Dumpsters.com logo

How to Dispose of a Mattress

Do I need to wrap my mattress to toss it? Can I donate a used mattress? We answer these questions and more below.

Check available dumpsters near you

An old mattress laying outside on the pavement.

What to Do With an Old Mattress

Has your mattress lost its spring? When it comes to donating or selling mattresses, there are a few things to keep in mind since mattresses are far more regulated than other household items. In many U.S. states, used mattresses are allowed to be resold as long as they meet state-specific requirements. Take note of what kind of material mattress you are tossing, as regulations can change based on the material type.

Finding a disposal method can be tricky — but don’t lose any sleep over it, we’re here to help you get rid of a mattress that’s past its prime with some disposal tips.

Tossing more than just a mattress? Check out our furniture disposal guide for more helpful tips.

 

6 Ways to Get Rid of a Mattress

A mattress and bedding laying on a hardwood floor.

1. Sell It Online

If your mattress has a label that lists the materials within the mattress and it has been steam or chemically treated, then you should be able to sell it. When selling a mattress, it may be easier to work with a retailer, but you can try to sell the mattress yourself online.

A phone screen showing apps to sell items.

Tips for Selling a Mattress

Include Measurements

Take Good Photos and Videos

Note Any Flaws

Schedule Safe Pickups

Rent a Dumpster for Your Old Furniture

Tips for Mattress Donation

Schedule a Pickup

Strip Your Mattress

Clean the Mattress

Store and Package

3. Find a Mattress Recycler

The metal springs, wood frame and cotton material in a mattress are all recyclable, but finding a mattress recycling facility may require a bit of research. Depending on where you take the mattress, you may be charged a fee. Check out the resources below to find a recycling service near you.

If you have trouble locating a mattress recycling facility near you, breaking it down for recycling yourself is another option.

A landfill full of old mattresses.

Mattress Material Recycling Options

Material

Potential Uses

Foam

Shredded and used as insulating materials or as support pillows.

Coils & springs

Melted down and recycled into building materials and appliances.

Fibers

Burned to use as fuel or compressed to make pillows, carpet underlay, car seat padding or other textiles.

Wood

Chipped and used as fuel or mulch.

An old mattress and other trash on the curb.

4. Toss It Curbside

Bulk pickup is typically the most convenient in residential settings, but you'll need to take some time to research your local regulations first. At apartment buildings, furniture is not accepted in front load dumpsters. Depending on your area, you’ll need to consider possible restrictions, such as:

  • Extra fees for furniture pickup with regular trash.
  • Rules for wrapping upholstered furniture in plastic.
  • Limits on the number of furniture items left curbside.

Tips for Bulk Collection

Contact Your Local Trash Collection Service

Get a Dumpster for More Than Just a Mattress

5. Hire a Junk Removal Service

A junk pickup team may be helpful if you are physically unable to lift and move your mattress. The service will come and remove the mattress for you. Keep in mind that pricing may vary based on the size of your bed.

The junk removal process typically involves:

  • Varied rates for different sized items.
  • Team members entering your home to remove the mattress.
  • Limited timeframe for disposal of your junk.
A dumpster truck full of debris.
A house with a roll off dumpster in the driveway.

6. Rent a Dumpster

If you live in an area that allows mattresses to be disposed of with a dumpster rental, this can be a great option. When you need to toss multiple items like a mattress, bed frame and box spring, a dumpster rental allows you to work at your own pace. Since mattresses are big and bulky, your local landfill may charge an additional fee for the responsible disposal of your mattress. Not sure if your area allows dumpster disposal for mattresses? Reach out and we'll let you know about any city-specific notes.

With a residential dumpster rental you can expect:

  • A variety of container sizes to choose from.
  • Upfront rates including the costs of dumpster delivery and pickup.
  • Simple pickup scheduling available online.

Order a Dumpster Online

Can't call us right now? Book the dumpster you need, when you need it. Order your dumpster rental online 24/7.

Two homeowners renting a dumpster to toss a mattress.

Throwing Away More Than a Mattress?

Choose an item for detailed disposal options.

Couches Couches Tables Tables Old Furniture Old Furniture

More Furniture Removal Resources

Tossing more than just a mattress? Check out our helpful blog posts and dumpster guides to get rid of cutter in your home.