First SCRUB Saturday of 2025 Offers Early Spring Cleanup Opportunity

Press Release

Des Moines, Iowa- Thursday, March 13, 2025 - While the seasons don't officially change until next week, Des Moines residents can get a head start on their spring cleaning as early as this Saturday, March 15, with the Public Works Department's SCRUB events.

SCRUB, or Spring Cleanup to Reduce Urban Blight, is offered every third Saturday from March through November to provide residents with an opportunity to dispose of larger items that don't fit into their waste carts.

"SCRUB is a great way to get rid of those difficult items taking up space in the basement, garage or back yard-at no cost to residents," said Public Works Director Jonathan Gano. "It's a joint effort to keep our neighborhoods clean and safe for everyone."

Des Moines residents have two events to take advantage of this weekend, with each offering different disposal options.

Residents with bulk trash items like old furniture, busted appliances, outdated electronics, tires and more can haul them to the Metro Central Transfer Station at 4198 Delaware Avenue.

For those with excess yard waste, the City's Compost Center will be open for easy drop-off. Bring leaves, tree debris, lawn or garden clippings, straw, hay and more to 1601 Harriet Street.

SCRUB participants should be prepared for minor delays.

"The popularity of these events can result in a bit of a wait at first, but our crews do a great job cycling folks through once they enter the SCRUB site," said Gano.

Residents can find event guidelines and the full SCRUB calendar for 2025 by visiting DSM.city/SCRUB. Events are also posted to the Des Moines Public Works Facebook page.