How to block trash can mail

The pesky junk mail! Here are some ways to block or reduce unwanted mail:

  1. National Do Not Mail List: Register your name and address on the National Do Not Mail List, a free service provided by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA). This won't guarantee 100% elimination, but it can help reduce unwanted mail.
  2. Opt-out online: Many companies allow you to opt-out of their mailing lists online. Look for a "Privacy" or "Opt-out" section on their website or contact their customer service department.
  3. Contact the sender: If you receive mail from a specific company or organization, you can contact them directly to request they remove your name from their mailing list.
  4. Use a mail-blocking service: Services like 41pounds.co.uk (UK) or Catalog Choice (US) allow you to register your address and block unwanted mail from specific companies or categories (e.g., credit offers, insurance, etc.).
  5. Use a postal service filter: Some postal services, like the US Postal Service, offer filters that can help reduce junk mail. For example, you can request a "Do Not Forward" filter, which will return undeliverable mail to the sender.
  6. Use a mail-blocking app: Apps like MailBlock (US) or Junk Mail Blocker (UK) can help you block unwanted mail by identifying and filtering out junk mail at the postal level.
  7. Update your online profiles: Ensure your online profiles, such as social media and email accounts, are up-to-date and accurate. This can help reduce the likelihood of receiving unwanted mail.
  8. Use a PO box: If you're receiving a lot of junk mail, consider using a PO box instead of your home address.
  9. Contact your local post office: Your local post office may have specific procedures for handling junk mail. They can also provide guidance on how to reduce unwanted mail.
  10. Consider a mail-blocking device: Devices like the MailGuard (US) or Junk Mail Blocker (UK) can be installed at your mailbox to filter out unwanted mail.

Remember, while these methods can help reduce junk mail, they may not eliminate it entirely. Be patient and persistent, and you may find that your mailbox becomes less cluttered over time.