Disposing of old carpet in Maryland requires understanding the rules and options available in your area. Depending on the carpet’s condition and your location, there are several effective methods for disposal, including bulk trash pickup, drop-off centers, donation, or hiring professional services. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate your options.

Bulk Trash Pickup

Many counties in Maryland offer bulk trash pickup services, which include carpet disposal. However, specific rules apply based on your location.

Anne Arundel County

• Collection Guidelines: Place rolled and tied carpet next to your trash container on collection day.
• Restrictions: Only small amounts of carpet are accepted. Rolls must be tied securely to prevent them from unrolling.
• Limitations: You can set out up to three large trash items at a time on your weekly collection day.
• Contact: Reach out to the Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works for more details.

Baltimore County

• Collection Guidelines: Small amounts of carpet are accepted at the Central Acceptance Facility (CAF) and the Western Acceptance Facility (WAF).
• Preparation: Carpet must be rolled and tied securely.
• Fees: Dropping off large quantities may incur fees.
• Contact: Visit the Baltimore County Department of Public Works website or contact their customer service for more information.

Montgomery County

• Collection Guidelines: Carpet must be cut into manageable pieces, typically 4 feet long and 2 feet wide, and tied securely.
• Restrictions: Limits apply to the amount of bulk trash you can set out per collection.
• Contact: Check the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection website to review guidelines and schedule a bulk pickup.

Drop-Off Centers

Several counties have designated drop-off centers where residents can bring carpets for disposal. This option is particularly useful for those with large amounts of carpet or who prefer direct disposal.

Carroll County

• Location: Northern Landfill.
• Preparation: Carpet must be rolled and tied securely.
• Fees: Fees may apply for large quantities of carpet.
• Contact: Visit the Carroll County Government website for more details.

Howard County

• Location: Alpha Ridge Landfill.
• Preparation: Cut carpet into smaller pieces and tie securely.
• Fees: Check the Howard County Government website for applicable fees and guidelines.

Donation and Reuse

If your carpet is in good condition, consider donating it, although this is less common compared to other household items. Donating is an eco-friendly way to repurpose old materials.

Charities

• Habitat for Humanity ReStores: These stores accept donated building materials, including flooring. They may have specific acceptance criteria, so check with your local store.
• Local Thrift Stores: Some thrift stores may accept carpet, though this is rare.

Online Platforms

Post your carpet for free on platforms like:

• Nextdoor
• Craigslist
• Facebook Marketplace

These platforms connect you with local residents and are often effective for quickly finding someone who can use the carpet.

Landfills and Transfer Stations

If your carpet is unsuitable for donation or bulk pickup, you can take it directly to a landfill or transfer station.

Baltimore City

• Location: Quarantine Road Landfill Residential Drop-Off Center.
• Fees: Disposal may involve fees.
• Contact: Visit the Baltimore City Department of Public Works website for more information.

Prince George’s County

• Location: Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill.
• Fees: Fees may apply for disposal.
• Contact: Check the Prince George’s County Department of the Environment website for details.

Professional Disposal Services

For a hassle-free option, professional junk removal services are available to handle carpet disposal.

Junk Force

Based in Severna Park, Junk Force offers convenient junk removal services, including carpet disposal. The company provides onsite estimates and boasts a high customer satisfaction rating.

Important Considerations for Carpet Disposal

When disposing of carpet, keep the following points in mind:

• Condition: Determine whether the carpet is suitable for donation or reuse. Carpets with significant damage, stains, or odors may not be accepted by charities.
• Preparation: Many services require the carpet to be rolled, cut, or tied for easy handling.
• Fees: Check for potential costs, especially at landfills and drop-off centers.
• Scheduling: For bulk trash pickup or professional services, schedule in advance to avoid delays.

Summary of Carpet Disposal Options in Maryland

Method	Details	Cost
Bulk Trash Pickup	Available in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, and Montgomery counties with specific preparation rules.	Varies; free for small amounts
Drop-Off Centers	Designated facilities like Alpha Ridge Landfill and Northern Landfill for direct disposal.	May involve fees
Donation and Reuse	Options include Habitat for Humanity ReStores and online platforms for good-condition carpets.	Free
Landfills	Locations like Quarantine Road Landfill and Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill.	Fees may apply
Professional Services	Companies like Junk Force offer hassle-free removal and disposal.	Varies by service

Conclusion

Maryland residents have several options for carpet disposal, from municipal bulk trash services to professional junk removal companies. Recycling or donating carpets in good condition is an environmentally responsible choice, while drop-off centers and landfills provide alternatives for carpets that cannot be reused.

By following the appropriate guidelines for your county and choosing the method that best fits your needs, you can dispose of your old carpet efficiently and responsibly.