Donating a mattress is a wonderful way to help someone in need and keep bulky waste out of landfills. If you’re in Austin, TX and wondering “where to donate a mattress near me,” this comprehensive guide will walk you through all the best Austin mattress donation options.
Why donate your mattress?
Donating your gently used mattress can make a big difference. Austin mattress donation programs ensure that your bed doesn’t end up as junk – it helps a neighbor and reduces waste. It’s a win-win: you get rid of an item you no longer need, and someone else gets a comfortable place to sleep. Plus, most charities will give you a tax receipt for your donation!
Value of mattress donation: A mattress takes up a lot of space in a landfill and can release harmful chemicals as it breaks down. By donating, you extend the mattress’s life and support those in need. Austin has several organizations ready to accept a mattress donation – as long as it’s in good shape. Keep reading to find out where you can donate.
General donation criteria for used mattresses
Before we list specific organizations, it’s important to know the basic donation criteria for mattresses. Charities and shelters will only accept a mattress if it’s clean and in good condition. In fact, used mattresses usually need to be in almost “pristine” shape – no stains, no rips or tears, and no signs of excessive wear. This means your mattress should look nearly new:
- No stains or odors: Any visible staining, strong odor, or mildew will disqualify a mattress. Consider spot-cleaning minor spots and fully airing out the mattress before donating.
- No rips or damage: Mattresses with torn fabric or broken springs are not accepted. Only donate if the structure is intact and safe.
- Limited age: Some places prefer mattresses under a certain age (for example, under 5–7 years old) to ensure it hasn’t degraded. If you know the mattress is very old and saggy, it’s better to recycle it than donate.
- Pest-free: Absolutely no bed bugs or signs of pests. If there’s any chance of bed bugs, do not donate the mattress – have it treated or dispose of it properly.
- Keep the tag on: It’s helpful to leave the original manufacturer tag on the mattress if it’s still attached. (This tag is the one that says “do not remove” – it provides information on the materials.) Some organizations may check for it as proof the mattress is legally labeled.
By ensuring your mattress meets these criteria, you increase the chance a charity can accept it. Remember, most donation sites will refuse mattresses that are stained or damaged. This is for health, safety, and sometimes legal reasons.
Now, let’s look at the different types of organizations and the options available in Austin.
Charities and thrift stores in Austin that accept mattresses
When you think of donating furniture or household items, big charity organizations might come to mind. In Austin, some large thrift stores do accept furniture – but be aware that not all accept mattresses. Below we list the major charity groups and their mattress donation policies:
Salvation Army Family Stores – Austin
Salvation Army is one of the best options for donating a used mattress in Austin. They operate thrift stores in the area and do accept mattresses that are in good, clean condition. The Salvation Army even offers free pickup for mattress donations, which is super helpful if you don’t have a truck.
- What they accept: Gently used mattresses with no stains, rips, or tears. Box springs are welcome too, as long as they are in good shape. Essentially, the bed should be resalable – not dirty or damaged. Salvation Army stores sell donated items to fund their adult rehabilitation center programs, so they only take items they can re-use.
- Donation criteria: Mattresses should be under 5 years old and still have their original tags. Heavily worn or stained mattresses will be turned away. Their drivers will inspect items during pickup to make sure they meet guidelines.
- How to donate: You have two options – drop-off or schedule a pickup. If you can transport the mattress, you can drop it off at a Salvation Army family store + donation center. For example, one Austin-area Salvation Army store is at 4216 S. Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78745 (phone: 512-447-4044). They are open for donations Monday–Saturday during the day. If you need a pickup, call the Salvation Army’s donation line at 512-416-0607 (or toll-free 1-800-SA-TRUCK) to schedule a truck to come get your mattress. You can also schedule a pickup online by entering your zip code into the Salvation Army’s online scheduler.
- Contact info: Salvation Army Austin donation pickup scheduler or call 512-416-0607 to arrange a pickup.
- Note: Salvation Army pickups are free, but remember they won’t pick up items that are not in good condition. So make sure your mattress is acceptable before the truck comes.
Salvation Army is a great choice because it’s well-established. Donating here is also tax-deductible and you’ll be supporting a charity that helps people in need locally. Many Austin donors have successfully given mattresses through Salvation Army (one Austin resident noted that Salvation Army “took one of ours” with no issue).
