How To Cut Mattress Springs Safely: What You Need To Know

If you’re searching for “How To Cut Mattress Springs”, you’re probably dealing with an old innerspring mattress you want to resize, repurpose, or dispose of. While it might sound simple, cutting mattress springs involves sharp metal, tension, and potential injury risks, so it’s important to understand what’s really involved before you start.

Below, you’ll find clear answers to common questions about mattress springs, safety considerations, tools, and whether trying to cut them is the right choice.

What Are Mattress Springs Made Of?

Most traditional innerspring mattresses use a network of steel coils connected by thinner metal wires. These can be:

  • Bonnell or open coils (hourglass-shaped, interconnected)
  • Continuous coils (one long wire formed into multiple springs)
  • Pocketed coils (individually wrapped in fabric)

All of these involve metal under tension, which is why “How To Cut Mattress Springs” is very different from simply cutting fabric or foam.

Is It Safe To Cut Mattress Springs Yourself?

It can be done, but it is not risk‑free. When you cut metal springs:

  • The coil can snap back or move unexpectedly.
  • Sharp edges and burrs can form where the metal is cut.
  • There may still be tension in nearby springs, causing sudden movement.

If you decide to proceed, you should be comfortable handling tools and metal, and be willing to take your time and work slowly. For many people, using local disposal or recycling options is a safer, easier choice than cutting springs at home.

What Tools Are Commonly Used To Cut Mattress Springs?

People who do attempt How To Cut Mattress Springs typically use:

  • Heavy‑duty wire cutters or bolt cutters for thinner springs or connecting wires
  • Hacksaw for thicker coils
  • Angle grinder or rotary tool (for experienced users only, due to sparks and higher risk)

You’ll also want protective gear, such as:

  • Safety glasses
  • Thick work gloves
  • Long sleeves and long pants
  • Closed‑toe shoes

Without the right tools and protection, cutting mattress springs becomes much more hazardous.

How Do You Prepare a Mattress Before Cutting the Springs?

Before touching the metal, it’s important to strip the mattress safely:

  1. Remove the fabric cover
    Cut along the seams with a utility knife or scissors and peel back the top layer.

  2. Take off foam and padding
    Under the fabric you’ll usually find foam, fiberfill, or felt layers. Remove and bag these separately.

  3. Expose the spring unit completely
    Make sure you can clearly see the springs, the border wire, and any connecting wires.

  4. Check how the springs are connected
    Some have a thick border wire around the edge; others use clips or spiral wires between coils.

This step‑by‑step approach helps you see what you’re working with and reduces the chance of cutting blindly into hidden metal.

How To Cut Mattress Springs: Basic Approach and Key Warnings

If you still want to know how to cut mattress springs, these are the general principles people follow:

  • Start with the connecting wires
    Cut the thinner wires that link coils together before cutting the main spring. This often reduces tension.

  • Cut one small section at a time
    Avoid trying to slice an entire row at once. Working in small areas helps you stay in control.

  • Secure the frame or spring unit
    If possible, weigh it down or brace it so it doesn’t shift while you’re cutting.

  • Handle cut ends carefully
    Bent or taped ends can reduce the risk of scratches and punctures.

⚠️ Important: Even when done carefully, cutting mattress springs can create sharp, unstable pieces of metal. Many people underestimate this and end up with minor injuries or damaged tools.

Are There Better Alternatives Than Cutting Mattress Springs?

In many situations, you may not need to cut the springs at all. Consider these alternatives:

  • Mattress recycling services
    Some areas accept whole mattresses and separate metal, foam, and fabric for you.

  • Bulk trash or special collection
    Local services sometimes handle large items with specific pickup rules.

  • Repurposing without cutting
    Some people reuse the spring unit as a garden trellis, art project framework, or storage rack without cutting metal.

When your goal is simply disposal or recycling, these options are often safer and less time‑consuming than learning how to cut mattress springs yourself.

What Should You Do With The Cut Springs and Metal?

If you’ve already cut the springs:

  • Bundle or contain the metal so sharp points are not exposed.
  • Use strong tape, straps, or heavy‑duty bags where allowed.
  • Check local guidelines for scrap metal or bulky waste.

Proper containment helps protect sanitation workers and anyone who might come into contact with the discarded materials.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Cut Mattress Springs

  • Mattress springs are steel under tension, not soft materials, so cutting them carries real risk.
  • Safety gear and proper tools (gloves, eye protection, cutters or saw) are essential if you attempt it.
  • Before any cutting, remove all fabric and foam to fully expose the spring unit.
  • Focus on small sections and connecting wires first to help reduce sudden movement.
  • Sharp, jagged metal edges are unavoidable once springs are cut; handle and dispose of them carefully.
  • In many cases, recycling or bulk disposal services are simpler and safer than cutting mattress springs at home.

Understanding how to cut mattress springs helps you decide whether it’s truly the right approach for your old mattress. By weighing the safety considerations, available tools, and local disposal options, you can choose a method that’s both practical and as low‑risk as possible.