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Salvation Army is known for providing assistance to the less fortunate and providing them with material goods. This includes accepting items such as furniture, clothing, appliances, and more. But what about mattresses? Does Salvation Army take mattresses?
If so, what are their requirements? This guide aims to answer this question, as well as provide some additional information that is important to know.
Can you donate mattresses to Salvation Army?
A mattress is an essential item to own in order to have a comfortable place to sleep. But not everyone has a comfortable bed, especially if the person is homeless or disadvantaged. If you’ve recently upgraded to a new mattress, then you may be thinking of donating that old one to a charity. But is it possible to donate your mattress to Salvation Army? Well, it depends on the location.
Some states have very strict regulations in place regarding bedding donations. It’s usually due to health and sanitation concerns. With that being said, there are Salvation Army locations that take mattresses as long as they’re in proper condition.
| Accepted Mattresses | Not Accepted Mattresses |
|---|---|
| Innerspring | Waterbeds |
| Memory Foam | Futons |
| Latex | Mattresses with holes, tears, or excessive wear and tear |
| Air Mattresses (in good condition) | Mattresses that are heavily stained or soiled |
This means it shouldn’t have structural damage, tears, holes, stains and the like. You can read more about the regulations for your local Salvation Army by visiting their website.
The good thing about donating items to Salvation Army is that they have free pickup. They’ll pick up your items either on the same day or the next day, meaning you don’t have to worry about finding a truck or helping load it. You can also schedule your appointment online.
Different Salvation Army locations may have different requirements for mattress donations. For example, some locations may decide that they’re only able to accept mattresses from certain brands and sizes. They may even only accept certain sizes. So before you make the decision to donate, you’re going to want to look into this information.
What to do with unwanted mattresses
Sometimes it’s not possible to donate your old mattress to Salvation Army. In that case, it’s only sensible to take the mattress to another charity as well. Whether you donate it or take it elsewhere, it’s always better for mattresses to be used rather than wasted. The following options could be a great alternative to donating your mattress:
Habitat for Humanity
If you’re looking for a charity that will take your old mattress and give it to somebody in need, then Habitat for Humanity is the charity for you. It’s a wonderful organization that helps people in local communities.
The focus of the organization is to put an end to substandard housing conditions by providing decent homes with suitable housing choices, including safe and sanitary apartments, affordable houses, and affordable manufactured homes for families, senior citizens and people with limited incomes.
Local shelters
Another option is to donate your mattress to your local shelter. Many of the women’s and homeless shelters have limited resources. They will typically spend the money on things like food and diapers.
Most shelters are run by volunteers who are there to help the less fortunate. So if you’re able, it would be a good idea to donate your old mattress to your local homeless shelter. But make sure the mattress is clean, useable and isn’t infested with bed bugs.
Local furniture bank
A furniture bank helps families and individuals in need with furniture and other goods. The furniture bank can either give the items away or sell them at affordable prices. It usually depends on the bank and the mission of that particular organization. Either way, someone does benefit from the items that have been donated.
Mattress recycling
If you’re looking for a better option than donating your mattress to Salvation Army, then consider donating it to a mattress recycling company. The company will do everything from taking the old mattress from you and stripping it down to the frame.
They’ll collect all the parts and take them to a certified facility where they’ll be recycled. Nothing will go to the landfills and that’s a big deal. By donating your old mattress to charity, you’ll be doing a number of things in one act. Not only are you helping the people who need the items, but you’ll also be helping the environment by recycling.
Final Thoughts
There’s no question that donating to charity is a good thing. It’s done through a variety of means, but the important part is that you’re doing something to help those in need.
Even if it’s just by donating your old mattress to Salvation Army, you know that they’ll make sure it gets put in good hands and ends up helping people.
FAQs
Who will pick up donations in my area?
Salvation Army locations will generally pick up donations on the same day or the next. They’ll keep up with many donations and will deliver them to their busy donation centers. If you’re unsure of your local Salvation Army’s location, then you can find it online.
How can i donate a mattress near me?
If the Salvation Army doesn’t accept the mattress that you want to donate, then you can always check with nearby charities. They may have different requirements and regulations for mattress donations.