Goodwill Central Texas – does not accept mattresses
Many people searching for “where can I donate a mattress” think of Goodwill. Goodwill Central Texas (which has many donation sites in Austin) accepts a wide range of household items and furniture, except mattresses and box springs. It is actually not legal to resell used mattresses in Texas without following strict sanitation processes, so Goodwill and similar thrift stores cannot take them.
- What they accept: Goodwill takes furniture like tables, chairs, dressers, etc., but no mattresses or box springs.
- Why not mattresses? Used mattresses are turned away due to state health regulations and Goodwill policy. According to Goodwill Central Texas, they accept “just about anything else” but not mattresses or box springs. So if you show up at a Goodwill donation site with a mattress, they will unfortunately refuse it.
- Alternative: If you have other bedroom furniture (like a gently used bed frame or headboard), Goodwill might take those, just not the mattress itself.
Bottom line: do not plan on Goodwill for mattress donation. Instead, use one of the other options in this guide.
Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStore – does not accept mattresses
Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore is another popular place to donate furniture in Austin. However, Habitat ReStore does not accept used mattresses or box springs either. They have a published list of items they cannot take, and mattresses are on that list.
- The ReStore focuses on building materials, appliances, and furniture in good condition. They’ll take items like sofas, tables, cabinets, and hardware, but “used mattresses and box springs” are specifically not allowed in their donation guidelines.
- So, even though Habitat ReStore offers free limited pickup for large donations in Austin (you can fill out an online form to request a pickup), this won’t apply to mattresses. If you schedule a Habitat pickup and list a mattress, they will decline that item.
Hope Family Thrift Store (Austin Disaster Relief Network)
Hope Family Thrift Store is a north Austin thrift shop run by the Austin Disaster Relief Network (ADRN). They use proceeds to help families recovering from disasters. Hope Family Thrift sometimes accepts mattresses, but only in excellent condition and at their discretion. They have very tight standards because they primarily want to offer quality items to disaster survivors and have limited space.
- Criteria: Hope Thrift states they cannot accept mattresses that are “worn, torn, or stained.” In practice, this means they would only consider a like-new mattress, and even then, you should call ahead. They emphasize especially not taking bad-condition mattresses, so assume it’s a no unless your mattress is nearly pristine.
- How to donate: If you believe your mattress is truly in mint condition, you could contact Hope Family Thrift (phone: 512-806-0800, address: 13801 Burnet Road, Suite 200, Austin, TX) and ask if they are currently accepting mattresses. Typically, they may ask for photos or details before agreeing.
- Note: Donating to Hope Family Thrift supports families who lost belongings in floods, fires, etc. It’s a wonderful cause, but be prepared that they rarely accept used mattresses. As one Austin recycling blog noted, most organizations use the same strict criteria (no stains, no wear) when it comes to mattress donations.
Other thrift stores and charities
Other charity-run thrift stores in the Austin area, such as St. Vincent de Paul (Vincentian Family Center) and The Arc of Texas, generally do not accept mattresses either:
- St. Vincent de Paul thrift (Austin) – They accept furniture like sofas and dressers, but “no mattresses or metal bed frames” per their guidelines.
- The Arc of Texas – The Arc usually focuses on clothing and small household goods. They do offer donation pickups via a service (often in partnership with local thrift outlets), but like Goodwill, they exclude mattresses.
- Assistance League of Austin (Thrift House) – This is a smaller charity thrift store; they also do not take mattresses (mostly they take clothing and housewares).
So, for Austin mattress donation, your best large-charity bet is Salvation Army. Goodwill, Habitat, and others will not take them, and places like Hope Thrift or others will only accept in exceptional cases. Next, let’s look at shelters and nonprofit organizations that might take a mattress off your hands to directly help someone in need.
Shelters and nonprofits that accept mattress donations
Austin is home to several shelters and charitable organizations that provide housing or support to people in crisis (such as refugees, homeless individuals, or survivors of domestic violence). These groups often need furnishings for their clients. Donating a mattress to a shelter or housing nonprofit can have a direct impact – it may go straight into someone’s new home. Below are some Austin organizations known to accept mattress donations (with certain conditions):
Casa Marianella
Casa Marianella is an Austin shelter that supports displaced immigrants and refugees. They run adult shelters and a women’s shelter (Posada Esperanza) and often need basic furniture for the families they help. Casa Marianella accepts mattresses, bed frames, and other furniture donations as long as items are in good condition.
