Winter is the perfect time to clear out your home in preparation for spring. Although winter is not typically recognised as a time of year for having a big clear out, there are actually many benefits to hiring a skip during the winter months.
Post-Christmas Clear Out
At Christmas time, homes tend to become more cluttered, and people have the tendency to fill their cupboards, garages, sheds, and attics with items that are not to be seen or used for a long time.
You should resist the urge to do this and instead hire a skip to dispose of all your unwanted and unused items, along with the excess amounts of rubbish that accumulates over the festive period.
Post-DIY Clean Up
If you have completed home improvement projects during the warmer months, you are likely to have accumulated a lot of rubbish, such as old carpet, tiles, wallpaper, and other decorating supplies. Instead of letting this rubbish take up valuable space or having to make several trips to the local skip, hire a skip to dispose of it all at home.
Boost Your Mood
As the days get shorter, colder, and gloomier, it is common for people to begin to feel uninspired and unmotivated. Taking time to have a thorough clean can boost your mood and make you feel better.
Your mind mimics the physical space that you live in; a cluttered house equals a cluttered mind, and a tidy house equals a tidy mind.
Wardrobe Clear Out
Winter is a great time to sort through your wardrobe and get rid of the clothes you have not worn all year, or that are looking a little bit worse for wear, so you have a streamlined wardrobe ready for the new year.
You may want to hand down or donate clothing that is still wearable, but for items that have been ruined during DIY projects, have holes in, or are otherwise damaged, having a skip is also useful for disposing of unwanted clothing.
Convenient
When it is cold outside, you are likely to be more hesitant to go outside or to take trips to and from your local skip with a car full of rubbish. Having a skip outside means you can avoid having to venture out into the cold as much.
As you will be spending more time inside, it is the perfect time to have a clear out. Resist putting it off until springtime, as then when the warmer days return, you can go out and enjoy the nice weather rather than spending your days cleaning.
Eco-Friendly
Hiring a skip is an eco-friendly option as it means you are making reduced car journeys to dispose of waste and ensures that your waste is disposed of responsibly.
Here at LSPS, we offer a complete waste disposal management solution, by operating an on-site waste transfer station and are committed to recycling to lessen the pressure on landfill sites. This means that there is no need to separate your waste and you can put all your waste into one skip, saving you time and money.
LSPS is a family-run business that is experienced in supplying skips for both domestic and commercial projects. If you are interested in hiring a skip this winter, get in touch with us via 0800 083 7807 or info@lspsskiphire.co.uk to discuss your requirements, or click here to order your skip using our easy-to-use online booking system.
Reasons to Hire a Skip in Winter
Skip Hire Guide for Beginners
Hiring a skip can be relatively daunting if it is something you have never done before. Here is our skip hire guide for beginners.
Be careful what you put in a skip
Many people believe that anything can be placed in a skip and although that would be extremely convenient, it is not the case. Although you can place the majority of materials in a skip, here are some that you must definitely avoid:
• Asbestos
• Batteries
• Medical Waste
• Toxic materials
• Fridge / Freezers
• Tyres
• Plasterboard
• Gas canisters
• Electrical Equipment
• Paint Cans
If you are in any doubt, ensure you ask if you are concerned about any of the items you are wanting to use the skip for. All of the items listed above have their own specific ways of disposal. If you are found with any of these prohibited items in your skip, you could end up being charged and have the items returned to you.
Skip Sizes
Skip sizes vary and it can be confusing to understand exactly what size you need. The larger the skip you hire, the cheaper it is per cubic metre of waste. However, there is no point hiring a large skip if you know you don’t have a lot of waste. Visualise how much waste you have and make a decision from there. It is worth getting the size up to make sure you have sufficient space. Not only is this more value per cubic metre, in reality, but you may also find more waste that you hadn't taken into consideration.
Skip Hire Prices
There are no standard prices for skip hire and they will inevitably vary due to several factors, including the type of skip you need, how long you need it for and where you are geographically located. In addition to this, if you do not have the space to have a skip on your property, you will need to factor in the additional cost of obtaining a permit to have it on the roadside.
Skip permits
A skip permit or a skip licence need to be obtained if you are placing the skip on a public road instead of your own property. Not only will you need to pay a small fee to get one, but you must also allow a few additional days for the skip permit to be sorted. Luckily, most skip hire companies will organise this on your behalf and make all the arrangements. You must also consider whether the skip will be located on single yellow lines or in a pay and display bay as you may need a parking suspension in addition to the permit.
Wait and load skips
Wait and load services are often available to customers and are perfect for those that need their waste removed quickly or simply do not have any space to place the skip overnight. Your skip will be delivered, you will need to load it, then the skip is immediately taken away.
Can I have help loading the skip?
Many skip hires do not include labour costs. It is imperative that you have organised the ability for someone to help you load the skip if necessary. You must ensure that you are loading the skip safely at all times and never attempt to lift items that are too heavy. If you do not have anyone to help you and you have a lot of bulky items to move then a man and van clearance service may be a better fit for you.
How long can I keep the skip?
