Disposing of a mattress is ridiculously hard. So is the wider struggle to manage waste

Mattress Disposal: How to Get Rid of An Old Mattress Guide

When it’s time to level up your sleep and invest in a new mattress, you might run into an issue: how to get rid of your old mattress. Mattresses are big, heavy, and bulky, so when it comes to mattress disposal, you can’t just leave it on the curb with your garbage cans. Well, you could, but the garbage collectors will probably just drive right on by.

Plus, mattresses are not designed to compress or break down. While this is great for mattress longevity, it also means that mattresses sit in landfills for years, releasing harmful greenhouse gasses as they slowly decompose.

So when it comes to getting rid of an old mattress, there are much better options than a landfill. You may be able to donate your mattress, recycle it, or use a junk removal service to responsibly dispose of it. We’ll cover all the different methods of mattress disposal and show you how to get rid of an old mattress the right way.

Donating Your Mattress
If your mattress is in good condition and still has some life left in it, the best choice for mattress disposal is to donate it. Many charities and shelters accept undamaged, usable mattresses, and they may even come and pick them up from your home. But it is a good idea to clean your mattress first, so it’s in tip-top shape for its new owner.

Donating lets you do some good in your community, plus it’s a convenient way to get rid of an old mattress. You can keep an eye out for local individuals or charities who are in need of donations, or contact a national organization, such as:

Goodwill opens in new window : Not all Goodwill stores take mattress donations, but with 162 locations across the US and Canada, you should be able to find one nearby that does.

Habitat for Humanity opens in new window : Many of HFH’s ReStores accept mattress donations and provide mattress pickup services.

The Salvation Army opens in new window : Accepts undamaged mattresses in good condition, and many locations offer free pickup.

Catholic Charities opens in new window : The Catholic Charities system runs shelters, housing programs, and other organizations throughout the country, and you can use their website to find locations near you.

Furniture Bank Association of America opens in new window : The FBA supports impoverished communities with free or low-cost furniture, and they typically accept mattresses in good condition.

You can also check out Donation Town opens in new window —an online resource that helps you locate charities in your local area.

And if your mattress is still in okay condition—but not up to the charities’ standards—check with your local animal shelters. They are always in need of supplies, and may welcome a mattress that’s past its prime

leesa-blog-shop-collection-mattresses
Meticulously designed mattresses for better sleep. Expertly crafted with high-quality materials for cool comfort and support. Shop Now
Recycling Your Mattress
When you need to get rid of an old mattress that’s at the end of its life, recycling is the most environmentally friendly option. All or most of the materials can be recycled or reused in some way, and it keeps more mattresses out of landfills. There’s usually a recycling fee that you’ll need to pay, but it’s generally no more than $10-30.

The Mattress Recycling Council is a nonprofit organization that works to implement recycling programs throughout the U.S. You can use their website, Bye Bye Mattress opens in new window , to find a mattress recycling center near you. Earth911 opens in new window is another helpful resource for finding recycling programs or facilities.

And if you haven’t found your new mattress yet, take our mattress quiz to find your perfect Leesa option. Our in-home delivery and setup services include haul-away and recycling—so you can get rid of your old mattress responsibly, with zero effort!

Hiring a Junk Removal Service
If you can’t recycle or donate your mattress yourself, you can always hire a junk removal service. There are tons of local and nationwide companies that will pick up your old mattress and haul it away. However, since these companies charge by weight or volume, the fees can get a little pricey.

On the other hand, many national junk removal companies, like LoadUp opens in new window and 1-800-GOT-JUNK opens in new window , offer eco-friendly services and recycle or donate mattresses whenever possible. But keep in mind that if you have a bed bug problem, you might be out of luck. A lot of these companies refuse to accept mattresses with bed bugs.

Taking Your Mattress to a Landfill
Dumping it at the landfill is the most inconvenient and environmentally unfriendly way to get rid of an old mattress. Over 50,000 mattresses end up in U.S. landfills opens in new window every single day, taking up enormous amounts of space, leaking flame retardants, formaldehyde, and phthalates into the soil and water, and releasing methane into the air. But we get it—sometimes there’s just no other option.

So if your mattress is destined for the landfill, check with your city to see if they offer bulk or large item trash-pickup days. Or you may be able to schedule a bulk pickup, although this usually comes with a fee. If not, you’ll have to get your mattress to the landfill on your own and pay for any disposal charges.

And for your new mattress, look for one that’s eco-friendly and CertiPUR-US® certified — like all of Leesa’s mattresses. Our foams are low VOC and made without flame retardants, formaldehyde, or phthalates.

FAQS
How can I reuse an old mattress?
If you can’t give away, donate, or recycle your old mattress, here are some creative options to repurpose it and keep it out of the landfill.


