If you’ve ever wondered, “Who would buy a used mattress?”—you’re not alone. Whether you’re moving, upgrading, or decluttering, getting rid of a mattress can feel like a huge burden. Most cities have strict disposal rules, donation centers turn them away, and your curbside trash likely won’t take it. But here’s the good news: yes, people buy used mattresses.
In this guide, we’ll break down how the used mattress resale market works, who’s buying, what makes a mattress eligible, and how to get the most value out of your unwanted bed.
Before you list your mattress for sale, it’s important to understand the rules. In many U.S. states, it’s completely legal to sell a used mattress—but with conditions. For instance, some states require that the mattress be properly cleaned and labeled before resale. Others prohibit the resale of used bedding unless it's reupholstered or sanitized.
You can find your state’s specific regulations here.
There’s a growing secondhand economy—one that’s not only about saving money but also about sustainability. Used mattresses are in demand for several reasons:
Some local shops or small businesses specialize in flipping or refurbishing mattresses. These buyers often purchase gently used models in good condition to resell after cleaning and sanitizing.
Some companies operate as part of the reverse logistics supply chain, helping brands recapture value from returned or used items.
Sharetown is one such company. They specialize in helping brands handle oversized returns like mattresses and exercise equipment by reselling them through local reps. Learn more about Sharetown if you have a name-brand mattress that’s gently used.
While most national charities like Goodwill or Salvation Army won’t accept used mattresses due to hygiene and safety concerns, local furniture banks might. These nonprofits provide essential furniture to families transitioning out of homelessness or fleeing domestic violence.
You can check with your local shelter or use Furniture Bank Network to see if you can donate or sell.
Not every mattress is worth buying. The following checklist will help you determine if your mattress has resale potential:
No stains, rips, or odors
Gently used (ideally less than 5–7 years old)
From a reputable brand (Tempur-Pedic, Purple, Casper, Saatva, etc.)
Includes the law tag (a sewn-in tag showing compliance with fire safety laws)
Has been kept in a smoke-free, pet-free environment
Mattresses that fail these checks may still be recyclable, but won’t fetch a price.
The resale value of your mattress depends on age, brand, condition, and demand in your area. On average:
If you’re selling online, add high-quality photos, disclose any wear, and highlight selling points (e.g., “only used in guest room,” “retails for $2,500”).
Here are your best bets for selling:
These platforms are free, but you’ll be responsible for setting your price, arranging pickups, and vetting buyers.
Some secondhand furniture shops will buy or consign your mattress—especially if it's clean and from a brand they recognize.
Want to make sure your mattress sells quickly? Follow these expert tips:
If your mattress doesn’t qualify for resale, don’t worry. You still have options:
Selling a used mattress isn’t as strange as it once seemed. With rising costs and eco-conscious buyers, there’s a growing market for gently used bedding. Whether you sell it yourself, go through a “we buy used mattresses” service, or donate it locally, your mattress can have a second life—and put some cash back in your pocket.
