How to sell a used mattress (simple steps)

Quick clean, smart price, better photos, and where to list. If it won’t sell, pick donate, recycle, or safe disposal.

Pricing nudge:
newer → higher offer delivery → more replies no bites in 72h → drop price

You want it gone. You also want a fair price. Here’s the fast, safe way.

Note: Laws change by state. When unsure, pick recycle or safe disposal.


Fast check: sell or not?

Stop and pick another path if you see: bedbugs, big stains, rips, smells, or very old age (often 8–10+ years).
Better path: book safe disposal → • Try consignment: Asherfield →


Step 1 — Clean quick (show proof)

  • Vacuum seams and edges.
  • Wipe surface with light soap + water. Dry fully.
  • Do not use harsh chemicals or strong scents.
  • Bag it for transport.
  • Take “proof” photos (see Step 3).

Step 2 — Price smart

  • Age matters most. Newer sells faster.
  • Size and brand change value.
  • Be honest about flaws.
  • Start fair. If no bites in 48–72 hours, drop price.

Tip: Buyers love “delivery included” for a small fee.


Step 3 — Photos that win

Shoot in bright light. No filters.

  • Top, bottom, both sides
  • Corners and edges
  • Law tag close-up (leave it on)
  • Any flaws (be clear)
  • One photo of the mattress bagged

Step 4 — Where to list


Step 5 — Write the post (copy-paste)

Title ideas

  • “Queen mattress, clean, tagged, no stains”
  • “Full mattress + delivery option”
  • “King mattress, smoke-free home”
  • “Memory-foam mattress, clean, ready”
  • “Guest room mattress, light use”
  • “Twin mattress, bagged for pickup”

Description template
“Clean, smoke-free home. Law tag on (see photo). No stains/odors/bugs. [Size/Brand], used X years. Pickup near [area]. Delivery available for [$]. Cash or app. Thanks!”


Step 6 — Pickup or delivery

  • Pickup: Daylight, public place if possible.
  • Delivery: Protect with a bag, strap well, one helper.
  • Message the plan, time window, and payment before you go.

Step 7 — If it won’t sell

  • Refresh photos. Lower price. Offer delivery.
  • If still no luck, pick a clean, legal path: mattress disposal →

Safety

  • Do a bedbug check (seams, tufts, corners).
  • Keep the tag on.
  • No fake “like new” claims.
  • Don’t burn or “treat” with chemicals.

FAQ

What’s a fair price?
It depends on age, brand, size, and condition. Newer and cleaner = more.

How old is too old?
Often 8–10+ years is a “no.” Try recycle or disposal.

Do stains kill the sale?
Big stains usually do. Be honest. Price accordingly—or choose disposal.

What if no one bites?
Drop price, add delivery, refresh photos. If still no, book safe disposal.


Further reading