- How to donate: Call ahead to see what the current needs are. Casa Marianella has very limited storage space, so they typically only take furniture (like mattresses) when they have an immediate need for it. You can schedule a pickup or drop-off by getting in touch with them first. According to a local Austin charity roundup, you should call 512-385-5571 or email [email protected] to coordinate a mattress donation.
- Pickup/drop-off: Casa Marianella may arrange pickup for larger items if needed, or they might ask you to drop it off at a specific time. Since they operate multiple small shelters, they can’t take a huge surplus of mattresses – but if a new family just moved in and needs a bed, your donation is incredibly helpful.
- Condition: Only donate a mattress here if it’s clean and bed-bug free (they will likely inspect it). Good condition is a must, as with any donation.
- Impact: Donating to Casa Marianella means your mattress could directly provide comfort to a refugee or asylum seeker starting a new life in Austin.
Tip: Because Casa Marianella has no storage for excess furniture when they are full, timing is everything. Reach out and describe your item; if they can’t take it at that moment, don’t be discouraged – another organization might need it, or you can try Casa Marianella again later.
SAFE Alliance (domestic violence shelter and services)
The SAFE Alliance is an organization in Austin that serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. When individuals and families escape dangerous situations, they often have nothing to furnish a new, safe home. SAFE accepts donations of furniture to help set up apartments for these survivors, and this can include mattresses under specific conditions.
- What SAFE accepts: SAFE will take twin, full, or queen size mattresses (and box springs/frames) that are “very lightly used.” They specifically request mattresses that are clean and in good condition, with minimal wear. They do not take king-size mattresses.
- Donation process: Because their storage space is extremely limited, SAFE has a screening process. They ask donors to email pictures and a description of the mattress (and any other furniture) first. You can email their in-kind donations department at [email protected] with photos of the mattress. They will let you know if they currently have a need and space for it.
- Drop-off only: If approved, you will need to deliver the mattress to the SAFE Warehouse. The warehouse is located at 1515 Grove Blvd., Austin, TX 78741. Delivery is by appointment during their open hours (Monday–Friday 10am–4pm, and also open on the 3rd Saturday of each month 10am–4pm). SAFE generally does not have the staff to pick up furniture from donors, so plan on borrowing a truck or asking a friend to help transport the mattress.
- Contact info: Email [email protected] with details of your mattress donation. You can also check SAFE’s website for their ongoing needs list and instructions for donating furniture.
- Note: Do not drop off any mattress at SAFE without prior approval. Because they only take items they currently need, you must coordinate with them first. Once you deliver the mattress, it will likely go to a survivor’s new home very quickly.
- Extra tip: Along with a mattress, SAFE might also appreciate donations of other household items (linens, small furniture, etc.) to help set up apartments. If you have nightstands or dressers in good shape, you can ask if those are needed too.
Donating to SAFE Alliance is a generous way to support people rebuilding their lives. Knowing your mattress will give comfort to a family that’s been through trauma can be very rewarding.
Other shelters and housing programs
Beyond Casa Marianella and SAFE, consider other local shelters or housing-focused nonprofits. Some may accept mattress donations on a case-by-case basis:
- Foundation for the Homeless / family housing programs: Organizations that move families from homelessness into housing often need furniture. While they don’t always publicly solicit mattresses, you can inquire if they have a current need.
- Austin furniture bank: Austin does have a volunteer-run “furniture bank” initiative that collects furnishings for those transitioning out of homelessness. They might accept mattress donations if the need is there. Be aware they likely have no pickup service by default, so you’d have to deliver the mattress to their warehouse or storage location after coordinating via phone or email.
- Churches or community centers: Sometimes local churches sponsor refugee families or know of community members in need of a bed. Posting in community groups or asking a church if they know someone who needs a mattress can find your mattress a good home.
Always call or email first before bringing a mattress to any shelter or nonprofit. Many have limited capacity, but when they do need a mattress, they’ll be very thankful for your donation.
