How Do You Get Rid of an Old Mattress?

AN old mattress leaned up against garbage cans at the street for pickup

Okay, now you have a brand new mattress and are looking forward to getting a much better night’s sleep. Now comes the issue of what to do with your old mattress. Disposing of a mattress can be tricky these days. Garnder White‘s experts say that getting rid of an old bed can be done responsibly and safely in these ways:

  1. Donate: If your old one is still in good condition, consider donating it to a local charity, shelter, or nonprofit organization. Many organizations accept gently used mattresses to help those in need. Make sure to check with the recipient to ensure they can accept your donation and arrange for drop-off or pickup.
  2. Recycle: Components like metal springs, wood frames, and foam padding, can be recycled. Some cities and recycling centers offer recycling services. Look for a recycling center in your area that accepts mattresses, and check their requirements for drop-off or pickup.
  3. Take Advantage of Retailer Services: If you’re buying a new mattress, some retailers offer removal and disposal services for your old mattress for a fee. This can be a convenient option if you’re replacing your mattress. As a matter of fact, Gardner White offers free removal of your old mattress depending on its condition.
  4. Check with your Local Trash Service: Some local waste management services provide bulk item pickup services for large items like mattresses. Contact your local trash service or check their website for information on scheduling a pickup.
  5. Hire a Junk Removal Service: You can hire a local junk removal service to pick up and dispose of your old bed for you. They will typically charge a fee based on the size and weight.
  6. DIY Disposal: If none of the above options are available you may need to break down the mattress yourself. This can be a labor-intensive process that involves disassembling it and disposing of the components separately. Be cautious when handling sharp objects like springs.
  7. Check Local Regulations: Be aware of any local regulations or restrictions regarding mattress disposal. Some municipalities have regulations about mattress disposal due to environmental concerns.
Three recycling bins, one red, one green, and one blue one.
Image by Freepik

Remember to prioritize environmentally friendly options when getting rid of your old mattress, such as recycling or donating. Dumping a mattress in a landfill should be your last resort, as it can have negative environmental consequences. Always verify the disposal options available in your specific location, as they can vary depending on your region’s resources and regulations.

Click here to be taken to our mattress quiz which can help you find the right mattress for you!

Need More Help?

You can contact one of Gardner White’s experts at (248) 481-2208, chat with one online, or visit one of our local Michigan stores.

Dave has been in the furniture industry in one capacity or another for the last decade. When not writing about furniture he enjoys cooking for his family, guitar playing, oil painting, the Detroit Tigers, and the comedic antics of English Bulldogs.