A mattress holds years of sleep, late-night thoughts, and maybe a few coffee spills. When it reaches the end of its use for you, the question pops up: what now? Many people want to help others and avoid landfill waste, yet feel unsure about mattress donation rules. Some charities accept them, some don’t, and others set strict hygiene standards. Confusion often leads to mattresses getting dumped when donation or recycling could work better.
This guide breaks down how to donate a mattress in a clear, realistic way. You’ll learn what charities accept, what condition matters, and what options exist when donation doesn’t work out. Expect straight talk, light humor, and facts from trusted organizations—no fluff, no guesswork, and no guilt trips.
Quick Answer: How to Donate a Mattress
To donate a mattress, check that it stays clean, dry, and free from stains, mold, or bed bugs. Contact local charities, shelters, or furniture donation organizations to confirm acceptance. Schedule a pickup or drop it off at an approved location. If donation isn’t allowed, choose eco-friendly mattress disposal through recycling programs.
Can You Donate a Mattress?
Yes, you can donate a mattress, but not every mattress qualifies. Many people assume charities accept anything usable. Mattresses fall under stricter rules because of hygiene laws and safety concerns. In many states, organizations must protect recipients from bed bugs, mold, and allergens. That means charities often turn away mattresses that show even minor damage.
A gently used mattress donation usually works when the mattress meets three basic standards. It stays clean, holds its shape, and comes from a smoke-free, pest-free home. Age matters less than condition. A five-year-old mattress in great shape beats a two-year-old mattress with stains.
Organizations like the Salvation Army and local homeless shelters confirm these standards publicly. The Mattress Recycling Council also explains that donation remains the first option only when hygiene standards pass inspection. If your mattress fails, recycling or disposal becomes the safer route.
Where to Donate a Mattress
Finding where to donate a mattress depends on location, condition, and transport options. Start local, then expand outward.
Furniture banks often lead the list. These nonprofits collect household items for people transitioning out of homelessness. Many accept mattresses that meet hygiene rules and sometimes offer pickup services.
Homeless shelters sometimes accept mattresses, though many prefer new ones due to health codes. Smaller shelters or transitional housing programs may accept gently used options after inspection.
Thrift stores linked to charities occasionally accept mattresses, though policies vary widely. Always call first. Some stores stopped accepting mattresses altogether due to sanitation costs.
Faith-based charities and community aid groups sometimes coordinate mattress donation during housing drives. These programs often run seasonally.
Online donation networks and community groups can help connect donors with people in need. Local “buy nothing” or mutual aid groups often work well for where to donate my mattress, though safety and honesty remain essential.
For box springs, ask directly. Box spring donation follows similar rules, though acceptance rates tend to be higher since box springs hold fewer hygiene concerns.
Read More: How Much Does Mattress Removal Cost?
Step-by-Step Donation Process
Donating a mattress takes more than just making a phone call. Follow these steps to make the process smooth for everyone involved.
Step 1: Check your mattress condition honestly
Flip your mattress over and look at both sides. Check all four edges and corners. Press down in several spots to test for sagging. Run your hand along seams looking for tears or pest signs. If you wouldn’t want to sleep on it yourself, think twice about donating it.
Step 2: Deep clean before donation
Vacuum both sides thoroughly using the upholstery attachment. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where dust and debris hide. Spot-clean any marks with mild detergent and warm water never soak the mattress. Let it dry completely before moving to the next step. According to the American Cleaning Institute, proper cleaning helps extend a mattress’s useful life and makes it safe for the next user.
Step 3: Wrap it up for protection
Buy a mattress bag or plastic cover from a moving supply store. These typically cost $5-15 depending on size. Slide the mattress into the bag and seal it completely. This protects against dirt, moisture, and pests during transport and storage. Most organizations require mattresses to arrive wrapped.
Step 4: Research and contact organizations
Make a list of three to five organizations near you that might accept mattresses. Call each one and ask these specific questions: Do you currently accept mattress donations? What condition requirements do you have? Do you offer pickup service or do I need to drop it off? What documentation do I need for a tax receipt?
Step 5: Schedule your donation
Once you’ve found an organization that’ll take your mattress, set up a specific date and time. If they offer pickup, be ready during the scheduled window these services often run tight schedules. If you’re dropping off, confirm their hours and exact location. Get the name of the person you spoke with just in case.
