Whether you are doing some DIY, having some building or renovation work done, or just having a big clear out, hiring a skip is a great way of disposing of a large amount of rubbish and waste.
However, if you have never hired a skip before or if you have experienced problems with hiring a skip before, you could find this to be quite a daunting task.
Whether you are a beginner or an expert in skip hire, the following tips can help to ensure that you are disposing of your waste correctly and responsibly, that the process is as effortless and problem-free as possible, and that you get the most out of hiring a skip.
Book Your Skip in Plenty of Time
If you know when you will need your skip, it is a good idea to book it as far in advance as possible to increase your chances of getting one when you need it for. If you leave it too late, you may not be able to get one in time, or you may have to get a skip that is not practical or cost-effective.
Be Smart When Loading Your Skip
To make the most of your skip, you should load the biggest, bulkiest, and heavier items at the bottom, then load smaller, lighter items towards the top. This will help to ensure that you get as much waste in your skip as possible.
Do Not Overload Your Skip
There are strict regulations regarding how much waste you can put in a skip. If stacked too high, with waste reaching over the top of the skip, the skip is at risk of becoming unbalanced when it comes to lifting it onto the trucks. Not only is this dangerous, but it is also illegal. So, you must take care to not overload your skip.
Get a Licence
If you want to leave your skip on the road, rather than private land such as a driveway, garden, or building site, you will need to obtain a license before hiring a skip. It can take up to seven days to get a permit from your council, so you must get in touch with your local council as soon as possible to arrange this in time.
Some skip hire companies may sort out permits for you, so it is worth checking whether this is something that a company offers before booking your skip hire and applying for a permit. Here at LSPS, we can apply to your local council for a permit and complete all the necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Do Not Put Hazardous Waste in Your Skip
Any hazardous waste cannot be disposed of in a skip. Some of the most common items that cannot be put in a skip include asbestos, batteries, clinical or medical waste, electrical appliances and equipment, liquids, paint or cans of paint, and tyres.
If prohibited items are found in your skip upon emptying, the restricted items are likely to be returned to you, and you may be required to pay an extra charge.
Protect Your Surface
Skips can potentially cause damage to gardens and driveways, particularly those made with soft tarmac or block paving, if placed directly on the surface. To reduce the risk of damage, place scaffolding planks or large pieces of wood down for the skip to rest on.
Select the Right Size Skip
The best way of ensuring that your skip does not become overloaded is to get the right size skip for the job.
Ensuring that you get the right size skip for your requirements will mean you do not end up overpaying for a skip that you are not going to fill, as well as preventing you from needing to hire a second skip should it not be big enough to hold all your waste.
Two-yard mini skips are ideal for most homeowners looking to get rid of household waste. Whereas an eight-yard maxi skip with a drop-down door for easy loading is typically used by builders. Larger 20-yard and 40-yard roll-on, roll-off skips are also available for bigger projects.
If you are unsure what size skip would be the most cost-effective and adequate size for your waste disposal, take a look at this skip size guide or consult an expert.
Our team at LSPS is experienced in supplying skips for all kinds of waste disposal, from small domestic jobs to large commercial projects. If you have any queries regarding skip hire or require assistance in choosing the ideal skip for you, please get in touch with us today via 0800 083 7807 or info@lspsskiphire.co.uk.
Quick Tips for Hiring Skips
Reasons to Hire a Skip in Winter
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.
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.
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.
Items NOT to put in a skip- Dangerous Items
Hiring a skip is a convenient way of disposing of household waste. Although skips can accommodate a huge range of items, there are some materials and items that should never be placed in a skip. Here we give you more information about which items you should avoid putting in a skip and some alternative disposal methods.
Skip hire is cheap and convenient. Although much of the waste is recycled there are some items that require particular disposal methods. These are not the responsibility of skip hire. Hazardous items that could cause harm to others are not allowed to be placed in a skip.
Asbestos
Asbestos is harmful and cannot be recycled so it needs to be disposed of by specialist companies. Under no circumstances can you place asbestos in your skip. There are specialist companies you can contact instead to deal with this waste. Specialist companies know how to remove asbestos in the safest way and will dispose of it accordingly. It is illegal to recycle or reuse asbestos, so qualified people should be called to remove the substance and ensure it is being disposed of correctly. Visit https://www.gov.uk/asbestos-in-home to find out how to contact your local council to organize the disposal.
