Where to Recycle or Dispose of a Mattress in Calgary

Old mattresses are bulky, awkward, and can't go in your black cart. The good news? Calgary has
several easy ways to get rid of one. Here are all your options, from recycling to disposal, what each costs, and the simplest way to make an old mattress disappear.

Option 1: Recycle it

Calgary is lucky to have Re-Matt, a local mattress recycling company. They take mattresses and box springs apart and separate the materials so they can be reused instead of being buried. There is a small fee, but it is the most eco-friendly option.

Many mattress stores also offer mattress take-back or recycling services when you purchase a new one. It is always worth asking about these options when your new mattress is delivered.

Why you can't just toss a mattress

Most full-service companies charge by how much space your junk fills in their truck — the more it holds, the more you pay. On top of that, you’re paying for the crew’s time and labour to do the lifting. Prices vary from company to company, so always ask for a quote before you book. Just keep in mind that the labour is what makes full-service more expensive than loading a bin yourself.

Option 2: Donate it (if it's still in good shape)

If your mattress is clean and in good condition, a charity or thrift store may take it. Donating keeps it out of the landfill and helps someone who needs it. A few things to keep in mind:

Option 3: Drop it at a City Eco Centre

You can take a mattress to one of Calgary’s three Eco Centres — Shepard, East Calgary, or Spyhill. Charges apply based on the weight of your load. Since most single mattresses weigh less than the 250 kg minimum, you will usually pay the $25 flat fee.

You will need a vehicle large enough to transport the mattress, as well as help with loading and unloading. Queen and king-size mattresses are heavy and difficult to handle, making this a two-person job.

Option 4: Put it in a bin (the easy way)

If you’re getting rid of a mattress along with other junk—such as during a move, home clean-out, or renovation—a bin rental is often the simplest solution. You do not need a truck, you do not have to make a trip to the landfill, and you can dispose of the mattress along with your other unwanted items.

Cal-Waste bins accept mattresses, furniture, appliances, wood, and general household junk. One flat price, starting at $300, includes bin delivery, a 30-day rental period, pick-up, and disposal. It is a convenient, hassle-free option when you have more than just a single item to remove.

How to prepare a mattress for disposal

Frequently asked questions

No. A mattress is far too large to fit in Calgary’s black cart program. Instead, you can recycle it, donate it if it is in good condition, take it to an Eco Centre, or dispose of it using a bin rental service. Mattress pads and mattress toppers, however, can be placed in the black cart.

Re-Matt is a local company that recycles mattresses and box springs for a small fee. Some mattress retailers also offer take-back or recycling programs when you purchase a new mattress, so it is worth asking before delivery.

Most single mattresses weigh less than 250 kg, so you will typically pay the minimum load fee of $25 when dropping one off at a Calgary Eco Centre.

Yes. Cal-Waste bins accept mattresses and box springs, making them a convenient option when you are disposing of multiple items at the same time. You can also place furniture, appliances, wood, and other household junk in the bin.

Some charities may accept gently used mattresses, but many do not due to concerns about bed bugs, stains, and hygiene. It is always best to call ahead and confirm their donation requirements before arranging a pickup.

Clearing out more than a mattress? A Cal-Waste bin takes it all, with rentals starting at just $300. Dispose of mattresses, furniture, appliances, and other junk in one convenient bin. Ready to get started? Contact us today or call 403-922-9334 to book your bin rental and enjoy a simple, hassle-free cleanup.