Mattress Recycle in Australia: Your Complete Guide

Many people only start thinking about mattress removal when they’re no longer sleeping comfortably. But the real questions are: When should you replace your mattress? And after that, how do you get rid of a mattress safely and legally? In this guide, we’ll cover both the signs that it’s time to replace your mattress and the best options for old mattress removal and mattress recycling in Australia.
Mattress Removal: two mattresses with wooden frame, desk, and boxes of disposable items ready for collection
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When Should You Replace Your Mattress?

According to recommendations from the Sleep Health Foundation and the National Sleep Foundation, most mattresses should be replaced every 7–10 years.

Approximate Lifespan by Mattress Type:

  • Pocket Spring / Hybrid: 8–10 years
  • Memory Foam: 7–10 years
  • Latex: 10–15 years
  • Budget Foam: 5–8 years

If your mattress was purchased before 2018, it’s probably time to consider how to dispose of an old mattress.

Clear Signs Your Mattress Is Worn Out

If you notice any of the following, it’s time to plan for mattress collection:

  • Visible sagging greater than 3–4 cm
  • New or worsening back/neck pain in the morning
  • Squeaking or popping springs
  • Sleeping too hot or too cold at night
  • Increased allergies or nighttime sneezing
  • Sleeping better on other beds
  • Mattress over 10 years old

When these signs appear, replacing your mattress is only part of the solution—you also need to know how can I get rid of a mattress properly.

Infographic showing 6 key warning signs it's time for mattress removal: sagging, body pain, allergies, 10-year age limit and better sleep elsewhere.

Mattress Recycling (Recycle Mattress)

Many still assume the only option is to dump their mattress in a landfill. Today, however, up to 90% of mattress materials can be recycled.

Materials That Can Be Recycled:

  • Steel springs
  • Foam
  • Fabric
  • Timber foundations

During mattress recycling, mattresses are sent to licensed facilities where materials are separated and reused in new products.

If you’re searching for recycle mattress near me or mattress recycling near me, common options include:

  • Local recycling centres
  • 1️⃣ Delivery service when buying a new mattress
  • Private mattress removal companies

Mattress Disposal and Collection Options in Australia

1️⃣ Old Mattress Collection When Buying a New Mattress

Many major Australian retailers offer mattress take-away or removal of old bed when delivering a new mattress.

With this service, you can hand over your old mattress for a set fee at the time of your new mattress delivery.

🔎 Important: This service usually only applies when purchasing a new mattress, and collection is limited to the delivery day.

2️⃣ Local Council Drop-Off or Hard Waste Collection

Local councils in cities like Sydney, Newcastle, Central Coast, and others often provide drop-off points or hard waste collection.

However:

  • You’ll need to transport the mattress yourself
  • Collection days and times are limited
  • Advance booking may be required

For those asking where do you dispose of mattresses, this is a legal option, but it isn’t always the easiest.

3️⃣ The Simplest Option: Private Mattress Removal

If you don’t know how to remove a mattress, don’t have a vehicle, or don’t want to take it to a council drop-off, a private old mattress removal service is the best solution.

Why RubbishGo Is a Smart Choice

If you’re in Newcastle, Central Coast, or Lake Macquarie and looking for answers to:

  • how can I get rid of a mattress
  • how to dispose of an old mattress
  • mattress recycling near me

RubbishGo services offers a fast, transparent, local solution:

✔️ Collection from any part of your property (bedroom, apartment, garage)
✔️ Clear pricing with no hidden fees
✔️ Focus on mattress recycling and reducing landfill waste
✔️ Fully insured and trained team
✔️ Local service — not a national call centre

Where possible, mattresses are taken to licensed facilities where steel, foam, fabric, and timber are separated and recycled.

When Mattress Recycling Isn’t Possible

Some mattresses cannot be recycled:

  • Severe water damage
  • Heavy mould
  • Biological contamination
  • Specialized medical mattresses

In these cases, your option is how to dispose of a mattress through legal landfill disposal.

What To Do With an Old Mattress

Here’s a simple checklist:

  1. Check if your mattress is recyclable
  2. Explore local council options or retailer collection
  3. Use a private mattress removal service if needed
  4. If recycling isn’t possible, take it to an authorised disposal centre

Summary

Replacing your mattress on time isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for spinal health and quality sleep.

When signs of wear appear, act quickly and consider mattress recycling or recycling your old mattress instead of dumping it directly.

By choosing the right path for how to dispose of a mattress, you can protect the environment while freeing up space in your home hassle-free.

Mattress Removal FAQs – All Your Questions Answered

How do I get rid of a mattress?
You generally have four options: 1.Council bulk waste collection (if available in your area) 2.Licensed mattress collection services 3.Drop-off at a waste transfer station 4.Recycling facilities that accept mattresses The best option depends on your mattress condition, transport access, and local council rules.
The most responsible way to dispose of a mattress is through a recycling facility. Up to 75–90% of mattress materials — including steel springs, foam, and timber — can be recovered. Avoid illegal dumping, as it carries fines and environmental risks.
You can dispose of mattresses at: 1.Local council waste facilities 2.Approved transfer stations 3..Mattress recycling centres 4.Scheduled bulk waste collection programs Always check whether bookings are required before drop-off.
Yes, but landfill should be the last option. Many tips charge a fee, and some now separate mattresses for recycling. It’s best to confirm with the facility whether they recycle or send directly to landfill.
Severely mouldy, infested, or water-damaged mattresses usually cannot be recycled. In these cases, old mattress removal still applies, but the item will likely go to landfill due to contamination risks.

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