Got an old mattress taking up space and no idea what to do with it? You’re not alone! Disposing of a mattress can feel like a huge and tiring task, but the good news is there are plenty of options available to suit every need and location.
Whether you’re looking to donate, recycle, or simply get it out of your way, I’ve got you covered with a full breakdown of how to bid farewell to that bulky bedding. Keep on reading and find the perfect solution for you!
1. Donate Your Mattress
If your mattress is still in good condition, consider donating it. Many charities accept mattresses as long as they are free from major defects like stains, tears, or infestations.
Organizations such as The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and Furniture Bank Network often accept mattress donations and may even offer free pickup services in some areas. Donation Town is a great resource to find local charities that might accept your mattress.
2. Retailer Take-Back Programs
When you buy a new mattress, some retailers offer to take back your old one for a fee. This is a convenient option if you’re purchasing a replacement.
Retailers like IKEA, John Lewis, and Mattress Man provide such services, with fees typically ranging from $20 to $70 depending on the store.
3. Recycle Your Mattress
Recycling is one of the most eco-friendly ways to dispose of a mattress. Over 80% of mattress components can be recycled, such as steel springs, foam, and fabric.
You can take your mattress to a local recycling center or use services like Bye Bye Mattress or Earth 911 to find the nearest facility. In some states like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, mattress recycling is even mandated by law and might be offered for free.
4. Use a Mattress Disposal Service
If you want the convenience of someone else handling the disposal, consider hiring a junk removal service.
Companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK and LoadUp will pick up and responsibly dispose of your mattress for a fee. These services are especially useful if your mattress is not in good enough condition to donate or recycle.
5. Council or Municipal Pickup
Many local councils offer bulky waste collection services for large items like mattresses.
This option can be cost-effective, though you may need to wait for a scheduled pickup day. The costs and services vary by location, so check with your local council for specifics.
6. List as a Free Item
If your mattress is still usable, listing it for free on platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can be a quick way to get rid of it. This often appeals to people who need a mattress but can’t afford a new one.
7. Take It to the Dump
As a last resort, you can take your mattress to a local landfill or dump. However, be aware that some areas have restrictions on dumping mattresses due to the space they occupy in landfills.
Always check with the facility beforehand to ensure they accept mattresses and to find out if there are any fees involved.
8. Rent a Dumpster
If you have a lot of items to dispose of, renting a dumpster can be a practical solution.
This option is more suitable for large-scale cleanouts, as renting a dumpster just for a mattress might not be cost-effective. Make sure the company you rent from accepts mattresses, as some do not due to recycling or disposal regulations.
9. Contact a Scrap Dealer
If your mattress is beyond reuse or recycling, some scrap dealers might accept it for the metal components.
The steel springs and frames can be salvaged and reused in other manufacturing processes, giving a second life to parts of your old bed.
10. Repurpose It for DIY Projects
If you’re into DIY and crafts, your old mattress can be a goldmine of materials.
The springs can be used for garden trellises, the foam for pet beds, or even insulation for small projects. It’s a sustainable way to upcycle the materials rather than sending them to the landfill.
11. Community Freecycle Networks
Joining a local Freecycle group is another eco-friendly option. This community-driven network allows you to give away items you no longer need, including mattresses.
Someone nearby might be in need of a mattress, and this platform makes it easy to connect with them.
12. Artistic or Educational Donations
In some areas, local artists, theater groups, or schools might accept mattress donations for creative projects or prop use.
This is an unconventional yet meaningful way to ensure your mattress gets a second life.
Wrapping It Up
So, whether you’re donating, recycling, or having it hauled away, there’s a solution that fits your needs when it comes to getting rid of that old mattress and keeps things hassle-free.
Don’t let that mattress take up any more space—choose your preferred method, and enjoy your newfound room! Because a little effort now means a cleaner home and a happier planet.
