Can You Put a Mattress in an Apartment Dumpster (Is it illegal?)

Did you know that getting rid of a mattress the wrong way could cost you over $500? 

Now, the question is: “Can you put a mattress in an apartment dumpster?” 

Living in an apartment means dealing with tight spaces and strict rules for big items. 

It might seem simple to just throw your old mattress away, but that’s not allowed and can lead to big fines. Dumpsters in apartments are for everyday trash, not for things like mattresses.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the right way to dispose of old mattresses. 

We’ll cover the rules, regulations, and some alternatives you can use in apartment complexes.

Can You Put a Mattress in an Apartment Dumpster?

No, you usually can’t dispose of a mattress in an apartment dumpster, and doing so can cause several problems.

Most apartment complexes and local waste management services have strict rules against putting bulky items like mattresses in dumpsters meant for regular household trash. 

In many areas, improper disposal of mattresses can result in penalties ranging from warnings to fines and even legal action.

Some cities let you put big items like mattresses out for pickup. In Denver, people talk about leaving them by the curb.

But, it’s best to check with your local waste management for rules on big items.

Is it illegal to Throw Away a Mattress?

Disposing of an old mattress isn’t as simple as tossing it into the nearest dumpster, especially if you live in an apartment complex. The legality of mattress disposal can vary depending on state and local regulations. Here’s what you need to know:

State and Local Regulations 

Mattress disposal rules differ from state to state and even city to city. Some areas have specific guidelines due to the size, materials, and potential for pests like bed bugs.

Recycling Laws 

Many states have implemented laws that encourage or require mattress recycling to reduce landfill waste.

For example, California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have mattress recycling programs and it is illegal to throw away a mattress in a landfill in these states.

Environmental Impact 

Mattresses are bulky and take up a lot of space in landfills. They also contain recyclable materials like metal, foam, and fabric, making recycling a better option in many areas.

Illegal Dumping 

In many places, illegally dumping mattresses is strictly prohibited and can lead to fines or legal action. This helps protect the environment and keeps communities clean.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs 

Some states have programs that make mattress manufacturers responsible for the end-of-life disposal of their products, which often includes recycling options.

Donation and Recycling 

If your mattress is in good condition, donating it is often the best choice. Many organizations accept mattress donations, and some retailers offer take-back programs for recycling.

Local Waste Management 

Always check with your local waste management agency for specific guidelines on mattress disposal. Some cities have special collection days for large items like mattresses or may require them to be wrapped in plastic for sanitation reasons.

What are the Legal Consequences of Improper Mattress Disposal?

Improper disposal of a mattress can lead to a variety of consequences, from fines and penalties to significant environmental impact.

Legal Consequences and Potential Fines & Penalties

According to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) enforced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), treating, storing, or disposing of hazardous waste without a permit can result in a penalty of up to $50,000 per day of violation. For subsequent violations, the penalties can double. 

In the UK, for example, dumping rubbish can result in a fine of £400, and in severe cases, you could be taken to court and fined up to £50,000.

Environmental Impact

Improperly disposing of a mattress can have a serious impact on the environment. Mattresses are large and bulky, and when they’re tossed into landfills, they can quickly take up a lot of space.

Every year, around 20 million mattresses end up in landfills, which is equal to about 132,000 square miles of landfill space. This adds up to 91% of methane emissions in these landfills

The materials used in mattresses can take up to 100 years to break down. Since they aren’t biodegradable, they just sit in landfills, taking up space and potentially contaminating the soil and water around them. 

To tackle this issue, some states have introduced recycling laws. For example, in California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, retailers are required to recycle your old mattress for free when you purchase a new one. 

This is important because mattresses should be replaced every 8 years, and recycling helps prevent harmful chemicals from entering the environment.

Disposal Method	Environmental Impact	Legal Status
Landfill	High methane emissions	Illegal in some states
Recycling	80% of components reusable	Mandated in select states
Donation	Extends mattress life	Legal with conditions

Overburdened Landfills and Waste Management

When mattresses aren’t disposed of properly, they put extra pressure on landfills and waste management systems.

Because mattresses are hard to compact, they stay as large, bulky items even after being processed.

This takes up valuable space and makes it harder for waste management facilities to handle other types of waste.

