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You replaced your old bed. Now the box spring is in the way. It’s big. It’s heavy. It won’t fit in the car.
You think about leaving it at the curb. But the city has rules. Sometimes there’s a fee. Recycling options aren’t always easy to find either.
And if it’s still in decent shape, throwing it away feels like a waste.
We get it. Getting rid of a box spring is frustrating. But there are simple ways to handle it. This guide will walk you through them step by step.
There are several rules like local regulations, costs, environmental impacts and more. Below are things you need to know.
Many cities define a box spring (and mattress) as a bulk item. It doesn’t “fit” into normal trash bins. Example: Covington, Kentucky considers a mattress and/or box spring a bulk item. Such items must follow special preparation rules (wrapping, scheduling, etc.).
In some states or municipalities, there are laws prohibiting throwing mattresses/box springs into regular trash because of environmental concerns. Example: Massachusetts passed a law that prohibits residents from disposing of mattresses or box springs in the waste stream; they must be recycled.
Bulk pickup often costs extra. The fees vary widely by location, item size, and service type. For instance, in Worcester, MA, dropping off a box spring at a residential drop-off center costs around $15.
Some cities charge per-item fees if using curbside bulk pickup. Portland, Oregon, has categories: a box spring alone might be in one price band, whereas a king mattress plus box spring may cost more.
Drop-off at recycling centers or landfills may carry a nominal fee depending on weight, size, or materials. These fees help cover handling, separation, or recycling costs.
Many municipalities require you to wrap mattresses and box springs before pickup or set‐out. This is often to prevent pests (bed bugs) and to protect workers and sanitation trucks. New York City, for example, requires sealing mattresses/box springs in plastic bags.
Some rules ask you to bundle or disassemble parts when possible (wood frame, metal springs). Smaller parts may need to be contained so they don’t pose a hazard.
Recycling is increasingly mandated or encouraged through local laws. One goal is to prevent large, bulky items from ending up in landfills when their materials (wood, metal, fabric) often can be reused.
Some cities now have dedicated drop-off centers or recycling programs that accept box springs. For example, Baltimore has started offering drop-off at certain residential recycling centers that can recycle more than 90% of the box spring’s materials.
Fines or penalties: If you leave a box spring out improperly (wrong day, unwrapped, etc.), some cities may fine you.
Additional costs: If the waste service must send special equipment or additional staff, they may bill extra when dealing with improperly prepared/bulky items.
Environmental cost: Bulk furniture takes up a lot of landfill space. Materials that could be reused are lost if items are not recycled. Also, transporting large waste improperly can raise carbon emissions.
Learn more: How to Dispose of a Mattress with Bed Bugs
Getting rid of a box spring can feel overwhelming, but there are several safe and responsible ways to handle it. From donation and recycling to professional removal, understanding your options helps you save time, money, and reduce waste.
If your box spring is in good condition, donating is a great way to give it a second life. Many charities, shelters, and non-profits accept gently used box springs.
Check condition: No broken springs, mold, pests, or major stains.
Call ahead: Confirm the organization accepts box springs; some only accept mattresses.
Examples of donation options:
Donating not only prevents the box spring from going to a landfill but also helps someone in need.
Know more: How to Donate a Mattress: A Complete Guide
Many parts of a box spring, wood, metal, and fabric can be recycled. Some cities have mattress and box spring recycling programs.
Steps for recycling:
Why it matters: Recycling conserves resources, reduces landfill waste, and supports sustainability initiatives.
Know more: How Wecycle is Changing the Junk Removal Industry
Many municipalities provide bulk pickup services for large furniture items. This is often the easiest method for homeowners who can’t transport the box spring themselves.
Tips for curbside disposal:
This method is convenient but may include small fees, so it’s worth checking your city’s regulations.
Learn more: Eco-Friendly Junk Removal: The Complete Guide
If the box spring is in decent shape but you don’t want to donate, selling or giving it away is another option.
Where to list it:
Tip: Be honest about conditions and include photos. Pick up or delivery may be needed for bulky items.
If your box spring is too heavy or you have multiple items to dispose of, professional junk removal services can help.
Benefits:
This section can focus on real-world advice and efficiency hacks rather than rules:
Getting rid of a box spring doesn’t have to be stressful. You can donate it if it’s in good shape, recycle the metal and wood parts, schedule a bulky item pickup, or hire a removal service.
These options save time, prevent fines, and keep it out of the landfill. Even if you skipped the full guide, these are the main ways to handle your box spring safely.
To make it easier, plan ahead, measure your space, gather the right tools, and check local donation or recycling options. Preparing your box spring properly ensures it can be reused or recycled efficiently.
Ready to simplify box spring disposal? Sign up today.
No. Most cities classify box springs as bulky items. They often require special pickup, fees, or recycling. Tossing one in regular trash may result in fines and environmental harm.
You have several options: donate to local charities, recycle through a mattress/box spring recycling program, schedule a municipal bulk pickup, or use a professional removal service, like ours.
Remove the fabric, padding, and any metal or wood components if possible. This makes it easier for recycling, donation, or pickup. Always wear gloves and handle heavy parts carefully.
Costs vary depending on the disposal method and location. Bulk trash pickup may have small fees, recycling centers may charge per item, and professional removal services typically charge based on size and distance.
Yes. Many recycling centers accept box springs, separating the wood, metal, and fabric for reuse. Disassembling the box spring before dropping it off often improves acceptance and may reduce fees.
Enter your zip code to see if Wecycle operates in your location.
KB Chowdhury
