Bathroom Remodel Dumpster Size Calculator
Most bathroom remodels need a 10-yard dumpster for small bathrooms or a 20-yard for larger spaces and gut renovations. Use our calculator below to get a precise recommendation based on your specific project.
•7 min read•Project Calculators
Bathroom Renovation Quick Reference
Typical Size: 10-15 yard dumpster
Estimated Debris: 1-2 tons
Common Items: Vanity, toilet, tub/shower, tile, drywall
Project Duration: 1-2 weeks
Key Consideration: Tile and fixtures can be surprisingly heavy
Bathroom Renovation Debris Calculator
Calculate exactly how much waste your bathroom remodel will create
Bathroom Dimensions
Total floor area
Fixtures to Remove
Tile Removal
Other Flooring (Non-Tile Areas)
For non-tile areas (e.g., under vanity)
Wall Removal
Special Considerations
Average Bathroom Generates 1,260 lbs of Waste
Bathroom remodels produce more waste than most homeowners expect - over half a ton on average. Tile removal alone can generate 240-360 lbs for a typical 60 sq ft bathroom. Plan your dumpster size accordingly to avoid overage fees.
Dumpster Sizing by Bathroom Type
10-Yard Dumpster: Small to Medium Bathrooms
Perfect For:
- • Small bathrooms (under 50 sq ft)
- • Partial renovations (cosmetic updates)
- • Fixture replacement only
- • Flooring removal without tile demo
Typical Contents:
- • Old vanity and mirror
- • Toilet (check with company first)
- • Light tile work
- • About 3-4 pickup truck loads
Cost: $300-$500 | Weight limit: 1-2 tons
20-Yard Dumpster: Large Bathrooms & Gut Renovations
Perfect For:
- • Large bathrooms (80+ sq ft)
- • Complete gut renovations
- • Extensive tile removal (walls & floors)
- • Multiple bathroom projects
Typical Contents:
- • Full tub/shower removal
- • Extensive tile and grout
- • All drywall to studs
- • About 6 pickup truck loads
Cost: $350-$650 | Weight limit: 2-3 tons
Material Weight Guide
Understanding material weights helps you avoid overage fees. Bathroom materials vary significantly in weight per square foot.
| Material | Weight per Sq Ft | 60 Sq Ft Bathroom |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic/Porcelain Tile | 4-6 lbs | 240-360 lbs |
| Drywall (1/2") | 2-3 lbs | 120-180 lbs |
| Vinyl/Linoleum Flooring | 1-2 lbs | 60-120 lbs |
| Vanity/Cabinets | 50-200 lbs total | 50-200 lbs |
| Toilet | 60-120 lbs each | 60-120 lbs |
💡 Weight Limit Consideration
A 10-yard dumpster has a 1-2 tons (2,000-4,000 lbs) weight limit. A typical 60 sq ft bathroom with full tile removal can approach 1,000 lbs in tile alone. Factor in drywall, fixtures, and other materials when planning your dumpster size.
Acceptable & Prohibited Items
✅ Acceptable Items
- • Ceramic and porcelain tile
- • Drywall and plaster
- • Vinyl, linoleum flooring
- • Vanities and cabinets
- • Mirrors (properly wrapped)
- • Non-metal plumbing fixtures
- • Insulation materials
- • Wood trim and molding
❌ Prohibited Items
- • Toilets (check company policy)
- • Metal plumbing (recycle separately)
- • Liquid paint
- • Asbestos materials
- • Chemicals and cleaners
- • Mercury-containing fixtures
- • Medications
- • Batteries
Recycle Metal for Cash
Copper pipes, brass fixtures, and metal vanity frames have scrap value. Separate metal items for recycling instead of putting them in your dumpster. You can earn $20-$100+ depending on quantity and current scrap prices.
Loading Tips
✅ Do This
- Break down large items (remove vanity doors/drawers)
- Load heavy materials first (tile, fixtures)
- Fill gaps with smaller debris
- Keep materials level with dumpster rim
- Distribute weight evenly across bottom
❌ Avoid This
- Donate usable fixtures to Habitat for Humanity
- Recycle metal plumbing separately
- Schedule delivery for demolition day only
- Compare quotes from 2-3 companies
- Size up rather than rent twice
Real Project Examples with Exact Calculations
These examples show complete calculations for common projects. Use them as templates for estimating your own project's disposal needs.
Small Bathroom Cosmetic Update
Project: 40 sq ft powder room - vanity, toilet, and vinyl flooring replacement
Materials removed:
- • 24 inch vanity with mirror
- • Standard toilet
- • 40 sq ft vinyl flooring
- • Light fixture and accessories
Result:
- • 10-yard dumpster used
- • 60% capacity utilized
- • Total cost: $350
- • 3-day rental period
Medium Bathroom Full Remodel
Project: 75 sq ft bathroom - complete renovation with tile removal
Materials removed:
- • Tub/shower combo unit
- • 60 inch double vanity
- • 75 sq ft ceramic tile (floor and walls)
- • Partial drywall replacement
Result:
- • 20-yard dumpster used
- • 75% capacity utilized
- • Total cost: $500
- • 5-day rental period
Master Bathroom Gut Renovation
Project: 120 sq ft master bath - complete demolition to studs
Materials removed:
- • Soaking tub and separate shower
- • Double vanity with granite top
- • 120 sq ft complete tile removal
- • All drywall and insulation
Result:
- • 20-yard dumpster used
- • 95% capacity utilized
- • Total cost: $575
- • 7-day rental period
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 10-yard dumpster cost?
A 10-yard dumpster costs $300-$500 for a 5-7 day rental period. <a href="/blog/dumpster-rental-cost-guide" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline font-medium transition-colors">Costs vary by location</a>, with higher prices in urban areas. Factor in potential overage fees of $50-$100 per ton if you exceed the 1-2 tons weight limit.
How much does a 20-yard dumpster cost?
A 20-yard dumpster costs $350-$650 for a 7-10 day rental period. <a href="/blog/dumpster-rental-cost-guide" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline font-medium transition-colors">Costs vary by location</a>, with higher prices in urban areas. Factor in potential overage fees of $50-$100 per ton if you exceed the 2-3 tons weight limit.
How long can I keep a dumpster?
<a href="/blog/dumpster-rental-duration-calculator" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline font-medium transition-colors">Standard rental periods</a> are 7-10 days, with extensions typically available at $10-50 per day. Some companies offer flexible rental terms. Always confirm the rental period and extension costs before booking.
What can't go in a dumpster?
You cannot dispose of <a href="/blog/prohibited-items-dumpster" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline font-medium transition-colors">hazardous materials</a> (paint, chemicals, asbestos), electronics, batteries, appliances with refrigerants (refrigerators, AC units), tires, propane tanks, or medical waste. Check with your rental company for specific restrictions as they vary by location.
Do I need a permit for a dumpster in my driveway?
<a href="/blog/do-i-need-dumpster-permit" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline font-medium transition-colors">Dumpsters on private property</a> (your driveway) typically don't require permits. Street placement usually needs a permit from your municipality, costing $20-$150. Check local regulations or ask your rental company about requirements in your area.
Ready to Size Your Project?
Use our free calculator to find the perfect dumpster size