Old mattress taking up space? Before you drag it to the curb or dump it at the landfill, consider this: over 50,000 mattresses end up in landfills every day in the U.S. alone. The good news? Most mattresses can be recycled, and doing so keeps valuable materials out of landfills and reduces environmental impact.
Mattresses contain wood, metal, foam, and fabric, most of which can be recycled or reused. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to recycle a mattress safely, legally, and responsibly.
5 Ways to Recycle or Responsibly Dispose of a Mattress
1. Find a Mattress Recycling Facility
Search online for mattress recycling near me or check with:
- Bye Bye Mattress (by the Mattress Recycling Council)
- Earth911.com
- Local municipal waste programs
- Junk removal services with recycling partnerships
Some facilities may charge a small fee, but it's worth it to keep your mattress out of the landfill.
2. Use a Retailer Take-Back Program
Many mattress companies offer free mattress pickup and recycling when you buy a new one. Ask about this option when mattress shopping.
Popular retailers that recycle old mattresses include:
- Saatva
- Tuft & Needle
- Tempur-Pedic
- IKEA
3. Donate if It’s Still in Good Shape
If your mattress is clean and gently used, consider donating it to:
- Habitat for Humanity
- Furniture Bank Network
- Local shelters or charities
Call ahead — not all places accept mattresses due to hygiene regulations.
4. Hire a Junk Removal Company
Some eco-friendly junk removal services will pick up your mattress and ensure it’s recycled or properly disposed of. Look for services like:
- 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
- College Hunks Hauling Junk
- LoadUp
They may charge a fee but save you the hassle.
5. DIY Mattress Recycling
If you’re handy and want to save on disposal fees, you can disassemble the mattress yourself:
- Metal springs → scrap yard
- Foam and fabric → pet beds or insulation
- Wood frame → garden mulch or firewood
Be sure to wear gloves and have tools ready!
What Happens to Recycled Mattress Materials?
Here’s how the components are reused:
- Steel springs are melted and reused in construction or auto parts
- Foam padding is turned into carpet underlay or insulation
- Wood is chipped for mulch or used as biofuel
- Fabric can be shredded into industrial filters or recycled textiles
FAQs About Mattress Recycling
Q: Is it illegal to throw away a mattress?
A: In some states like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, improper mattress disposal is restricted. Always check local regulations.
Q: How much does mattress recycling cost?
A: Fees vary from $10–$50, depending on your location and whether pickup is included.
Q: Can I leave my mattress on the curb?
A: Only if your city offers bulk item pickup. Otherwise, it may be considered illegal dumping.
Final Thoughts
Recycling a mattress is easier than ever — and much better for the planet than tossing it in the trash. Whether you drop it off, schedule a pickup, or repurpose the parts yourself, you’re helping reduce waste and giving valuable materials a second life.