Wecycle makes clearing away your junk or unwanted debris quick, efficient, and convenient—on your schedule.
22 June, 2025
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
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 mattress 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.
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.