You can often determine how long you require the skip for. However, it normally covers 1 or 2 weeks. You can organise to have it collected before then if you need to. If you need the skip longer than this, you may have an additional charge. If you need to change the time frame for whatever reason, ensure you provide your skip hire provider plenty of notice to make the arrangements.
Access
Skips are usually delivered in large lorries, so you need to ensure they will be able to access your location in order to drop the skip off. If you are concerned with access, inform your skip hire company in advance to try and sort out an alternative.
Weight
Skips can hold a lot of weight as even the mini skips, which are 2 yards, can usually hold up to 2 tonnes. Although it is rare that households will exceed this amount, always check if you are concerned about going over the weight limit.
Height
An issue can often occur by people overloading skips, not in terms of weight but in height. Your skip will have a fill line on the inside which you should not exceed. If you do there is a chance your skip will not be taken away as it is now a safety hazard. If you overload it, there is a significant risk of items falling out when the skip is in transit.
Driveway Damage
Some people are concerned that a skip will cause damage to their driveway. Skips are heavy when they are empty, let along when they are full. You can have the skip placed on scaffolding planks if you have them. If you are concerned about damage, discuss with your skip hire provider first who can guide you according to what material your driveway or skip location is made from.
Recycling
At LSPS, we ensure that the waste we collect is sorted sufficiently and have as much waste recycled as possible.
Hopefully, these tips will help make the process of hiring a skip that much easier. It can take some planning to ensure you have the space to have a skip and order the correct one, however, once you have one delivered, you can load it in your own time and avoid the hassle of several trips to the tip.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal and recycling needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
How to Tackle a Wardrobe Clear-out
Clearing out your wardrobe can be a daunting task, especially if you do not do it regularly. It is surprising how quickly rubbish can build up over the years. Here, we discuss how best to tackle a wardrobe clear-out, to make the task easier to finish, leaving you with a clutter-free wardrobe.
Remove EVERYTHING
Start by removing absolutely everything from your wardrobe. You may be shocked by how much stuff is crammed inside. You will not be able to successfully complete a clear out if you do not start with an empty wardrobe. Once everything has been taken out, give the inside of your wardrobe a quick clean.
Make a recycling pile
Start by separating the items you want to keep with those that you do not. Make sure you are brutal with this. If you have forgotten you owned it or haven't worn/used something for months, then it is probably a sign it is not worth keeping. Once you have a not wanted pile, organise this into what can be recycled and what can’t be. This is important as it will significantly reduce the amount of waste that will end up in a landfill.
Send items to a clothing bank
There are many clothing banks, especially at supermarkets. Donate what you think will be useful, ensuring you are not donating items that are of bad quality.
Create a sell and swap pile
From the remaining items, consider if there are any that you could potentially sell. A clear-out is an amazing opportunity to earn some extra money from the items you no longer want or need. Also, consider swapping items. Speak to your friends and organise a clothing swap party. This helps you get rid of your unwanted clothes and end up with something new that you will actually wear.
Can you repair anything?
You may stumble across items that are a bit worse for wear. Before you automatically go to chuck it away, ask yourself whether you can fix it? If the answer is no, can you use it for another function? This involves a bit of creative thinking but there any many ways to reuse unwanted items for a different purpose.
Hire a skip
Wardrobes do not just contain clothes. There is a myriad of waste and clutter that can end up being shoved into our wardrobes. Consider hiring a small skip when tackling your wardrobes. This is a great method of getting rid of all your rubbish in one go. The waste will be separated and recycled if possible, giving you peace of mind that you are reducing landfill waste as much as possible. It is also good if you do not have the time to separate the items into sell and donate piles. It also saves significant time on trips to the tip and recycling centres.
Get organising
Once you have gone through your “to throw” pile, you can get started on organising the stuff you are keeping. You should only have items that fit you well, that you wear regularly or recently and that you still like. There is no point keeping things for the sake of it. If you do not have a lot of wardrobe space, separate your clothes into Spring / Summer and Autumn / Winter. Place the out of season clothes at the back of the wardrobe or in vacuum-packed bags. This keeps the items you are not going to wear yet out of the way. Once the weather changes, swap them over.
Keep on top of it
Once you have done the clear-out it is important to keep on top of it. The first clear-out will always be the most time consuming and hard work. However, undertaking mini subsequent tidy ups will help ensure you do not need to repeat the process as much.
It is important to tidy out your wardrobe on a regular basis. Not only is it a satisfying task once it is completed, but it also allows you to donate unwanted items, clear space and help keep the items left neat and improve their longevity. Here is a quick guide on how to achieve this and end up with a clean and tidy wardrobe.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal and recycling needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
Easy Ways to Recycle at Home
It can sometimes be overwhelming knowing what can and cannot be recycled, it can also be simple to make small changes that lead to a large decrease in household waste. Here, we share some easy ways to recycle at home.
When gifting to others, avoid excess packaging and only use wrapping that can be recycled. There are also some inventive ways to wrap a present. For example, you can use a nice scarf to wrap it up as a beautiful, reusable alternative.