Use the innersprings to make a wine rack, hanging pot and pan rack, room divider, lawn furniture, vertical garden…the sky’s the limit!


Cut up an old memory foam mattress to create cozy pet beds, revive old cushions, make sleeping pads for naptime or camping trips, or even soundproof a room.


Give it to your garden—build a compost bin or planter box using the wood frame, compost the stuffing or use it as a weed barrier, turn the mattress cover into a plant or compost cover, and create an arch or trellis with the innersprings.



Is it OK to put a mattress on another mattress?
It might seem like a brilliant idea at firs —put the comfy new mattress on top of the old, less-comfy mattress for ultimate comfort levels. But, unfortunately, that’s not the way it works. Your mattress needs stable support, otherwise you won’t get as much use out of it. When you double-up your mattresses, it reduces airflow, retains moisture, promotes allergens, causes sagging, and increases wear and tear. It may even void your mattress warranty. So to keep your new mattress in excellent condition, it’s best to get rid of your old mattress and give your new one the right support.

Things You Should Know About Mattress Disposal
When you start to live a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle, you’ll find that you spend more time recycling and reusing items rather than simply throwing them away. The less waste you can create, the more the environment can thrive. However, there will be times in your life when you’re simply not sure what you need to do to get rid of an old item that you no longer have use for.



If your old and lumpy mattress is far past its best and you can’t donate it to someone in need, then you’ll need to figure out how you’re going to dispose of it without causing any excess damage to the environment.  Here are a few things you’ll need to know about disposing of your old mattress.

1. Always Try Donating First
The average mattress lasts for anywhere between 7 and 8 years. If you’ve decided to get a new mattress, but your old one isn’t completely worn out yet, then you might be able to donate the old product to an organization in need of help.

One particularly good option for international donors is the Salvation Army. This group has thrift stores throughout the world, and the group can provide a furniture pickup service for mattress donations in certain locations. Donations to the Salvation Army are tax-deductible too. If the salvation army isn’t an option, try:

      Habitat for Humanity International
      Furniture Bank Association of America
      Goodwill
      Local charity stores
      Homeless shelters
Remember, your mattress needs to be in good condition for a donation. That means no tears, no damage that might cause discomfort to a new user, and no bedbugs!

2. Recycling is the Second Best Option
If a donation isn’t possible for you, then you can consider recycling your mattress instead. Up to 90% of your mattress can be recycled and repurposed to create new products. To make sure that you’re recycling your mattress correctly, you’ll need to go online and track down the nearest recycling center that accepts mattresses.

There are likely to be a few options in your local area. For a small fee, some companies will even pick the mattress up for you if you don’t have a way to get the item to them. Remember, most centers will allow you to submit a mattress for recycling if it isn’t in the best condition. However, recycling centers will not take mattresses that have been exposed to pests or bed bugs. Check the terms and conditions of your recycling plant.

recycling-bin-dubai

3. Junk Removal Companies Can Help You Out
Finally, if you’re getting rid of a mattress that can’t be recycled, and isn’t any good for donation, then your only option will be to have it removed by a junk removal company. These businesses will take items to the dump if they need to go there, but most junk removal companies will also try to recycle or donate used mattresses before simply throwing them away.

Residential junk removal services have the right people and expertise to handle the challenging task of decluttering and disposing of unwanted items in your home. These services typically employ skilled and experienced professionals trained to efficiently and safely remove various types of junk, whether it’s old mattresses, furniture, appliances, electronics, construction debris, or general household clutter.

Using these kinds of companies will cost you a small amount of money, depending on the size and weight of the mattress. Many will charge by volume, although others do charge on a per-item basis. You should also consider checking the warranty of your old mattress before you get rid of it, as the manufacturer might offer disposal services.

But how do you prepare your old mattress for junk removal? You can follow some steps to ensure a smooth and efficient pickup by the removal service. Firstly, strip the mattress off all bedding and linens and ensure it’s completely bare. Inspect the mattress for any hazardous materials, like bedbugs, and inform the removal service accordingly if found. In case of rain or moisture concerns, protect the mattress by covering it with a plastic mattress bag or a large plastic sheet.

If your mattress is part of a larger bed frame, disassemble it as needed. Ensure that all hazardous materials, like sharp edges and protruding springs, are out of children’s reach. Communicate with the removal service in advance, schedule a pickup, and discuss any specific requirements they may have regarding size or weight restrictions. On the scheduled pickup day, be present or provide access to the removal team and comply with local regulations for mattress disposal.

Additionally, if you’re replacing your old bed with a new one, see whether the company that you’re buying the new mattress from offer a removal service. Some companies are more than happy to responsibly dispose of your old mattress when they deliver your new one.