Furniture banks and other donation networks
Furniture banks are organizations dedicated to collecting and distributing furniture to those in need (often low-income families, disaster survivors, or people transitioning from homelessness). In Austin, there isn’t a large, well-known furniture bank facility like in some cities, but there are networks and smaller operations that serve this purpose:
- Austin Disaster Relief Network (ADRN) – Hope Family Thrift: We mentioned this under charities. Essentially, ADRN’s thrift store functions as a sort of furniture bank for disaster victims. If a family loses their home in a fire, ADRN provides vouchers so they can get donated furniture (including mattresses) for free at Hope Family Thrift. So donating a mattress in excellent condition to ADRN (if accepted) eventually places it with a family recovering from a disaster.
- Austin furniture bank (volunteer group): This was a grassroots effort to gather furniture for people coming out of homelessness. It may not have a public storefront, but it works by referrals. If you want to donate to such efforts, you might look for the Austin furniture bank on social media or contact ECHO (Ending Community Homelessness Coalition) to see if they coordinate furniture donations. As noted earlier, expect to deliver the mattress yourself, since volunteer groups often lack trucks for pickup.
- Furniture for families programs: Some local nonprofits have “furniture for families” programs. For example, Saint Louise House (which houses homeless mothers and children) furnishes each apartment for their residents entirely with donated items. However, as of a recent update, Saint Louise House is not taking mattresses or beds (their wishlist notes they can’t take mattresses/box springs at the moment). Still, they might accept other furniture and sometimes they might request mattresses if running low.
- Vietnam Veterans of America (pickup services): While not Austin-specific, some charities like VVA or others do home pickup of used goods for fundraising. Check their accepted items on their website or by calling. Often, they do not take mattresses (similar to Arc/Goodwill policies), but it can vary. Always verify first.
In summary, Austin’s “furniture bank” resources are a bit decentralized. The key is to connect with groups who help people set up new homes (homeless services, refugee services, disaster relief). With a few phone calls or emails, you may find a smaller organization very happy to receive your mattress donation. Just remember the golden rule: only donate a mattress that you’d feel comfortable giving to a friend or family member – clean, decent, and ready to use.
Mattress recycling and disposal options in Austin
What if your mattress isn’t in donate-able condition, or you can’t find anyone to take it? Don’t worry – you still have responsible options. Mattresses that are too old, worn out, or failed to be accepted by charities can often be recycled. Austin has services for recycling and disposing of mattresses so they don’t end up illegally dumped on the curb. Here are some options for mattress recycling or disposal in Austin:
1. City of Austin bulk collection (curbside)
If you’re an Austin resident with city trash service, you have access to bulk item pickup. The City of Austin’s resource recovery department offers curbside bulk collection three times a year per household by appointment. Mattresses are considered bulk items, so you can schedule a pickup and simply set the mattress out by the curb on the appointed day.
- How to schedule: You can schedule a bulk item pickup by calling 3-1-1 or using the Austin Recycles mobile app/website. They will give you a date to put the mattress out.
- Cost: This is free (included in your regular trash fees) for residents of Austin.
- What happens: The city will collect the mattress. Depending on its condition, they might take it to a recycling facility or to the landfill. (Austin has been working on recycling mattresses when possible.)
- Tip: Wrap the mattress in plastic if you can for pickup, especially if it’s going to rain, to help out the workers and keep things clean. Also, don’t put the mattress out too early – only the evening before or morning of your scheduled pickup.
If you missed your bulk pickup window or need it gone sooner than the next available appointment, you could also take the mattress to a city facility yourself.
2. Austin recycle & reuse drop-off center
Austin’s recycle & reuse drop-off center (RRDOC) is a facility where residents can drop off items for recycling or safe disposal. They accept a wide range of items – including mattresses and furniture – by appointment for free.
- How to use: Make an appointment online or via the Austin Recycles app to drop off your mattress. The center is located at 2514 Business Center Drive, Austin, TX.
- Cost: Free for Austin/Travis County residents.
- Process: You’ll drive to the center at your appointment time, and workers will direct you to the drop-off area for mattresses. They will handle it from there. They try to recycle materials when possible.
- Why recycle? Mattresses are bulky and contain metal, wood, foam, and fabric that can often be recycled separately. By taking it to the reuse drop-off, you ensure those components are recovered if possible.
The city also has an online tool called the Austin reuse directory. This can help you find private companies or nonprofits that handle specific items. For mattresses, it will show options like charities (for donation) or recycling services.
