How to Get Rid of an Old Mattress: 6 Smart and Responsible Ways

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.

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

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

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.

And if you’re looking for the easiest way to do good while clearing out space—HaulBuddy is here to help. Our donation pickup service makes it simple to pass your mattress along to someone who truly needs it. Whether you're in Charlotte, Raleigh, NC, Palm Beach, Phoenix, or surrounding areas, we’ll collect it from your doorstep and deliver it directly to a local charity or community group of your choice.

No heavy lifting. No stress. Just a smarter way to move on from your mattress—and make an impact while doing it.

Ready to get started? Book your pickup today at www.haulbuddy.comClear your home, help your neighbors, and feel great about how you let go.

FAQs

Can I throw away a mattress in a dumpster?

In most cities, no. Dumping a mattress in a regular dumpster can violate local regulations and may result in fines. Mattresses and box springs are bulky, contain recyclable materials, and often require special handling. Many dumpsters also restrict accepted items, especially if the mattress is soiled or infested with bed bugs. Always check with your local tip or waste authority before tossing it.

Why didn't the garbage man take my mattress?

Garbage collectors often skip mattresses because they’re too bulky, contain restricted materials, or haven’t been properly wrapped (some cities require plastic covering). If there’s any sign of bed bugs or stains, they’ll likely leave it behind. Municipal waste services usually require you to schedule bulk item pickup or use a junk removal service like HaulBuddy for mattress disposal.

Can you cut up a mattress for disposal?

Yes, but it’s not always recommended. You can cut up a mattress to separate out foam padding, steel springs, and box spring components for easier disposal or recycling. Just be cautious—mattresses are tough and may contain sharp wires or unknown materials. Wear gloves and know where to dispose of each part, as most recycling facilities don’t accept mixed other waste.

Why are mattresses so expensive to dispose of?

Disposing of a mattress costs more because of the size, materials, and special handling required. Many areas charge a small fee for mattress pickup or recycling, especially if it can’t be donated. Labor, transport, and landfill or recycling program fees all add up. Services like HaulBuddy offer convenient, legal disposal—often saving you time and effort.