HOW TO DISPOSE OF A MATTRESS AND CAN YOU TAKE IT TO THE TIP?

How to Get Rid of an Old Mattress: 6 Smart and Responsible Ways
geoff371
Apr 4, 2025
8 min read

Updated: Apr 29, 2025

When it’s time to upgrade to a new mattress, there’s one nagging question that creeps in: what do you do with the old one? You can’t just shove it in a trash bin—and leaving it on the curb might get you a few side-eyes from neighbors and a big “nope” from your garbage collector.


That’s because mattress disposal isn’t always straightforward. Many states have rules about how to properly dispose of an old mattress, especially with concerns like bed bugs, soiled materials, and bulky size, making them a pain to manage.

old mattresses stacked against concrete block walls in a recycling area



But don’t stress—there are smart, responsible, and surprisingly convenient ways to say goodbye to that unwanted mattress. Some options include giving your old bed a second life or supporting local charities and homeless shelters.


So, before you haul it to the curb (or just stare at it in your hallway), let’s break down the six best ways to get rid of a mattress—without the headache.


6 Ways to Get Rid of an Old Mattress

1. Donate to a Local Charity or Community Using HaulBuddy
If your old mattress is still in good condition—no deep stains, structural issues, or signs of bed bugs—donating it can be one of the most rewarding ways to part with it. Instead of adding to local landfills, you're giving someone a safe, clean place to sleep.


That’s a win for both the environment and your community.


Local charities, homeless shelters, and transitional housing programs often accept used mattresses as long as they meet hygiene and safety standards. But getting that bulky bed into your car (and figuring out where to drop it) isn’t exactly convenient.


That’s where HaulBuddy steps in.


With our donation pickup service, you can schedule a pickup right from your home. Whether you’re in West Palm Beach, Charlotte NC, Raleigh, or Phoenix, HaulBuddy can collect your mattress and deliver it to a nearby organization that accepts mattress donations.


Even if national charities aren’t taking donations, smaller shelters or animal rescues may accept foam padding, box spring components, or full mattresses and box springs for pet bedding. It’s a creative way to give that bed a second life—even if it’s a little too worn for humans.


So, if you’re looking for a smart, eco-conscious, and compassionate way to get rid of your old mattress, this is the perfect place to start. You'll be clearing out space and doing something good.


2. Check with Your Mattress Retailer for Haul-Away Options

Scored a new mattress and scheduled delivery? Don’t forget to ask the retailer what happens to your old mattress.


Many mattress stores offer haul-away services when you make a purchase—which sounds like a win. They show up with your fresh bed and take the old one away, no heavy lifting on your part.

But before you say yes, it’s worth asking a few important questions.


Some retailers properly dispose of old mattresses by working with recycling facilities or even donating them if they’re in good condition. Others might skip the effort and send your mattress straight to the local landfill—which defeats the purpose if you’re trying to make a responsible choice.


This option can be great for convenience but don’t assume it’s always the best one. Make sure to ask whether they recycle, donate, or just trash it. And keep in mind a small fee may apply.


If you care where your unwanted mattress ends up, this conversation is one you don’t want to skip.


3. Recycle It Through a Certified Facility

If your old mattress has seen better days—maybe it's soiled, sagging, or just plain done—don't assume the only option is the dump. Believe it or not, your tired mattress is packed with value.

From foam padding to steel springs, many of the materials inside can be broken down and put to good use elsewhere.


That’s where mattress recycling comes in.


According to the Mattress Recycling Council, more than 75% of a mattress can be recycled. The foam can become carpet underlayment, box spring components can be reused, and the metal coils? Those can be melted down and used in new appliances or even industrial oil filters.

Some facilities even produce landscaping mulch from parts of mattresses and box springs—pretty impressive for something you were ready to toss.


Several states, like California and Rhode Island, have local regulations that actually require mattress recycling. But even if your state doesn’t, you can still find a nearby facility.

Sites like Bye Bye Mattress (run by the Mattress Recycling Council) or Earth911 make it easy to locate recycling options in your area.


Recycling might not be the fastest route—but it’s one of the most environmentally responsible ways to get rid of an old mattress. Plus, it keeps bulky mattresses out of local landfills and gives a second life to materials that would otherwise go to waste.


4. Schedule a Bulk Trash Pickup with Your City

Two movers carry a large mattress to a van



Still stuck with a used mattress you can’t donate, can’t recycle, and don’t have space to keep? If you’ve exhausted the other recycling options, your city might offer a way out—just not the greenest one.


Many municipalities provide scheduled bulk trash pickups for large items like mattresses and box springs. It’s not the most glamorous option, but it does the job.