Pest Infestations

Improperly disposed mattresses can attract pests like bed bugs and rodents. These pests can carry diseases or trigger allergies, posing health risks to nearby communities.

Environmentally-Friendly Alternatives to Mattress Disposal

When it comes to properly disposing of an old unwanted mattress, there are several alternatives to simply throwing it in a dumpster.

These options are not only eco friendly disposal methods, but they can also help support your local community.

Recycle Your Old Mattress

A Mattress recycling facility is a great way to dispose of your old mattress responsibly.

Mattresses are made up of several components, such as metal springs, foam, and fibers, which can be broken down and repurposed.

For example, the metal springs can be melted down and used in the production of new products, while the foam padding can be turned into carpet underlay or moving pads.

Recycling Programs

There are some local mattress recycling council that can help you with mattress disposal:

Bye Bye Mattress Program: In states like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, the Bye Bye Mattress program offers a comprehensive solution for mattress recycling.

You can find a local recycling facility, collection site, or event near you by visiting their website or contacting them directly.

Local Recycling Centers: Many local recycling centers across the country accept mattresses for recycling. Some may offer this service for free or for a nominal fee.

City or County Waste Management: Some local municipal waste services offer pickup of bulky waste items, which can include mattresses.

This service is often free for residents, but it’s best to contact your local waste management department to confirm.

Donate Your Mattress

Donating your old mattress is another excellent alternative to dumpster disposal.

Many local charities or organizations, such as Furniture Bank and Habitat for Humanity, as well as local homeless shelters, accept mattress donations.

Charitable Organizations: If your mattress is in good condition, you can donate it.

• Organizations like The Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity ReStores may accept mattress donations.

• It is a free way to responsibly dispose of your mattress.

Retailer Take-Back Programs

Some mattress retailers offer take-back services when you purchase a new mattress from them.

While this service is sometimes included in the purchase, it’s a convenient way to ensure your old mattress is disposed of responsibly.

Junk Removal Service

1-800-GOT-JUNK?: This and similar services offer mattress pickup and disposal, often including recycling or donation options.

However, there may be a fee, you should check if they have any free pickup promotions or community service days.

Sell or Give Away

If your mattress is still in good condition, you might consider selling it or giving it away.

Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are great platforms for this.

This not only allows you to potentially recoup some of the cost of your old mattress, but it also extends the lifespan of the mattress, reducing its environmental impact.

If your mattress has a history of pests, it’s best to opt for a disposal method that ensures it will be properly treated, such as recycling.

Check the Condition of the Mattress Before Donating or Selling

Checking the condition of your mattress before donating or selling is crucial for several reasons.

Ensuring Quality and Safety

Firstly, it’s about ensuring the quality and safety of the mattress for the next user.

A mattress in poor condition may not provide the necessary support and comfort, which can lead to health issues such as back pain or sleep disturbances.

Meeting Donation and Resale Requirements

Most charities, donation centers, and buyers have certain rules for what they accept.

For example, mattresses need to be free of bugs, large stains, and bad smells. They should also be in good shape and clean.

If you’re selling, potential buyers will likely be interested in the mattress’s age, brand, and whether it has been kept in a pet-free home.

Legal and Health Considerations

In some cases, there may be legal and health considerations. For example, some states have regulations about which parts of a mattress can be reused or sold.

Certain organizations may not accept mattresses that are older than a certain age.

Also, some items, like mattresses without a fire safety label, cannot be sold due to safety reasons.

Avoiding Waste

Checking the condition of your mattress before donating or selling can help avoid waste.

If a mattress is not in a suitable condition for donation or sale, it may end up in a landfill, contributing to environmental pollution.

By checking the condition first, you can determine if the mattress is more suitable for recycling or other disposal methods.

How Much Does It Cost to Recycle a Mattress?

Recycling your mattress is one of the best ways to dispose of it responsibly. In fact, more than 20 states in the U.S. have facilities where you can recycle a mattress.

Recycling helps reduce waste, so it’s definitely worth considering if you’re getting rid of an old mattress.

The cost for this service can vary quite a bit, ranging from $20 to $405. However, in states like California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, you can expect to pay a little less, with fees typically between $10 and $17 per mattress.