Step 6: Get your receipt
Ask for a donation receipt when you hand over the mattress. Most nonprofits provide a form listing the donated item, date, and their tax ID number. You’ll need this if you plan to claim a tax deduction. Don’t leave without it tracking down receipts later is a headache nobody needs.
Step 7: Handle transportation carefully
Mattresses are awkward to move. You’ll need at least two people for anything larger than a twin. If you’re renting a truck, measure your mattress first to make sure it fits. Secure it properly so it doesn’t slide around during transport. Some organizations charge $20-50 for pickup service if you can’t deliver it yourself.
Mattress Donation Requirements by Organization
Different organizations have different rules. Here’s what the major players typically require:
Salvation Army standards: Mattresses must be clean and free from stains, tears, and odors. They generally don’t accept mattresses older than 10 years, though well-maintained older ones might pass. Most locations want both the mattress and box spring together. Pickup service availability varies by region some areas offer it free, others charge a small fee, and some locations don’t offer pickup at all.
Goodwill policies: The few Goodwill locations that accept mattresses require them to be in excellent condition with no visible wear. They prefer mattresses under 5 years old. You’ll almost always need to drop off yourself. Each Goodwill region sets its own rules, so what works in Ohio might not fly in Texas.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore requirements: Mattresses need to be gently used with minimal wear. They typically accept mattresses up to 7-8 years old if they look nearly new. Most ReStores prefer you to drop off during specific donation hours, usually weekdays. Some locations won’t take mattresses at all during summer months when demand drops.
Furniture bank criteria: Furniture banks usually have the most flexible standards since they work directly with families in crisis. They focus more on functionality than age. As long as the mattress is clean, pest-free, and supportive, they’ll often take it. Many furniture banks offer free pickup service since they understand donors might not have transportation options.
Local shelter guidelines: Homeless shelters and transitional housing programs set their own rules based on current needs. Some take any mattress that’s clean and intact. Others only accept new or nearly new mattresses. Call ahead because their needs change constantly—they might desperately need twin mattresses but have five queens already in storage.
If You Can’t Donate: Alternative Solutions
Sometimes donation simply won’t work. That doesn’t mean landfill remains the only option.
Mattress recycling programs
offer strong eco-friendly mattress disposal. These programs break mattresses into steel, foam, and fabric for reuse. Several U.S. states support mattress recycling through extended producer responsibility laws, as outlined by the EPA.
Retailer take-back programs offer convenient removal:
Many mattress retailers remove your old mattress when they deliver your new one. Some include this service free, others charge $50-100. Companies like Mattress Firm and Sleep Number often partner with recycling facilities, so your old mattress gets properly processed instead of dumped.
Junk removal services handle the heavy lifting:
Companies like Junk Masterz?, LoadUp, and local hauling services will pick up your mattress and dispose of it properly. Costs typically run $75-150 depending on your location. Many of these services sort through collected items and donate whatever they can, recycling the rest.
Municipal bulk trash collection provides a last resort:
Most cities offer bulk item pickup service for residents. You schedule a pickup day, put your mattress at the curb, and the city hauls it away. This service is usually free or included in your trash fees. The downside? Most municipalities send bulk items straight to landfills.
Resale platforms work for premium mattresses:
If your mattress is high-end, barely used, and in excellent shape, you might sell it. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp all have active mattress markets. Be honest about age and condition. Price it fairly—used mattresses sell for 20-40% of retail value at most.
When comparing mattress recycling vs donation, donation helps people directly, while recycling protects the environment when donation isn’t safe. Both options beat illegal dumping by a wide margin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid and Expert Tips
Mistake #1: Not calling ahead You load up the truck, drive 30 minutes to the donation center, and find out they don’t take mattresses. Always confirm acceptance before moving anything. Save yourself the wasted trip and frustration.
Mistake #2: Donating a mattress you wouldn’t sleep on If you’re embarrassed to show it to the donation worker, you probably shouldn’t donate it. Organizations aren’t free disposal services. They’re helping people in need who deserve decent bedding.
Mistake #3: Forgetting documentation No receipt means no tax deduction. Most nonprofits happily provide receipts, but you have to ask. The IRS lets you deduct the fair market value of donated items. A used mattress in good condition typically values at $50-200 for tax purposes.
