Mattress Disposal in Des Moines: Your Options

Mattresses are one of the most awkward items to dispose of in Des Moines. They don't fit in trash bins. Most cities won't take them at the curb. They're too big for a car and too heavy for one person. Here are your actual options.

What Des Moines Metro Cities Won't Take

None of the major Des Moines metro municipal pickup programs take mattresses at the curb in regular trash. That includes Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Waukee, Johnston, Altoona, and Clive. Bulk pickup windows in some cities accept them with advance scheduling and per-item fees, but availability is limited and rules change frequently.

Option 1: Junk Removal Pickup (Easiest)

We pick up single mattresses across the Des Moines metro for $75 to $125 depending on access and whether it's a queen, king, or pair with a box spring. Same-week scheduling, often same-day. We handle the carry-out and the Iowa per-unit disposal fee at the transfer station.

Best for: anyone who doesn't have a truck or a way to load a mattress, anyone clearing multiple mattresses (rental turnovers, estate cleanouts), anyone who values not destroying their back.

Option 2: Transfer Station Drop-Off

Polk County's Metro Park East Landfill accepts mattresses with a per-unit disposal fee (call ahead for current rates and hours). You'll need a truck or trailer that can fit the mattress, the ability to load it yourself, and time to drive out and back. Total cost is usually $30-$60 plus your time and gas.

Best for: people who already have a truck, a free morning, and one mattress to dispose of.

Option 3: Mattress Recycling

Some mattresses can be recycled. The metal springs, foam, and fabric are separated and reused. Iowa doesn't have a state-wide mattress recycling program like California or Connecticut, but a few private recyclers in the Des Moines area accept mattresses. Cost is comparable to landfill disposal.

If you specifically want your mattress recycled rather than landfilled, mention it when we quote. We route to a recycler when possible.

Option 4: Donation (Rare)

Most local donation centers (Goodwill, Salvation Army, ReStore) do NOT accept used mattresses due to bedbug and sanitation regulations. Don't waste time hauling one over.

Exception: if the mattress is brand new, unused, and still in original packaging, some shelters and women's transitional housing organizations may accept. Call ahead.

Option 5: Retailer Take-Back

If you're buying a new mattress from a major retailer (Mattress Firm, Sleep Number, Costco), most offer haul-away of the old mattress for $20-$50 as an add-on at purchase. This is usually the cheapest option if the timing works.

What NOT to Do

• Don't leave it at the curb. Most Des Moines metro cities will fine you for illegal bulk disposal.
• Don't dump it in a vacant lot or alley. Iowa illegal dumping fines can hit $500 per offense.
• Don't give it away on Craigslist without disclosing wear or stains. Mattresses are one of the most-flagged items.

Ready to Get Rid of It?

Text a photo to (515) 414-2280 with the mattress size and any pickup-access notes (upstairs, basement, walk-up apartment). Same-day quote. Same-week pickup.