CleanLA Volunteers
Environmental Tips

Five Tips for Your First Community Cleanup

June 4, 2026

Work gloves, trash grabber, bags, water bottle and sun hat arranged on grass

Thinking about joining your first cleanup? Here’s everything we wish someone had told us before our first one.

1. Dress for the occasion

Closed-toe shoes, a hat, and clothes you don’t mind getting a little dusty. LA sun is no joke — even in winter, sunscreen is your friend.

2. Let us handle the gear

Gloves, grabbers, and bags are always provided. If you have favorite work gloves, bring them — but you don’t need to buy anything.

3. Hydrate, then hydrate again

Bring a reusable water bottle. Two hours outside goes by fast when you’re focused on a transformation.

4. Take the “before” photo

You’ll want it later, trust us. The before-and-after comparison is the most satisfying part of the whole day — it’s the proof that your hands changed a piece of the city.

5. Bring a friend (or three)

Everything’s better with company, and cleanups are a shockingly good way to actually talk to people. Kids are welcome at most events — it’s the best civics lesson there is.

Ready to put these tips to use? Sign up for the next cleanup — we’ll bring the gear.

Inspired? Come clean with us.

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