Batteries
You should not place any types of battery into a skip. They contain metals and chemicals that can be harmful and therefore need to be disposed of with care. There are many hazardous materials within a battery, including lead which can be extremely poisonous. Luckily, it is easy to recycle batteries as many supermarkets and DIY stores have containers for old batteries.
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Fluorescent light bulbs contain mercury which is a harmful substance and therefore not suitable for skip waste. Contact your local council or recycling centre to find out the best place to dispose of them.
Fridges and Freezers
Some local councils will collect your fridge or freezer for free, so it is worth exploring this option. If this is not possible you might need to pay for a specialist collection or take it to your local recycling plant.
Gas Cylinders
Not all skip hire companies are licensed to take gas cylinders, therefore you should always check in advance. Your local recycling centres may be able to recycle them so it is worth contacting them to find out. It does not matter if the gas cylinder is full, half full or empty, you should avoid placing in a skip. In many cases, you can return gas cylinders to the place of purchase and they can reuse and refill them.
Medical Waste
It is understandable that medical waste should not be placed in a skip as it could increase the risk of spreading infection and increased contamination. Get in touch with your local council who can point you to a company that will dispose medical waste on your behalf.
Paint
Paint tins cannot be placed in a skip unless they are completely empty. Contact your local council if you have filled paint tins you need to dispose of. The same rules apply for other solvents, fuels, oils and bleach.
Tyres
Tyres also need to be disposed of separately to general waste. There are organisations that collect tyres. Alternatively, contact your local car garage to see if they can suggest a place that will take them. They may even be able to dispose of them for you.
If you do not adhere to these rules, the skip hire company could refuse to remove the skip from your property or apply an additional charge. If you are unsure about any item you want to dispose of in a skip, please contact us to ensure it is acceptable.
Skip hire is extremely convenient and practical however it is not a one-stop-shop for all of your waste. For legal or practical reasons, some materials are not suitable for skips and so you need to plan ahead and know the correct ways to dispose of your rubbish before choosing your skip size. By being aware of the correct way to dispose of items can help you avoid any additional charges and will also save you time.
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.
10 ways to teach kids how to recycle
Recycling is such an important topic and it has never been more prominent in our daily lives. Our children will be growing up with recycling being a more normal practice. We need to encourage this behaviour in order to ensure they and future generations continue to recycle as much as possible and understand the importance of it. Here are some ideas you can use with your children to help teach them about recycling and encourage recycling behaviour.
1. Increase the number of recycle bins around the house - Try and have recycle bins on each floor of your house to encourage kids to recycle first rather than placing all rubbish in the general waste bin. Having a small bin in the child’s bedroom and teaching them what items to put in there will also help.
2. Label your bin using graphics - Place a graphic of cardboard, plastic etc on the bin so kids can easily identify which bin is which. When you are throwing something away, hand it to the child and ask them which bin they think it should go in. You could also get them to decorate the bin themselves as a fun art project.
3. Use both sides of paper - Colouring and art are great activities for your child to do but try and encourage them to use both sides of the paper to reduce the amount of waste. If you are using paints, get specific paper designed for paint so that both sides can be used. Try and get them to use crayons instead of pens or colouring pencils as they are softer and don’t dent the other side of the paper.
4. Get creative with recycling materials - Before you throw anything in the bin, think about whether you can create anything with it. Building a rocket, musical instruments and more are possible with a bit of creativity. You can use old containers to place paint in for future art projects as well.
5. Compost - Get you kids to place food waste into a compost container in the garden. This will show them how compost works, and they can help you use it in the garden to plant fruit, veg or flowers of their own.
6. Go to the recycling centre - An easy way to teach kids about recycling is to take them to your local recycling centre so they can see recycling on a large scale for themselves.
7. Games - There are online games available specifically made to help kids learn more about recycling.
8. Donate clothes and toys - On a regular basis, get your children to go through their stuff and see if there is anything they don’t play with anymore or clothes that no longer fit and get your child to donate them. This teaches them how people less fortunate than them can benefit from their unwanted clothes and toys. It also helps keep your house a bit more clutter free.
