WhatSizeSkipWhat can you put in a skip?
For an ordinary mixed-waste skip, the useful answer is often “check the operator”, not a universal yes or no. Some material needs a different waste stream altogether.
Search an item in the free checkerUsually accepted, subject to the booking
Ordinary household clutter, non-electrical furniture, timber, cardboard and many garden materials are commonly taken. Soil, rubble, bricks and concrete may be accepted but are heavy: confirm the allowed skip size and weight before filling.
Check first or keep separate
Mattresses: operators may refuse them or charge extra. They are not within the Environment Agency's specific waste-upholstered-domestic-seating POPs guidance.
Upholstered domestic seating: sofas, sofa beds, armchairs, recliners and certain upholstered chairs or cushions may contain persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The Environment Agency says this waste must be kept separate from other waste. Check that the collector has an appropriate route; do not simply mix it into a general skip.
Plasterboard and gypsum: ask for the operator's separate collection or treatment arrangement. Gypsum-based waste must not be landfilled in a cell accepting biodegradable waste.
Appliances and electrical items: acceptance varies. Fridges and freezers require appropriate refrigerant handling. Ask about the operator's WEEE and refrigeration arrangements.
Carpet, tyres and similar items: individual policies and surcharges vary. Confirm before loading.
Specialist or hazardous route likely
Do not place asbestos, oils, solvents, chemicals, pesticides, medical waste, batteries, gas cylinders or fluorescent lamps in an ordinary mixed skip. Use an appropriate specialist or approved collection route. This does not mean no specialist container or licensed operator can ever accept them.
Mixed-load example
If your pile has a sofa, a mattress, ordinary bin bags and rubble, size the ordinary and heavy portion separately from the restricted items. Then ask about POPs seating, mattress acceptance and the rubble weight limit. Our calculator does this breakdown rather than quietly adding everything into one volume.
Sources and scope
This is general guidance for the UK, with specific England regulatory points drawn from the Environment Agency's upholstered-seating guidance and gypsum landfill guidance. Operator conditions and rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can differ. Last reviewed 2 October 2026.