The countdown to Thanksgiving has begun, and before the turkey, casseroles, and desserts take over your kitchen, it’s time for a little pre-holiday prep: the great fridge and pantry cleanout.

Clearing space for your holiday groceries is satisfying, but it can also lead to extra waste. Here’s how to get your kitchen Thanksgiving-ready without overflowing your trash bin (and maybe even help the planet along the way).

🧊 Step 1: Take Everything Out — Yes, Everything

Start fresh by removing every item from your fridge and freezer. Check expiration dates, and set aside anything that’s been sitting there since last Thanksgiving (we all have that mystery sauce bottle somewhere).

As you go, separate items into three categories:

  • Keep: Fresh, usable items that still fit into your holiday meal plans.
  • Compost or Dispose: Expired or spoiled food.
  • Recycle: Clean packaging, glass bottles, jars, and cardboard.

CWS Tip: Make sure to empty and rinse recyclable containers — food residue can contaminate an entire recycling load.

🥫 Step 2: Don’t Forget the Pantry

Before your big grocery trip, take inventory of what you already have. Many families accidentally overbuy spices, canned goods, and baking ingredients.

If you find duplicates or unopened non-perishables you won’t use, consider donating them to a local food pantry before the holiday rush. It’s a small act that makes a big difference.

♻️ Step 3: Dispose of Waste Responsibly

Food waste adds up fast during the holidays. While spoiled or expired items need to go in your regular waste cart, some food waste can be composted if your area allows it (like fruit, vegetables, coffee grounds, and eggshells).

Avoid: Pouring liquids or grease down the drain — it can clog pipes and cause costly plumbing issues.

Instead: Pour cooled grease into a container, seal it, and dispose of it in your household trash.

🧺 Step 4: Recycle the Right Way

Thanksgiving prep means a lot of packaging — boxes, cans, jars, and plastic wrap. Here’s what can’t go in your CWS recycling cart:

🚫 Not Recyclable:

  • Plastic wrap or grocery bags
  • Styrofoam trays
  • Food-covered foil or containers

If you’re unsure, check our [Recycling Guidelines page] (link) — it’s a quick way to keep your bin clean and compliant.

🦃 Step 5: Plan Ahead for Extra Trash

Big family gatherings mean big trash weeks. If you’re hosting this year, you may want to schedule an extra pickup or roll-off container for the season.

Capital Waste Services offers short-term roll-off rentals — perfect for larger cleanouts, decluttering projects, or post-holiday waste.

🗓️ Reserve early to secure your spot before Thanksgiving week!

💚 A Cleaner Kitchen, A Greener Holiday

By cleaning out your fridge now, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, less stressful Thanksgiving — and doing your part for a cleaner community.

At Capital Waste Services, we’re proud to help our neighbors across the southeast keep their homes and holidays waste-free.

Because as always, it’s Local Faces, Greener Places.