Below is a summary of the costs associated with mattress recycling, including state-specific fees and other options:

State/Option	Cost	Details
California	$10.50	State law requires retailers to collect a recycling fee on each mattress and box spring sold.
Connecticut	$11.75	Similar to California, a recycling fee is collected on each mattress and box spring sold.
Rhode Island	$20.50	Rhode Island has a higher recycling fee compared to California and Connecticut.
Massachusetts	$70	In some cities, the cost to dispose of an old mattress can be as high as $70.
General Recycling	$10 – $30	Recycling a mattress through various services can cost between $10 and $30, depending on the size of the mattress and the company hauling it.
Junk Removal	$100 – $350	Companies like LoadUp offer junk removal services for mattresses, with costs ranging from $100 to $350.
Retailer Removal	$20 – $125	Some mattress retailers offer removal services for an old mattress when you purchase a new one, with costs ranging from $20 to $125.
Landfill Disposal	$50 – $100	Disposing of a mattress at a landfill can cost between $50 and $100 for one ton of waste, including a mattress.

It is important to note that these costs can vary based on the specific circumstances, such as the condition of the mattress and local regulations. 

How to Dispose of a Mattress? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Disposing of a mattress properly is a multi-step process that involves deciding on a disposal method, preparing the mattress, arranging for special pickup or drop-off, and following through with the disposal. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step #1: Decide on Disposal Method

First, you need to decide how you want to dispose of your mattress. If it’s in poor condition, recycling is a good option.

Many parts of a mattress, such as the metal springs and foam, can be recycled.

If your mattress is still in good condition, you can donate it to a charitable organization or sell it.

Step #2: Prepare the Mattress

Next, prepare your mattress for disposal.

Clean it properly to remove any dirt or stains.

If you’re disposing of the mattress, wrap it in plastic.

This helps prevent the spread of pests and makes it easier to transport.

Step #3: Arrange for Pickup or Drop-off

Now, arrange for pickup or drop-off.

Many junk haulers offer bulky item pickup services, but you may need to schedule this in advance.

If you’re recycling the mattress, find a local recycling center that accepts mattresses.

You may need to drop it off yourself.

Step #4: Follow Through

Finally, follow through with the disposal.

Make sure the mattress is ready for pickup or drop-off on the scheduled day.

If you are having the mattress picked up, you may receive a confirmation or receipt. Keep this for your records.

Final Thoughts

We’ve covered a lot in this guide, from the rules around disposing of a mattress in apartment dumpsters to the risks of improper disposal and the alternatives you can choose from.

But it’s not just about getting rid of your old mattress. It’s about thinking carefully about the environmental impact, any legal consequences, and how it affects your community.

Whether you decide to recycle, donate, sell, or use a professional disposal service, make sure you’re doing it the right way.

Have you ever had to dispose of a mattress while living in an apartment?

What was your experience like?

Do you have any tips or advice to share? We’d love to hear from you.

FAQs

Will a mattress fit in a dumpster? 

Yes, a mattress can physically fit in a dumpster. However, it’s not always legal or advisable to dispose of a mattress in a dumpster due to local regulations and the fact that mattresses don’t compress well in a local landfill.

Can you leave furniture next to a dumpster?

No, it’s generally not a good idea to leave old furniture next to a dumpster. This could be considered littering or trespassing, especially if the dumpster is on private property, and you could definitely be fined.

Can I cut my mattress in half? 

Yes, you can cut a mattress in half, particularly if it’s a foam mattress. You can use tools like a Stanley knife or electric knife to do this.

How do you break up a mattress? 

Breaking up a mattress involves several steps. First, remove the cord from the edges, then cut off the side panels. Next, remove the top and bottom layers. Be sure to wear protective gear and use the right tools, such as a saw, bolt cutter, or wire clippers.

What Cannot be placed in a dumpster?

Certain items are generally not allowed in dumpsters due to safety concerns and local regulations. These can include mattresses, household junk, household items, air conditioners, and items made of hazardous or toxic materials or other stuff. Always check with your local Public Works department or dumpster rental company for specific regulations.

What happens to items in a dumpster? 

Items in a dumpster are typically hauled away to a landfill or recycling center. However, this can depend on local regulations and the specific items in question.