9. Rewards - Incorporate a reward system into your recycling efforts. Give them a gold star every time they recycle and keep a record of their progress so they can see how far away they are from a reward. The rewards only have to be small but it’s a great way to make recycling more fun and engaging.
10. Demonstrate - You need to ensure all members of your family are taking part, not just your children. Kids learn a lot of their behaviour from their parents and older members of the family, so you need to lead by example.
A lot of these ideas are simple to implement but could have a massive impact. By normalizing recycling when children are young, they are more likely to continue this behaviour as they grow older. So, taking time to incorporate some of these activities into your daily routine can reap huge benefits in the long term. The important thing to remember is to try and make the tasks fun and easy to do, otherwise you will lose their attention and they will think recycling is boring and not something they want to do.
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.
Recycling at theme parks
Theme parks attracts thousands of tourists in the UK. They provide thrills and entertainment, making them a great choice for a day out. However, despite them being a great destination, the number of guests can lead to a massive amount of waste. Here we discuss what theme parks can do to ensure as much waste is recycled as possible.
Bins
It is a simple thing to implement, but planning is still involved when it comes to placing recycle bins around the park. When people are busy having a great time, recycling is sometimes quite low on their priorities, so theme parks have a responsibility to ensure it is as easy as possible for guests to recycle. Have a sufficient number of bins so that guests can always easily access one. Target high volume areas (around toilets and food areas) as this will be where the most waste will be. Also ensure you have bins throughout the queuing areas of the park. Customers do not want to have to leave the queue in order to get rid of their rubbish and this will lead to more littering. Also, ensure your bins are consistent. Use the same symbols and style of bin throughout the theme park so customers can easily identify them.
Lighting
Theme parks require a lot of lighting, especially on the rides themselves. Being able to use LED lights and eco-friendly light bulbs wherever possible is essential. It can be complicated to set up but having a renewable energy program in place will benefit you in the long run. You can also convert food waste to generate energy for electricity.
Food and drink
Water is a necessity for everyone, so this is a large area you should combat to ensure unnecessary waste is not created. Try and encourage customers to bring their own reusable bottles by providing free water fountains around the park. This is both convenient to the customer, avoids single use plastic bottles being sold in large quantities and will significantly reduce your plastic waste.
At your food stations, try and use reusable cutlery if possible. If not, try and use cutlery and napkins that have been produced from recycled materials. If possible, try and team up with a local charity and get left over food donated to those in need.
Greenery
Not only is greenery great for the environment, it helps improve the look of the theme park and improves the mood of guests. Use trees effectively around seating areas to create natural and tranquil areas for guests to have a sit down and relax. Using greenery to do this avoids you having to have as many indoor areas that require lighting and air conditioning.
Staff
It is not just about the customers at the theme park and worrying about the waste they create. You also need to consider the staff at the park. You need to provide enough training on your recycling program and ensure that all members of staff are on board and contribute to the cause. Get them to try and bring their own packed lunch, car share if possible and only use disposable products that you actually need. If your staff are fully behind the recycling program, they can help ensure the guests follow the rules as well.
Rewards
Consider rewarding customers who help with the recycling program. You can get vending machines that reward people for recycling and returning their bottles. If customers bring their own cups for hot drinks, offer a small discount. There are many ways you can use small rewards to encourage the behaviour you desire.
Paper
There are a few small changes you can make to reduce the amount of paper your theme park produces. Ensure customers can access their tickets online and just show a barcode or QR code at the entrance as opposed to having to physically print their tickets. Also, have an app for your theme park. Not only will this stop you having to print and hand out thousands of maps each day, it also helps improve the customer experience as the app will not only show them a map, but it can show them the best routes to get to the rides they want and also real time waiting times so they can plan their day more efficiently.
Some success stories
There are many theme parks that are already doing a lot in order to try and reduce the amount of waste they create. Disney has been known for trying to tackle this problem for years. Due to the sheer volume of guests that visit Disney theme parks each day, it is a massive challenge to tackle waste. They recycle over a dozen materials which equates to thousands of tons each year. They used recycled energy to cool their parks and even recycle human waste from their theme parks and hotels so that it can be used as fertilisers on farms. They have also teamed up with a charity and donated used soaps and bottles of shampoos from their hotels which are recycled and used to create hygiene products for people in need around the world. SeaWorld removed all single use plastic from their theme parks including single use plastic bags and plastic straws.
