Kids grow fast—and so do their sleep needs. Whether your child has outgrown their crib mattress or you’re upgrading to something more supportive, you might be left wondering what to do with their old mattress.
Spoiler: tossing it in the landfill isn’t your only option. In fact, there are several eco-friendly, creative, and even charitable ways to give that mattress new life.
Donate It (If It’s Still in Good Shape)
If the mattress is gently used, clean, and free of stains or damage, it may still be a great fit for someone in need. Many local shelters, transitional housing programs, and nonprofit furniture banks accept child- and crib-sized mattresses.
Just be sure to check donation guidelines first—some organizations have strict rules about what they can accept due to health codes.
Repurpose It Into Something Useful
Got a DIY streak? Mattresses are made of materials that can be broken down and reused in creative ways. For example:
- Foam padding can be cut and used for seat cushions, pet beds, or craft projects.
- Springs can be turned into garden trellises, wall art, or holiday wreath forms.
- Wood frames (if applicable) can be repurposed into shelving or outdoor projects
It’s a fun way to teach kids about sustainability while giving old materials a second life.
Recycle It Through a Local Program
Mattresses are bulky, but about 80% of their materials are recyclable. Many cities offer mattress recycling programs that strip down the components and reuse them in insulation, carpet padding, and more.
Start by checking with your municipal waste services or searching through recycling services like LoadUp.
Offer It to a Friend or Family Member
Sometimes a sibling, cousin, or friend’s child is ready for their first big kid bed—and your child’s old mattress might be just what they need. A quick post in your local Buy Nothing group or neighborhood forum can help it find a new home without creating waste.
Just make sure it’s still supportive, clean, and safe before passing it along.
Upcycle It Into a Reading or Nap Nook
Transform your child’s old mattress into a cozy space for rest or reading. Add a washable cover or fitted sheet, a few floor cushions, and a small bookshelf—and suddenly you’ve got a kid-friendly lounge area that encourages quiet time and creativity.
It’s especially easy with crib and twin-sized mattresses and can be a great transitional space for toddlers who’ve just moved to a big kid bed.
Getting rid of an old mattress doesn’t have to mean sending it to the landfill. By recycling, donating, or getting creative, you’re setting a powerful example for your kids—and doing your part for the planet.
Upgrading your child’s sleep setup? Explore our line of organic, chemical-free mattresses for kids here, made with safe materials you can feel good about.
