How do I get rid of an old mattress?

Unlike refrigerators, mattresses are accepted by most city bulk pickup programs — which makes free disposal genuinely possible. But there are still six distinct options depending on how fast you need it gone and what condition it's in.

Option 1: City bulk / large-item pickup (Free)

Most US cities accept mattresses in scheduled bulk collection. This is the most straightforward free option if your timeline allows 2–9 weeks.

Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, Charlotte, Nashville, Denver, Houston, and most other major markets all accept mattresses. Las Vegas accepts them with 1-day advance scheduling. Portland charges a per-item fee.

Pile restrictions: most cities allow one mattress (and one box spring) per pickup request. King-size mattresses are universally accepted — no size exclusions for mattresses, unlike some oversized furniture.

Search "[your city] bulk item pickup schedule" or call 311 to schedule and confirm your city's rules.

Option 2: Mattress recycling drop-off ($15–$30)

Mattresses are 80–90% recyclable — steel springs, cotton batting, and foam can all be separated and reprocessed. Certified recycling facilities charge $15–$30 per mattress for drop-off.

The Mattress Recycling Council (byomattress.com) operates "Bye Bye Mattress" programs with drop-off locations in California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island — free in those states due to state recycling fees built into new mattress purchases. For other states, search "[your city] mattress recycling" to find local facilities.

Transfer stations and waste management facilities in most cities also accept mattresses as a separate drop-off category, typically for $15–$30 per unit. Call ahead to confirm pricing and hours.

Option 3: Retailer take-back when buying new ($0–$30)

This is the simplest option if you're replacing the mattress.

Option 4: Donation (Strict condition requirements)

The Salvation Army accepts mattresses in "like new" condition at some locations — no stains of any kind, no odors, no sagging, no tears. They inspect on arrival and will leave items that don't qualify. Most used mattresses do not meet their standards for donation.

Goodwill does not accept mattresses under any circumstances.

"Like new" for donation purposes means: would you give this mattress to a family member who has no mattress? That's the standard charities apply.

Option 5: Self-haul to transfer station ($15–$35)

Mattresses fit in most standard pickup trucks and cargo vans — King and Queen sizes may hang over the tailgate but can be strapped down safely. Transfer station fees for mattresses: $15–$35 per unit depending on facility.

Advantage: you control the timeline. You can do it same-day if needed. Works for any condition mattress, including heavily soiled ones that no charity will accept.

Option 6: Dropcurb ($79 any size)

Book online, drag the mattress to the curb (no wrapping or bagging required), and it's gone same day. $79 for any size — Twin, Full, Queen, King, or California King. No surcharge on mattresses, no condition requirements.

Multiple mattresses: first mattress $79, each additional +$29. A mattress and box spring is $108 total.

Getting a mattress to the curb:

Mattresses are awkward to move but not heavy for most sizes. Twin: one person. Full, Queen: two people recommended. King: two people. Lean it against the outside of your home or a fence to stabilize it vertically at the curb — this keeps it from blowing around or blocking the sidewalk.

No need to wrap it or put it in a bag for Dropcurb pickup. Mattresses are picked up as-is.

Option comparison: