Des Moines rolls out year‑round 'Scrub' program for free bulk trash drop‑off

The City of Des Moines is offering a year‑round "Scrub" program that lets residents drop off bulky trash for free, a city staff member said. "All you have to do is transport it to the scrub site and we will take care of it for free," the staff member said.

City staff described Scrub as originating as a spring cleanup to reduce urban blight and expanding because of demand. The program now operates nine regular bulk‑drop weekends each year for items such as furniture and large household goods, and four expanded events that accept household hazardous waste, appliances and tires.

Staff gave specific locations for different materials: garbage and general bulk trash is taken to the Metro Transfer Station on Delaware Avenue, while yard waste is accepted at the old compost center off Harriet Street in Southeast 14. The staff member said participation is limited to Des Moines residents and that quantity restrictions apply — for example, double‑axle trailers are not allowed and different lists apply for "Mega Scrub" versus regular Scrub events — and advised residents to check the city's website for the full guidelines.

The staff member warned there can be waits during opening hours, particularly at the start of the season, and encouraged residents to review the accepted‑items lists before arriving. Examples of suitable items include couches, mattresses, bicycles and lawnmowers — generally those too large for curbside carts.

For schedules, accepted items, and any seasonal updates, the city directed residents to its information page at dsm.city/scrub. The staff member did not provide a contact name or phone number during the announcement.

The program is presented as a no‑cost way for residents to remove bulky items that might otherwise accumulate on porches, in garages or yards; the city did not provide additional budgetary or funding details during the announcement.