A Copenhagen park called Tivoli started a recycling deposit-based program back in 1998 where customers paid a deposit for a cup which they then got refunded once they returned the cup at the end of the day. This simple scheme has effectively been used across theme parks, festivals and sports events.
Merlin Theme Parks (which includes Alton Towers, Legoland, Thorpe Park and more) have also teamed up with Coca Cola. The initiative offers half price entry to the group’s theme parks in exchange for empty plastic bottles being handed in to get recycled.
From the examples above, theme parks are trying hard to combat the issue of waste. Some of the larger parks are putting in large initiatives to combat this problem but there is also room for improvement. Also, some theme parks are potentially lagging and should follow the example of others to ensure they are doing as much as possible to reduce waste. The first thing any theme park should do is carry out a waste audit. From here, they can identify which areas they are struggling with and have these as a priority.
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.
25 ways to reduce rubbish in offices
It is important that in this day and age, all companies try and cut down on the amount of waste they produce and recycle as much as possible. The number of green businesses and green offices are growing, but some companies are still lagging. This blog discusses some easy things offices can implement quickly and simply in order to start reducing office waste.
Packaging
1. When purchasing any supplies for the office, try and choose options that do not include a lot of excess packaging. If packaging is unavoidable, try and recycle
2. Speak to suppliers about delivering goods in returnable containers rather than loads of packaging. This is becoming more popular, so it is worth asking your supplier in advance
3. Bulk buy coffee, tea and sugar supplies. This will stop staff bringing in their own or buying drinks from coffee shops. Buying in bulk also cuts down on the packaging used
4. Provide a filtered water system to cut down on plastic bottles in the office
Food and drink
5. Ask your employees to use reusable cutlery/ silverware rather than bringing in disposable plastic cutlery. If your company can provide staff with cutlery in the staffroom, they will be less likely to bring in disposable items
6. Use reusable cups and mugs. Ask employees to bring their own or provide them as a gesture of good will. They are reasonably cheap and will mean you will significantly cut down on the number of disposable coffee cups you need to get rid of. They are notoriously difficult to recycle
7. Consider buying a composting bin to place in the staff kitchen area. It’s a great way to avoid as much waste going to landfill as possible. By putting food waste in a separate compost bin, you can have it collected by a company or use the compost yourself if you have any green space or garden
8. Also get your employees to try and bring their own lunches in their own containers or provide them with plates and bowls. This will cut back significantly on the amount of food packaging you have to throw away
9. Invest in tea towels rather than providing staff with paper towels.
Paper
10. Wherever possible, store files digitally. Although this is standard practice for many companies, there are a lot of businesses still heavily reliant on printed copies
11. Change the settings on all computers to automatically print double sided
12. Encourage your staff to make amends to documents digitally rather than printing off several drafts of documents
13. If you can, re use scrap pieces of paper, envelopes, folders and other stationary whenever possible
14. Buy lighter weight paper
15. Leave messages for colleagues by sending them emails rather than writing messages down
16. Before printing documents, look at the margins and line spacing on your documents to ensure you are using the space as efficiently as possible
17. Recycle unwanted paper and shred any confidential information. Shredded paper can also be recycled, so ensure this always happens.
18. Try and take a tablet or laptop into meetings to take notes on rather than pen and paper
19. If you do have to print, try and avoid printing in colour
20. Store important staff information such as policies and notifications in a central location on the computer system that people can access rather than printing several copies of each update.
Office Equipment
21. Make the most out of all of your ink cartridges. Rather than buying new ones when they are finished, look into buying refills instead to cut down on the amount of plastic you are using
22. When buying electrical equipment for your office always think quality over price. Although you may have to pay slightly more, going for higher quality equipment should last you longer and will therefore be more cost efficient but also reduce the waste created when you replace it
23. If you only use certain equipment occasionally, see if you can hire it instead of buying it outright
24. Ensure you dispose of your electrical equipment in the right way, such as batteries
25. Make sure you have clearly labelled bins throughout the office and make it as easy for staff to recycle as possible. Get rid of individual bins at people’s desk as it will make them head over to the main bins and are therefore more likely to split their rubbish into the correct bins.
