Need a fast, kind way to move out a good bed? This guide shows six simple paths, a yes/no flowchart, and answers to the big “can I?” questions.
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Check if your mattress is donation-ready
- No rips, big stains, smells, or bugs.
- Law tag still on.
- Under about 8 years old (charities vary).
- Dry, smoke-free, and pet-hair light.
- Wrapped in plastic for pickup day.
A mattress that flunks any line should go to recycling instead of donation. State programs in CA, CT, RI, OR, and ME recycle coils and foam safely mattressrecyclingcouncil.orgmattressrecyclingcouncil.org.
Visual note (insert beside this list)
“Good-bed check” icon strip—five small ticks turning a sad bed icon to a happy one.
Six ways to donate fast
1. Salvation Army free pickup
Schedule online or dial 1-800-SA-TRUCK. They take clean, tag-on beds and box springs, but drivers can refuse on sight satruck.orgsalvationarmyaustin.org.
2. Habitat ReStore drop-off
Most ReStores no longer accept used mattresses, yet some still want new-in-bag beds. Call first austinhabitat.orgaustinhabitat.org.
3. Earth911 locator
Plug your zip and “mattress” at Earth911 to see nearby charities or recyclers in seconds search.earth911.comearth911.com.
4. Local shelters
Women’s and homeless shelters may take twin and full sizes for guests. Rules change often—phone ahead.
5. “Free bed” posts
List on neighborhood apps or Facebook groups. Meet in a busy lot, load face-down, and snap a hand-off photo for safety bhg.com.
6. Sell it on Asherfield (85% payout)
Skip hagglers. Snap photos, set price, and keep most of the sale while we bring eager buyers.
Visual note (after item 6)
Insert a simple flowchart:
“Is bed clean?” → yes / no → donate vs. recycle → list six paths.
FAQ (people also ask)
Can you donate mattresses anywhere?
Yes—if clean and legal. Ask the org before you drive over satruck.org.
Who picks up beds for free?
Salvation Army does in many cities; some local nonprofits do, too exmattress.com.
Does Goodwill take mattresses?
No. Goodwill and most ReStores say no for health reasons hotgoodwill.orggoodwillcentraltexas.org.
Can I write off a mattress gift?
Yes, when the charity is IRS-approved and you itemize deductions irs.gov.
What if my bed fails the check?
Look for a state recycling site or paid hauler like Ex-Mattress that cleans and re-homes beds mattressrecyclingcouncil.orgexmattress.com.
Wrap-up
Pick the path that fits. If none work, list your mattress on Asherfield and keep 85% when it sells. Ready for other tips? See our guides on: