02 November, 2025
Best Place to Donate Mattress: A Complete Guide

What should you do with the old mattress? Well, when you feel that you should get a new one, then find the best place to donate mattresses.
You can leave it on the street or dump it in the trash, as this is an easy way. However, you can take care of this planet and families in need by donating them in local groups.
By giving your mattress a second life, you can clean space in your home to get a new one. Also you can help others by donating to them.
In this blog, I will share the best places where you can donate a mattress. You will also learn the steps to follow before donating and also the rules for mattress donation. I will also talk about the creative ways to reuse your mattress.
So, letβs begin the discussion with the importance of mattress donation.
Importance of Mattress Donation π

Mattresses take up a lot of space in landfills. Millions of them are thrown away each year, and the materials inside do not break down quickly. Foam, metal springs, and fabric can sit for years before they decompose.
When you donate, you stop one more mattress from adding to that waste. At the same time, you help someone who may not be able to afford a bed. Think about it.
A mattress that no longer feels perfect for you might still provide comfort for someone else. That is why finding the best place to donate a mattress is so important.
Learn More About: How to Donate a Mattress
Best Place to Donate Mattress: Where to Begin π
The best place to donate a mattress is usually a community group that accepts used furniture. These groups often work with families who are starting over.
They may also provide support to people moving into a first home. A clean mattress can be a huge help in situations like these.
Before you load your mattress into a truck or van, take a good look at it. Is it free from stains? Does it have any strong odors? Is it still firm enough to sleep on? If the answer is yes, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Local Charities π
Many people start with local charities. This is often the perfect place to donate mattresses because it keeps the process close to home. A charity in your town can connect your mattress to someone who lives nearby. This saves time and helps your community directly.
Some shelters may also accept mattresses if they meet health and safety rules. Keep in mind that storage space can be limited. Always call ahead and check.
Community Programs π
If you are unsure about where to go, community programs can help. These programs often list groups in areas that accept furniture. Some even arrange pickup services so you do not need to transport the mattress yourself.
Availability depends on your location. In some cities, there are plenty of options. In smaller towns, the choices may be fewer. No matter where you live, it is worth asking around. Word of mouth can lead you to the best place to donate a mattress that you may not have known about.
Steps to Follow Before Donating π

Donating a mattress is simple when you follow a few easy steps. So what are these steps? You must know about these steps so that you can follow them easily.
So, the steps are:
- Check the condition β A mattress with stains, rips, or odors will not be accepted.
- Contact the group β Ask if they are accepting mattresses at the moment.
- Confirm rules β Every group has its own standards.
- Plan for transport β Sometimes, your mattress will be picked up by the place where you plan to donate. Or if they don't offer it then, you must find an alternative to drop it off.
- Protect the mattress β Wrap it in plastic to keep it clean.
Who Takes Mattress Donations Near Me π
You may be asking yourself, who takes mattress donations near me. The truth is, this depends on where you live. In larger cities, there are often many groups that take furniture. In smaller towns, the options may be fewer, but that does not mean there are none.
Community centers, shelters, and local nonprofits are good places to start. Sometimes even schools or churches may know of families who need a bed. Asking around can lead you to the right spot.
What to Do If Donation Is Not Possible π
Not every mattress can be donated. If yours is heavily worn or has health risks, groups cannot accept it. That does not mean you are out of options.
You can recycle it. Many recycling centers break down mattresses into separate parts. Foam can become padding, springs can be reused, and wood can be turned into new products.
If you know someone who needs a mattress; then you can give it to them directly. Usually, it happens that a friend or a neighbor may need a mattress and they would take it from you. So, here, the condition doesn't need to be perfect.
Again, you can go for a removal service that will recycle your mattress responsibly. This may involve a small fee, but it is better than sending it to a landfill.
Read More: How to Dispose of a Mattress
Rules for Mattress Donation π

A bad mattress can create health problems. A clean and solid mattress, on the other hand, can make life easier for someone in need.
Every group has rules when it comes to mattress donation. These are the most common:
- No heavy stains
- No bed bugs
- No mold or mildew
- No broken parts
- No strong odors
Donating a Mattress: Helpful Tips π
Here, I will talk about some helpful tips for donating a mattress. You should learn about these tips.
Here are a few simple tips for donating a mattress the right way.
- Clean it before you give it away
- Wrap it in plastic or a cover for protection
- Be clear about its condition when you call
- Confirm pickup times if offered
- Never leave it outside without permission
A Creative Way to Reuse Your Old Mattress π
If you can donate your mattress because of its condition, then don't donate. Make the best use of some parts. You can turn the foam into pet beds or use it as padding for seats.
For different projects, you can reuse the fabric of the mattress. The wood from a box spring can become garden frames. The metal springs can go to a scrap yard.
Even if the full mattress cannot be donated, pieces of it can still serve useful purposes. This keeps it out of the landfill and gives you a chance to be creative.
Read More: How to recycle a mattress in a proper way
End Note π
Finding the best place to donate a mattress takes some effort, but it is worth it. Always remember that donation helps families and supports your community along with reducing waste.
Before donating, you should check the condition of your mattress first. Confirm with the group before dropping it off. Prepare it well and follow the rules.
If you can't donate the mattress, then go for recycling and repurposing. Remember that, you should think about the world too.
While donating, keep in mind that your old mattress doesn't need to be perfect until you can provide comfort for someone else. This is the reason that you should think about finding the best place to donate a mattress as this is the right choice.
FAQs: Best Place to Donate Mattress π
Where can I donate a mattress near me? π
You can donate a mattress to national charities like Habitat for Humanity, The Salvation Army, or Furniture Bank Network. Many local shelters, churches, and thrift stores also accept mattress donations if they are clean and in good condition.
Does Goodwill take mattress donations? π
Most Goodwill locations do not accept used mattresses due to hygiene and state regulations. However, some areas partner with recycling programs that can take them. Always call your local Goodwill before dropping one off.
Can I donate a mattress to the Salvation Army? π
Yes, The Salvation Army often accepts mattress donations in good condition. They may even offer free mattress pickup in some areas. Check their website or contact your nearest branch to confirm availability.
What condition does a mattress need to be in to donate? π
Donation centers generally accept mattresses that are clean, unstained, odor-free, and have no sagging or bedbugs. If your mattress is heavily used or damaged, recycling is a better option.
Are there charities that pick up mattresses for free? π
Yes, several charities like Habitat for Humanity ReStores, Furniture Bank, and The Salvation Army offer free mattress pickup depending on your location and the condition of the mattress. Local non-profits and junk removal partners may also help coordinate pickups.
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KB Choudhury is the Chief Executive Officer of WeCycle, a technology-driven platform dedicated to transforming the recycling and waste management industry. Under his leadership, WeCycle focuses on creating efficient, data-powered solutions that simplify waste collection, promote eco-friendly practices, and support a sustainable circular economy. Choudhuryβs vision for WeCycle centers on leveraging innovation and digital tools to make recycling smarter, more accessible, and impactful for both businesses and communities.
