How to Dispose of a Mattress

How do I get rid of a mattress? That’s the question most people ask when they're stuck with a bulky old bed they no longer want. And honestly, it's a fair question. Mattresses are bulky, awkward to move, and once they’re no longer needed, they quickly feel like useless junk.

But before you drag it to the curb or dump it in the garage, pause for a second. If your mattress still has some life left in it, you might have options like donating, recycling, or even giving it a DIY refresh.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the smart, legal, eco-friendly and the best ways to get rid of a mattress

The Disposal Signs: Know When to Replace a Mattress 🔗

Did you know the average mattress in the United States is replaced every 8 years? This is because mattresses don’t last forever, and knowing when to replace yours can make a big difference in your sleep quality and overall health.

Some clear signs that it’s time to say goodbye to your mattress:

• You wake up feeling sore, stiff, or with unexplained aches
• The mattress has visible sagging, lumps, or uneven spots
• You notice broken or noisy springs
• Your mattress is over 7 to 10 years old
• You toss and turn frequently during the night
• Allergies or asthma symptoms worsen, possibly due to dust mites and allergens trapped in the mattress

5 Most Convenient Methods of Disposing a Mattress 🔗

Nope, it doesn’t have to be rocket science.
Getting rid of a mattress in the U.S. might seem like a hassle, but once you know your options, it’s pretty straightforward. Here’s a detailed guide to the most common (and easiest) methods:

1. Donate It 🔗

If your mattress is still in good condition, donating it can be a win-win. Someone else gets a much-needed bed, and you avoid adding to landfill waste. Many people aren’t aware that certain charities and nonprofits do accept used mattresses, as long as they meet health and safety guidelines. It's a responsible and generous way to let your mattress serve someone else a little longer. Just be sure it’s clean, bug-free, and not sagging like a hammock.

What’s acceptable for donation? 🔗

• Lightly used: The mattress should have minimal wear and tear.
• No rips, deep stains, or odors: Ensure the mattress is clean and fresh-smelling.
• No mold or bed bugs: These pose serious health risks and are deal-breakers.
• Still supportive and clean: The mattress should provide adequate support and be free from dirt.

Where to donate: 🔗

• Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Some locations accept gently used mattresses. It's best to contact your local branch before making a donation .
• Furniture Bank Network: Helps low-income families furnish homes. They often accept mattress donations in good condition.
• DonationTown.org: Lets you search for local charities that may pick up your mattress.
• Local shelters or churches: Call and ask if they accept clean mattresses. Many shelters are in need of mattresses since people often leave without taking their bedding.

Learn More: A complete guide on how to donate a mattress

2. Sell or Give It Away 🔗

Sometimes, it’s not about disposal, it’s about finding the right home for something that still has value. If your mattress is gently used (maybe it just wasn’t your preferred firmness), there’s a good chance someone out there would happily take it off your hands. Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are full of people looking for affordable or free furniture. It’s a fast, low-effort way to declutter, especially if you include a photo and offer delivery or curbside pickup.

Where to list it: 🔗

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• OfferUp
• Nextdoor

Best practices for a smooth sale or giveaway: 🔗

• Take clear, detailed photos from multiple angles to show the mattress condition.
• Mention the brand, size (like queen, king, or twin), age, and overall condition.
• Let buyers know if the mattress was always used with a mattress protector. This can increase interest.
• Offer delivery or curbside pickup if you can. It makes a big difference and often seals the deal faster!

Important: Keep in mind that some states have strict rules about reselling mattresses. For instance, California requires used mattresses to be sanitized and properly labeled before resale. Be sure to check your local laws to stay compliant and avoid fines.

3. Recycle It 🔗

Most people don’t realize just how much of a mattress can be recycled—actually, about 80 to 90% of its materials can be given new life. That includes the steel springs, foam padding, wooden frames, and fabric layers. Instead of letting your mattress take up space in a landfill, recycling is an eco-friendly way to reduce waste and help conserve resources.