Reduce the amount of paper post you receive by going paperless.
If you have a local milkman, why not try using them? Not only will you get fresh milk straight to your doorstep, but they will also remove the glass bottles for you and you know the materials are reusable so waste is kept a minimum.
When buying electrical items for outdoors try and opt for solar options instead of battery ran.
Grow your own vegetables and fruit in your own garden. It doesn't matter if you only have a small garden or balcony as some fruit and plants can still grow well in containers or on windowsills.
Compost when possible. Compost bins are a great place to store your garden waste, vegetable peelings, cardboard, shredded paper and more.
If you have unwanted paper, use it as shopping lists or notepads first until it is full. Alternatively, shred your paper and use the shredding for compost, or stuffing for hampers.
Stop using cling film and buy reusable covers instead. They act the same as cling film but they are less fiddly to use and do not cause any waste.
Before you throw anything away stop and think if you can donate it. Furniture can even be donated and sometimes collected from your house, making it an easy thing to do.
There are many everyday items that you can repurpose. For example, clean out old jam jars or candles to repurpose them as storing other items.
If you need to print anything, always double side print, whenever you can, to cut down on paper and ink used.
Pack your lunch in reusable containers rather than using film or tin foil.
When having a clear-out, consider hiring a skip as this can ensure as much as your waste is being recycled as possible.
In your weekly shop, use reusable bags to store your fruit and veg and opt for loose versions to cut down on packaging.
When buying cleaning products and hand soap among other things, buy refills rather than new products as this is a great way to cut down on packaging.
Little and often can make a huge impact. By all of us doing our little bit we can significantly recycle more and cut down on waste. These are just some of the ways we can reuse, recycle and reduce waste.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal and recycling needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
Tips for Garden Clear-Outs
Whether you are completely re-landscaping your garden, getting a patio extension or merely having a tidy, using a skip to remove your garden waste can be really helpful. Here, we share some of our top tips on how to approach a garden clear- out and how to make the most of your skip hire.
Decide which is the best size of the skip
Before starting your garden clear out, decide on what exactly needs to be done. This will give you an idea of what type of waste you will be producing but also how much. Once you know this, it will give you a better idea of which skip size is best. Smaller skips such as 4-yard, 6-yard or 8-yard are perfect for general garden clear-outs. By this, we mean cutting back hedges, clearing away weeds or digging up some turf for new flower beds etc. For more extension landscaping projects, you may want to consider hiring a 6-14 yard skip instead. Always go for a slightly larger skip than you predict you need, as you will be surprised how quickly the waste can build up.
Start composting
Although it requires a little bit of effort, composting can be really beneficial. Not only is compost great for your plants, but it will also reduce the amount of waste you are placing in your skip. It is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to use your garden waste.
Separate your waste
Unfortunately, not all garden waste is easily recyclable. Bearing this in mind, try and separate as much of your waste as possible. Although the contents of your skip will be sorted after it has been collected, it is always a good idea to have it separate from the outset. Recyclable green waste includes grass, weeds, leaves and small twigs. Other items such as large branches, garden furniture, bricks, soil, plant pots and more will fall under the category of general waste. Green waste tends to cost significantly less to dispose of then general mixed waste, so it makes sense to separate the waste where possible.
Specify what your skip hire requirements are
When booking your skip, state what type of waste you will be disposing of. This will allow you to be given the best skip for your needs. Before placing anything in a skip, ensure you check that it is allowed to go in it. Although the majority of garden waste is not a problem, certain items commonly found in sheds such as paint tins etc are classed as hazardous materials and will need to be disposed of separately.
Reduce the bulkiness of garden waste
To make the most of your skip hire, try to reduce the space your garden waste takes up in your skip by cutting up bulky items such as branches. Place leaves, weeds and grass cuttings in bags at the bottom of the skip. Then place heavier items, such as garden furniture on top as this will compress the garden waste and create more space. Having this approach will help you fit your waste into a smaller skip.
Get selling
Before hiring your skip, think about the different types of waste you are planning on getting rid of. Once your skip arrives, it can be tempting to just throw everything into it for convenience. However, you could be missing out on opportunities. Some items may be perfect for selling, allowing you to earn some extra money. Alternatively, some items will be perfect for upcycling. It just takes a bit of creativity and advance planning.
Have a plan of action
Before you start, ensure you have a plan of action. You need to know how much time your garden clearance will take. If you have no idea, then start by clearing a small section of your garden. Time how long this takes and then multiply it until you have a rough idea of how much the rest of the garden will take. It is important to be realistic about your working pace. It is unachievable to expect you to complete a large project quickly. You will need to ensure you factor in enough breaks.
If you have decided to hire a skip to remove your waste, ensure you know where the skip will be stored. Many people have theirs in their front garden, but if this is where your project is taking place, you will need to find an alternative location. If this is the street, then permits will also need to be obtained.
As you start to spend more time in the garden, inevitably you will need to undertake a clear-out. No matter whether it’s a small spruce up or a larger project, hiring a skip to remove your garden waste can be a real time-saver. Not only will it help get the job done more efficiently and quickly, but it will also save tedious and messy trips transporting your garden waste to the local recycling centre. We have shared just some of our top tips to help you get started on your garden projects.
