Disposing of a mattress in New York City is not as straightforward as you might think. It can be costly, and the process varies depending on the size of your mattress and where you live in the city. Fortunately, there are several options available that make disposing of a mattress easy and convenient. In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about properly disposing of your mattress in NYC.

What are the options?

If your mattress is in good condition, recycling is an option—and that can help with sustaining the environment. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help New Yorkers recycle their mattresses responsibly. Start here:

Contact your local sanitation department

While some areas have specific mattress recycling sites, others require that mattresses be put out with regular garbage pick-up for disposal. Be sure to follow your local area’s guidance.

How to recycle your mattress

Check for mattress recycling centers in your area. There are some companies that specialize in recycling mattresses and other furniture items, such as 1-800-Got-Junk or Earth 911 Recycling Directory.

Make a donation

If your used mattress is in good condition, consider donating it to a charitable organization instead of throwing it away or recycling it. Charities like Habitat for Humanity and Goodwill accept donations in most locations throughout New York City and will often use these items to provide them to families in need of assistance.

Last resort, throw it away

Lastly, if recycling or donating is not an option, contact a local landfill or sanitation department directly and inquire about proper disposal options for your mattress. Here is a guide on how to prepare your mattress for garbage pickup in New York City:

Wrap your mattress

Mattress bags are available to buy online. Or, you could wrap your old mattress tightly with some plastic sheeting or sturdy material such as a tarp or canvas if you have those items on hand. The goal is to keep dust and debris contained while still protecting the mattress from getting wet during garbage pickup. Your local sanitation department may actually require wrapping.

Remove the box spring

If you have a box spring attached to your mattress, make sure you remove it before garbage pickup arrives. This prevents any unnecessary bulk being added to the truck which can cause delays or extra charges.

Call 311

Make sure ahead of time that mattresses are accepted at the location where you plan to leave it or that mattress pickup is offered with your garbage services. Contact NYC 311 by phone or online if you have any questions about where and when mattresses can be disposed of safely and legally.

Place your mattress outside

Once everything is ready, place your wrapped mattress near the curb outside your house or building for garbage pickup on the designated day each month. Make sure it is placed securely so it does not create an obstruction for pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles.

 

Preparing your old mattress for donation or garbage pickup in New York City does not need to be difficult. Just follow the tips and advice above and you will ensure that it gets taken care of quickly, efficiently, and legally! In the event you would prefer to store your mattress instead of getting rid of it, contact Gotham Mini Storage, the leaders in affordable and flexible self-storage in Manhattan and New York City. And if you happen to be in the middle of an apartment refresh, be sure to read our storage tips to help you make the most of your bedroom space!