Who Takes Old Mattresses? Practical Ways to Get Rid of an Old Bed

If you’re searching “Who Takes Old Mattresses”, you’re likely replacing a bed and wondering what to do with the old one. Mattresses are bulky, awkward to move, and not always easy to throw away. This guide explains who typically takes old mattresses, how each option works, and what to consider before you choose a method.

Who Takes Old Mattresses in Most Areas?

Several types of services and organizations may take old mattresses, depending on where you live:

• Municipal waste or bulk pickup services
• Mattress recycling facilities or collection programs
• Charities and donation centers (if the mattress is in usable condition)
• Junk removal companies
• Secondhand platforms or local community groups
• Retailers or delivery services that offer haul-away

Each has its own rules about condition, fees, and scheduling.

Will My Trash Service Take an Old Mattress?

In many places, local waste management or city services handle bulky items like mattresses, but policies vary.

Common options through city or town services

• Bulk trash pickup days: Some areas schedule specific days when residents can leave large items at the curb.
• On-request pickup: You call or book online to arrange a mattress pickup for a set date.
• Drop-off sites or transfer stations: You transport the mattress yourself to a designated facility.

Before dragging a mattress to the curb, check:

• If mattresses are accepted at all
• Any limits per household or per year
• Whether you need to wrap the mattress (some areas require plastic wrapping to reduce pest concerns)
• Possible disposal fees

For many people, municipal services are the most straightforward answer to “Who Takes Old Mattresses”, especially if cost is a concern.

Can Old Mattresses Be Recycled?

In some regions, mattress recycling programs are common. These programs break down mattresses into components like metal, foam, and fabric so they can be reused.

How mattress recycling usually works

• Drop-off recycling centers: You bring the mattress to a specific facility.
• Recycling collection events: Your community may hold scheduled days for collecting items like mattresses.
• Partner programs with waste services: Some waste companies work directly with recyclers and route mattresses to them instead of landfills.

Things to keep in mind:

• Condition: Many recyclers accept mattresses that are stained or worn, as long as they are dry and free of heavy contamination.
• Fees: A modest recycling fee is common in some areas.
• Preparation: You may need to keep the mattress intact (not cut apart) for safe processing.

Recycling is often a good option if you want a more environmentally considerate way to get rid of a mattress.

Who Takes Old Mattresses in Good Condition?

If your mattress is still supportive, clean, and free from major damage, it may be suitable for reuse rather than disposal.

Donation options

Some charities, shelters, or nonprofit organizations may accept used mattresses that:

• Are structurally sound (no broken springs or sagging)
• Have no rips, heavy stains, or odors
• Are free from pests and visible damage

Not all organizations take mattresses, so it’s common to:

• Check each organization’s donation guidelines
• Confirm whether they offer pickup or require drop-off

Informal reuse

If donation centers are strict in your area, other options may include:

• Local online marketplaces or classifieds
• Neighborhood groups or community boards

In these cases, it’s important to describe the condition honestly and ensure the mattress is reasonably clean.

Do Junk Removal Services Take Mattresses?

Yes, junk removal companies often take old mattresses as part of their standard service.

What to expect:

• Pickup from inside your home or curbside
• Fees usually based on item size or truck space
• Same-day or scheduled appointments

This route can be convenient if:

• You cannot transport the mattress yourself
• Your city doesn’t offer mattress pickup
• The mattress is not suitable for donation

Some companies may also try to recycle or donate items when possible, but policies differ.

What About Retailers or Delivery Services?

When you buy a new mattress, some delivery services offer old mattress removal as an add-on.

Typical features:

• Haul-away at the time of delivery
• Removal of the old mattress and sometimes the box spring
• Possible additional fee, or bundled into delivery services

Not every seller or delivery option includes this, so it’s usually something to verify in advance.

How Do I Decide Which Option Is Best?

When asking “Who Takes Old Mattresses”, it helps to consider:

• Condition:
  • Good condition → donation or reuse may be possible.
  • Poor condition → recycling, municipal pickup, or junk removal is more realistic.
• Budget:
  • City services may be lower-cost or free.
  • Junk removal and special haul-away often cost more but require less effort.
• Transportation:
  • If you have a vehicle and help, drop-off options increase.
  • If not, curbside or in-home pickup may be more practical.
• Local rules:
  • Some places have specific requirements about plastic wrapping, scheduling, or fees.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about Who Takes Old Mattresses

• Municipal services: Many cities offer bulk pickup or drop-off options for old mattresses.
• Recycling programs: In some regions, mattresses can be recycled at special facilities or events.
• Donation: Only an option if the mattress is clean, structurally sound, and accepted by the organization.
• Junk removal: A convenient, paid choice when other options are limited or you need help moving the mattress.
• Retail haul-away: Some delivery services remove your old mattress when they bring the new one.
• Local rules matter: Always check local guidelines on what is accepted, whether wrapping is required, and any fees.

With these options in mind, you can choose the most practical and responsible way to handle your old mattress when it’s time for a new one.