How to Donate a Mattress
There are many people who aren’t able to buy new mattresses. If you buy a new mattress, consider donating your old one to help someone in need. Before you head to the donation center, though, check out this list of circumstances that may make your mattress unsuitable for donation. If these things apply to your mattress, donating isn’t advised.
What to Look Out For
- Infestation and Mold: If you have any signs of mold or pests, such as bedbugs, don’t donate your mattress. Pest infestations and mold can run deep within the mattress, so even if you’ve treated it, there could still be remnants. If you’ve experienced any of these issues, you should consider the mattress unsuitable for donation.
- Structural Issues: If you notice any broken or bent coils in your mattress, it’s best not to donate it. This also includes sagging and lumps within the mattress, as it won’t be comfortable.
- Physical Damages: Don’t donate a mattress with serious physical damage, such as large holes, rips, tears or burns.
- Stains and Odors: If your mattress has an odor, you can try to air it out by leaving it outside. If that doesn’t work or if your mattress has stains, you may need to reconsider donating it.
If your mattress doesn’t have any issues included in this list, you can likely donate it. Try some local shelters, universities or small organizations that help underserved communities by providing them with furniture at little to no cost.
Pros
- This makes space for your new mattress.
- You’re helping someone in need.
Cons
- Many places have strict requirements for donating used mattresses.
- It can be discouraging if your mattress doesn’t comply with regulations.
Local Message Boards or Services
There are many online message boards and services that allow you to sell or donate your old and unwanted things. However, there are liabilities around accurately describing the condition of the mattress. You want to be sure to note any damage, including wear and tear.
Pros
- You could make money from selling your unwanted mattress.
- You can reach a larger audience of people who may be in need.
- You may be able to list it for free.
Cons
- There could be a liability if you don’t accurately describe the condition of the mattress.
Recycle It
There are a few options when it comes to recycling your mattress. You can go through local organizations, depending on your state. In some areas, there are local recycling centers that’ll work with you for a small fee.
You also have the option to recycle the mattress yourself. You can find guides and follow the step-by-step process of disassembling your mattress and taking the specific parts for disposal. Additionally, you can remove the springs and turn them in for cash at certain recycling facilities.
You might also consider repurposing the materials throughout your household. For instance, you can clear the inside of the box spring and use it to build a raised garden bed. Or, you can use the padding and fabric from the mattress for extra cushion in blankets and throws. Repurpose part of a foam mattress as a window seat cushion or playroom pouf.
Pros
- You can get extra use out of your old mattress.
- There’s no need to worry about moving a bulky mattress or getting a truck.
Cons
- It can be difficult to disassemble a mattress without any guidance.
Toss It
If there’s no way to save or recycle your old mattress, throwing it away is the last resort. Just make sure you’re aware of the proper channels to go through when throwing your mattress away. Here are some things to consider:
- Certain areas may fine you or give you a ticket for placing the mattress on the curb. Be sure to check your local regulations and policies.
- If you live in an area where you can throw away your mattress with your trash, find out if you need to do anything special with the mattress. Some ordinances need the mattress to be wrapped in plastic or placed in a specified plastic mattress bag.