Tips for removing rubbish from DIY projects
If you are undertaking a DIY project, there will inevitably be a lot of waste to dispose of. If you want to remove the hassle of getting this waste cleared, then hiring a skip is a great option. To help you tackle your DIY project, here are some top tips on how to ensure your DIY projects are done promptly, efficiently and with no lingering mess.
Consider what waste you will create
Before you start any project, always have in the back of your mind how you are going to get rid of the rubbish you create. The amount of waste a DIY project produces can vary significantly. If you are only redecorating one room, this will create substantially less waste than a complete kitchen refit. Knowing in advance roughly how much waste you will create can help you ensure you have the correct measures to remove this waste quickly.
Also, consider what type of waste you will create. DIY project waste can range from empty paint tins, old furniture to electrical items or even asbestos. When hiring a skip or heading to the tip, there are rules on what can and cannot be disposed on. Before starting your project, ensure you know the correct procedure on how to dispose of this waste.
Decide on the best waste disposal method
Once you know what waste the project will probably produce, decide on the best way to get rid of it. For the majority of materials, hiring a skip is usually the best method. This allows you to remove your waste in one go, knowing that it will be sorted at the other end, with anything that can be recycled separated and reused.
Of course, hiring a skip is not the only option. Many items can be disposed of at the local recycling centre. However, you will need to carefully factor in the potential mess the waste will cause in your car, how much fuel and time it will take to take several trips to the recycling centre and back and whether the items will fit in the car at all.
Decide on the skip size you need
Hiring a skip means that you don’t have to worry about trips to the recycling centre, or having the mess littering your property or garden. If you do leave your DIY rubbish in your garden for a long period of time, you can be putting yourself at risk of getting a fine for fly tipping, even if it is on your own land. This is something you should always consider before starting any major project.
As you know roughly how much waste your project will create, you can make an educated guess on what sized skip you will need. Always refer to a skip size guide before choosing to ensure that it will fit everything you need. Try and go slightly larger than you think as projects tend to create more waste than initially anticipated. On the other hand, don’t go for anything too big as it will be costly if you are not using the skip to its full potential.
Here is a rough guide on which skip sizes are suitable for which DIY projects
4 Yard Skip- Small domestic refurbishments, small garden clearances, small house clearances
6 Yard Skip- Domestic refurbishments, home clear-outs, office clear-outs
8 Yard Skip- Larger domestic projects, general construction, full office clear-outs, full home clear-outs, large garden clearances
12 Yard Skip- Larger DIY projects, Large renovations, Full office clear-outs, full house clear-outs
Decide on where the skip will be placed
Once you have decided on hiring a skip, you will need to plan where you are going to place it. Ideally, you would have it on your drive on in the front garden as this makes it quick to access and can help you speed up your projects. However, many do not have the space to place the skip on their land making the street the only option. This is fine, however, you just need to ensure the correct permits are obtained beforehand. Many skip- hire companies will help you with this.
Do you think the project will be done in a day? Then you may have another option. Wait and Load services allow you to have a skip temporarily to quickly load your rubbish and then it is immediately taken away from you. This is an ideal option for those who are doing smaller projects or do not have space for a skip to stay overnight. Choosing this option still saves you countless trips to the recycling centre whilst also avoiding any needs for permits.
What’s Next?
Renovating your home and undertaking DIY projects can be extremely rewarding. However, removing the waste created is never the fun part. These top tips are just some of the ways to ensure that your DIY projects remain stress-free. Knowing how to quickly get rid of the waste these projects create can really make a difference and help you progress more quickly as you do not have any rubbish in your way.
9 Ways To Reduce Plastic In Your Beauty Routine
To reduce the plastic we use in beauty routine is not as difficult as it sounds. So why do we focus on food products when we talk about recycling?
The amount of plastic waste we are putting into the oceans is at a catastrophic level. Although governments and large businesses are being asked to radically change, there are also some small changes we can all make. If more of us made these changes, the impact could be significant.
One area of our lives where plastic can be found in high-quantities is our beauty routines. From shampoo bottles to plastic razors and toothbrushes, there are many plastic elements to our beauty routine which cause plastic waste.
Here we discuss 9 ways to easily reduce plastic in your beauty routine.
1. Use recycled packaging
An easy switch to make is by choosing products packaged using recycled materials. Also, choose items that can be reused such as glass products. Buy reusable bottles and instead of buying plastic bottles, more and more people are offering refills.
2. Buy supersized Items
If the items you use are not available in recycled packaging, then buy the larger version. Not only will it work out cheaper for you in the long run, less plastic will be used. Larger bottles of shampoo are less convenient. However, they can be decanted into travel-sized reusable bottles for everyday use.
3. Stop using disposable razors
Invest in a safety razor instead. They look nicer, will last longer and are extremely effective.
4. Switch to a bamboo toothbrush
Unlike their plastic alternatives, bamboo toothbrushes will decompose in only 6 months. This makes them much more environmentally friendly than plastic disposable toothbrushes or electric toothbrush heads.
