6 Smart, Practical Ideas for What to Do with Your Old Mattress

Give Your Mattress a Second Life—Without the Guilt

Don’t rush to throw your old mattress away—there are surprisingly useful, even joyful, ways to reuse, repurpose, or donate it meaningfully.

Most old mattresses end up in landfills. But with a little creativity—and care—you can extend their usefulness, benefit someone else, or even create something new for your own home. Here are six thoughtful ways to handle your old mattress responsibly.

1. Donate It to a Shelter or Charitable Home

If your mattress is still hygienic and structurally sound, consider donating it to a nearby shelter. Some homes—especially those for children, the elderly, or even dogs—can creatively repurpose old foam into multiple sleeping surfaces. A single mattress could turn into warmth for many.

2. Drop It Off at a Recycling Centre

Organizations like Recycling Guru, Trash Out, or Earth Center Recycle may accept used mattresses. Some foam types can be shredded and reused, and even metal springs can be repurposed. In fact, with a little DIY spirit, you could turn it into a toddler’s bed or a floor settee for casual seating.

3. Ask Local Mattress Makers If They’ll Take It

Branded stores rarely accept used mattresses—but small, local mattress makers might. Some custom manufacturers will reuse the foam, springs, or frame. You may even get a modest discount on a new build in exchange for your old one. Just know that Sunday doesn’t offer exchange gimmicks—our pricing is honest, and our quality stands on its own.

4. Repurpose the Materials for Upholstery

High-density foam, quilting layers, or textile covers from your mattress can be used for DIY upholstery projects. Instead of sourcing new materials for your next reupholstery task, you may already have what you need in that old mattress.

5. Turn the Frame into a Garden Trellis

If your mattress has an innerspring structure, the frame can become a beautiful, functional garden trellis. After stripping away the top comfort layers, the metal coils can support climbing plants like jasmine, bougainvillea, or beans.

6. Make a Fun Couch or Play Area for Kids

Children love to jump, tumble, and roll. With basic wood planks and your old foam mattress, you can create a low-impact play couch or divan. It’s cost-effective and worry-free, since it’s repurposed—and kid-proof!

If you’re replacing your mattress and wondering what happens to the old one, read our reverse pickup policy—it’s simple, ethical, and transparent. And if your previous mattress was rejected for donation due to stains or damage, here’s what typically disqualifies a mattress from resale or warranty.

If you’re now mattress hunting again, explore your options with a health-first, transparent brand. At Sunday, we design foam and latex mattresses that never compromise on safety or sleep quality.