – TVs, monitors, computers
• Appliances with refrigerants – Freezers, fridges, AC units
• Hazardous waste – Paint, chemicals, fuel, batteries
• Building materials – Drywall, lumber, tile, shingles
• Yard waste mixed with trash – Bag separately or take to drop-off

If you set these out with your bulk pickup, they’ll likely be left behind, or earn you a warning.

Note: This service is only available to residents inside Knoxville city limits. County residents should use Knox County convenience centers instead (we’ll cover those next).

Drop-Off Options for Residents

If you’ve got junk the city won’t pick up—or you just want it gone on your own time—Knoxville has several convenient drop-off options where you can dispose of it yourself. Whether you're a city resident or live in surrounding Knox County, there are public sites that accept furniture, debris, and more.

Let’s break down your best local options.

1. Elm Street Transfer Station (City of Knoxville Residents)

📍 1033 Elm Street, Knoxville, TN 37921

This is the go-to facility for residents within city limits.

What they accept:

• Furniture and household junk
• Appliances (without refrigerants)
• Yard waste and bagged debris
• Scrap metal (in limited amounts)

What to know:

• Proof of residency is required (bring a utility bill or ID)
• Fees are based on weight, but small loads usually cost under $20
• Covered loads only—tie it down and tarp it
• Hours of operation: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM

🔗 Elm Street Station Info

2. Knox County Convenience Centers (County Residents Only)

There are 8 convenience centers located around the county, including:

• Dutchtown Rd
• John Sevier Hwy
• Halls, Carter, Tazewell Pike, and more

What they accept:

• Old furniture
• Small appliances
• Cardboard, metal, and recyclables
• Bagged trash and household items

Restrictions:

• Must be a Knox County resident (no commercial or out-of-county use)
• Limited to one pickup-sized load per day
• Some centers do not accept construction debris

🔗 Find a center near you

Pro Tip: These centers can get busy on weekends—go early, and always check ahead for holiday closures or weather-related updates.

Hazardous Waste: Handle With Care

Some things just don’t belong in your regular trash or near a landfill. If you’ve uncovered old paint cans, dead batteries, cleaning chemicals, or automotive fluids during your junk cleanout, don’t panic. Knoxville has a safe, legal way to get rid of these items without risking environmental damage or violating disposal laws.

What Is Considered Household Hazardous Waste?

Here’s a quick list of common hazardous materials found during home cleanouts:

• Latex or oil-based paint
• Paint thinners and solvents
• Automotive fluids (motor oil, antifreeze, brake fluid)
• Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers
• Pool chemicals
• Aerosol cans
• Household cleaners and disinfectants
• Rechargeable and lithium batteries
• Fluorescent light bulbs

These can harm sanitation workers, contaminate groundwater, and damage landfill equipment if not disposed of properly.

Where to Take It in Knoxville

Knoxville operates a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility specifically designed to handle these materials.

1033 Elm Street, Knoxville, TN 37921
(Located at the same site as the Elm Street Transfer Station)

Hours:

• Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
• Typically from 8 AM to 12 PM — but call ahead to confirm

What to bring:

• Materials in their original containers
• Proof of Knoxville residency
• A list or labels (if available) of what's being dropped off

🔗 More details here

What They Don’t Accept:

• Ammunition or explosives
• Radioactive materials
• Commercial or industrial waste
• Large propane tanks (only small, 1 lb camping-size tanks accepted)

Reminder: Never pour chemicals down the drain, toss them in the trash, or mix them together "just to get rid of them." Let the pros handle it safely.

Where to Donate Usable Junk

One person’s “junk” might be another person’s favorite couch, bookshelf, or coffee table. If some of the items you're clearing out are still in good condition—think functional furniture, lightly used appliances, or clean home goods—consider donating instead of dumping.

Knoxville has several organizations that would be glad to take your gently used items off your hands and put them to good use.

