04 October, 2025
Wondering how much it costs to remove a mattress? Discover U.S. pricing, DIY tips, donation and recycling options, and the easiest ways to get rid of your old mattress.
Disposing of an old mattress is not always as simple as leaving it on the curb. Many U.S. cities enforce strict bulk trash rules, and landfills often refuse mattresses because of their size and environmental impact. This makes professional mattress removal or recycling services a common choice for homeowners. But how much does mattress removal cost in the USA? On average, the price ranges from $40 to $200, depending on your location, mattress size, and the type of service whether a junk removal company, donation center, or a retailerโs haul-away program. In this guide, youโll discover the typical costs, key factors that influence pricing, and the most budget-friendly options for getting rid of your old mattress.
In most parts of the U.S., mattress removal usually costs anywhere from $75 to $150. The range might look pretty small, but a few things like where you live, the size of your mattress, and the type of service you book can make the price swing higher or lower.
The size of your mattress plays a major role in determining the overall removal cost. Larger mattresses, such as queen, king, or California king, often come with higher disposal or dumping fees. They are bulkier, harder to maneuver, and may require an extra crew member to carry them out of your home. This additional labor directly increases the total price youโll pay. In general, the bigger the mattress, the higher the removal cost in the USA.
Mattress Size | Average Removal Cost (USD) | Average Weight (lbs.) | Typical Disposal Method | Extra Fees to Expect |
---|---|---|---|---|
Twin | $40 โ $55 | 40 โ 45 | Junk removal, donation drop-off, or recycling center | Stairs/long carry fees |
Twin XL | $40 โ $55 | 43 โ 48 | Junk removal or retailer haul-away | Stairs/long carry fees |
Full/Double | $40 โ $70 | 50 โ 60 | Curbside bulk pickup, junk removal, or recycling | Extra fee if box spring included |
Queen | $60 โ $100 | 60 โ 70 | Junk removal, mattress recycling program, or donation (if in good condition) | Travel fees in rural areas |
King | $80 โ $125 | 70 โ 90 | Professional junk removal or recycling | Added charge for disposal of frame |
California King | $100 โ $140 | 90 โ 100+ | Junk removal companies, specialized recycling | Heavy item surcharge |
Pro Tip: Some retailers like IKEA, Costco, or mattress companies offer discounted or even free mattress haul-away when you purchase a new bed. Local recycling centers may also accept drop-offs for $20โ$40 per mattress, which can be cheaper than hiring a full-service junk removal company.
The material of your mattress can also influence the overall removal cost. This is mainly because different materials affect the weight and handling requirements. For example, a queen or king mattress made from high-density memory foam can be significantly heavier than a standard innerspring mattress. Heavier mattresses often result in higher dumping or recycling fees, and if you hire a junk removal company, they may need additional crew members to safely move and transport it, raising the total price.
Some local recycling centers may also charge extra for mattresses with mixed materials (such as hybrids that combine foam, springs, and latex) since they are harder to dismantle and recycle. On the other hand, lighter mattresses, like budget foam or futon mattresses, typically cost less to remove because they are easier to handle and dispose of.
If youโre looking to save money, itโs worth checking whether your city offers mattress recycling drop-off locations or whether the retailer who sold you your new mattress provides a free or discounted haul-away service. These options can help offset the higher costs associated with heavier or more complex mattress materials.
Mattress Material | Average Removal Cost (USA) | Notes / Considerations |
---|---|---|
Memory Foam | $120 | Dense and heavy; often requires special handling or recycling programs. |
Spring/Coil | $90 | Standard spring mattresses are bulky but easier to handle than foam. |
Hybrid (Memory Foam + Springs) | $110 | Combination mattresses require extra effort due to weight and materials. |
Latex | $130 | Natural or synthetic latex is dense and eco-friendly disposal may increase cost. |
Pillow Top | $100 | Extra padding adds bulk, slightly increasing removal effort. |
Gel-Infused Foam | $125 | Newer foam types can be heavier and may have specific recycling requirements. |
Adjustable / Airbed | $115 | Mechanical parts and air chambers require careful disposal and may raise costs. |
The cost of mattress removal in the USA depends largely on the disposal method you choose. Many cities allow bulk pickup, sometimes for free, while others require approved disposal bags or a small fee. Donating your mattress to a charity or recycling program is another low-cost option, often helping the environment and community. For faster or guaranteed removal, professional junk removal services typically charge $40 to $120 per mattress, offering convenience and proper disposal. DIY disposal at a landfill or recycling facility can also save money, though it requires transportation and effort. Choosing the right method balances cost, convenience, and environmental responsibility, making it easier to plan your mattress disposal cost in the USA.
Disposal Method | Average Cost (USA) | Pros | Cons / Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Donation | $0 | Free way to help others; eco-friendly | Must meet donation criteria; not all charities accept used mattresses |
Bulk Pickup by City/County | $10โ$20 | Low-cost; convenient if your municipality offers the service | Limited to scheduled days; rules vary by city |
DIY Disposal / Drop-off at Landfill | $40โ$80 | Gives you full control over timing; can combine with other trash | Requires transport; some landfills charge extra for mattresses |
Retailer Pickup / Haul-away | $40โ$100 | Convenient if buying a new mattress; typically handled by professionals | Cost often added to new mattress delivery; not available without purchase |
Professional Junk Removal Service | $80โ$200 | Fast, hands-off, eco-friendly disposal; can remove multiple items | Higher cost; varies by location and mattress size |
Dumpster Rental | $200โ$400 | Ideal for large cleanouts or multiple mattresses | Expensive; requires space and permits; not eco-friendly if not recycled |
Not all mattress disposal options are available in every U.S. city. Some municipalities donโt allow placing mattresses in dumpsters, while others may not offer bulk pickup. Always check local rules before disposal. Alternatives include junk removal services, mattress recycling programs, or donation centers. Recycling reduces landfill waste, and donating may be accepted if the mattress is clean and in good condition. Following local guidelines ensures safe, responsible, and cost-effective mattress removal.
