⚠️ HazardousNot curbside — recycle it free through California's mattress program.
Don't drag a mattress to the curb — in many cities illegal dumping fines apply, and it won't be collected with regular trash. California runs a free mattress recycling program (Bye Bye Mattress), and your hauler offers bulky-item pickup.
California's Mattress Recycling Council runs free drop-off sites and collection events statewide — find one at ByeByeMattress.com. Mattresses and box springs are broken down and the steel, foam, and fiber are recycled.
Bulky-item pickup
Your trash hauler (e.g. Athens Services in much of LA County) offers a bulky-item / large-item pickup — usually a set number of free pickups per year. Schedule it rather than leaving the mattress out.
Still usable?
If it's clean and in good shape, a donation charity may take it — but many won't accept used mattresses for hygiene reasons, so call first.
Mattress — quick FAQ
What is the easiest way to get rid of a mattress?
Schedule a bulky-item pickup with your trash hauler, or drop it at a free California mattress-recycling site (ByeByeMattress.com).
What are you supposed to do with an old mattress?
Recycle it — California's Bye Bye Mattress program takes them free — or use your hauler's bulky-item pickup. Don't put it out with regular trash.
How do I dispose of a mattress myself?
Take it to a free mattress-recycling drop-off site, or schedule a bulky-item pickup. Avoid the curb — illegal-dumping fines can apply.
Why is it illegal to throw away a mattress?
Mattresses take up huge landfill space and are highly recyclable, so many California cities ban curbside disposal and route them to the state recycling program.