Donation Centers in Knoxville

Here are the top places to donate usable items locally:

KARM Stores (Knox Area Rescue Ministries)

• Accepts furniture, working appliances, clothing, decor, and more
• Provides job training and shelter to those in need
• Offers free pickup for large donations (like couches or mattresses)
  🔗 Schedule a pickup

Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Knoxville)

• Accepts furniture, building materials, tools, light fixtures, and more
• Proceeds help fund affordable housing construction
• Great for post-renovation leftovers and intact household goods
  🔗 View donation guidelines

Goodwill Industries – Knoxville Region

• Accepts clothing, electronics, housewares, and small furniture
• Several donation drop-off points around town
• Profits support local job training and placement programs
  🔗 Find a location

Additional Options

• Facebook Buy Nothing Groups – Offer items directly to neighbors
• Local churches – Some run furniture ministries or community pantries
• Women’s shelters or halfway houses – Call ahead to ask what’s needed

What they typically accept:

• Clean, usable furniture
• Working small appliances
• Lightly worn clothing
• Household items in good condition

What they won’t take:

• Broken furniture
• Stained or torn mattresses
• Moldy, damaged, or smelly items
• Hazardous materials (see Section 6)

Pro Tip: Always call ahead or check websites to confirm current donation needs and pickup availability. Some centers may limit what they accept based on space or staffing.

Sell or Give It Away Fast

If you're looking to make a few bucks—or just want your junk gone ASAP—Knoxville has plenty of ways to sell or give away usable items without involving a dumpster or a donation center. From online marketplaces to local community groups, it’s never been easier to offload stuff quickly and painlessly.

Where to Sell or List Items Locally

Here are the top platforms Knoxville locals use to clear out clutter:

• Facebook Marketplace – The go-to for fast local sales. Works great for furniture, home decor, tools, and more.
• Craigslist Knoxville – Still popular for large items, appliances, or free curb alerts.
• OfferUp & Letgo (now combined) – Mobile-friendly and easy for fast listings.
• Nextdoor – Great for hyper-local giveaways within your neighborhood.

What Sells (or Goes Fast):

• Desks, bookshelves, couches, tables
• Kitchen gadgets and cookware
• Lightly used tools or outdoor gear
• Baby gear and toys
• Moving boxes or packing materials

If you list it for free, expect messages within minutes, especially if it’s already curbside and marked “first come, first served.”

Target College Students During Move-In/Out

If you’re near UT Knoxville, plan your junk purge around:

• August (move-in) and May (move-out)
• Students are often on the hunt for low-cost or free furniture and kitchen items
• List your stuff in UT-specific Facebook groups or local Reddit threads

Quick Tips for Listing:

• Use clear, well-lit photos
• Mention dimensions and condition
• Be honest about any flaws
• Include “Must pick up” or “Curbside only” if you don’t want to deliver

Pro Tip:
Giving it away for free? Add a post to your neighborhood’s Buy Nothing group—it’s a great way to help a neighbor and skip the landfill.

DIY Junk Hauling Tips

If you're the hands-on type and want to skip the wait times and fees associated with professional junk removal, hauling it yourself is a perfectly doable option in Knoxville, as long as you plan smart and stay safe.

Here’s how to tackle junk hauling like a pro (even if it’s your first time).

1. What You’ll Need

• Pickup truck or trailer – Make sure it’s large enough and road-ready
• Tarps and bungee cords or tie-down straps – Required by law to cover and secure loads
• Heavy-duty gloves – Protect your hands from sharp edges or splinters
• Closed-toe shoes – Don’t risk dropping a dresser on your flip-flops
• Face mask (optional but helpful) – Especially when dealing with dusty or moldy items
• A friend or two – Trust us, don’t lift a loveseat solo

Prep Like a Pro

• Break down furniture if possible (legs off tables, cushions off couches)
• Load heavier items first to stabilize the haul
• Bag small junk and loose items to avoid scatter
• Organize recyclables separately to drop them off at the correct station

2. Safety and Legal Considerations

• Secure your load – Tennessee law requires covered loads to prevent debris on the road
• Know where you’re going – Check transfer station or convenience center hours of operation and what they accept (no hazardous waste!)
• Avoid overloading – A trailer stacked too high can tip, and an overloaded pickup can damage your vehicle or get you a fine
• Stay hydrated and take breaks – Junk hauling is physical work, especially in Tennessee heat

Pro Tip: Many Knoxville-area residents rent trailers or trucks from places like U-Haul, Home Depot, or Sunbelt Rentals for a few hours just to get the job done in one trip.