Mistake #4: Trying to move it alone Mattresses are bulky and awkward. Even a twin mattress is hard for one person to handle. Queen and king sizes absolutely need two people. Trying to solo-carry a mattress down stairs is asking for injury.
Mistake #5: Donating wet or damp mattresses Moisture leads to mold. If your mattress got wet during cleaning or storage, let it dry completely. Set it in a well-ventilated area for 24-48 hours. A damp mattress will get rejected—or worse, accepted and given to someone who ends up with mold exposure.
Expert tip: Time your donation strategically
Spring and fall are peak moving seasons when organizations get flooded with donations. Summer and winter might get your mattress accepted more readily. College move-in and move-out times (August/September and May) see tons of mattresses available, so stand out by calling at different times.
Expert tip: Bundle bedding with your mattress
If you have clean sheets, mattress protectors, or pillows you don’t need, donate them together. Organizations love getting complete bedding sets because families need everything, not just the mattress.
Expert tip: Take photos before donating
Snap a few pictures of your mattress from different angles. These help with tax documentation and prove condition if questions come up later. Date-stamp the photos if possible.
Expert tip: Consider seasonal demand
Homeless shelters need mattresses most during cold months when more people seek indoor shelter. Spring sees families moving into new housing programs. Summer has lower demand. Time your donation when it’s most needed.
Conclusion
Learning how to donate a mattress doesn’t need to feel confusing or frustrating. Donation works best when the mattress stays clean, gently used, and meets basic health standards. Knowing where to donate a mattress, which charities accept mattresses, and what to do when donation isn’t an option helps you make the right call without wasting time. From step-by-step donation guidance to mattress disposal alternatives like recycling, this guide gives you realistic options that respect people and the environment.
If you’d like help with charitable mattress removal or responsible disposal, Junk Masterz is here to help. Contact us today for a quick quote or call us now to speak with our team and get your mattress handled the right way.
FAQs
Does Goodwill take mattresses?
Goodwill rarely accepts mattresses. Most locations decline used mattresses due to hygiene rules and limited storage. Always call your local Goodwill to confirm current policy.
Will Salvation Army pick up mattresses?
Salvation Army pickup availability depends on location. Some branches accept gently used mattresses with no stains or damage, while others do not accept mattresses at all.
Can you donate a mattress with stains?
No. Most charities reject mattresses with any stains, even small ones. Stains raise health concerns and usually lead to automatic rejection.
Are mattress donations tax deductible?
Yes, mattress donations may qualify for a tax deduction if donated to a registered nonprofit. The mattress must be in acceptable condition and properly documented.
How much is a mattress donation worth for taxes?
The IRS allows donors to claim fair market value. For used mattresses, this amount is usually low and depends on age, condition, and original price. Always request a donation receipt.
Where can I donate a mattress same-day?
Same-day mattress donation options are limited. Local furniture banks, community groups, or charitable mattress removal services offer the fastest options. Always call first.
Can you donate a memory foam mattress?
Yes, some charities accept memory foam mattresses if they stay clean, odor-free, and structurally sound. Acceptance varies widely by organization.
Do homeless shelters accept mattress donations?
Most homeless shelters do not accept used mattresses due to health regulations. Some shelters accept new mattresses or donations from verified sources only.
Can you donate a mattress during COVID-19 or similar health concerns?
Many organizations paused mattress donations during health emergencies. Some have resumed with stricter rules. Always confirm current policies before attempting donation.
What if my mattress is rejected?
If donation fails, choose mattress recycling or eco-friendly disposal. Recycling programs recover steel, foam, and fabric while keeping bulky waste out of landfills.
How do I transport a king-size mattress for donation?
Use a mattress bag to protect it. Secure it with straps in a truck or van. Some organizations offer pickup, which avoids transport challenges.
Can you donate a waterbed mattress?
Most charities do not accept waterbed mattresses. These mattresses contain materials that limit reuse and recycling options.
Do churches accept mattress donations?
Some churches accept mattresses for community assistance programs. Acceptance depends on condition, space, and current need. Calling ahead improves success.
How clean does a mattress need to be for donation?
A donated mattress must be vacuumed, dry, free of stains, and odor-free. Visible wear or moisture usually leads to rejection.