5. Buy items with no packaging at all
Avoid packaging altogether. Opt for items such as soap boars and solid shampoo bars which do not come in any plastic packaging. Shops such as Lush are offering customers a large range of “Naked” products. These green alternatives help cut back on plastic waste, making it easier for you to reduce plastic in your beauty routine.
6. Use recycling initiatives whereas possible
Some retailers are trialling recycling initiatives. Boots, among other retailers, are trialling a reverse vending machine. Customers are rewarded for bringing back their empty containers. If you have a scheme like this near you, make the most of it!
7. Avoid wipes and other single-use items
Standard makeup wipes, baby wipes and cotton pads are extremely convenient. However, they are not biodegradable so they end up adding to landfill waste. In addition to that, they can take up to a century to decompose. As these items are single-use, they are contributing to a significant amount of waste which will never biodegrade naturally. An alternative is to use a facecloth or buy reusable cotton pads which are machine-washable. Sheet masks should also be avoided as well. Konjac is a great alternative to cotton as it is made of natural materials and is eco-friendly.
8. Choose eco-friendly glitter
Many people incorporate glitter into their beauty routine. This is especially true at festival-goers. It is now possible to buy biodegradable glitter. This means that glitter is not something you need to completely remove from your beauty regime.
9. Recycle
Biochemist Brianne West, the founder of zero waste beauty brand, Ethique, said that “Every year, over 80-billion plastic bottles are disposed of from just shampoo and conditioner alone.” In addition to these, some plastics can take up to 500-years to naturally decompose. Taking these horrific statistics into consideration, being able to reduce our individual plastic waste is a great step in the right direction.
Although adopting a zero-waste strategy may not be possible yet, options are increasingly available to us to reduce plastic in our beauty routines. All we need to do is make some small changes to make a big impact.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal and recycling needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Skip Hire
Online skip hire has never been easier. The Internet gives us the flexibility to decide which skip size we need and when we need it Whether it's for a general house spring clean, a house renovation, a loft conversation or a garden project, skips can help you manage your waste.
Here are 5 ways for you to make the most of your skip hire
1. Be careful when choosing the skip size
It’s common for people to want to hire the smallest skip in order to save money. People may also choose the smallest skip size because they are concerned they do not have sufficient space to store the skip. Do your research beforehand in order to get the skip size you actually need. Be realistic with the waste you have. If you know it will be a tight fit, then don’t risk hiring the smallest size. Instead, go up a size until you are confident it will be big enough to get rid of all your rubbish in one go. Otherwise you may have to hire another skip at another time, or take several trips to the tip.
2. Use The Space Efficiently
Don’t just throw stuff into the skip. Not only can this be potentially dangerous as it can lead to injuries from straining and lifting heavy items, but you don’t know if children or pets have climbed into the skip. By placing the items carefully in the skip, you can ensure all the space is used. Wherever possible, break the rubbish down to use less space. This is especially effective for packaging boxes and furniture. Ensuring all the space is used efficiently will mean you can fit more waste in, but keep an eye on the levels to ensure you do not overfill the skip.
3. Consider The Timing Carefully
Think carefully about what free time you have to use the skip. It is common to hire a skip for 2 weeks, giving you plenty of time to finish your projects. However, if you think the project will not take that long, consider a one day hire skip. This reduces the need for a permit as the rubbish gets removed immediately. If you plan the timing carefully, you can have the rubbish outside of your home all ready for collection, saving you precious time.
4. Combine Your House Jobs
Rather than having to hire a skip several times, try and time your projects so that you can use the same skip for more than one project. For example, if you are doing a house clear out, do you have time to combat the garden shed clear out you were also planning on tackling at some point? If you have a skip hired for two weeks, you can easily combine your jobs to get the most out of your skip hire.
5. Check what items you want to get rid of in advance
Before you hire a skip, try to plan what items you will need to get rid of. It’s easy to think that skips are able to take away any rubbish for you but this is not the case. Before you hire a skip, read which items you are and are not allowed to place in the skip. Knowing this information in advance will save you from placing any forbidden item in there and will also impact the size of the skip you will need.
Here are just 5 things you should consider before hiring a skip so that you can ensure you make the most of it and are as productive as possible.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal and recycling needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
48 Things You Should Get Rid Of In Your House
Your house can soon fill up with rubbish and it is always a good idea to have a sort out every now and then. It is surprising the number of things you can find in your home that you do not need or have no use for and yet for some reason you haven’t thrown out yet. Sometimes it can be daunting to do a big tidy up however if you take it one room at a time and then do it on a regular basis, you can keep on top of the clutter.