When to Call the Pros

DIY junk hauling can save you a few bucks—but sometimes, it just isn't worth the hassle. When you’re staring down a mountain of clutter, furniture too big to budge, or items you have no clue how to dispose of, it might be time to let the pros take over.

Here’s how to know when it’s smarter (and safer) to bring in professional junk removal services.

Signs You’re in Over Your Head

• The pile is too large for a single pickup or trailer load
• You're dealing with heavy furniture, appliances, or materials
• You have tight deadlines (like move-out dates or property sales)
• There’s hazardous or hard-to-identify waste involved
• You simply don’t have the time, energy, or help

Why Hiring a Pro Is Worth It

• No heavy lifting – They’ll haul it out from anywhere: attic, basement, yard, or office
• Time-saving – Most jobs are done in a couple of hours
• Licensed & insured – You’re not liable if something breaks or someone gets hurt
• Responsible disposal – Recyclables, donations, and hazardous materials are handled properly
• Upfront pricing – No surprises, and many offer free estimates

Perfect for:

• Estate cleanouts
• Rental property turnovers
• Eviction cleanups
• Commercial office or retail space resets
• Post-renovation debris removal

Bottom Line: If it’s more than a few trash bags or a chair or two, your time and sanity are probably worth more than the cost of professional help.

Junk Removal for Property Managers and Landlords

If you manage rentals, flip homes, or handle commercial properties in Knoxville, you already know: junk is part of the job. From tenant move-outs to eviction cleanups, junk piles can delay listings, cost you time, and eat into profits.

That’s why having a go-to junk removal crew isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

Common Scenarios That Need Fast Junk Removal

• Evictions or abandoned rentals
• Move-out cleanups after long-term tenants
• Foreclosures or estate sales
• Office or commercial space transitions
• Short-term rental turnovers (Airbnb, VRBO)

In these situations, time is money, and junk can be the bottleneck between one tenant leaving and the next moving in.

What Pros Can Do for You

• Remove furniture, mattresses, appliances, and bags of trash
• Clear out garages, sheds, attics, and even yards
• Provide recurring or contract-based cleanout services
• Sort for recycling and donation to reduce landfill impact
• Handle multiple units or entire complexes

Some companies also offer priority scheduling or after-hours service for property pros who need it done discreetly and fast.

Ideal for:

• Apartment managers
• Leasing agents
• Real estate investors
• Contractors
• Airbnb/short-term rental hosts
• HOAs and condo boards

Pro Tip: Build a relationship with a local hauler and keep them on speed dial—you’ll save time on scheduling, often get faster service, and may even qualify for bulk pricing.

Green Junk Disposal Options

Getting rid of junk doesn’t have to mean sending everything to a landfill. In fact, many items you’re tossing—furniture, metal, cardboard, electronics—can be recycled or reused, reducing waste and making your cleanout a little kinder to the planet.

Knoxville has a growing number of eco-friendly disposal options, and many junk removal services already partner with donation centers and recycling facilities to keep reusable items out of the trash.

Items You Can Recycle in Knoxville

• Scrap metal – Bed frames, grills, pipes, shelving
• Cardboard – Moving boxes, packaging, clean and flattened
• Appliances – Dishwashers, washers, dryers (no refrigerants)
• Electronics – Computers, TVs, phones (through e-waste centers)
• Yard debris – Leaves, limbs, brush (at designated drop-off points)

Where to Take Recyclables Locally

• Knox County Convenience Centers – Many have dedicated bins for metal, cardboard, and appliances
• Goodwill E-Waste Recycling – Accepts small electronics at many drop-off sites
• Household Hazardous Waste Facility – Recycles batteries, paint, and fluorescent bulbs
• Private scrap yards – Like Miller Recycling, often accept metals for drop-off or cash

Junk Removal Services That Recycle

Most top junk haulers in Knoxville (like us) sort and separate items they collect. What they typically:

• Donate: furniture, working electronics, clothing
• Recycle: metal, appliances, e-waste
• Trash: unsalvageable, non-recyclable debris

Eco Tip: The more sorted your junk is before pickup, the easier it is for haulers to recycle or donate items—and some may even reduce your cost for lighter loads.

Final Cleanup Tips

The junk is gone. Your space feels lighter. You’ve got room to breathe (and maybe even redecorate). But before you check this job off your list, there’s one last step: a proper cleanup.

