Hiring a skip is a great way to handle waste from home clear-outs, renovations, or garden projects. But many people ask the same question before they book:
“What can I actually put in a skip?”
It’s not always as straightforward as it seems — there are clear rules on what’s allowed, what’s restricted, and what’s totally banned. Let’s break it down so you stay compliant and avoid extra charges.
Items You Can Put in a Skip
Most general household and building waste is perfectly acceptable. That includes:
- Household waste: furniture, packaging, wood, plastic
- DIY materials: bricks, rubble, tiles, plaster, concrete
- Garden waste: soil, branches, leaves, turf
- Non-electrical fixtures: bathroom units, old doors, carpets
- Paper and cardboard: boxes, paperbacks, mixed recyclables
These are all fine to go in a standard skip — ideal for spring cleans, renovations, or garden tidy-ups.
What You Can’t Put in a Skip
There are strict rules around hazardous or regulated items. You should never place the following in your skip:
- Electricals: fridges, TVs, monitors, cookers
- Hazardous waste: asbestos, chemicals, oils, paint, solvents
- Pressurised containers: gas cylinders, aerosols
- Plasterboard (when mixed): must be separated from other waste
- Batteries or tyres
- Medical or biological waste
If any of these show up in your skip, we may not be able to collect it — or additional charges could apply.
A Quick Word on Plasterboard
Plasterboard might seem harmless, but when mixed with general waste, it can cause dangerous gas buildup in landfill. That’s why it must be disposed of separately.
Need to skip plasterboard? We can provide a separate skip or a wait-and-load service — just ask when booking.
Not Sure About a Specific Item?
If you’re in doubt, don’t guess. It’s always best to check first — we’ll be happy to tell you what’s allowed and what needs special disposal.
Our advice: If it’s electrical, hazardous, or chemical — it probably doesn’t belong in a skip. But we can often help you get rid of it through the proper channels.
Why Does This Matter?
Putting the wrong items in your skip can lead to:
- ❌ Delays in collection
- ❌ Refused pickups
- ❌ Fines or legal issues
- ❌ Increased disposal costs
The easiest way to avoid all that? Just ask. We’ll guide you through it.
Need Help Choosing the Right Skip?
Whether you’re clearing out your loft in Matlock or redoing your garden in Derby, our team is here to help. We’ve been handling waste the right way across Derbyshire for over 30 years.
Ready to book a skip?
Get fast delivery, fair pricing, and expert advice — all from a trusted local team.
👉 Contact Peak Waste to arrange your skip hire today.