The condition of your mattress can significantly affect mattress removal costs in the USA. Mattresses infested with fleas or bed bugs often require special handling, and most junk removal companies apply an additional fee for hazardous debris removal. In these cases, you could pay an extra $40 to $100.
Donation centers typically reject mattresses that have fleas, bed bugs, heavy stains, unpleasant odors, tears, broken springs, or other major damage. If your mattress cannot be donated, you will need to arrange for professional removal or disposal, which may increase your overall cost. For a hassle-free solution, consider professional mattress removal services to handle damaged or infested mattresses safely and efficiently.
If you hire a professional mattress removal service, itโs customary to tip the movers, especially when they handle extra work such as carrying the mattress up or down stairs or navigating tight doorways. In the U.S., a typical tip ranges from $10 to $20 per mover. Including this in your budget ensures a smooth and courteous mattress removal experience while showing appreciation for the hard work of the junk removal team.
When it comes to getting rid of an old mattress, you have two main options: do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional mattress removal service. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on your budget, schedule, and the effort youโre willing to put in.
Removing a mattress on your own can save money, but it often requires careful planning. Youโll need to figure out how to transport it, possibly rent a truck, and locate a local recycling center or landfill that accepts mattresses. Keep in mind that mattresses are bulky and heavy, which can make lifting and moving them physically challenging. Additionally, some U.S. cities have strict disposal rules, and failure to follow them can result in fines.
Professional mattress removal services handle all the heavy lifting, transportation, and disposal for you. In the U.S., most services charge between $40 and $120 per mattress, depending on size, location, and additional services like recycling. Professionals ensure the mattress is disposed of responsibly, often in an environmentally friendly way, and save you time and physical effort. You may also consider tipping movers $10โ$20 per person if they navigate stairs or tight spaces.
If you want to save money and donโt mind the effort, DIY removal is a feasible choice. But for convenience, safety, and proper disposal, hiring a professional mattress removal service is usually the smarter option, especially for larger mattresses or multiple items.
Many homeowners combine mattress removal with additional services to save on trips and labor costs. Here are some common add-ons to consider:
1. New Mattress Delivery
If youโre replacing your old mattress, youโll likely have a new one delivered. Some retailers include delivery in the purchase price, while others may charge up to $100. Free delivery options are also common, so itโs worth checking before scheduling.
2. Box Spring or Bed Frame Disposal
Getting rid of the box spring or bed frame can add to your costs. Typically, box spring removal runs between $20 and $40, while removing a bed frame costs around $40 to $100, depending on size and material.
3. Extermination Services
If your mattress has bed bugs or fleas, professional extermination is highly recommended to protect your home and new mattress. Bed bug treatments usually cost $1,000โ$4,000, while standard pest removal services range from $100 to $300.
4. Additional Junk Removal
Many people remove extra furniture or household junk alongside their old mattress. In most cases, total junk removal costs fall between $150 and $350, but prices can increase if you have a larger load.
By bundling these services with your mattress removal, you can save time, avoid multiple trips, and ensure a smooth, hassle-free disposal experience.
Mattress removal in the U.S. isnโt as expensive as other home projects, but most homeowners still look for ways to save. Here are some practical strategies to lower your costs:
1. Donate Your Mattress
If your mattress is in good condition, check local donation centers or charitable organizations. Some will accept mattresses at no cost. Keep in mind, youโll usually need to deliver it yourself, but itโs a great way to help others while avoiding disposal fees.
2. Recycle Your Mattress
Many recycling centers accept mattresses, often for free. In some cases, you may need to spend $10โ$20 on mattress bags before delivery. Recycling is environmentally friendly, but youโll likely need to transport the mattress on your own.
3. Do It Yourself (DIY)
If donation or recycling isnโt an option, you can remove the mattress yourself. DIY removal can save $20โ$100 per mattress, depending on local disposal rules. Make sure to check your cityโs regulations for dumping or bulk trash pickup.
4. Use Local Sanitation Services
Some U.S. cities offer bulk trash pickup or special mattress disposal through the sanitation department. Costs are often minimal, sometimes just $10โ$20 for mattress bags. Contact your local sanitation office to see what options are available.
By exploring these options, you can save money and dispose of your mattress responsibly, whether through donation, recycling, DIY, or municipal services.
The average cost for professional mattress removal in the U.S. ranges from $40 to $120 per mattress, depending on the size, location, and service type. Additional fees may apply for extra-large mattresses or difficult access.
Yes! You can donate mattresses in good condition to local charities or take them to recycling centers. Some municipalities also offer free bulk pickup, though you may need to purchase a $10โ$20 mattress bag in some areas.
DIY removal can save $20โ$100 per mattress, but it requires physical effort and proper transportation. You also need to follow local disposal rules to avoid fines or penalties.
Tipping is optional but appreciated, especially if movers handle stairs or tight spaces. In the U.S., a tip of $10โ$20 per mover is standard for mattress removal services.
Donation and recycling are often free but require you to transport the mattress. Professional removal costs more but saves time and ensures responsible disposal, especially for large or multiple mattresses.