Whether you're prepping for new furniture, a move-in, or just enjoying the extra square footage, here are a few simple but essential tasks to finish strong.

1. Sweep, Vacuum, or Hose It Down

Clearing out junk leaves behind:

• Dust bunnies
• Crumbs and debris
• Nail heads, screws, or sharp bits

If you removed stuff from a garage, basement, or shed, it’s worth giving the floor a quick sweep or vacuum to eliminate leftover mess and spot any damage or pests you hadn’t seen before.

2. Wipe Down Surfaces

If furniture was pushed up against walls or windows for years, it probably left behind:

• Scuff marks
• Mold or mildew
• Cobwebs

Use a disinfectant spray or a mild vinegar solution to wipe down walls, baseboards, and surrounding surfaces.

3. Repair Minor Damage

Got a dinged wall or scraped-up floor after dragging out that old recliner?

Patch it up now:

• Fill holes with spackle
• Touch-up paint
• Add furniture sliders next time to avoid repeat damage

4. Rethink the Space

Now that the clutter’s gone, how will you use this room, closet, or shed?

Ideas:

• Turn a cleared-out garage corner into a tool station or gym space
• Make an unused room into a guest space or home office
• Use newly empty shelves for actual storage, not junk overflow

Final Tip: If you're planning to bring new items in, clean first so you’re not placing fresh furniture or gear onto a dirty or damaged surface.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Junk Steal Your Space

Junk creeps in slowly—an old dresser here, some boxes there, maybe a busted microwave you meant to fix two years ago. But left unchecked, it adds up and starts taking over your home, your yard, your garage… and eventually, your peace of mind.

If you’ve made it this far, you’ve got everything you need to finally take control of the clutter in Knoxville. Whether you plan to:

• Sort and sell what you can
• Donate items to help a neighbor in need
• Load up and head to a local drop-off
• Or call the pros to handle the heavy lifting

You’re now equipped with the best options for junk removal, recycling, donation, and safe disposal across the city.

So don’t wait for “someday.” Start with one room, one corner, one item. Momentum builds fast when you’re clearing out what doesn’t serve you anymore.

Quick Recap:

• ✅ Sort before you toss to streamline the process
• ✅ Use city pickup or local drop-off centers when applicable
• ✅ Consider donation and resale for usable goods
• ✅ Hire trusted local haulers for big jobs or hard-to-move items
• ✅ Dispose of hazardous waste properly
• ✅ Reclaim your space—and your sanity

Because junk doesn’t just take up room—it takes up energy. And life’s too short to be surrounded by stuff you no longer need.

Got junk piling up and no time to deal with it?

We’ve got you covered. At Out with the Old Junk, we show up when we say we will, haul the mess away, and leave your space clean. No stress. No hidden fees. Call or text us today for a quick, no-pressure quote.

CONTACT US

Why People in Knoxville Pick Us for Junk Removal

Want to have your junk removed the stress-free way? We keep things simple and get the job done right. Here's why so many customers trust us to clear the clutter.

Fast and Flexible Service

We offer same-day or next-day service. Just point to the junk and we’ll take care of it.

Upfront Prices, No Surprises

We give free quotes with clear pricing. What we quote is what you pay.

We Do All the Heavy Lifting

You don’t have to move a thing. We haul it out and sweep up afterward.

Kind, Local Team

We’re based right here in Knoxville. We treat your space like it’s our own.

Responsible Disposal

We recycle and donate what we can. Less waste in landfills means a cleaner city.

The Company Knoxville Calls First

Emma was working through a long list of property cleanup projects when she first called us. Nothing fancy—just junk that needed to be gone, and fast. From the start, she appreciated how easy it was to reach us, how well we communicated, and how we showed up exactly when we said we would.

After that first job, something stuck. Emma kept coming back. As she put it, “Out with the Old Junk Removal is our go-to company for all things junk removal.” Whether it was one property or several, couches or construction debris, we got it done—no excuses, no delays.

We’re proud to be the team people rely on, not once, but over and over. Emma summed it up best: “They do such great work, are always reliable, and communicate well.”

Need junk gone? You know who to call.

How to Get Rid of Junk in Knoxville - FAQs