Recycling a mattress might sound complicated, but it’s becoming more accessible thanks to special programs and recycling centers popping up across the U.S. In fact, some states have laws encouraging or even requiring mattress recycling to reduce landfill overflow and promote sustainability.

How to recycle your mattress: 🔗

• Bye Bye Mattress — This program, run by the Mattress Recycling Council, provides convenient drop-off locations in states like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
• Earth911.com — Simply enter your ZIP code to find recycling centers nearby that accept mattresses and other bulky items.
• Local city or county services — Many municipalities offer mattress drop-off sites or seasonal recycling events. Check your local government’s website for details.

What parts get recycled? 🔗

• Steel springs are melted down and reused for new metal products.
• Foam padding can be repurposed into carpet underlay or cushioning materials.
• Wooden frames often become mulch or other wood products.
• Fabric layers can be recycled into insulation or upholstery stuffing.
• Recycling your mattress helps reduce landfill waste, saves energy, and cuts down on pollution. It’s a responsible choice that benefits both you and the environment

4. Bulk Trash Pickup 🔗

If your mattress is no longer usable and donating or recycling isn’t an option, bulk trash pickup could be the easiest way to get rid of it. Many cities across the U.S. offer special services for large items like mattresses, but it’s important to know the local rules so you don’t get hit with fines or have your mattress left behind.

Bulk trash pickup usually requires scheduling in advance or following designated collection days. Some cities expect you to drop off the mattress at a waste transfer station if pickup isn’t available. In either case, you’ll need to prepare your mattress properly to meet sanitation requirements.

City examples: 🔗

• New York City: Mattresses must be wrapped in plastic bags (you can find these at most hardware stores) before placing them curbside on your regular collection day.
• Los Angeles: Bulky item pickup is free, but you need to make an appointment by calling 311 or scheduling online.
• Chicago: Call 311 to arrange a bulk pickup for your mattress and other large items.

General rules to follow: 🔗

• Always call ahead or use your city’s official waste management website to find out the exact process.
• Don’t just leave your mattress on the street without wrapping or scheduling — many cities issue fines for illegal dumping.
• Wrap your mattress in plastic if local sanitation laws require it.
• Put the mattress out only on the day designated by your city for bulk pickup.

5. Hire a Junk Removal Service 🔗

When all else fails or you just want the job done fast, hiring a junk removal service is your best option. These companies come to your home, remove the mattress, and often handle donation or recycling on your behalf. While it’s not free, it’s 100% hassle-free.

Top U.S. junk removal services: 🔗

• WeCycle – Provides eco-friendly junk hauling with a focus on reuse and affordable, upfront pricing
• 1-800-GOT-JUNK? – Known nationwide for easy booking and full-service disposal.
• LoadUp – Offers transparent pricing and eco-conscious disposal.
• College Hunks Hauling Junk – Combines moving help and junk removal in many U.S. cities.

Cost estimate: 🔗

• Expect to pay between $75 and $150 for removing a single mattress.
• Prices can increase if you have additional items or if your mattress is located in a hard-to-reach spot (like up several flights of stairs).

If you want a detailed breakdown of junk removal pricing and factors affecting costs, check out this comprehensive guide at how much does junk removal cost. It’s a great resource to help you budget and plan ahead.

Preparing a Mattress for Disposal 🔗

So, you’ve decided it’s time to let go of your old mattress. Now what? Before you drag it to the curb or call someone to haul it away you have to prepare it first, especially if we are talking about a king-size mattress. That thing is huge, and most places will not accept it as it is.

First, check the condition. If it is still usable, give it a quick vacuum, wipe down any spots, and wrap it in plastic. Many cities, like New York City, actually require mattresses to be sealed in a bag before pickup even if they are clean.

Now, let’s say you do not have a truck and you are wondering how to get rid of a king-size mattress. One option is to cut up the mattress. Seriously. With a utility knife, gloves, and wire cutters, you can break it down into smaller parts. Start with the outer fabric, pull out the foam, and then cut through the springs or wood.

It is a bit of a workout but makes disposal much easier. Plus, you can separate the parts and recycle what you can.

