Mattresses are bulky, heavy, and often made of materials that can’t be thrown into the regular trash. As a result, it’s not always clear what you should do with your old bed when it just isn’t in great condition anymore.

You might think your only option is to take your old mattress to the dump, but that’s not always the case. In this guide, we’ll help you learn how to dispose of a mattress, including donation, recycling, and other options.

Editor’s Note: If you’re getting rid of your mattress due to bedbugs, do not donate the mattress or give it away. Look for an eco station that accepts mattresses with bedbugs or take the mattress directly to the dump.

When should I get rid of my mattress?

You should get rid of your mattress when you start noticing obvious signs of wear and tear, such as:

• Sagging, indentations, lumps, or tears in the mattress cover
• Stains or mould on the mattress cover
• Unpleasant odours

Most mattresses will last 6–12 years, depending on the type of mattress and the quality of its construction. However, even if there’s no obvious damage to your mattress during that time, there may be other signs that it should be replaced:

• A worn-out mattress could be the reason you don’t feel rested after sleeping.
• New body aches and pains may indicate that your mattress isn’t giving your body the support it used to.
• If you have new allergies or asthma-like symptoms, your mattress may be the problem. Pest infestations, allergens, or mould may be affecting your breathing—and therefore your sleep quality.

Option 1: Mattress Donation

If your mattress is still in reasonably good shape, you can donate your mattress to a local charity or nonprofit group that needs good-quality beds. Some charity organizations offer free pickup services, making donation a convenient option. Donating your mattress is also an eco-friendly option, keeping waste out of your local landfill.

Research the specific donation policies of charities in your area, and pay attention to what charities are willing to accept. Many of them have firm limits about the age and type of mattresses they’re willing to take.

You should do everything you can to make sure that your used mattress is in good shape for donation. Be sure to inspect and clean it thoroughly. Make sure it’s free from stains and obvious damage.

Option 2: Give it to Someone

If you’re unable or unwilling to donate your mattress to charity, you can give it directly to someone who might need it. Many people are happy to accept a gently used mattress for free, especially if they’re moving and they’re on a budget. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and Kijiji make it easy to connect with people in your local community.

The most important thing is to be transparent. When you make your listing, be sure to indicate that the mattress is free. Include photos that accurately represent your mattress’s condition. Be upfront about the mattress’s history, and show any wear and tear. Make sure that your mattress is clean and doesn’t have any stains, lingering odours, or pests.

Option 3: Recycling

Recycling is one of the most eco-friendly ways you can dispose of a used mattress. Depending on your location, recycling programs may accept mattresses as part of curbside large-item pickup services. This can include curbside pickup options during specific times of the year. However, many recycling programs have limits on the size of mattresses that they’ll accept.

Specialized mattress recycling facilities are another option. These centres break down mattresses into their core components—such as foam, metal springs, and fabric—which can then be repurposed into new products. For instance, foam can be turned into carpet padding, while the steel from springs is often recycled into construction material.

If professional recycling services aren’t available in your area, consider breaking down your old mattress yourself. The foam layers can be repurposed for DIY projects like cushions or pet beds, while the wood from box springs can be used for crafting or home improvement projects.

Recycling not only reduces landfill waste but also promotes a circular economy by giving a new purpose to old materials.

Option 4: The Dump

Throwing away your mattress should be your last resort (unless, of course, you have bed bugs). Many municipalities allow mattresses to be taken to local landfills, but this often comes with specific requirements:

• Many towns and cities require that mattresses be wrapped in plastic mattress bags to prevent pest infestations and contamination.
• You may also be charged a fee to put your mattress in a landfill, so this isn’t always a cost-effective option, either.
• Some landfills are only able to accept specific mattress sizes, and others may not accept them at all.

Landfills are often overcrowded, so make every effort to divert waste if you can. Consider this option only if donation, giving it away, or recycling aren’t feasible. If you decide to go this route, contact your local waste management facility and ask about their specific policies.

Conclusion

Disposing of a used mattress doesn’t have to mean sending it to the landfill. There are plenty of responsible ways to part with a mattress, from donating it to a charity or giving it to someone in need, to recycling its materials for other uses.

Even if these options aren’t available, taking the proper steps to dispose of it at the dump ensures you’re adhering to local regulations.

One of the best ways to reduce mattress waste is to buy one that lasts a long time. When you invest in a high-quality, durable mattress, you’ll not only enjoy better sleep but also reduce how often you’ll need to dispose of it responsibly.

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