3. Private mattress recycling services in Austin
Several local businesses specialize in eco-friendly mattress removal. These are not charities, but they will ensure your mattress is recycled or donated if possible, rather than just trashed. Typically, they charge a fee to pick up the mattress from your home, which can be worth it for convenience. A couple of notable services:
- Ex-Mattress: A local Austin company that offers green junk removal. They specifically advertise that they recycle every mattress they collect. They will come to your house, pick up the mattress (even do the heavy lifting from inside or curbside), and take it for recycling. You can book online on their website or call (512) 537-9270. If your mattress is in decent shape, they’ll attempt to clean it and donate it; if not, they’ll recycle it.
- 1-800-GOT-JUNK?: This is a national junk removal service with operations in Austin. They will definitely take mattresses. They charge based on volume/space in their truck. They also claim to recycle or donate items when they can.
- Mattress Disposal Plus: Another service operating in Austin that specifically advertises mattress pickup for recycling/donation. You schedule and pay a fee for them to come get it.
When using a private service, ensure you’re dealing with a reputable company that won’t just illegally dump your mattress. Always ask what they do with the mattress – a good company will be happy to explain their recycling or donation process.
4. Retailer take-back programs
If you are getting a new mattress delivered, ask the retailer if they offer an old mattress removal. Many mattress retailers will take away your old mattress when they deliver the new one (sometimes for a small additional fee, sometimes included). In Austin, some retailers partner with recyclers or charities. For example, Mattress Firm has had recycling programs in some areas; other local furniture stores might donate old mattresses to charities if they’re in great shape.
So, if you’re replacing your mattress, the simplest route might be letting the delivery crew haul the old one. Just confirm it won’t end up in a dump – you can ask, “do you guys recycle or donate it?” and see what they say. If the store has no good policy, you can always decline their removal and use one of the above methods instead.
5. DIY recycling or creative reuse
For those who are handy or creative, you could even break down the mattress yourself. Components like steel springs, wood frames, and foam can be separated. Steel can go to metal recycling scrap yards for a little cash, wood can be disposed or sometimes composted if untreated, and foam could be repurposed (perhaps as carpet padding or stuffing). This is a bit labor-intensive, but it’s another way to ensure an old mattress doesn’t go to waste. However, most people will prefer the convenient options above.
Finally, if you simply cannot donate or recycle (say the mattress is unsalvageable), responsible disposal is the last resort. That means using the city bulk pickup or landfill drop-off legally – never abandon a mattress by a dumpster or on the roadside. The City of Austin has hefty fines for illegal dumping. Always choose one of the proper channels we discussed.
Tips for preparing your mattress for donation
Once you’ve identified a place to donate your mattress, it’s important to prepare it properly. This will make the process smoother and ensure your mattress is accepted and welcomed. Here are some friendly tips on getting your mattress ready to donate:
- Give it a good cleaning: If possible, clean your mattress before donation. Vacuum it thoroughly to remove dust, pet hair, and crumbs. If there are any minor stains, spot clean them with upholstery cleaner or a mild detergent and let the mattress fully dry. A fresh-looking mattress is more likely to be accepted. (Tip: sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up to remove odors.)
- Protect it with a cover: When transporting your mattress (either to drop off or for pickup), wrap it in a plastic mattress bag or sheet. Many home improvement stores sell inexpensive mattress bags. This protects the mattress from getting dirt or rain on it during transit. It also signals to the charity that you cared for it. Some organizations might even require a plastic wrap for hygiene. If you don’t have a bag, you can use heavy-duty plastic sheeting and tape.
- Check and remove linens: Make sure you’ve taken off all bedding – no sheets, mattress protectors, or toppers should be left on (unless the charity specifically asks for them). Donate bedding separately if it’s in good shape, or wash it for your own use. A bare mattress is easier to inspect and handle.
- Inspect for pests: Do a very careful check for bed bugs or other pests. Look along the seams and under tags for any tiny dark spots or little bugs. If you see anything suspect, do not donate the mattress. Treat the mattress or dispose of it instead. It’s responsible to ensure you’re not passing along a pest problem.
- Get documentation (if needed): If your mattress is relatively new and has a purchase receipt or a tag with a manufacture date, you might bring that info when donating. Some places might ask how old the mattress is. Having proof that it’s only, say, 3 years old can help. Also, if you’re claiming a tax deduction, get a donation receipt from the charity when you drop it off or when they pick it up.
