How Much Does Mattress Disposal Cost? (Free vs Paid Options)

Getting rid of an old mattress costs anywhere from $0 to $150, depending on which disposal method you use and where you live. The variation is significant, so it's worth comparing options before you call a junk removal company. Here's a full breakdown of every method with realistic pricing.

Mattress Disposal Cost by Method

Free Options

Method	Cost	Notes
Retailer haul-away (Saatva)	$0	Included with new mattress delivery
State recycling program (CA/CT/RI)	$0	Free drop-off at MRC sites
Municipal bulk item pickup	$0	Most cities offer scheduled pickup
Freecycle/Facebook free listing	$0	Must be in good condition; buyer hauls

Low-Cost Options ($15–$50)

• Private mattress recycling drop-off: $15–$25 at nonprofit facilities outside MRC states
• Retailer haul-away fees (non-free brands): Mattress Firm and Sleep Number charge $20–$40 in most markets
• Transfer station self-haul: Municipal landfills charge $20–$50 for mattress drop-off if you transport it yourself

Premium Options ($75–$150)

• 1-800-GOT-JUNK: Typically $80–$150 depending on location and how accessible the mattress is
• LoadUp: Typically $75–$125; often slightly cheaper than 1-800-GOT-JUNK
• College Hunks Hauling Junk: Similar pricing, good in metro areas

Note: junk removal pricing can vary significantly by city. Always get a quote before booking.

Pros and Cons

What We Like

• Luxury innerspring with excellent lumbar support
• Multiple firmness options available
• Free white-glove delivery and mattress removal
• 365-night trial and lifetime warranty

What Could Be Better

• Higher price than many online brands
• Heavier than foam mattresses
• Not compressed in a box
• Some off-gassing possible initially

Hidden Costs to Watch For

• Stair fees: Junk removal companies typically add $20–$40 per flight of stairs
• Scheduling windows: Some retailers only offer haul-away during delivery — if you already bought from a non-haul-away brand, you're back to paid options
• Box spring handling: Most services count a box spring as a second item, doubling the cost

The True Cost of "Free" Curbside

Leaving a mattress on the curb without scheduling a bulk pickup is illegal in most municipalities and can result in fines ranging from $100 to $500. Always schedule curbside removal through your waste management department first.

Best Value by Scenario

• Buying a new mattress: Choose a brand with free removal (Saatva). Total disposal cost: $0.
• Not buying new: Check municipal bulk pickup schedule first. If unavailable, self-haul to a transfer station.
• Need it gone this week: Use LoadUp or 1-800-GOT-JUNK. Budget $100–$130 in most markets.

Also see our guides on mattress recycling and how to donate a mattress for alternatives that may cost nothing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Voted best luxury innerspring mattress with exceptional lumbar support and white-glove delivery.

Check Price & Availability FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question", "name": "How much does it cost to throw away a mattress?", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Free to $150 depending on method. Municipal bulk pickup is usually free. Junk removal services charge $75–$150. Self-haul to a transfer station costs $20–$50. Some retailers like Saatva remove it free with delivery."}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Will a junk removal company take a mattress?", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. 1-800-GOT-JUNK, LoadUp, and College Hunks all accept mattresses. Expect to pay $80–$150 depending on your location and stair access."}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Does Saatva remove the old mattress?", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Saatva's white-glove delivery includes free removal of your existing mattress as part of the service. There's no additional disposal fee."}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Can I put a mattress in a dumpster?", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "It depends on the dumpster rental agreement and local regulations. Many dumpster rental companies exclude mattresses, and some jurisdictions prohibit mattresses in standard waste containers. Check the rental terms before assuming."}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "What is the cheapest way to dispose of a mattress?", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "The cheapest option is municipal bulk item pickup, which is free in most U.S. cities. If that's not available, recycling drop-off in California, Connecticut, or Rhode Island is free. If you're buying a new mattress, choosing Saatva means removal is included at no extra cost."}}]}

The Verdict

Choose How Much Does Mattress Disposal Cost? (Free if: You value what How Much Does Mattress Disposal Cost? (Free offers in construction, materials, and sleep technology.

Choose Paid Options) if: You prefer Paid Options)'s design philosophy and material choices. Compare pricing and trial periods.

Both serve different sleep needs. Choose based on your body type, sleep position, and comfort preferences.