Some offices have managed to become completely paperless. Although this may not be achievable for some companies, the list above shows that there are a variety of things you can implement to ensure you are going in the right direction. The main thing is to implement waste cutting techniques and ensure your staff stick to them. It will take some time for staff to get used to all the new initiatives, but once they have got into a routine, you should see a significant drop in your office waste. Trying an incentive and rewarding the member of staff who reduces their waste the most is also an effective tactic.
To find out more about how we can help you with your office 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.
LSPS guide to using a skip for house clearances
Do I need a skip license?
If you are placing the skip on your private property, then you will not require a skip permit. However, if you are intending to keep the skip on a public road, you will have to have a license to do this. LSPS will take the hassle out of this and we will handle all of the paperwork for you, so you don’t have to. Usually local councils take about 3 days to issue a license so please take these timings into consideration.
What are the benefits of using a skip hire for house clearances?
- There are so many reasons why hiring a skip might be the best solution for you:You can choose the size you need. Whether it is for a small or large clear out, you are in control of what size skip you need. There are five different skip hire options that we offer, so we can be flexible around your needs
- Convenience- having a skip delivered to your door can be extremely convenient and a precious time saver. It means you can get rid of your rubbish in one go and will save you time and money on travelling to and from the tip. If you only need a skip for a short while, we also offer a wait and load service which means you have a short window of time to get rid of your rubbish and we will immediately take the skip away for you, meaning you don’t have the skip outside your house overnight.
- Environmentally friendly - we will ensure that the rubbish in the skip will be recycled where possible.
This question completely depends on the individual circumstances. The ideal skip for you will depend on the amount of rubbish you need to get rid of. It is usually a case of the bigger the house, the bigger the skip needed. Refer to our skip size guide here which provides a visual representation of how much you can fit in each skip size. Just remember before choosing that it’s not always best to go for a smaller size if you think there is a chance you may fill it completely. You will be surprised once you start clearing stuff out how much more rubbish you have then you initially suspected. If you get a skip that is too small, you risk overfilling, and this could mean your skip cannot be taken away due to safety reasons. Alternatively, don’t go for too large a size as you need to consider how much space it will take up.
What can you put in the skip?
The list is almost endless of things you can put in the skip. It is more important to know what you can NOT place in the skip. Forbidden items include:
Liquids, oil, paint, asbestos, batteries, fridges, freezers, medical waste, AC units, hazardous and toxic materials, tyres and gas bottles.
Where do I put the skip?
Ideally you would have space on your private land or driveway to store the skip. This is convenient for you in many ways as it stops you needing a skip license, it is close to your house, and you can keep it there until you need to get rid of it. If this is not an option for you then you can usually have it on the road outside your house (as long as they are no restrictions). The only difference with this is that you will have to try and get a place as close to your home as possible and you will have to receive a skip license beforehand, so please bear this in mind when you are considering timings.
If you need any more advice about your house clearance and your skip requirements, then please speak to LSPS today. Contact us on 0800 083 7807. We are open Monday- Friday 07.30 and 16.30 and Saturdays from 7.30 until midday.
5 common mistakes people make when hiring a skip
Mistake 1: Ordering the wrong size skip
This seems like a simple thing; however, it is extremely easy to under or over estimate how much rubbish you have. Once you start on a clear up project, you can sometimes get carried away and not realise how much rubbish you had to start with. People often order a skip that is too large and that takes up a lot of room when storing and is a waste of both space and potentially money if they are not intending to fill it. Alternatively, they order a skip that is too small, which leads to more work and multiple trips to remove the waste. You also need to make sure you are not driven too much on price. Do not order a skip just because it is the cheapest. You need to ensure it’s the best option for you.
Tip: If possible, in advance try and gather as much of the rubbish as you can to get an idea of how much space your rubbish takes up. Take this into account before choosing your skip size. Also take into consideration the space you have available to store the skip itself. If you are unsure what size to go for, ring and discuss it with someone who will be able to advise and try and match the skip to your requirements.
