Who Accepts Mattress Donations? Where Your Old Bed Can Go Instead of the Landfill
If you’re upgrading your bed and wondering “Who Accepts Mattress Donations?”, you’re not alone. Many people want to give a usable mattress a second life but aren’t sure which organizations will take it, what condition it must be in, or how pickup works. This guide explains your main options and what to expect.
What Does It Mean to Donate a Mattress?
When you donate a mattress, you give a clean, safe, still-usable bed to an organization that passes it on to someone in need, often at low or no cost.
To be accepted, most places require that your mattress:
- Is structurally sound (no broken springs or sagging areas)
- Is reasonably clean (no heavy stains or strong odors)
- Is free from bed bugs and other pests
- Has no large rips, exposed foam, or major damage
If your mattress doesn’t meet these standards, recycling or proper disposal is usually more appropriate than donation.
Who Accepts Mattress Donations in General?
While availability varies by region, the following types of organizations are commonly where people find who accepts mattress donations.
1. Local Charities and Community Organizations
Many local charities and community-focused groups accept mattresses that are in good condition.
Common examples include:
- Community outreach centers
- Faith-based charities
- Shelters that help families or individuals in transition
- Furniture banks that provide basic household items
These organizations often use mattresses to furnish temporary housing or help people setting up a new home after hardship.
2. Homeless and Domestic Violence Shelters
Some shelters accept mattress donations, especially if they run transitional housing or long-term programs. However, space and sanitation rules can be strict.
Shelters are more likely to accept:
- Gently used, clean mattresses
- Standard sizes that fit common bed frames
- Mattresses from smoke-free, pet-free homes (depending on their policies)
Many shelters will tell you over the phone exactly what they can and cannot accept.
3. Thrift Stores and Secondhand Furniture Programs
Certain thrift stores and secondhand furniture programs take mattress donations and then resell them at low prices. The proceeds often support housing, job training, food programs, and other community services.
These organizations are usually clear about:
- Which sizes they accept
- The maximum age or visible wear they allow
- Whether they offer pickup for large items
Because they resell mattresses, they tend to be particular about cleanliness and condition.
4. Nonprofit Furniture Banks
Furniture banks are nonprofits that collect gently used furniture and redistribute it to people in need. Many accept mattresses and box springs, especially in standard sizes.
They often work with:
- Families leaving shelters
- Individuals moving out of temporary housing
- People rebuilding after a crisis
Furniture banks sometimes have scheduled pickup days, so it can be helpful to plan ahead.
What Condition Does a Mattress Need to Be In to Donate?
A common question within “Who Accepts Mattress Donations” is what “good condition” actually means.
Most organizations look for mattresses that are:
- Supportive: No deep sags, broken coils, or crushed edges
- Clean: Light wear is normal, but avoid heavy staining or discoloration
- Hygienic: No bed bugs, mold, or strong odors
- Safe: No exposed metal, large tears, or loose fabric
If you’re unsure, a simple guideline is: would you be comfortable sleeping on this mattress yourself or offering it to a guest?
Do Organizations Offer Mattress Pickup?
Some groups that accept mattress donations provide pickup services, especially for larger items or when you’re donating multiple pieces of furniture.
Common arrangements include:
- Scheduled curbside pickup days
- In-home pickup at a set time window
- Drop-off only, where you bring the mattress yourself
Because pickup can be costly to run, some organizations prioritize neighborhoods or larger donations. Policies vary widely, so it’s helpful to ask about:
- Required preparation (bagging, placing near an entrance, etc.)
- Any fees or suggested donations for pickup
- Size or quantity limits
When Is It Better to Recycle Instead of Donate?
If your mattress is heavily worn, stained, or damaged, many places that accept mattress donations will not be able to take it for health and safety reasons.
Recycling is often a better option when:
- The mattress is more than a decade old and noticeably worn
- There are visible signs of pests or water damage
- The structure is broken, sagging, or torn
Recycling programs can often separate the metal, foam, and fabric for reuse, which helps reduce landfill waste.
✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways
Key points consumers should understand about Who Accepts Mattress Donations
Who typically accepts donations?
Local charities, shelters, furniture banks, and some thrift stores may accept clean, gently used mattresses.What condition is required?
Mattresses should be supportive, clean, and free from pests, major stains, and structural damage.Is size important?
Many organizations prefer common sizes and may not accept very large or uncommon mattress types.Do all locations accept mattresses?
No. Policies vary by region, space, and local regulations. It’s common for some branches of a larger organization to accept mattresses while others do not.What if my mattress is too worn to donate?
In that case, recycling or proper disposal is usually more appropriate than donation.
Understanding who accepts mattress donations helps you give your old bed a useful second life instead of sending it straight to the landfill. By checking local organizations, confirming their policies, and honestly assessing your mattress’s condition, you can choose the most responsible next step for both your home and your community.
