First MEGA SCRUB of 2026 Brings Free Hazardous Waste and Large Item Disposal at Merle Hay Mall

Des Moines, Iowa - Thursday, April 16, 2026 - The Public Works Department's first MEGA SCRUB of 2026 will take place this Saturday at the Merle Hay Mall (3800 Merle Hay Road, North Parking Lot) from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m.

MEGA SCRUB events differ from regular SCRUBs by offering additional services like household hazardous waste disposal, paper shredding and electronic recycling, along with the usual bulk trash drop-off for large appliances, furniture and electronics, all in one convenient location on the City's northwest side.

"This is a great time to get rid of used oil or old gas from cars and mowers, along with any paint or chemicals leftover from summer projects."

Residents with yard waste or tree debris can unload their leaves, brush and branches at the City's Compost Center at 1601 Harriet Street. All other bulk trash items can be taken to the Metro Central Transfer Station at 4198 Delaware Avenue. Both of these monthly SCRUB events run from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.

All SCRUB events are free to Des Moines residents and remain one of the Public Works Department's most popular offerings.

"Des Moines residents turn out for SCRUB and the lines can get long at times, but our staff and neighborhood volunteers work hard to keep the lines moving quickly and efficiently to make the process simple," said Gano.

"A short wait is worth it to keep your home free of clutter without having to pay for disposal of large items, appliances and hazardous materials."

Proof of residency is required upon entry and will be accepted in the form of photo ID or a current utility bill with a Des Moines address.

Residents can find a full calendar of the 2026 SCRUB events and event guidelines for what items are accepted online at DSM.city/SCRUB.

Additional items ONLY accepted at MEGA SCRUB:

• Aerosols
• Acids/Bases
• Antifreeze
• Batteries: Rechargeable mercuric-oxide (button batteries), nickel cadmium (NiCd), lithium (Li), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) or car batteries)
• Cell phones
• Cleaners, drain and liquid cleaners
• Fertilizers
• Floor care products
• Gasoline and kerosene
• Glues
• Light bulbs: high efficiency only: SFLs, ballast, high intensity discharge
• Motor oil
• Oil filters
• Oven cleaner
• Paints: Oil based only. NO LATEX!
• Petroleum-based adhesives
• Pesticides
• Poison
• Pool chemicals
• Roofing tar
• Rust removers
• Sharps: must be contained in detergent bottles or sharps containers (not milk jugs or pop bottles). Lids must also be taped.
• Shellac and stains
• Thermostats/thermometers

Contact
Peter Zemansky
Communications Manager, City Manager's Office
(515) 210-6586
[email protected]

About the City of Des Moines
The City of Des Moines is Iowa's capital, and our 17 departments serve more than 214,000 residents and 46 neighborhood associations. Des Moines is a leader in sustainability and provides its residents with vibrant neighborhoods, an active downtown, and abundant leisure opportunities.

Des Moines continuously improves neighborhoods, public safety, and quality of life by offering exceptional city services and reliable infrastructure while fostering an involved and compassionate community for all who visit and live there. Visit DSM.city, Facebook, and X for more information.