Mistake 2: Overfilling the skip
Linking to mistake number 1, a common occurrence is when people hire a skip which is too small and end up overfilling it as a result. A skip is considered overfull if it exceeds the fill line or if items are bulky and protruding from the top. A skip can be refused to be taken away as it is not safe to transport an overfilled skip, making it both an inconvenience and illegal. It can possibly end in a fine being issued.
Tip: Always monitor the amount of waste that goes in the skip to avoid overfilling. If in doubt of the amount of rubbish you have, go for the next size up to be on the safe side.
Mistake 3: Putting restricted items inside skips
Although the list of items you can place in a skip is extensive, there are some materials and items that are forbidden. Liquids, oil, paint, fluorescent tubes, asbestos, batteries, tyres and fridge / freezers are just some of the items you cannot place in your skip. If you are concerned about whether the waste you have is suitable for a skip, then please get in contact and we can advise you.
Mistake 4: Exceeding weight limits
Along with underestimating how much rubbish you must dispose of, another common mistake is underestimating how much your rubbish weighs. Each skip size is suitable for a certain amount of rubbish. Even if your waste fits nicely in the skip, it still may not be taken away if the skip becomes too heavy. Always be realistic when ordering a skip. If you think it will end up weighing a substantial amount, then please take this into consideration.
Mistake 5: Not considering parking space
Another mistake is not thinking realistically about where the skip is going to go. It needs to be close enough to your property that you can access it easily, however it also needs to be accessible when it gets collected. Ensure you are fully aware of the size of skip you want to hire and ensure you have enough space. This is even more important if you are planning on keeping the skip on a public road. You need to ensure the space is large enough and available for when the skip gets delivered. If you suddenly want to place it on public land rather than your own land you will need a permit which comes at a cost. Although we can sort out the paperwork for this, it could cause delays which are avoidable with forward planning.
Before hiring a skip, make sure you consider your budget, your space to store the skip, the amount of rubbish you have to get rid of, the weight of the rubbish as well as the type of waste. This will make it easier for you to choose the best skip for your needs. If you have any concerns about choosing the correct skip, LSPS are always happy to advise you. To find out how we can help you, 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.
How to declare WAR on junk: a room by room guide
However, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here we will provide a few key tips for tidying each room of the home.
Sheds and garages
‘Out of sight, out of mind’. We often have grand ambitions for our sheds and garages, perhaps hoping to turn them into home-cinemas, gyms, offices or workshops. However, more often than not, these rooms end up as abandoned outposts where step ladders, plant pots and long forgotten toys go to die. The best way to tackle your shed and garage is to do it in the summer when the weather is good. This way you can make the most of your garden or driveway and begin sorting through all your discarded objects. Remember, it’s okay to use sheds and garages as storage space but only keep what you think you’ll use in the future.
Living room
After the kitchen, the living room is the second most important room in most people’s homes. This is where we relax, where we read and where we do our homework. As these are quite social rooms, our living rooms don’t always tend to be the worst offender for junk, but that isn’t always so. Electrical items are usually the biggest offenders here so have a root through your cupboards and chuck out any long unused VHS tapes, DVD’s and that coffee table that’s seen better days.
Kitchen
The kitchen is the beating heart of the home and where we spend much of our time. A good restaurant chef knows that to create a good meal everything must be in its rightful place and your kitchen should be no different. Often the best way to keep your kitchen clutter-free is to organise it well. This means taking a minimal approach with just the basic amount of furniture and appliances that you need, allowing you space to do your thing.
Bedroom
It’s proven that clutter inhibits a good night’s sleep, so the bedroom is certainly one room which needs to be tackled in your war on junk. To improve your sleep, you need to have a real dedicated sort out. Begin by sorting your clothes into piles, take a view of clothes that you regularly wear, never wear or are broken and get rid!
Bathroom
No-one wants a dirty bathroom, but they can be hard to keep clean. To keep things in order you should try and get in the habit of picking up after you and throwing away any empty products such as toothpaste and shampoo. Easier said then done, so it might be worth doing it in one great swoop once a month.
