Stop Illegal Dumping: Smart Ways to Remove Junk in Singapore
- Junk Value
- Aug 17
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Need help clearing out your bulk junk? Click Here
Singapore is a city known for its cleanliness and strict regulations—but when it comes to bulky furniture and appliances, many homeowners still face confusion. From oversized sofas and mattresses to washing machines and fridges, disposing of junk isn’t always straightforward.
Illegal dumping is not only harmful to the environment—it carries fines of up to SGD 500, and in some cases even more. But there’s good news: with the right approach, disposing of your bulky items in Singapore can be legal, safe, and hassle-free.
This guide covers everything you need to know about disposing, recycling, and reselling your unwanted furniture and appliances, while staying fully compliant with Singapore’s laws.
Despite clear rules, illegal dumping is common in Singapore. Some reasons include:
Lack of knowledge about HDB or condo bulk collection services
Misconceptions that “old junk” has no value
Desire to save time instead of scheduling a proper collection
Avoiding small service fees from licensed providers
The result? Blocked corridors, messy void decks, and potential fines. But with a smart plan, you can avoid all of these problems.
Here are the items Singapore homeowners frequently need to dispose of:
Sofas and couches: Sectionals, recliners, leather sets
Beds and mattresses: Single, queen, king sizes
Wardrobes, cabinets, and tables: Wooden, metal, or modular units
Appliances: Fridges, washing machines, dryers, ovens
Electronics: TVs, computers, speakers
Specialty items: Massage chairs, pianos, aquariums, hospital beds
Each item may require a different disposal method. Electronics and appliances often have strict e-waste rules, while furniture can sometimes be recycled or resold.
Before rushing to throw away your items, ask yourself:
Sell: Platforms like Carousell, Facebook Marketplace, and SG Preloved allow you to list used furniture and appliances. Functional items can fetch decent resale prices.
Donate: Charities, community groups, or hospitals may accept gently used furniture or appliances.
Dispose: Items that are broken, unsafe, or unsellable need to be legally removed via licensed services.
Bulk Waste Collection Service: Free for up to three items per visit. Booking is required via the HDB website or mobile app.
Accepted items: Sofas, beds, tables, chairs, mattresses, fridges, washing machines.
Check management rules: Many condos require licensed junk removal vendors.
Scheduled collection: Some offer monthly or bi-weekly pick-ups for bulky items.
Licensed junk removal services: Companies like Junk Value SG handle furniture, appliances, and e-waste legally and safely.
Advantages: Fast, legal, eco-friendly, and sometimes resale options are included.
Step 3: Special Rules for E-Waste
Fridges: refrigerants
TVs and computers: heavy metals
Washing machines: motors and electronics
NEA-licensed e-waste recyclers
Manufacturer take-back or trade-in programs
Disassemble furniture: Beds, wardrobes, and modular units are easier to handle when broken down.
Remove hazardous components: Batteries, light bulbs, or chemicals need separate handling.
Clean items: Wipe down surfaces to avoid pests or mold.
Photograph & list items: Helpful for resale or donation purposes.
Step 5: Choosing the Right Junk Removal Service
NEA-approved providers only
Item coverage: Some handle only furniture, others accept appliances and specialty items
Pricing: Look for fixed or per-item quotes to avoid surprises
Eco-conscious practices: Ensure items are recycled, resold, or donated responsibly
Many homeowners debate whether to sell or dispose of their items. Here’s a quick comparison:
Factor | Selling | Dumping/Disposal |
Effort | Requires photos, listings, communication | Minimal if using a registered service |
Profit | Possible resale value | Usually none |
Legal risk | None if sold properly | Must ensure legal disposal |
Environmental impact | Reduces waste | Depends on recycling methods |
Never dump at void decks or corridors: Illegal and fined.
Separate recyclables from general junk: Electronics, metal, and wood often have different disposal rules.
Observe size/weight limits: HDB and condo collections have item restrictions.
Book ahead: Last-minute disposal can lead to stress and illegal shortcuts.
DIY Disposal:
Pros: Lower cost, flexible timing
Cons: Heavy lifting, transport needed, risk of fines if done incorrectly
Professional Services:
Pros: Fast, safe, legal, sometimes resale included
Cons: Slightly higher cost, but saves time and reduces risk
Step 9: Eco-Friendly Disposal Practices
Singapore encourages sustainable disposal:
Recycle wood and metal: Furniture can often be repurposed
E-waste recycling: Ensure electronics are handled by certified recyclers
Donation: Extend life of usable furniture
Upcycling: Turn old furniture into new creations
Identify items for removal
Separate furniture, appliances, and e-waste
Contact licensed services or book HDB bulk collection
Prepare items (clean, disassemble, remove hazards)
Confirm collection date and method
Keep proof of legal disposal
Timing matters: Avoid peak moving seasons for faster service
Bundle items: Some services offer discounts for multiple items
Maximize resale value: Even slightly worn items may sell online
Know your neighborhood rules: Some condos/HDB blocks have strict bulk waste policies
Why Choose Professional Junk Removal in Singapore
Legal compliance: Avoid fines and violations
Fast and efficient: Same-day or next-day pick-up options
Eco-conscious: Items are recycled, resold, or responsibly dumped
Professional handling: Safely move heavy or bulky items like pianos, hospital beds, and massage chairs
Disposing of bulky furniture and appliances in Singapore doesn’t have to be stressful or illegal. By planning ahead, understanding the rules, and using licensed services, you can declutter your home safely, legally, and responsibly.
From sofas and beds to fridges and washers, each item has a proper path: sell, donate, recycle, or dispose. Following this guide helps you avoid fines, protect the environment, and even earn value from unwanted items.
Start your decluttering journey today — make your unwanted furniture and appliances a responsible disposal win!
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