How often should you change your mattress? 🔗

Now that you know the best ways to get rid of a mattress, you might wonder how often you should actually replace it. After all, mattresses aren’t cheap, and you want to make sure you’re not tossing one out too soon or worse, hanging on to one that’s harming your sleep and health. Most experts recommend replacing your mattress every 7 to 10 years. That’s because over time, mattresses naturally lose their support and comfort. The foam, springs, and fabric wear down, causing sagging, lumps, or uneven surfaces that can lead to back pain, restless nights, or allergies. If your mattress is older than 10 years, or you notice signs like waking up stiff, visible sagging, or increased tossing and turning, it’s probably time to consider an upgrade.

The lifespan can vary depending on the type of mattress you have. For example, innerspring mattresses typically last about 7 to 8 years, while memory foam and hybrid mattresses can last closer to 8 to 10 years. Latex mattresses are often more durable and might last up to 12 years with proper care.

To get the most out of your mattress, use a mattress protector, rotate it regularly if the manufacturer recommends it, and keep it clean.

Eco-Friendly Mattress Disposal 🔗

As we have explored throughout this guide on how to get rid of a mattress, choosing the right disposal method is not just about convenience but also about responsibility. In the United States alone, about 18 million mattresses are discarded every year. Shockingly, only about 19% of these mattresses are recycled, despite the fact that up to 90% of their materials like steel, foam, and wood can be repurposed. It is easy to think getting rid of an old mattress is just another chore. But have you ever stopped to wonder where it really ends up? Sadly, millions of mattresses pile up in landfills every year, taking decades to break down and causing serious harm to our planet. That is why choosing eco friendly disposal is not just a nice option but a responsibility we all share.

Your mattress contains valuable materials like steel, foam, and wood that do not have to go to waste. When you donate, recycle, or work with junk removal services focused on sustainability, you are giving those materials a second chance to be used again instead of just piling up in a landfill. It is a small but powerful way to reduce pollution, save energy, and protect our environment for future generations.

Think about it. By making conscious choices, you are helping to create a cycle where nothing goes to waste and every piece counts. So next time you are ready to get rid of your mattress, remember there is a better way that helps heal our planet while making your cleanup simpler and more meaningful.

Final Note 🔗

Mattress disposal isn’t glamorous. You’re stuck with something huge, heavy, and hard to handle. And yet, what you do next actually makes a difference. Not just for your space, but for the planet and, in some cases, for someone who needs a bed more than you need the extra storage.

You’ve now seen the options. Sell it. Donate it. Recycle it. Break it down. Haul it away. Whatever fits. Just don’t dump it on the curb like it means nothing. Because it does mean something. One mattress sent to recycling is one less in a landfill. One donated bed is one person sleeping better tonight.

So don’t overthink it. Pick the route that makes sense for your situation and get it done. And if you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly someone who cares enough to do it right.

And do not forget to schedule a call if you want us to dispose the mattress for you.

FAQs: How to Dispose of a Mattress 🔗

What is the best way to dispose of a mattress? 🔗

The best way is to use a mattress removal or junk removal service that can pick it up and dispose of it responsibly, often through recycling or donation.

Can I recycle my old mattress? 🔗

Yes, many recycling centers accept mattresses. They break them down into materials like metal, wood, and fabric, reducing landfill waste.

Can I donate a used mattress? 🔗

Some charities accept gently used mattresses, but many have strict rules due to health and safety standards. Always check before donating.

How much does mattress disposal cost? 🔗

Cost depends on your location, the size of the mattress, and whether you hire a professional removal service. However, Mattress removal costs around $100, on average, and most homeowners pay somewhere between $75 and $150, depending on size, disposal method, and more.

Can I dispose of a mattress in curbside pickup? 🔗

Most curbside trash services do not accept mattresses due to size and safety issues. Specialized pickup or junk removal services are usually required.

Can I schedule same-day mattress pickup? 🔗

Many junk removal companies and mattress disposal services offer flexible scheduling, including same-day or next-day pickup depending on availability.