How to dispose of a mattress in Australia the right way

So, you’ve got a new mattress on the way—but you're still unsure of what you're meant to do with the old one. Whether you're in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or anywhere else in Australia, mattress disposal doesn't have to be a headache. Here’s how to get rid of it responsibly (and no we don’t mean dumping it on the curb at midnight).

Discarding your old mattress

In Australia, there’s more than one way to say goodbye to your old mattress. Whether it’s still in decent shape or well past its prime, your options range from donating and recycling to booking a council pickup or hiring a removal service. What works best will depend on where you live, what condition the mattress is in, and how much effort you’re willing to put in.

This guide breaks down your mattress disposal options across Australia—so you can clear the clutter without creating landfill waste (or a logistics nightmare).

Mattress donation across Australia

If your mattress is still in decent condition—no stains, rips, or saggy springs—you might be able to donate it. Many charities and community organisations across Australia welcome gently used mattresses, especially if they’re still supportive and clean.

Donating can help those in need, like families starting fresh or individuals in emergency housing. However, before donating, make sure to check for any obvious damage, like bedbugs or mould, as most places won’t accept mattresses in poor condition. It’s also a good idea to contact your local charity first to confirm they’re accepting donations and if they offer free pickup services. Some charities, like The Salvation Army, may even arrange for a hassle-free collection.

Reselling your mattress

Much like mattress donation, your ability to resell your old mattress will entirely depend on its condition. Even if it looks in good shape, second-hand mattresses still need to meet a high standard—no stains, broken springs, or signs of mould. It’s important to thoroughly inspect your mattress for any hidden issues that may not be immediately obvious, such as lingering smells or wear that’s not easily visible.

Be honest about the mattress's condition when listing it for sale, and keep in mind that pricing it realistically is key. Too high, and it might scare off potential buyers; too low, and you might end up giving away a decent mattress.

The best places to resell a used mattress in Australia include Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and local buy-and-sell groups. These platforms are easy to use, free of charge, and allow you to connect with buyers in your local area. Just make sure you’re clear about the mattress’s condition and offer a fair price for a smoother sale.

Mattress recycling

Recycling your mattress is a great option if it’s no longer sleep worthy. While the mattress itself may be past its prime, many of its components can be recycled—such as the metal springs, timber, and foam. These materials can be repurposed and given a second life, reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Services like Soft Landing operate in several states, including NSW, ACT, VIC, and WA, and provide an easy way to drop off or arrange a pick-up for your old mattress. Recycling Near You is another great resource that allows you to search by postcode to find local recycling centres near you.

While there may be a small fee involved for mattress recycling (which varies depending on your location), it's a much better option than sending it to the landfill.

Council pick up services

Many local councils across Australia offer bulky waste collection services, making it easier to dispose of large items like mattresses. These services are often free or low-cost, and they're a convenient way to get rid of your mattress without having to transport it yourself. However, there are typically guidelines and booking requirements, so be sure to check with your local council for details.

Mattress disposal Sydney

In the City of Sydney, residents can take advantage of free scheduled bulky waste pickups. These pickups allow you to dispose of your mattress in a hassle-free way, without leaving it to pile up on your property. You can easily book your collection online through the City of Sydney's website, but make sure to place your mattress neatly kerbside by the designated pickup date.

Mattress disposal Brisbane

Brisbane City Council offers a free kerbside collection service for bulky items, including mattresses, during scheduled pickups. You’ll need to check the collection dates and ensure your mattress is placed on the kerbside as instructed. If you're unable to wait for a scheduled pickup, Brisbane also offers a paid special pickup service, which you can book online through the council's website. This is a great option if you need your mattress removed sooner or if it doesn't fall within the regular pickup schedule.

Mattress disposal Melbourne

In Melbourne, many councils offer up to two free hard waste pickups per year, where you can dispose of large items like mattresses. However, you will need to book your collection in advance, as these services are typically scheduled ahead of time. Check with your local council for specific booking instructions, and ensure your mattress is placed in the designated area on the day of the pickup. While the service is free, there may be limitations on how many mattresses can be collected at once, so it's worth confirming the details beforehand.

Mattress disposal Perth

Perth residents can benefit from the city’s bulk waste pickup service, which covers mattresses. While this service is usually free, the exact schedule and availability can vary depending on your suburb. Some councils offer annual collections, while others have specific dates for bulky waste. To ensure your mattress is collected, check your council's website for more information on when to put it out and how to arrange a pickup.

Mattress disposal Adelaide

In Adelaide, the city offers scheduled bulk waste collections, where you can dispose of larger items, including mattresses. These services are generally free, but you'll need to book in advance to ensure your mattress is picked up during the scheduled period. Be sure to follow the guidelines on placement and make sure your mattress is left neatly at the kerbside on the specified date. Some areas might have a small fee for additional collections, so check your local council's website for full details.

Mattress disposal Canberra

Canberra residents can access bulky waste pickup services through the city’s scheduled hard waste collection program. The service allows residents to dispose of large items like mattresses for free, with collections taking place a few times a year. You must book your collection in advance, and ensure your mattress is left at the kerbside on the designated date to avoid any delays. If you need a special pickup outside of the regular collection dates, a small fee may apply.

Tips for successful council pickup:

• Book early: Many councils require you to book your pickup in advance. Don’t leave it until the last minute.
• Check the rules: Each council may have different rules about when and how to place your mattress out for collection. Double-check the guidelines for your area.
• Be mindful of space: Ensure your mattress is placed neatly at the kerbside and doesn’t obstruct roads or footpaths.

Using your local council’s bulky waste collection service is a free and eco-friendly way to dispose of your mattress. Just remember to follow the guidelines and book in advance to ensure a smooth pickup!

Book a removal service

It's fair enough if you don’t want to deal with disposing of your mattress yourself. If lifting, lugging, or loading an old mattress isn't your idea of a good time, hiring a removal service might be the way to go.

Some services offer responsible disposal, meaning they’ll recycle or donate your mattress if it’s still in usable condition, rather than sending it straight to landfill. This makes it an easy, hands-off, and environmentally friendly choice.

Before booking, check how they charge: some services charge per item (so just your mattress), while others price by volume (how much space your stuff takes up in the truck). It’s worth getting a quote in advance so there are no surprises on the day. Also, double check whether they offer same-day pickup or if you’ll need to book ahead—especially if you’re moving or under time pressure.

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions.

Can I just put my mattress on the curb?
Not unless it’s during a council pickup. Otherwise, it’s considered illegal dumping.

Does anyone collect mattresses for free?
Some charities or local councils do—check your area.

How much does mattress disposal cost?
Depends. Charities are free (if they’ll take it), recycling services usually range from $30–70.

The easiest way to dispose of your old mattress

Getting rid of a mattress doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you're in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne or beyond, there are plenty of ways to dispose of your mattress responsibly—and maybe even do a little good in the process.

If you’re looking for a local movers who’ll take your old mattress off your hands and drop it off at a recycling centre or donation point, you can book removalists in your local area who are ready to help with Upmove.