What’s Accepted/Unaccepted in California

Acceptable Items

Mattresses and box springs used and discarded by California consumers (individuals and businesses) qualify for no-cost drop-off and recycling through the Mattress Recycling Council’s Bye Bye Mattress program.

A mattress can be constructed of all foam layers, or a mixture of foam, springs and other materials. A couple of exceptions apply: 

  • Only in California is a futon mattress that separates from the futon’s frame or base considered a mattress.

A box spring (also known as a foundation) is a platform or base that supports the mattress and is covered by fabric and remains stationary or is adjustable.  

If your mattress or box spring is severely damaged, heavily soiled, moldy, excessively wet or frozen, or infested with bedbugs or other organisms please contact your desired drop-off location for instructions. No-cost drop-off of units in these conditions varies by location. Fees may apply.

Unacceptable Items

Air mattresses that contain no upholstery material (such as camping beds) 

Bed frames 

Car beds 

Collapsible roll-away beds 

Cushions (such as from chairs, couches or patio furniture) 

Futon frames or bases 

Juvenile products including, crib and bassinet mattresses, carriages, baskets, dressing tables, strollers, playpens, infant carriers, lounge pad, crib bumpers 

Loose bedding (such as blankets, comforters, quilts, sheets) 

Mattress pads 

Mattress toppers 

Pillows 

Sleeping bags 

Sofa beds 

Water beds that contain no upholstery material