Here are 48 things you will find around your hope that you should get rid of
1. Old Toiletries
2. Old Makeup
3. Appliance manuals- These are important to keep but only whilst you own the appliance. Haven’t had it for years? Then why are you holding on to the manual? A lot of manuals are now available on line as well
4. Cables and wires, you don’t need any more
5. Old kitchen appliances
6. Broken coat hangers
7. Old underwear or worn out clothes
8. Old Knives
9. Dead Batteries
10. Old Calendars, notebooks and stationery
11. Broken fairy lights
12. Old hairbrushes
13. Old Electronic items
14. Old sofas and other furniture
15. Empty pens
16. Worn out shoes
17. Books you have read
18. Games and Jigsaws with pieces missing
19. Odd socks
20. Exercise equipment you don’t use
21. Expired Food
22. Expired medicine
23. Old pairs of glasses
24. Broken Jewellery or single earrings
25. Scraps of fabric or wool
26. Dying house plants
27. Worn towels
28. Half burned candles
29. Dried paintbrushes
30. Receipts you no longer need
31. CDs and DVDs
32. Spices
33. Old Christmas and Birthday Cards
34. Old magazines, newspapers and catalogues
35. Old crayons
36. Old bathmats
37. Old air fresheners
38. Old toys
39. Takeaway menus you don’t use
40. Old sheets, bedding and pillow
41. Photos, posters and artwork you no longer like or want to display
42. Empty perfume bottles
43. Tourist souvenirs from holiday
44. Old train or gig tickets
45. Expired vouchers
46. Loyalty cards you don’t use
47. Pay slips that are older than 2 years
48. Old phone covers
Struggling to figure out what to throw away? If you haven’t used it in the past 6 months (unless the item is seasonal like Christmas decorations, you more than likely do not need it) You may find yourself exaggerating how much you use the item, and underestimate how much space the item is actually taking up.
To help decide what you should throw away and what you should keep, ask yourself the following questions
When did you last use it?
How often do you use it?
How expensive was it?
How much space does it take up?
Does it have sentimental value?
Although some of these items can only be disposed of in specific ways, or you can donate the items that are still in good condition, many of these items can easily be disposed of in a skip. When you undertake a massive tidy session in your home, considering hiring a skip to help make the process a lot easier and more convenient for you.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
5 Reasons to hire a skip before Christmas
Christmas time is nearly upon us and the thought of having guests over or finding room for more gifts can sometimes be overwhelming. You might even be considering having a big clear-out before the big day.
Here are 5 reasons why you should consider hiring a skip before Christmas for you to have a tidier start to the new year.
1. Your chance to get rid of old junk
When you open your presents on Christmas Day, you can suddenly find your home filled with new stuff that you may not have room for. One way around this is to go through those boxes and bags you have been meaning to get rid of during the year but haven’t had the chance to in advance. You may be surprised how much you have been hoarding in your home that you no longer have need for. Items that do not work or things you just don’t like. It also allows your previously crammed wardrobes and attics to become a bit neater.
2. Free up space
If you have guests during the Christmas period, you will probably notice a huge increase in your household waste. Although paper can easily be crushed, glass and metal items that are bulkier take up more room and so it is important you try and get this waste removed before your guests arrive or before Christmas day to avoid running out of space. A domestic mini skip is a great option for this.
3. It saves a trip to the tip
Your time is precious during the build up to Christmas, and so hiring a skip can save you the trip to and from the recycling plant. Not only does this save you time, it also saves you on the money it takes in fuel to drive to the tip, but also gives you peace of mind that you can fit all the waste you want in a skip rather than deal with the prospect of going on multiple tip journeys.
4. You can recycle a range of materials
From paper to glass, metal and electronics, these are just some of the materials you can dispose of in your skip. Although there are some items that you should not place in skips, the majority of items are fine. Hiring a mini skip is a great way to get rid of bulkier items which otherwise would take up a large proportion of your household bin (which needs to remain as empty as possible before your guests arrive and the amount of waste suddenly shoots up). Electronic items are great for placing in the skip giving you peace of mind that you are getting rid of your unwanted items in the correct way.
5. You are promoting recycling
We all know the importance of recycling but over Christmas when you are rushing, household waste can end up being low down on your priorities. Using a skip to help clear space before Christmas itself can be a big help as not only is it an easy way to get rid of a large amount of rubbish in one go, you can be assured that your rubbish will be separated correctly and as much of the waste recycled as possible
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
11 ways to stay safe around skips
Hiring a skip is a quick and easy way to get rid of the rubbish you have been storing in your home or business. Although you might not think that hiring a skip is particularly dangerous, if you are not sensible and careful during the process it could lead to potential injuries. Here are a few tips to make sure you and other people remain safe whilst you hire and use your skip. A lot of the tips are common sense, however if you are in a rush, even the simplest things can be forgotten and that’s when things can become risky.
1. When preparing for your skip, ensure you are ready for the skip’s arrival. Remember that your skip needs to be placed on a stable, flat surface that is free from any obstructions. Ensure all vehicles have been removed from your drive if this is where you are planning your skip to go. Also make sure if you are placing the skip on the side of a road that the height and position of the skip will not obscure the view of any cars driving past or reversing.
2. Ensure your skip can be delivered with ease. Remove any cars or obstacles that could stop the delivery truck accessing your property.
