Grime To DimeHow to Dispose of a Mattress in Howard County
The short answer: You can't put a mattress out with regular trash. But don't worry—Howard County gives you several free and low-cost options to get rid of it responsibly.
We offer same-day mattress pickup throughout Howard County.
Your 4 Options for Mattress Disposal
Option 1: Free Bulk Trash Pickup
Howard County offers free bulk trash pickup for residents. This is the easiest option if you don't have a truck.
Cost: FREE
How to schedule: Call 410-313-6444 or visit HowardCountyMD.gov
Wait time: Usually 1-2 weeks depending on demand
Limit: 2 bulk items per pickup
Option 2: Alpha Ridge Landfill Drop-Off
If you have a truck or can borrow one, you can take your mattress directly to the landfill. No appointment needed.
Cost: FREE (up to 500 lbs with valid Howard County ID)
Address: 2350 Marriottsville Rd, Marriottsville, MD 21104
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
What to bring: Valid ID proving Howard County residency
Option 3: Donate It (If In Good Condition)
If your mattress is still in good, clean condition—no stains, tears, or bed bugs—consider donating it to help a family in need.
Cost: FREE
Best option: A Wider Circle (Silver Spring) — specializes in furniture for families transitioning out of homelessness
Requirements: Mattress must be clean, no stains, no tears, no pest issues
Note: Most thrift stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army) do NOT accept mattresses due to health regulations
Option 4: Hire Grime To Dime (Same-Day Pickup)
Need it gone today? We're a local Howard County junk removal company that specializes in mattress pickup. No waiting, no truck rental, no heavy lifting.
Cost: Starting at $75 (includes labor, hauling, and disposal)
Best for: Same-day removal, no truck needed, heavy mattresses, or if you have multiple items
What we do: We'll haul it out, check if it's donatable, and handle everything for you
Service area: Columbia, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Elkridge, and all of Howard County
Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost | Wait Time | You Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bulk Trash Pickup | Free | 1-2 weeks | Patience |
| Alpha Ridge Drop-Off | Free | Same day | Truck + HoCo ID |
| Donation | Free | 1-3 days | Clean mattress |
| Grime To Dime | From $75 | Same day | Nothing—we handle it |
Don't Do This
Never leave a mattress on the curb without scheduling a pickup. It's illegal in Howard County and can result in a fine. It also creates an eyesore and can attract pests.
What About Mattress Recycling?
Unfortunately, Howard County does not currently have a dedicated mattress recycling program. However, when mattresses go to Alpha Ridge Landfill, the metal springs are sometimes separated for scrap recycling.
If you're passionate about recycling, some private companies offer mattress recycling for a fee—but for most residents, the landfill or donation route is the most practical option.
Pro Tip
Buying a new mattress? Many retailers (like Mattress Firm, IKEA, or Costco) offer old mattress removal when they deliver your new one. Ask about this service—it's often free or low-cost with purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a mattress out for regular trash pickup?
No. Mattresses are considered "bulk items" and require a scheduled pickup or landfill drop-off.
How heavy is a typical mattress?
Twin: 40-45 lbs | Full: 50-60 lbs | Queen: 70-90 lbs | King: 90-150 lbs. All well under the 500 lb free limit at Alpha Ridge.
What if my mattress has bed bugs?
If you suspect bed bugs, wrap the mattress in plastic before disposal to prevent spreading. Do NOT donate it. Take it directly to Alpha Ridge or schedule bulk pickup and inform the county.
Can I recycle a box spring too?
Box springs follow the same rules as mattresses. You can dispose of both at Alpha Ridge or through bulk pickup. Some scrap metal recyclers may take the metal frame separately.
Need Help With Mattress Removal?
We offer same-day mattress pickup throughout Howard County. No waiting, no truck needed.