Top 10 Things Seattle Homeowners Throw Away Most (And What We Do With It)

If there’s one thing we’ve learned hauling junk all over the Seattle area, it’s this: everyone’s got stuff they need to get rid of.

Whether it’s from moving, renovating, spring cleaning, or just reclaiming space homeowners call us every day with the same question:

“Can you take this?”

At Bison Junk & Hauling, the answer is almost always: Yes and here’s what we do with it.
Below are the top 10 most common items we pick up, and how we make sure they’re handled responsibly.

1. Old Couches & Sofas

Why it gets tossed:
Too big, too worn, or too stained. Most thrift stores won’t take them.

What we do:
If the sofa’s in usable shape, we donate it to local shelters or charities. If not, we break it down and recycle the wood, foam, and metal whenever possible.

2. Mattresses & Box Springs

Why it gets tossed:
People upgrade. Old mattresses take up space and can’t be left on the curb.

What we do:
We partner with facilities that strip and recycle mattress components foam, coils, and fabric. Otherwise, we use licensed landfill partners.

Bonus: Seattle prohibits dumping mattresses illegally you avoid fines by calling us instead.

3. TVs & Electronics (E-Waste)

Why it gets tossed:
Outdated, broken, or just collecting dust in the garage.

What we do:
We separate electronics and send them to certified e-waste recyclers. Nothing gets dumped without first being assessed for recycling or salvage.

4. Dining Tables & Chairs

Why it gets tossed:
Downsizing, changing styles, or broken legs that aren’t worth fixing.

What we do:
Usable items = donated.
Unusable = disassembled and sorted for recyclable parts.

5. Old Refrigerators & Appliances

Why it gets tossed:
They’re heavy, outdated, or no longer working.

What we do:
We handle appliance removal safely and deliver them to scrap metal facilities or proper Freon recovery centers, depending on type.

6. Boxes of “Random Stuff” (Attic/Garage Clearouts)

Why it gets tossed:
Out of sight, out of mind until you run out of space.

What we do:
We open and sort on site if needed. Items in good shape are separated for donation, recyclables are removed, and trash is safely disposed.

7. Construction Debris (DIY Leftovers)

Why it gets tossed:
Remodels, flooring installs, or outdoor projects leave behind wood, tile, and more.

What we do:
We haul, sort, and recycle any debris that qualifies. Most clean wood, metal, and cardboard can be diverted from landfills.

8. Yard Waste & Landscaping Debris

Why it gets tossed:
Storm cleanups, pruning, or full yard renovations.

What we do:
Organic material (branches, leaves, soil) is taken to green waste processors. Clean, no-chemical wood goes for composting or mulching.

9. Old Toys, Baby Gear & Clothing

Why it gets tossed:
Kids grow up. Fast.

What we do:
If clean and usable, we donate to local family shelters or resale centers. Otherwise, textiles and plastics are sorted for landfill or textile recovery.

10. Random Decor, Lamps, and “Junk Drawer” Stuff

Why it gets tossed:
Minimalism, moving, or just tired of the clutter.

What we do:
We separate glass, metal, and electronics. Even the small stuff gets processed properly.

Why This Matters

Most junk haulers just dump it all. But we take the time to sort, recycle, and donate as much as possible because we care about the neighborhoods we serve.

By booking with Bison, you’re not just clearing space you’re:

• Supporting local shelters and nonprofits

• Reducing landfill waste

• Saving yourself the heavy lifting

Ready to Clear the Clutter?

Let us take care of your unwanted stuff responsibly.