You’ll usually need to visit your local waste management website to see if mattress pickup is available in your area. Some cities require you to wrap the mattress in plastic, others charge a small fee, and a few might limit what’s accepted—especially if the item has bed bugs or is heavily soiled.


This method is useful when all else fails, but there’s a trade-off: chances are your old mattress will end up in a local landfill. That’s why it’s often seen as the last resort.


While it clears up space quickly, it adds to the growing waste problem and bypasses any opportunity for mattress recycling or reuse.


So if you choose this route, do it with full awareness. And if you want a smarter, more sustainable way to get rid of your mattress, there are still two more ideas worth exploring.


5. Repurpose the Mattress or Its Parts

An old mattress doesn’t always have to be removed—it can be transformed.


For homeowners who prefer practical, hands-on solutions, repurposing offers a sustainable and creative way to get more value out of something you no longer sleep on.


Whether you're working on a weekend project or looking for a low-cost fix, many mattresses and box springs are full of materials worth keeping.


A mattress in good condition can serve a second purpose in a guest bedroom or be fitted into a Murphy bed to create extra sleeping space without buying anything new. It’s a smart use of space, especially in smaller homes or apartments where flexibility matters.


For those who enjoy DIY, there are even more opportunities.


Wood slats from the box spring can be used to build garden beds or small furniture pieces. The foam padding inside is perfect for turning into pet beds, floor cushions, or even carpet underlayment.


You’ll also find people using steel springs from old beds to make wine racks, wreaths, or decorative wall art. It's a fun, eco-friendly way to reuse what would otherwise go to waste.


Before you begin, it’s important to know what’s inside your mattress. Some materials may not be safe to handle or may not offer the stability you’re looking for in a project.


But when done right, repurposing is more than just recycling—it’s about extending the life of valuable materials while minimizing your impact on local landfills.


6. Sell or Give It Away Locally (If in Great Condition)

Sometimes, the easiest solution is right in your neighborhood.


When a mattress is barely used—maybe it spent its life in a guest room or was quickly replaced after a change of preference—it might still have real value for someone else. Instead of tossing it or figuring out how to properly dispose of it, consider selling or giving it away locally.


Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, or Buy Nothing groups make it simple to connect with people nearby who are actively looking for a mattress in good condition.


Be upfront about the size, age, and condition, and include clear photos. If there are no stains, no structural issues, and the bed is clean and free of bed bugs, there’s a good chance someone will gladly pick it up—no landfill trip required.


You can also try neighborhood-specific apps or community pages to keep it truly local. This keeps transportation easy, helps someone furnish a space affordably, and clears up your own space in the process.


For the best results, make sure your listing is detailed, honest, and includes information about pickup or drop-off arrangements. Confirming cleanliness upfront helps with health and safety, especially if you’re posting to mattress donation groups or family-focused communities.


While not everyone thinks of used mattresses as items worth sharing, those that are still in great shape can absolutely be reused—saving both money and materials.


And hey, it’s a small way to be a good neighbor while saying goodbye to your old bed.


Choose a Smarter Way to Say Goodbye to Your Mattress

Stacked old mattresses and appliances at a recycling center



Wondering how to get rid of an old mattress without turning it into a hassle—or worse, landfill waste? You’ve got more than one solid option. From recycling and repurposing to donating or listing it online, it’s entirely possible to part with your old mattress in a way that’s thoughtful, responsible, and clutter-free.

Mattress disposal costs in Salt Lake City range from \(\$18\) for a self-service drop-off to \(\$50-\$130+\) for professional curbside or in-home removal. Pricing varies by how you choose to dispose of it and whether you drop it off or hire a junk removal service.1. Self-Drop-Off & Recycling (Cheapest)If you have a truck or an SUV, dropping the mattress off yourself is the most budget-friendly option.Spring Back Utah: Charges \(\$18\) to \(\$20\) per mattress or box spring to drop them off at their recycling facility.Salt Lake County Landfill: Charges \(\$18\) per mattress or box spring for residential drop-off [0.5.1.2. Curbside & In-Home Pickup Services (Convenient)If you need someone to haul the mattress away from your home, prices range based on the service provider.Spring Back Utah: Offers curbside pickup starting around \(\$40\), with in-home removal available for an additional fee.Mattress Disposal Plus: Starts at \(\$85\) (plus about \(\$15\) for a box spring) for hauling and professional pickup.LoadUp Junk Removal: Prices typically start at \(\$75\) and increase based on your zip code and mattress size.Helpful Details for Disposal:Condition: Mattresses must be dry and free of bed bugs for both recycling and hauling services.Business or Commercial: Disposal for businesses often has different volume requirements and pricing.Scheduling: To book a recycling drop-off or pickup, you can easily schedule online through Spring Back Utah. For full-service hauling, check local zip code pricing with