- Plan the transportation: Mattresses are big and floppy. If you’re doing drop-off, ensure you have a vehicle that can safely carry it. Tie it down securely – use ropes or straps to keep it from sliding or flying off if on top of a car. It’s often easiest to rent or borrow a pickup truck. If you scheduled a pickup, clear a path in your home to easily remove the mattress or have it ready in the garage. Help the pickup crew by being prepared.
- Call ahead on the day of: If you’re bringing the mattress in person, it’s not a bad idea to call the organization shortly before you head over to confirm they’re ready to receive it. This is especially true for smaller nonprofits or shelters. It ensures you don’t show up to a closed office or a full storage room.
- Be prepared for plan b: Despite all your efforts, sometimes a charity might decline the mattress upon seeing it (perhaps they notice a problem or their needs changed). Don’t take it personally. Have a backup plan: maybe another organization to try, or default to the recycling options. Hopefully, if you followed the earlier tips, this won’t happen and your mattress will be gladly accepted!
By following these steps, you’ll make the donation process easy for both you and the recipient organization. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your mattress finds a happy new home.
Conclusion: making the most of mattress donation in Austin
Donating a mattress in Austin is a fantastic way to support your community and practice sustainability. We’ve covered a lot of ground – from where to donate a mattress in Austin (like Salvation Army, Casa Marianella, SAFE, etc.) to what to do if your mattress isn’t fit for donation. Remember these key takeaways:
- Always check condition: Only donate mattresses that meet the “good condition” rules (no stains, rips, etc.). This saves everyone time and effort.
- Call ahead: Whether it’s a big charity or a small shelter, get in touch first. Policies vary, and needs can change. A quick call or email ensures your mattress donation will be welcome.
- Use the right option for you: If charity options don’t work out, utilize city services or reputable recycling companies to dispose of the mattress responsibly. Austin offers plenty of mattress donation and recycling avenues – you just have to pick what fits your situation.
- Be safe and courteous: Handle that mattress carefully (they can be awkward!), secure it during transport, and show up during the proper donation hours. The folks accepting your donation will appreciate it, and it makes the experience pleasant for everyone.
By following this guide, you can confidently navigate Austin mattress donation options. You’ll either find a charity to donate your used mattress or a solution to recycle it properly. In either case, you’re doing a good thing. You’re helping someone sleep better at night and keeping Austin green.
So next time you upgrade your bed and wonder, “where can I donate a mattress?”, remember all these Austin resources. Your old mattress doesn’t have to go to waste – it can become a blessing for someone else. Thank you for considering donation and being part of the solution!
Happy donating, and may your act of generosity come back around to you in wonderful ways.
Faq about mattress donation in Austin
Q: can i donate a mattress that’s slightly stained or more than a few years old?
A: most organizations require mattresses to be in very good condition, free from stains, rips, and heavy wear. if your mattress is older than 5–7 years or has visible stains, it may not be accepted. your best bet is to check with the specific charity or consider recycling if it’s too worn.
Q: do any Austin charities pick up mattresses for free?
A: the Salvation Army is the most well-known charity in Austin that offers free pickup for mattress donations, provided the mattress meets their condition guidelines. many smaller shelters and nonprofits have limited pickup ability, so they may ask you to drop off your mattress.
Q: what should i do if no charity wants my mattress?
A: if your mattress is in good shape but not accepted by a charity at the moment, keep looking for another organization or shelter. if it’s in poor shape, consider recycling options like the city’s bulk item pickup, the recycle & reuse drop-off center, or private junk removal services that emphasize recycling.
Q: can i get a tax deduction for donating a mattress?
A: yes, most 501(c)(3) nonprofits will provide a donation receipt, and you can claim the fair market value of the mattress as a tax deduction. be sure to document the condition and, if possible, provide a copy of the original purchase price to help estimate its value.
Q: is it okay to leave my old mattress next to a dumpster or curb if i can’t donate it?
A: never abandon your mattress illegally, as it can lead to fines and harm the environment. schedule a bulk pickup with the city or arrange proper disposal/recycling through a reputable service. it’s the responsible and legal way to handle an unwanted mattress.