Every year, millions of us face the same challenge - figuring out what to do with a bulky mattress that's seen better days. Americans dispose of roughly 20 million mattresses annually, with the average mattress taking up to 40 cubic feet of landfill space. When mattresses end up in landfills, they can take over 100 years to decompose while releasing harmful chemicals into soil and groundwater.

You don't have to stress about it or let it sit in your garage collecting dust. While getting rid of an old mattress does require some planning - considering environmental impact, local regulations, and your disposal options - it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

The good news? You have several responsible options that can minimize environmental impact while following local guidelines. Whether you're upgrading to one of our premium mattresses or simply need to clear out an old one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about proper mattress disposal, making it as straightforward as possible.

Check Your Local Regulations First

Before moving forward with any disposal method, research your area's specific requirements and restrictions. Many cities and municipalities have strict rules about mattress disposal, including:

• Designated pickup days for bulk items

• Requirements for wrapping or preparing mattresses

• Fees associated with disposal

• Recycling mandates in certain states

• Restrictions on curbside pickup

Contact your local waste management authority or visit their website to learn the regulations in your area. This prevents potential fines and ensures you follow proper procedures. Some regions require mattresses to be wrapped in plastic, while others may not accept them with regular trash pickup at all.

Professional Removal Services

One of the easiest ways to dispose of your old mattress is through professional removal services. When you purchase a new mattress from us at Nest Bedding, we offer old mattress removal in many service areas. This convenient option ensures your old mattress is disposed of properly without any heavy lifting on your part.

If you're not purchasing a new mattress, other professional options include:

• Junk removal companies that specialize in furniture disposal

• Local waste management companies offering special pickup services

• Moving companies that provide disposal services

• Professional hauling services

These services typically charge between $50 and $150, depending on your location and specific needs. While this may seem costly, it provides peace of mind knowing your mattress will be disposed of legally and responsibly.

Recycling Your Mattress

Mattress recycling represents one of the most environmentally responsible disposal options. Up to 80-90% of mattress components can be recycled, including:

• Metal springs and coils

• Foam materials

• Wood from box springs

• Cotton and other fabrics

• Padding materials

The Mattress Recycling Council reports that recycling one mattress saves 40 cubic feet of landfill space and prevents the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. States like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have mandatory mattress recycling programs, making it easier to find recycling facilities.

To recycle your mattress:

1. Search for local recycling centers that accept mattresses

2. Contact the facility about drop-off procedures

3. Transport your mattress or arrange pickup service

4. Pay any associated recycling fees (typically $10-20)

Donation Options

If your mattress is still in good condition, donation provides an excellent way to extend its useful life while helping others. However, most organizations have strict guidelines about accepting used mattresses. Your mattress should be:

• Free of stains

• Free of tears or damage

• Free of odors

• Free of bed bugs or other pests

• Less than 5-7 years old

Organizations that may accept mattress donations include:

• Local charities

• Homeless shelters

• Domestic violence shelters

• Furniture banks

• Religious organizations

Always call ahead to confirm donation requirements and arrange delivery or pickup.

Preparing Your Mattress for Disposal

Proper preparation helps ensure smooth disposal and compliance with local requirements:

Clean and inspect the mattress:

• Remove all bedding

• Vacuum thoroughly

• Check for bed bugs or other pests

• Document any existing damage

Wrap the mattress:

• Use heavy-duty plastic wrap or mattress bags

• Seal completely to prevent moisture damage

• Secure wrapping with tape

• Label as required by local guidelines

Keep the mattress dry and protected until disposal to prevent mold growth and maintain recyclability.

Curbside Pickup Guidelines

Many municipalities offer bulk item pickup services for mattresses. Follow these steps for successful curbside disposal:

1. Schedule pickup in advance if required

2. Place the mattress out only on designated days

3. Position it away from other trash

4. Ensure it's properly wrapped according to local guidelines

5. Keep it protected from weather until pickup

6. Remove it from the curb if not collected as scheduled

Avoiding Illegal Dumping

Illegal mattress dumping creates serious environmental and community problems while risking significant fines. Penalties for illegal dumping can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on your location. Common illegal dumping issues include:

• Leaving mattresses in alleys or vacant lots

• Dumping in commercial dumpsters without permission

• Abandoning mattresses on public property

• Disposing of mattresses in non-designated areas

Upgrading to a New Mattress

When disposing of your old mattress because you're ready for an upgrade, consider our selection of high-quality mattresses at Nest Bedding. We offer:

• Free shipping on all mattresses

• Old mattress removal in many areas

• Eco-friendly materials and construction

• Extended trial periods

• Excellent warranty coverage

For those looking for the ultimate in long-term value, select mattresses - The Sparrow Signature Hybrid, The Starling Signature Contour Grid, The Owl Natural Latex Hybrid, The Finch Natural Latex - come with our exclusive Lifetime Renewal Exchange (LRE) program. This innovative comfort guarantee allows you to renew your mattress by replacing just the comfort layer when it's right for you, extending your mattress's life while saving you money compared to buying an entirely new one. It's an eco-friendly solution that reduces waste while ensuring you always have the perfect sleep surface.

Our team can help coordinate the removal of your old mattress while delivering your new one, making the transition as smooth as possible.

Conclusion

Responsible mattress disposal requires understanding your options and local requirements while considering environmental impact. Whether choosing professional removal, recycling, donation, or curbside pickup, proper preparation and following guidelines ensure successful disposal. Remember to:

1. Research local regulations

2. Consider recycling when possible

3. Prepare the mattress properly

4. Use professional services when needed

5. Never resort to illegal dumping

For those ready to upgrade, we invite you to explore our selection of premium mattresses, where we can help coordinate removal of your old mattress while providing you with a superior sleep solution. Taking time to dispose of your mattress responsibly benefits both the environment and your community while keeping you in compliance with local regulations.