3. Once your skip has been delivered, do NOT try and move it. It is important you know where you want the skip in advance, as once it is placed on the ground you will not be able to move it yourself. They are extremely heavy and attempting to move a skip can not only cause you injury, it can damage the surface it is placed on.
4. When the skip is being delivered, keep your young children and any pets inside the house. They can be extremely inquisitive to new things and want to get involved but it can be dangerous if they get in the way. Small children and pets will not be easily visible to the driver delivering your skip.
5. Be careful when filling your skip. Always check there are no small animals, pets or children that have climbed in the skip before you place heavy items into it.
6. Never put hazardous waste in skips or any other item that is not suitable for skips. Check online or contact us for the full list of items you should not place in skips if you are unsure. Gas cylinders, paint, white goods and batteries are all good examples of what you cannot place in skips.
7. Be careful when placing heavy items in the skip. Always lift with your knees and always ask for help if you need it. Skips have really high sides so although you may be able to lift the item, being able to lift it high enough to place into the skip can be another matter. It can cause back injuries and lasting damage, so you must know your limits.
8. Don’t overfill your skip. If your skip is overfilled it may not be collected as it would be unsafe to drive on roads with a skip that full. Each skip has a weight limit that you need to stick to. Even if you are not exceeding the weight limit, if you have overfilled your skip there is a chance items could fall out and cause damage.
9. Have a system when loading your skip. Don’t just throw it all in at once. If you take a minute to think about how to load it properly, you will be able to fit more in it and ensure nothing can fall out.
10. Always think about the public. This is slightly less of a risk if the skip is on your private property but if you have it placed on a street you need to ensure that it is not getting in anyone’s way. You may want to consider hazard lights to indicate to people that the skip is there.
11. Monitor your skip, especially if it is on a public street. You need to make sure that other people are not taking advantage and using your skip as well. Not only is this rude, they could be putting hazardous material in the skip which does not belong there.
All these tips are easy to stick to and by following these rules, you will not only stay safe around skips, you will be able to make the most out of your skip hire.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
The Skip vs The Tip
When you have a large amount of waste to get rid of that will not fit in your regular bins, you tend to have two main options available for you. Either go to the tip or hire a skip. Here we discuss the benefits of both, and which one is the better and most efficient and effective option.
Location
A lot of people have a waste management centre or tip that is within driving distance of their home, but the distance can vary dramatically. When considering going to the tip, calculate how many trips you think it will take you to remove all of your rubbish, calculate the time it will take for you to drive there, empty your rubbish into the relevant sections of the tip, and then drive back to potentially repeat the process several times over. In addition to this, depending on when you go, there could be dozens of people with the same idea as you as you never know how busy the tip will be. During busy periods, it can be extremely stressful and time consuming to go to the tip.
The great thing about skip hire is that you know the location of the skip will be as near to your house as possible. If you have room, it can be on your land or on your drive which is fantastic. Even if you must have the skip on the road, you know that it will be closer to you than the tip is. This is extremely convenient, especially if you have a few last-minute bits of rubbish that you have forgotten about as it means you don’t have to do another trip to the tip. Once you hire a skip, you know that the skip is only for your use, so you have don’t have to worry about the potential crowds and queues.
Cost
Because you do not have to pay for the tip, it can seem like the obvious choice to go for. However, taking into account the several trips you may have to do, you need to calculate how much fuel you will use in the process as it can add up quickly, especially if your car is full of heavy rubbish. You must think about cost not just in monetary terms but also how much time it will cost you to go to and from the tip. If you need multiple trips this could take you a whole day or even an entire weekend. The time saved will be significant if you chose a skip instead.
Amount of waste
Your decision will be made for you automatically if you have too much rubbish to fit in the car – in that scenario a skip may be your only option. Having a skip means to can get rid of it all in one go and even if you could fit it in your car, it will save you having to make several trips. On the other hand, if you only have a small amount of rubbish, there may not be any point in hiring a skip at all. Measure the quantity of rubbish you are expecting to have and see if there is a skip size that will suit your needs. There is no point hiring a massive skip if you do not have a lot of rubbish, however there are many sizes available. You will also be surprised how much rubbish you have. You may think you will not have a lot, but once you start on a project, the rubbish adds up quickly so a skip may be the choice for you.
Type of waste
A deciding factor is also the type of waste you are wanting to get rid of. If the rubbish smells or is dirty, it will not be a good idea to have it in your car as it could cause permanent damage. Although there are some items that are not suitable for skips, the majority of rubbish can be placed in skips and the great thing is you do not have to separate your waste as this will be done for you once the skip has been collected.
Flexible
A major concern for people when hiring a skip is where to store it. However, this shouldn’t put you off hiring a skip. Even if you do not have space on your private property or to stay on the street overnight, then we offer a same day skip hire service / wait and load service which allows you to get rid of your rubbish quickly within 30 minutes and then the skip will immediately be taken away. By choosing a skip you can be more flexible as you are not dependent on the opening and closing times of the tip, avoiding peak traffic hours or the need to queue when you get there.
Although tips are great places to get rid of your rubbish, a skip may be the best option for you as it provides you with flexibility, they come in a range of sizes and is for your use only which can save you time, money in the long run and energy.
