How to get rid of an old mattress
Mattresses are bulky and springy, and they jam landfill equipment, so many dumps charge a per-item fee for them. Some states (including California, Connecticut and Rhode Island) run mattress recycling programs where you can drop off mattresses free at participating sites.
Common examples
- Mattresses of any size
- Box springs
- Futon mattresses
- Crib mattresses
- Mattress toppers (usually treated as regular trash)
Usually not included
- Wet, moldy or bedbug-infested mattresses at some recycling sites (wrap them in plastic and ask first)
- Bed frames, which usually go with scrap metal or bulky trash
How to prepare your load
- Wrap the mattress in plastic if it is dirty or has bedbugs, and tell the attendant.
- Strap it down well. Mattresses catch wind on the highway.
- Ask the store delivering your new mattress to haul away the old one. Many do it for a small fee.
What it usually costs
Often a flat per-item fee. In states with mattress recycling programs, drop-off is free at participating sites.
Rules and prices vary by site. Check the page for the dump you plan to use, and call before you go.
Common questions
Is it free to dump a mattress?
Sometimes. States with mattress recycling programs offer free drop-off at participating sites. Elsewhere, expect a per-item fee.
Can I put a mattress out with the trash?
Many cities only pick up mattresses on bulky-item days or by appointment. Check your local collection rules.
Verified sites that accept mattresses
Sites we've checked against official sources. Always confirm before you go.