Need a speedy, kind way to hand off a good bed? This guide shows the best “near me” tools, top charities, a prep checklist, and answers to big questions.
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Use zip-search tools first
- Earth911 recycling search – type “mattress,” add your zip, and get local drop-offs or recyclers in seconds. search.earth911.comearth911.com
- Salvation Army pickup finder – enter your address at SAtruck.org to see if free curb pickup is offered. satruck.orgsatruck.org
- Furniture Bank directory – plug in your city to find nonprofits that give beds to families. furniturebanks.org
Major charities that still take clean beds
- Salvation Army – free pickup in many zip codes; bed must be clean, tagged, and bug-free. satruck.orgsatruck.org
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore – some branches accept new-in-bag or like-new beds; always call first. austinhabitat.orgaustinhabitat.org
- Local women’s or homeless shelters – twin and full sizes go fastest; check wish lists like SAFE Alliance in Austin. safeaustin.org
- Furniture banks – many gladly pick up beds for clients starting over. furniturebanks.org
- Recycling crews – paid haulers such as Ex-Mattress clean and re-home beds when donation fails. exmattress.com
Prep your mattress for donation
- Wipe, vacuum, and air-dry the surface.
- Bag it in plastic on pickup day.
- Keep the law tag on.
- No rips, big stains, smells, or bugs.
- Box springs follow the same rules.
These steps match national collection guides from the Mattress Recycling Council. mattressrecyclingcouncil.org
FAQ (people also ask)
Who picks up mattresses for free?
Salvation Army and some furniture banks offer no-cost curb pickups in many cities. satruck.orgfurniturebanks.org
Does Goodwill take mattresses?
No—Goodwill stopped accepting beds due to health and cost issues. tomsguide.com
What shape must the bed be in?
Charities want almost-new: no stains, tears, or odor. exmattress.commattressrecyclingcouncil.org
Are box springs accepted too?
Yes, if clean and paired; rules mirror the mattress. mattressrecyclingcouncil.org
What if no one takes it?
Use Earth911 to find a recycler, or book a paid pickup like Ex-Mattress that cleans and re-homes beds. search.earth911.comexmattress.com
Wrap-up
Start with a zip search, prep your bed, and choose the best fit. If donation stalls, list it on Asherfield and keep 85% of the sale, or read our full mattress donation guide for more routes. Need local tips? Check our Austin guide next.