How to get rid of mattress?

Everything has a limited life, so as the mattresses. On average, a suitable mattress lasts for 5 – 10 years. After that, it’s always preferred that you go for a new mattress (also check the top-rated mattresses). So, why do you need to get rid of your old mattress? The reason may be that it got saggy, or there is damage inside your mattress that is hurting your back, or you like to change your mattress after a certain period.

Whatever your reason, in this article, we will guide you on how to carefully and ecologically get rid of your mattress. You cannot burn your mattress because it is dangerous and destroys the environment. So, scroll down for more.

How To Get Rid of a Mattress for Free

There are many ways that you can dispose of your mattress for free. Many local bodies provide these services. Some mattress makers facilitate their customers to haul their old mattresses. Eventually, what is better than donating your mattress to charities and shelters?

Free Mattress Recycling Programs

It is better to recycle the mattress instead of burning it. However, the old mattress must be appropriately recycled. Finding the right spot for mattress recycling is also essential. Some of the recycling providers offer these services for free. However, it mostly depends on the approval of the state law for free mattress recycling.

In particular, California, Rhode Island, and Connecticut have allowed free mattress recycling. The mayors of these states have formed a Council of Mattress Recycling, which provides the public with a database for mattress recycling locations. To make it an efficient process, the council has launched a search engine called, ByeByeMattress, where the user can easily locate the mattress recycling location near him. The council has been allowed to recycle only old mattresses and box springs for free.

Another option is also available. The Earth911 search engine is like Google of free mattress recycling centers. It can provide more than 100 recyclers upon search.

Furthermore, some mattress recycling companies provide pickup services as well. If your mattress is too big or heavy, call them, and they will pick it up from you.

Some states provide curbside pickup of heavy items if a proper request is forwarded. So, if you have a large or heavy mattress and want your local government to pick it up, you can request them to do that for you. There might be service charges applicable.

Giveaway Groups

Another way to get rid of your mattress is by giving it away for free. It is one of the ways to give it back to the community. A number of fellow citizens cannot afford a new mattress or are looking for a used one. This way, one man’s disposal can become another man’s treasure. So, if your mattress still has some life, you can join giveaway groups to participate.

Many communities create these groups that organize free giveaway days for items their members no longer need. They ask their members to place their old items on their curbs or next to the sidewalk near their home so that a passerby can look into the goods and take them. These groups encourage their members to give away their goods for free. However, they can only function with the permission of the local government.

One of the examples of these groups is the “Community Curbside Giveaway” in Niagara Falls city. They have an active Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter page where you can check their upcoming giveaway event so you can participate or visit. They strictly comply with SOPs, and each runs from 5 am to 7 pm with Saturdays off.

The participant should put a “FREE” sign where he has placed his mattress or other things to give away. The mattress should be in a useable condition. Traffic laws are to be obeyed at all times. The items should not be placed on the sidewalks so people can walk without hurdles.

It is always better to join these communities, as someone else can use your discarded items, the environment can be saved, and service to the community is done.

Mattress Brands Pick Up Old Mattress

Most modern mattress makers offer 100 nights trial period for their mattresses. If you are unsatisfied with what you bought within the trial period, you can replace it with a new one or change the model. These companies have the leverage of reselling the returned mattress by repairing it to remove the default and display it again for sale.

If the condition of your mattress is not too worn-off, then you can sell it online by posting on your social media like Facebook, Instagram, or you-tube for free. Anyone interested in your mattress will contact you for a deal. Another way is to place a free ad on Craiglist. Here you can limit it to local area coverage. Then, anyone who wants a used mattress can contact you directly. This way, you can get rid of your mattress for free and make some money.

Shelters and Charities

The best way to get rid of your mattress is by donating it to your local charities or shelters. There will be many fellow citizens who need these types of charitable organizations to live another day. Similarly, homelessness is a serious issue in this country, and often need shelters to sleep at night. Your donated mattress to these shelters can help both the people and that shelter.

One of these charities that work nationwide is “The Salvation Army“. They have a widespread network of donation sites where they store and accept your used mattresses. All you have to do is to schedule a time with them on call. They will send their truck to pick up your mattress from the provided location. This way, you don’t have to worry about the hassle of dropping off your old mattress.

Another of these charities is “Habitat for Humanity“, which thriving to provide every human being on this planet with a safe place to live. This world-recognized organization also accepts old mattresses in useable conditions at their various drop-off locations. Similarly, there are homeless shelters that accept used mattresses.

How To Dispose of Old Mattress

Apart from donation and giveaway methods to get rid of the mattress, disposing of it yourself is another option. There are a number of ways that you can dispose of your mattress. You might earn money from your old bed companion in some conditions.

Recycle The Mattress Yourself

Another way to dispose of your mattress is by taking it apart yourself and recycling it. It can result in an exciting activity for you to do over the weekend. If you have a mattress with springs or coils, you can get them out and sell them to a scrap metal dealer. You can get a good bargain out of it. If you like to DIY with things, you can use those springs to make various things like pots, wall decorations, works of art, etc.

You can recycle the other parts of the mattress as well. For example, the foam can be shredded and recreated into memory foam. You can cut pieces of that foam and use them on the corners of your furniture to avoid being hurt by the sharp edges. If you are more creative, you can use your old memory foam as cushions on your sofa. Just cut a piece as you desire and put a nice cover on it.

If there are any natural or synthetic materials used in your mattress, then those can be recycled. Although, it is better to donate your mattress if it’s in good condition.

