Can you put a mattress in a skip?

Posted 3 weeks ago

Can you put a mattress in a skip? 

Are you moving home, having a clear out or completely renovating your bedroom and wondering ‘can you put a mattress in a skip?’ 

The short answer is not usually, unless your skip provider allows you to do so at an additional charge. In this article, we’ll explain why mattresses are not typically allowed in standard skip hire, the fees to dispose of a mattress and other alternative ways you might consider disposing of your mattress. 

So, can you put a mattress in a skip?

Technically, yes, you can put a mattress in a skip, but only if your skip hire company allows it, and in most cases, there’s an extra charge. That’s because mattresses are classified as bulky waste and require special handling.

Most skip providers do not include mattresses in their standard pricing, and many will charge a flat fee to take them. Here at Hurleys Skip Hire, we charge £25 + VAT to dispose of your mattress. 

So, if you add a mattress to your skip without checking first, you could face unexpected charges when your skip is collected.

Why are mattresses excluded from skips?

There are a few reasons skip companies are cautious with mattresses. First of all, a mattress takes up a lot of space, reducing how much other waste can fit. They are also difficult to recycle due to them containing a mix of springs, foam, textiles, and sometimes wood, making them hard to process at general waste facilities. Mattresses are also heavily discouraged from landfills due to their size and impact. Many skip companies must dispose of them separately through licensed recyclers.

What happens if you put a mattress in without telling your skip provider?

If you toss a mattress in your skip without declaring it:

• The company may refuse to collect the skip.
• You’ll likely be charged a mattress disposal fee (e.g. £25 + VAT).
• You could be penalised further if it leads to contamination or illegal dumping.
• To avoid this, always ask your skip hire provider about their mattress policy before loading it in.

Alternatives to Putting a Mattress in a Skip

If you’d rather avoid the extra fee, or your skip company doesn’t accept mattresses at all, there are better ways to dispose of or recycle it:

Council bulky waste collection

Most local authorities offer a bulky waste pickup service for a small fee. It’s usually cheaper and more eco-friendly than putting it in a skip.

Dedicated mattress recycling

Specialist recycling services can pick up your mattress and ensure it’s broken down responsibly. Check local services online or through your council.

Retailer take-back

When buying a new mattress, ask if the store offers removal of your old one. Many UK retailers provide this service, sometimes for free or a small charge.

Donation

If your mattress is still clean and in usable condition, consider donating it to a charity, housing shelter, or reuse network. Some even offer collection.

So, can you put a mattress in a skip?

In most cases, yes, but it’ll most likely come at an additional charge. And some skip hire companies don’t allow them at all. That’s why it’s important to check before loading.

If you want to save money or be more eco-conscious, consider alternatives like council collections, retailer take-back schemes, or local recycling services.

Making the right choice not only keeps your project running smoothly, but it also helps reduce landfill waste. At Hurleys Skip Hire, we’re here to support you with professional, reliable skip hire, recycling services, and a commitment to responsible waste disposal. Need help getting started? Contact us today, and we’ll help ensure you fill your skip correctly.

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