Confused about how to dispose of waste in Amsterdam? Different rules apply for household waste, bulky items, glass, paper and hazardous materials. This guide explains the basics, the fines you risk for incorrect disposal, and how we can pick up your bulky waste directly from your home, on a date that suits you.
In Amsterdam, household waste is separated into different streams. Each has its own container or collection method. Putting waste in the wrong stream can result in a fine.
Anything that does not fit into the other streams. Goes in the grey or orange underground container.
Newspapers, magazines, boxes and packaging. Flatten boxes and place in the blue or labeled paper container.
Empty bottles and jars of any color. Bring to the glass container in your neighborhood. No lids.
Vegetable, fruit and garden waste. Some districts have separate GFT containers; in others it goes with residual waste.
Plastic packaging, cans and drink cartons. Check whether your area has separate PMD collection.
Anything that does not fit in a regular bag or container: furniture, mattresses, appliances. Requires an appointment.
You cannot just leave large furniture or appliances next to a container. Since 2020, all bulky waste in Amsterdam requires an appointment. You have two options:
Fines for incorrect disposal: Leaving bulky waste on the street without an appointment can result in fines starting around EUR 100, plus the actual cleanup costs. Enforcement officers often check items for documents revealing the sender.
| Waste type | Where it goes |
|---|---|
| Hazardous waste (KCA) | Paint, batteries, chemicals, oil. Bring to a recycling point or chemical waste collection. |
| Electronics | Small electronics to retail collection points. Large appliances are bulky waste. |
| Asbestos | Only a certified company may collect and dispose of asbestos. |
| Construction debris | Not regular bulky waste. Rates start from EUR 150 per cubic meter. |
| Medical waste, syringes | Bring to a pharmacy or special collection point. |
Amsterdam has several Afvalpunten where residents can bring waste themselves, free of charge for small quantities. The main locations are in Noord, Zuidoost, West and Sloterdijk. Bring proof of residence. For larger quantities or if you do not have transport, our pickup service is usually faster and more convenient.
Through the municipality (call 14020), free pickups are available with waiting times of several weeks. Our private service is paid (EUR 40 fixed fee plus EUR 50 per cubic meter), but faster and on a date you choose.
Fines for incorrect waste disposal in Amsterdam start at around EUR 100, plus the actual cleanup costs. Enforcement officers often inspect bags or items for traceable details.
Yes, the Afvalpunten in Amsterdam accept household bulky waste from residents (proof of address required). For small quantities this is free. If you do not have transport, our pickup is more convenient.
Yes. Our online booking form is short and clear, and our customer service speaks English. Many expats and English-speaking residents book through us every week.
Businesses cannot use the municipal household waste system. We collect office, hospitality, shop and construction waste with a proper VAT invoice. Business rates exclude 21% VAT and add EUR 0.25 per kg recycling levy.
The municipality publishes the rules on afvalwijzer.nl and amsterdam.nl. This page summarizes the practical rules; for the exact regulations always check the official sources.
Also useful: Book a bulky waste pickup →
Skip the municipal waiting list. We pick up directly from your address in any Amsterdam district, on the date you choose. Pay only after collection.