Final thoughts
Doing a full audit of all our belongings can be a difficult thing to do. It’s not unusual to form emotional bonds with the things that you own, however you shouldn’t be afraid to chuck them away. After all, the benefits of having a clean and tidy household with space to breathe cannot be overestimated!
If you’re planning your own mass clear-out then we can help. To book a skip, please contact us on 0800 083 7807, or visit our website for further information.
3 reasons you should clear the clutter from your home
1 – Turn a profit
They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure and there’s only one way to find out of it’s true. Root through your belongings and you might be surprised at the value of what you find. Write down a list of all the items that you are considering throwing away and then get to work. Long gone are the days when you had to suffer the cold, early morning starts of car boot sales; now you can now easily sell all your unwanted goods on the internet. Thanks to websites like eBay and Pre-Loved, as well as so-called ‘selling groups’ on Facebook, it’s quite easy to offload your wares to the people in your neighbourhood.
2 – Finding forgotten treasures
The second reason that you should be pulling on the marigolds is that you never know what you might find. It’s easy to lose track of what we purchase over the years and behind sofas and underneath beds there is a whole world of phone chargers, cables, clothes, toys and other forgotten objects. Who knows what you might find, and it may even save you some money down the line.
3 – Helping others
Another good reason to clear the clutter is to help others. Whether it’s people in your local community or friends and family in need of some help, there is always someone that could benefit from your unwanted belongings. Some of your items can easily be gifted off through recycling bins, taken to charity shops or given away on ‘Freecycle’ groups on Facebook.
Final thoughts
While the internet and charity shops can provide a good outlet for some of your unwanted items, there are plenty of items which we just can’t seem to give away. Electrical goods, missing cables, clothes and toys beyond repair or awkwardly shaped pieces of furniture. If that’s the case, then the best option for you is to consider a skip.
Here at LSPS, all the waste that we collect is taken to our own waste transfer station so that it can be processed ready for recycling or energy generation. To find out more or to book your skip, please contact us on 0800 083 7807, or visit our website for further information.
How to profit from your spring cleaning efforts
Cashing in on spring cleaning
In the past car boot sales and garage sales were one of the only ways to get rid of your unwanted belongings locally. While both methods of selling your junk still remain popular, nothing has quite caught on so much in the past few years as the idea of online selling.
Online classifieds
There are numerous websites online where you can sell items from your home. Websites like Gumtree.com allow you to post classified ads with photographs and detailed descriptions to entice buyers. Once you’ve sold an item it is then up to you to arrange a pick up or post your item to the person who has purchased it. Alternatives to Gumtree include PreLoved and Craigslist which are both popular and largely free to use.
Online auction sites
An alternative model to classified ad websites is to use an auction website like eBay known as the ‘World’s Online Marketplace’. Founded in 1995 by French-born Iranian-American computer programmer Pierre Omidyar, eBay today has 167 million users and over 1 billion live listings at any one time. It’s an easy to use website, with minimal fees and an easy to understand model and you may be surprised at what you can actually sell on there.
Specialist sites
Whether its artwork and paintings, gym equipment or musical instruments there is a whole network of websites online where you can sell to specific audiences. If you have an item which you’ve been struggling to sell on a site like eBay which has a massive audience, you may find that you can gather more interest from hunting down a forum or specialist seller website which caters for your specific niche. An example of this is the website Etsy which deals specifically with handmade items.
Social media
A newcomer to the world of second hand sales is Facebook. Facebook recently launched Facebook Marketplace as an attempt to take on popular companies like eBay & Gumtree. Facebook users have been creating local ‘groups’ and selling items to people nearby for a long time now but their new mobile App makes the process even easier. It allows users to easily buy, sell, trade and barter for items with fellow users.
What to do with everything else?
While it would be nice to think that there is a buyer out there for every piece of junk you find in your home the sad truth is that it can often be harder than you might think. In particular items which are easily available, low cost or broken are not always a straight forward sale and rather than cluttering up your home, or ending up in landfill, should be disposed of in a skip and sorted by a qualified waste management service.
Here at LSPS we have a range of different sized skips to help you with your spring cleaning. Click here to book a skip online or call us on freephone 0800 083 7807 to find out more.
