Every mattress eventually needs to be replaced. The question is what to do with the old one. If yours is still in good condition, consider recycling or donating it, instead of hauling it to a landfill. Here are some options to consider when your mattress needs to go.
How to Know When a Mattress Needs to Go
Mattresses should be changed about every eight years. Hybrid-innerspring mattresses need to be replaced at around six years, while plain innerspring mattresses can last 10 years. Memory foam and latex mattresses can remain on your bed for up to 15 years. Here are some signs your mattress is ready for retirement.
The Mattress Test
The best way to tell if a mattress is still good is to determine how it feels and what sort of rest you get on it. Does it still give you support and comfort?
Next, look at the wear and tear of the mattress. Sagging, lumps, exposed coils, and noisy springs are all signs your mattress has lived its life. Also pay attention to the quality of sleep you are getting. If you wake up feeling tired and achy, can’t get fully comfortable, or have trouble sleeping, it’s time for a new mattress.
Old Mattress Options
If your mattress needs replacing, consider donating the old one if it’s still good. Not all mattresses are suitable for donation, however. Here’s what to watch out for.
Don’t donate a mattress that has mold, bed bugs, or other infestations. Keep an eye out for major structural problems as well. These include broken or bending coils, excessive sagging, and large, permanent indentations. Rips, tears, holes, bad stains, or odors are other deal breakers.
Donate a Mattress
If the mattress is structurally sound, clean, and free of infestations, consider donating it. There are several large organizations that may take it.
Goodwill is a network of community-based nonprofits that sells donated items in thrift stores. Habitat for Humanity helps people around the world find affordable and sustainable housing. They also operate home improvement thrift stores called ReStore. Furniture Bank Association of America provides low or no cost furniture to underserved communities and the poor. Catholic Charities operates smaller charitable service organizations across the U.S. They also operate residential housing programs and often need beds in good condition.
Many local organizations also accept donations. Check out shelters in your community to see if they will take a mattress. You can also visit donationtown.org to locate charities in your area.
Another option is to give it away. Make a post about your free mattress on your social media platforms. You can also list it on Facebook Marketplace, NextDoor, and Freecycle.
Recycling Options
Close to 20 million mattresses end up in landfills every year and take up valuable space. Here are some environmentally-friendly alternatives to consider.
Recycle It. Most mattresses can be broken down and recycled. Contact your local recycling centers to see what they accept.
DIY Recycling. Take apart the mattress and box spring yourself and recycle the parts. Local recycling facilities may accept parts instead of a whole mattress.
Upcycle Your Mattress. This is an especially good option for crafty DIYers. A wooden box spring, for instance, can be broken down and used as compost or landscaping mulch. You can also use mattress parts to create art pieces or unique home decor.
Give Your Junk to Us
If your unused household or office items are piling up, turn your stuff over to us! Michael’s Junk Removal can haul your unwanted items away. Our services are available for both residential and commercial junk hauling. Contact us today at 443-929-2251 or visit our website for more information.