How Much Does Mattress Removal Cost in 2026?
Mattress removal costs $75 to $175 on average, depending on the size of the mattress and your location. Twin and full mattresses cost $75-$125, queens run $90-$150, and king or California king mattresses cost $100-$175. Adding a box spring increases the cost by $50-$100. Most junk removal companies have a minimum charge of $75-$100, so removing a single mattress typically falls at or above that minimum.
Mattress disposal is more regulated than many people realize. Most landfills ban or restrict mattress disposal because mattresses are bulky, difficult to compact, and contain materials that can be recycled. This means you generally cannot simply leave a mattress out with your regular trash β you'll need to either schedule a bulk waste pickup, hire a junk removal company, or use a mattress recycling service.
Mattress Removal Prices by Size
| Mattress Size | Dimensions | Low | High | Average |
|---|
| Twin | 38" Γ 75" | $75 | $100 | $85 |
| Full / Double | 54" Γ 75" | $75 | $125 | $100 |
| Queen | 60" Γ 80" | $90 | $150 | $120 |
| King | 76" Γ 80" | $100 | $175 | $135 |
| California King | 72" Γ 84" | $100 | $175 | $135 |
| Box Spring (any size) | β | $50 | $100 | $75 |
Mattress Recycling Fees by State
Three states have enacted mattress recycling laws that affect disposal costs:
- California: The Mattress Recycling Council (MRC) operates a statewide program. When you buy a new mattress, you pay an $11 recycling fee at the point of sale. This funds free mattress recycling drop-off at designated centers and subsidized pickup programs. When hiring a junk removal company in California, ask if the recycling fee is included.
- Connecticut: Similar program with a $9 fee at point of sale. The CT Mattress Recycling Council offers free drop-off and low-cost pickup ($15-$25) through participating retailers and municipalities.
- Rhode Island: $10 fee at point of sale. The RI Mattress Recycling Council provides free recycling drop-off and curbside pickup in participating communities.
In states without these programs, junk removal companies typically charge $20-$50 extra for mattress recycling if they offer it, or they may take mattresses to the landfill for the standard disposal fee. Always ask whether the quoted price includes recycling or landfill disposal.
Free and Low-Cost Mattress Disposal Options
- Retailer take-back: When you buy a new mattress, many retailers (Casper, Purple, Saatva, Sleep Number) offer free old mattress removal and recycling with your new purchase. This is the easiest and cheapest option if you're replacing your mattress.
- City bulk waste pickup: Many cities offer scheduled bulk item pickup for $10-$50. Some cities include mattress pickup in their regular bulk waste program. Check your city's public works website for the schedule and rules.
- Mattress recycling centers: In states with recycling laws (CA, CT, RI), you can drop off your mattress for free or $10-$20 at designated recycling centers. Bye Bye Mattress (byebyemattress.com) lists locations.
- Donation (limited): Most charities do not accept used mattresses due to health codes. However, some local furniture banks, shelters, and Habitat for Humanity ReStores may accept mattresses in excellent condition (less than 5 years old, no stains, no sagging). Always call ahead.
- DIY landfill drop-off: If you have a truck, taking a mattress to the landfill costs $20-$50 in disposal fees. Some landfills have separate mattress recycling areas with lower fees.
Why You Can't Just Throw a Mattress in the Trash
Mattresses are one of the most problematic items in landfills. A single mattress takes up approximately 23 cubic feet of landfill space β the equivalent of about 15 regular garbage bags. They are difficult to compact because of their springs and foam, and they can damage landfill equipment. Many landfills have banned mattresses entirely or charge a special bulky item fee.
Additionally, mattresses contain recyclable materials: steel springs (which can be melted down and reused), foam (which can be recycled into carpet padding or insulation), and fabric (which can be recycled into industrial rags or insulation). A mattress recycling facility can divert up to 90% of a mattress from the landfill. This is why many states and cities now require or encourage mattress recycling rather than landfill disposal.
Preparing Your Mattress for Removal
- Strip the bedding: Remove all sheets, pillows, mattress protectors, and toppers. These should be laundered or disposed of separately.
- Bag it (recommended): A mattress bag costs $10-$20 and protects the mattress during transport, keeping it clean and containing any dust or allergens. This is especially important if you're moving it through hallways or elevators.
- Measure doorways: Queen and king mattresses can be difficult to maneuver through standard doorways and stairwells. Measure first β if it won't fit, you may need to angle it or remove doors from hinges. Some companies offer mattress "hinging" (folding) for tight spaces.
- Clear a path: Move obstacles out of the way from the bedroom to the exit. This speeds up the job and reduces the risk of damage.
- Disassemble the bed frame: If you're also removing the bed frame, take it apart ahead of time to save time and potentially reduce labor costs.
- Check for bed bugs: Inspect the mattress seams, tufts, and folds for signs of bed bugs (small reddish-brown insects, tiny white eggs, or dark spots). If you find bed bugs, wrap the mattress immediately and inform the removal company β they may charge an extra fee or require special handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remove a mattress?
Mattress removal costs $75-$175 depending on size: twin/full $75-$125, queen $90-$150, king $100-$175. Box springs add $50-$100. Most companies have a $75-$100 minimum. In CA, CT, and RI, a recycling fee may apply ($20-$50 if not included in the quote).
Can I leave a mattress on the curb?
Not without scheduling a pickup. Most cities ban mattresses from regular trash and require scheduled bulk waste pickup ($10-$50). Leaving a mattress curbside unscheduled can result in fines of $50-$500. Check your city's public works website for bulk waste rules and scheduling.
Do mattress companies take away old mattresses?
Yes, many mattress retailers (Casper, Purple, Saatva, Sleep Number, Tempur-Pedic) offer free old mattress removal and recycling when you buy a new mattress. This is called "white glove delivery" or "setup and removal." Always confirm at checkout whether old mattress removal is included β some budget retailers charge $20-$50 extra for this service.
Are mattresses recyclable?
Yes, up to 90% of a mattress is recyclable. Steel springs are melted and reused, foam is recycled into carpet padding or insulation, and fabric is recycled into industrial rags. California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have statewide mattress recycling programs. Bye Bye Mattress (byebyemattress.com) lists recycling locations nationwide.
How do I know if my mattress has bed bugs?
Check the seams, tufts, folds, andζ ηΎ area for: small reddish-brown insects (about the size of an apple seed), tiny white eggs or eggshells, dark spots (bed bug excrement), or shed skins. If you find any signs, wrap the mattress in plastic immediately and inform the removal company. Do not donate or sell an infested mattress.