When it comes to donating a mattress, your options vary depending on location, the condition of the mattress, and specific organizations’ acceptance criteria. Generally, mattresses can be donated to thrift stores, nonprofit organizations such as homeless shelters or women’s shelters, as well as certain furniture banks and charities that specialize in household goods. Some of the most common organizations that accept mattresses include the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and local charitable organizations. It’s crucial to check with each organization for their specific guidelines, as many require the mattress to be in gently used condition, free of stains, tears, and not infested with any pests.
Understanding Mattress Donation
Benefits of Donating a Mattress
Donating a mattress can be a socially responsible way to dispose of an unwanted item. When you donate a mattress, you are not only helping someone in need but also contributing to the reduction of waste. By giving your mattress a second life, you help to minimize the volume of bulky items in landfills, which is beneficial for the environment.
Donation Requirements
Before donating a mattress, check its condition. Most organizations will only accept mattresses that are clean, free of damage, and without any signs of infestation. This is important for hygiene reasons and to ensure that the next user has access to a safe and comfortable sleeping surface.
Preparing Your Mattress for Donation
To prepare your mattress for donation:
1. Clean the mattress thoroughly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Vacuuming and using upholstery cleaner can be effective.
2. Inspect the mattress for any tears, stains, or odors, and fix any issues if possible.
3. Wrap the mattress in plastic if required by the organization to keep it clean during transportation.
Our Top 5 Mattress Picks
Updated September 2026EGOHOME 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Firm
Best for most bedrooms. A medium-firm green tea memory foam mattress with a cooling gel layer, delivered rolled in a box.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium firm
- Cooling green tea gel
- CertiPUR-US, fiberglass free
OhGeni Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump, 18-Inch Raised
Best for guests and camping. Inflates in about three minutes with the built-in pump and sits 18 inches off the floor, so it feels like a real bed.
- Queen, 18 in raised
- Built-in pump
- 800 lb capacity
- Waterproof PVC
Novilla 6-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best budget twin. A slim gel memory foam twin that suits kids' rooms, bunk beds and trundles where a thick mattress won't fit.
- Twin, 6 in
- Gel memory foam
- Cooling
- CertiPUR-US
Zinus 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best-known brand. Zinus's long-running green tea foam design in twin size, with both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified materials.
- Twin, 8 in
- Green tea memory foam
- CertiPUR-US & OEKO-TEX
GAESTE 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Feel
Best for hot sleepers. Cooling gel memory foam with a medium feel, plus a machine-washable, anti-slip cover you can actually clean.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium feel
- Cooling gel foam
- Washable cover
- Fiberglass free
Finding a Place to Donate Your Mattress
Local Thrift Stores
Local thrift stores, such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, are popular options. However, call ahead as not all locations accept mattresses. Those that do will typically have a clear set of guidelines for the condition of the mattress they accept.
Homeless Shelters and Women’s Shelters
Shelters often welcome mattress donations to provide for their residents. However, because of the sensitive nature of these facilities, quality and cleanliness standards are usually high.
Habitat for Humanity ReStores
Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores are non-profit home improvement stores that accept and resell furniture, including mattresses. Proceeds from sales go towards building homes for those in need.
Furniture Banks
Furniture banks are organizations that collect furnishings to distribute to people recovering from homelessness, fleeing abuse, or living below the poverty line.
Specialized Charity Organizations
Some charity organizations accept mattresses and are dedicated to serving particular communities. Examples could include charities for veterans, refugees, or disaster relief.
Online Platforms
If local organizations cannot accept your mattress, consider listing it for free on platforms like Freecycle or the free section of Craigslist, where you might connect directly with someone in need.
Organizations That Accept Mattress Donations
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army typically accepts mattresses in good condition and offers pick-up services in certain areas.
Donation Town
Donation Town is an online directory that connects you with local charities that accept mattress donations and offers information on their pick-up policies.
National Furniture Bank Association
This association represents around 80 furniture banks across North America. Use their website to find a nearby bank that accepts mattresses.
Alternatives to Mattress Donation
Recycling Programs
If your mattress is not in a condition suitable for donation, consider mattress recycling. Many materials in mattresses can be repurposed, such as the foam, springs, and wood.
Selling or Trading In
Some mattress companies offer trade-in programs, or you might sell your gently used mattress on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay.
Considerations When Donating a Mattress
Transportation and Pick-up
Determine how you will get the mattress to the organization. Some organizations offer pick-up services, while others require drop-off.
Receipts for Tax Deductions
If you itemize your taxes, you might be able to deduct the value of your donated mattress. Ask for a receipt from the organization for your records.
Timing
Plan your donation. Some organizations have specific hours of operation for accepting donations, and pick-up services may need to be scheduled weeks in advance.
Finishing Thoughts
Donating a mattress can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life while being environmentally responsible. Always prioritize the condition and cleanliness of the mattress before considering donation. Reach out to local organizations to understand their specific requirements. By taking the time to donate responsibly, you’re contributing to a cycle of giving that supports both individuals and communities in need. Whether through shelters, thrift stores, or specialized charities, your donation can help ensure that everyone has access to comfortable and dignified sleep. Remember to consider alternative avenues like recycling or selling if donation isn’t an option. With thoughtful action, we can all help create a more sustainable and caring world, one mattress at a time.