To find out more about how we can help you with your waste disposal needs, please contact us on 0800 083 7807 or visit our website for further information.
4 reasons to hire a skip when moving house
1 - A skip helps you banish junk
One aspect of moving which can be a real stress inducer is the physical aspect of moving all of your belongings. For many people, moving represents new beginnings and a chance to start a-fresh and so with that in mind they decide to have a mass clear out. From clothes that don’t fit, to old computer games and paperwork, there are a great deal of things that we keep promising ourselves that one day we’ll find a use for them. However, moving house is a good time to re-evaluate just how much you need (or don’t need) those items. By hiring a skip, you can easily unload your unwanted items without having to worry about what goes in the recycling bin and what goes in general waste and whether or not you’ll be able to find time to take your junk to the local tip.
2 – A skip helps you move into your new home quicker
After all the stress of finding a new property, you’ll likely be counting down the days until you can get moved in. However, if you have lots of junk to get rid of, and you need to clean your current home before you vacate then the actual day can really begin to drag on and it could be very late into the night before you’re finally able to shut that door. By hiring a skip in advance of your moving date, you can begin unloading waste from your home well in advance so that come moving day the whole process takes far less time.
3 – Skips can be the environmentally friendly option
If you’re conscious of the environment and want to cut down on your carbon footprint then hiring a skip should be high on your agenda. Whereas landfill ends up rotting, waste that goes to skips is taken to our waste transfer sites where every effort is made to recycle recyclable materials, lessening the impact on the environment.
4 – Hiring a skip can bring down costs in other ways
By taking a minimalist approach to your possessions and having a mass clear out you can drastically cut down on the number of things that you need to take to your new home. While this might be a gut-wrenching decision for your inner-hoarder, you may find that the decision helps you out in a big way. The less stuff you have to transport, the smaller a van you will need to hire, or the smaller a removal team will be required on the day.
Are you interested in hiring a skip for your moving day? You can book yours using our online form in just a few clicks here, or alternatively you can contact us on freephone 0800 083 7807.
Skips for garden waste
When it comes to disposing of garden waste you have quite a few options, but some are certainly better than others. First of all, you could use your green bin. Green bins are usually provided freely by your councils and allow you some space to unload debris from your garden. However, they aren’t the most efficient of methods. Most councils only pick up green waste on a fortnightly basis, which means you are limited in the amount of waste you can get rid of in a period of time. So, if you have a big garden or you have a lot of work to do then it may take you a very long time to get rid of all the waste required to get your garden where you want it to be.
Another option that is sometimes used by homeowners is to incinerate all of their garden waste. This means setting fire to as much of your garden waste as you can. However, while this seems like a quick and efficient way to get rid of waste, it’s often not the case. While wood, dried up leaves and other dry rubbish may burn away, grass and rubble and other types of garden waste like soil aren’t going to budge. You can also land yourself in hot water if the fire gets out of control, creates too much smoke or ends up scorching the ground beneath it.
By far the most efficient method of reducing garden waste is to hire a skip. A skip is dropped right at your front door, at the most convenient time for you, in the actual size you require and your waste is removed of in a clean and healthy way with no risk.
Planning a garden clearance and thinking of hiring a skip? With our online booking system you can have a skip arranged for delivery with just a few clicks of your mouse. Find out more here: https://booking.lspsskiphire.co.uk/ or alternatively contact us on freephone 08000 083 7807.
Is your house a tip? Hire a skip!
In fact, it’s a well-known fact that humans work best in clear and organized settings. A home that is cluttered and messy can make it hard to focus on the task ahead, whether that’s managing the morning school rush or simply just relaxing to read a book. What’s more, an abundance of things in your home can also contribute to negative mental states like stress and anxiety. Not the best footing to start 2018.
So, what can you do? Well if you want to avoid the headache of a long and laborious clean up and several journeys to the local tip then the best place to start is by hiring a skip to the dirty work for you.
How do I order a skip?
With our new online booking system, it’s easier than ever to order your skip. Click here and order your skip with just a few clicks. Or alternatively give us a call on 0800 083 7807 to speak to one of our team.
What am I not allowed to put in a skip?
While skips are the number one most effective tool in clearing the clutter from your home, there are still a few items which don’t belong in there. The following items do not belong in a skip: liquids, oil, petrol, diesel, paint and paint cans, fluorescent tubes, gas bottles, gas canisters, asbestos, batteries, tyres, fridges, freezers, air conditioning units, hazardous or toxic materials and clinical or medical waste. For help disposing of these items please call our team for advice.
Do I need a permit?
If your skip is going on your driveway or your own private land, then you don’t need to worry about a permit or license. However, if you are short on space and wish to put it on a public road or pavement then you will indeed need one. Failing to do so could lead to the skip being removed early, or even monetary fines. Permits are typically issued by councils and can take a bit of time (3-7 days) to be issued, however we know the process well and can apply on your behalf.
Ready to book your skip and reclaim your home? Call us now on 0800 083 7807 or click here to order your skip online.
