Getting rid of an old mattress isn’t as easy as dragging it to the curb. It’s big, heavy, and not something your regular bin can handle. If you’re scratching your head wondering what to do next, this guide breaks it down in a simple way. Let’s talk about when, how, and where to dispose of old mattresses here in Australia without making a mess—or hurting the planet.
When to Dispose of Old Mattress?
That sagging shape, springy squeaks, or weird smells? Big signs your mattress has had its day. Most mattresses last 7 to 10 years. If yours leaves you waking up sore or tired, don’t keep pushing through. A good night’s sleep starts with the right bed. Replace it when comfort’s gone or hygiene becomes an issue.
Easy Ways to Dispose of Old Mattresses
Getting rid of a bulky mattress might sound tricky, but there are a few easy options.
First up—council pickups. Most Aussie councils offer bulky rubbish collection. You’ll need to book in advance, though, and put it out only on the day allowed. Go to your local council’s website, then search for your address. For instance, if you lived in Melbourne, you could check out their bin collection day here.
Next, you can look into recycling programs. Don’t toss it into a landfill when parts can be reused. Steel springs, wooden frames, and foam get a second life when handled right. JUNK has its own recycling warehouse and works with local charities to give back to the community. You can check our journey here with our programs.
You might also ask your mattress retailer. Some stores offer a free take-back when you buy a new one. It saves you hassle and ensures proper disposal.
Hire mattress disposal services for less hassle
Not keen on doing it yourself? No worries—mattress disposal services make life easier. Just book a pickup. Professionals will carry it out, load it in, and take care of recycling or proper dumping.
At JUNK, we offer old mattress removal across Australia. Our team knows how to handle bulky items with care and respect for your space. Best part? We make sure nothing goes to waste.
Recycle mattresses the right way
Recycling might sound complicated, but it’s not. Here’s how it works.
First, contact a professional rubbish removal service that collects mattresses near your area. Some accept drop-offs, others offer pickup.
Before sending it off, make sure it’s dry and pest-free. Centres won’t accept anything wet, mouldy, or bedbug-infested.
The recycling process breaks down mattresses into bits. Metal springs get melted, foam gets reused, and timber gets chipped for mulch or biofuel. Less landfill, more reuse.
Why Sustainable Mattress Disposal Matters
Throwing mattresses in la landfill doesn’t just take up space. It harms the environment.
Each year, Aussies toss nearly 1.8 million mattresses. Read more about this case in this article: Many of those could have been recycled. When they end up in dumps, they release harmful gases as they slowly rot.
By choosing recycling, you help reduce waste and support jobs in reuse industries. That old mattress could become something useful again. That’s good news for you and the planet.
FAQs
Do local councils collect and dispose of old mattresses?
Yes, most do. Visit your local council’s website for details. Some offer a set number of free pickups per year.
Do charities accept mattresses?
Some do—but only if it’s clean and in good shape. Always call first. Not all places have the means to check or clean items.
Where can I dispose of an old mattress?
Look up a green waste dump, waste recycling centre, or use a junk removal service like JUNK.
Can I get rid of a mattress for free?
Sometimes. Councils offer old mattress disposal for free as part of their hard rubbish service. Retailers may also collect old ones when delivering new ones. Ask before buying.
We pick up and recycle your old mattresses
At JUNK, we’re all about hassle-free service with a green touch. Our team collects your old mattress straight from your doorstep. We take care of every step, from loading it to dropping it at a recycling site. No need to lift a finger.
So next time you’re wondering how to dispose of an old mattress or asking yourself where to dispose of a mattress in Australia, just give us a ring.
