How to Dispose of a Mattress: To Sell, Recycle, or Trash?

Like all products, mattresses are subject to wear and tear. While many models can last seven to 10 years, it’s better to get a new one sooner rather than later. Worn-out mattresses can harbor bacteria, cause neck or back pain, and affect your sleep.

There are no set rules on how often you should replace your mattress. Generally, it’s recommended to take this step if you’re constantly waking up with body aches. Noisy springs, lumps, sagging, and other signs of wear-and-tear may indicate it’s time to make the switch. 

Figuring out how to dispose of a mattress is often the hardest part. Should you sell, recycle, or donate your old mattress? What about throwing it away? 

The answer depends largely on the condition of your mattress. Below we’ll discuss some of the best mattress disposal options to help you make the right choice. 

What to Do with an Old Mattress: Know Your Options 

Deciding what to do with an old mattress can be quite a challenge. 

First, determine the age and condition of your mattress. Next, look for mattress disposal services in your area and decide on the best course of action. Consider the following options:

• Donate your old mattress
• Recycle it for free 
• Break it down and repurpose it
• Sell it
• Throw it away 

Some stores offer free mattress disposal services to buyers, while others charge a fee. California-based retailers, for instance, are legally required to pick up used mattresses and/or box springs from their customers at no extra charge.

Beware that mattresses that pose safety or health risks may not be eligible for recycling. A mattress contaminated with dust mites or rodent droppings, for example, should be disposed of as solid waste. 

Research the local regulations for mattress removal to stay on the safe side. 

How to Donate a Used Mattress 

If your mattress is in fairly good condition, you can donate it to a charitable organization.

Here are some options you may want to consider:

• Habitat for Humanity International
• Salvation Army
• Goodwill
• Catholic Charities
• Furniture Bank Association of America (FBA)
• Small local charities and shelters
• Pet rescue centers

The Salvation Army and other larger organizations have strict policies regarding donations. Most times, they offer free pickup services. 

Local Drop Off

Local charities are more flexible but may require mattress drop-off. Follow these steps to find a charity in your area:

1. Head over to Donation Town. 
2. Enter your zip code in the designated field. 
3. Next, choose an organization and then schedule a free pick-up. 

If you’re interested in donating to a local shelter, you can find one through United Way. 

Another option is to create a listing on eBay, Craigslist, and other online marketplaces and donate your mattress directly to the end-user. 

How to Recycle Old Mattresses

American consumers dispose of over 50,000 mattresses on a daily basis. Most of these products end up in landfills, polluting the environment.

About 70% of the materials in a mattress can be recycled. The foam padding, for example, can be turned into carpet underlayment. The steel springs can be used for the production of building materials or recycled as metal scrap. 

Currently, mattress recycling is mandatory in California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. This service is available through the Mattress Recycling Council’s Bye Bye Mattress program.

Bye Bye Mattress provides a list of recycling facilities in every state. Reach out to them to see what your options are. 

Rhode Island residents, for instance, can ask retailers to pick up their old mattresses when they buy a new one. They also have the option to drop off their mattresses for free at local recycling facilities. Depending on the city or county, they may request a free pick-up. 

If you live in Oregon or California, reach out to St. Vincent de Paul. The organization recycles over 300,000 mattresses and box springs annually. 

Another helpful resource is Earth911. Simply enter your zip code in the search bar to find a recycling center near you.

How to Repurpose Your Old Mattress

Feeling crafty? Consider repurposing your old mattress into home accessories, decorations, and other items.

Use these examples for inspiration:

• Reuse the mattress springs as candle holders, wine bottle holders, bud vase holders, or bird feeders
• Turn the inner frame and springs into a garden planter, photo display, or kitchen rack
• Cut a piece of an old memory foam mattress, cover it with a blanket, and use it as a pet bed
• Repurpose the foam and fabric into bean bag fillers, cushions, or alternative bedding
• Turn the mattress springs into holiday decorations, such as a Christmas tree topper
• Have the mattress professionally cleaned, place it in your backyard, and let your kids use it as a trampoline
• Repurpose different components of your old mattress into pillows, cushion toppers, or porch swings

Your imagination is the only limit. Visit Pinterest and other DIY websites or blogs for crafty ideas. 

How and Where to Sell a Used Mattress

Some people choose to replace their mattresses because they can no longer accommodate their needs. 

For example, you may want to switch to a king-size mattress if you buy a larger bed. If your old mattress is in good shape, try selling it on eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.

Take photos of the mattress from all angles. Include the following details in your listing:

• Mattress condition 
• Size and dimensions
• Materials, such as poly or memory foam
• Cover fabrics
• Brand name
• Years of use
• Any defects, stains, or signs of wear-and-tear
• Price — mention if it’s negotiable

Potential buyers are unlikely to pay more than one-third of the original product price. 

Brand-name mattresses in pristine condition may sell for more. You may also charge a slightly higher price if you can deliver the mattress yourself to the buyer. 

As a general rule, clean and disinfect your mattress before putting it up for sale. 

Note that some states, such as New Jersey, prohibit the sale of mattresses and other bedding items that were used by people with contagious or infectious diseases. Failure to comply with the applicable state laws and regulations can lead to hefty fines. 

How to Throw Away Your Mattress

If your mattress is in poor condition, you may not be able to recycle, sell, or donate it. In this case, your only option is to throw it away. 

First, check the local mattress disposal regulations. Depending on the state, you may need to pay a disposal fee.

Next, decide on the best way to dispose of your old mattress.

Consider the following options:

• Drop it off at a local landfill
• Rent a dumpster and call for pickup
• Reach out to a waste disposal company
• Contact the store where you’re going to buy a new mattress from, as they may be able to help

Summary

Now that you know how to get rid of a mattress, determine what you want to do next. If you decide to sell or donate your mattress and the recipient can’t pick it up, think about how you’re going to ship it. 

Most companies charge around $300 and up for mattress delivery, depending on the product size, weight, and other factors. A more affordable option is to rent a van to make the delivery yourself. 

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