Crafting and Upcycling

If being crafty or creative is your thing, then a used mattress of your own is good enough to feed your creative mind. However, if you haven’t done any of this thing before, make sure to consult an expert in the field or watch an instruction documentary on how to disassemble your mattress.

Getting a great upcycling idea is not so difficult nowadays, thanks to the speedy internet. You can now surf pages on pages of great ideas on your computer or cell phone. One of the biggest online sources is Pinterest, where you can indulge in millions of great ideas to upcycle your mattress.

A few upcycling ideas that can become a fun activity for you and your family:

• Make hanging plant pots with the coils or springs to décor your garden.
• If you are into wine, convert your old wooden base into a rack for your bottles.
• A DIY bookshelf in your room or study room out of your old mattress can save you money.
• Why buy a new bed for your pet? Just cut a piece of your old mattress and use it.
• An extra kitchen rack can provide more space in your kitchen.

Trash It

If nothing works out for you regarding what to do with your mattress, the easiest way is to trash it. You can do it yourself or hire someone who provides these services in exchange for a fee. But, before you throw it out, make sure to familiarize yourself with the trashing laws of your local government. Some states allow this type of trash to be thrown on your curb. They provide the picking up facility to pick up huge trash like a mattress.

If your state doesn’t allow it, then don’t throw it away in the trash. You might get penalized for that. Some states have specific rules about throwing your mattress in the trash. For example, you might be asked to wrap the mattress in a bag, which is considered trash.

Some might provide a specially designed disposal cover for your old mattress. In some areas, the local government has specified the days in a week on which the heavy trash is picked, so you need to check the schedule for that with your local trash picker. That way, you will know when to trash your mattress.

Use A Waste Disposal Service

Some private companies offer waste disposal services on call. Particularly, there are the ones who specialize in mattress disposal and related accessories at a certain price. They have teams of skilled people who professionally remove your mattress or any other thing. After that, your work is done. Make sure you do little research for better rates and services before settling randomly.

Companies like “Junk-King” & “1-800-GOT-JUNK?” specialize in mattress disposal services. The process they follow is very straightforward. All you have to take is easy three steps:

1. Book an appointment online or by calling.
2. Their professional team will come to your doorstep by intimating you 15 minutes before coming. The team will provide you with a free estimate for the space in the disposal truck; if you accept, then
3. They haul the mattress with no hidden charges.

After that, sit back and relax, and it’s time to look for a new mattress.

Request Mattress Hauling from Your New Mattress Company

Sometimes you don’t have the time to waste your old mattress or arrange any company to do it for you. Moreover, you need to replace your old mattress with the new one immediately. In that case, ask them if they provide a hauling service for your old mattress while buying a new mattress from a particular company.

Most companies do; however, they will charge you for that. Before making an appointment with the mattress company, ensure your mattress is from the same company you are contacting. Most companies will only provide hauling services for mattresses of their brand.

Most of these companies recycle their old products as raw materials for their new mattresses. They are also active in donating the old mattresses to the charities themselves. Some companies offer discounts on their mattresses or beddings in exchange for old products. They recycle the old products and use them again.

Key Takeaways

1. Why Replace Your Mattress?

Over time, mattresses can become saggy or damaged, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. Whether it’s wear and tear, a desire for change, or back pain issues, it becomes essential to replace and properly dispose of old mattresses.

2. Free Mattress Disposal Methods

• Mattress Recycling Programs: Some states offer free recycling programs for mattresses. Platforms like ByeByeMattress allow users to locate nearby recycling centers.
• Giveaway Groups: Community groups often organize giveaway days, allowing members to donate items they no longer need. Such initiatives are beneficial for the environment and community members in need.
• Mattress Brand Pick-Up: Some mattress companies offer haul-away services for old mattresses when a new one is purchased.
• Charitable Donations: Donating to shelters or charities like “The Salvation Army” or “Habitat for Humanity” can be a noble way to dispose of a mattress in good condition.

3. Self-Disposal Techniques

• DIY Recycling: Take the mattress apart and recycle its components. For example, springs can be sold to scrap metal dealers, and foam can be repurposed.
• Upcycling: If you have a creative streak, use old mattress parts for DIY projects. Platforms like Pinterest offer numerous upcycling ideas.
• Trash It: Depending on local laws, you might be able to dispose of your mattress in regular trash pick-up. Always confirm with local authorities before doing so.

4. Professional Disposal Services

• Waste Disposal Services: Companies like “Junk-King” and “1-800-GOT-JUNK?” specialize in mattress disposal. For a fee, they’ll handle the entire disposal process.
• Hauling Services: Some mattress companies offer hauling services when purchasing a new mattress. This can be a convenient way to ensure the old mattress is properly disposed of.

5. Things To Avoid

• Burning: Burning a mattress can release harmful chemicals and is environmentally unsound. Always opt for more environmentally-friendly disposal methods.
• Illegal Dumping: Ensure you’re familiar with local disposal laws to avoid penalties.

Conclusion

Now you know how to dispose of your used mattress. Recycle it, donate it, sell it or tear it apart yourself. The choice is yours. If you feel creative, you can even upcycle the old parts of your mattress in a piece of art or convenience. You now know whether your local government allows throwing away or not. Knowing the recycling, charitable organizations, and disposal-providing companies is a plus point.

Whatever decision you make, make sure it is environment friendly and can help a fellow citizen (also check our tips about mattress foundation donation and disposal).