1. Recycle It
Your local recycling center may allow you to drop off your old mattress. But before you load up your truck or SUV and make the trip over, check the website to ensure the location will accept it and find out if you’ll be charged a recycling fee.
2. Donate It
There are many people who, due to hardship, can’t afford to buy a new mattress. Consider donating your gently used old mattress to help someone in need. Before you head to the donation center, however, check for local restrictions on mattress donation. The list below isn’t exhaustive but will serve as general guidance. You’ll ultimately need to defer to the requirements outlined by your local donation center.
What to Look Out for When Considering Donation
- Infestation and Mold: If you have any signs of mold or pests, such as bedbugs, you can’t donate your mattress. Pest infestations and mold can run deep within the mattress, so even if you’ve treated them, there could still be remnants.
- Structural Damage: If you notice any broken or bent coils, large holes or tears 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 to sleep on.
- Stains and Odors: If your mattress has an unpleasant smell or stains, you shouldn’t donate it.
Pros and Cons of Donating Your Old Mattress
- You’ll have the satisfaction of helping someone in need.
- If you’re able to transport your mattress to a donation center yourself, you may be able to dispose of it for free.
- Many charities have strict requirements for donating used mattresses, which means most used mattresses won’t be eligible for donation.
3. Toss It
If there’s no way to donate 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 disposing of your mattress. Here are some things to consider:
- Certain areas may fine you or give you a ticket for placing a mattress on the curb. Be sure to check 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. For example, some ordinances require the mattress to be wrapped in plastic or placed in a plastic mattress bag.
