How to Legally Dispose of a Mattress in New Jersey (Cherry Hill and Nearby Towns)

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Jake Still

May 15, 2025

how to dispose of a mattress in NJ

Table of Contents

If you’re living in Cherry Hill, NJ — or nearby towns like Pennsauken, Voorhees, or Haddonfield — you might be wondering: How do I legally get rid of an old mattress without facing fines or penalties?

In New Jersey, following the proper disposal methods is important not just to avoid steep fines under state law, but also to protect the environment and public health.
Let’s dive into the local regulations, approved disposal sites, fees, and the best options for responsible mattress disposal — plus tips on recycling other related items!


Why You Can’t Just Dump a Mattress Anywhere

The State of New Jersey’s Electronics Waste Management Act and other municipal ordinances strictly regulate what you can and cannot throw out with normal residential collection.

Improper disposal (such as dumping on vacant lots) can trigger enforcement from the Camden County Division of Environmental Affairs, leading to fines up to $50,000.

Mattresses left improperly can cause animal intrusions, accumulated water (breeding mosquitoes), and contribute to environmental hazards.
Avoid those risks by following possible precautions and township rules.


Cherry Hill Mattress Disposal — Step-by-Step

In Cherry Hill Township, mattress disposal is included in your collection day bulk trash pickup — no extra fee if you follow the correct process!

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Set your mattress and box springs out curbside with your trash cart no earlier than 5:30 PM the night before your scheduled collection.
  • Wrap the mattress in a plastic bag to avoid exposure to bedbugs (strongly recommended but not mandatory).
  • Place mattresses away from yard waste containers and recycle carts to avoid confusion.

Cherry Hill Trash and Bulk Pickup Guidelines


Where Else to Dispose of a Mattress Near Cherry Hill

 

Pennsauken Township

  • Bulk pickup available — call Department of Public Works at (856) 663-0178.
  • Limit: 3 bulk items per pickup (mattress counts as one).
  • Wrap items for possible precautions against pests.

Pennsauken Public Works Info


Voorhees Township

  • Monthly bulk collection — check the Residential Guide for your collection point and calendar.
  • Plastic bag required around mattresses.
  • Limitations apply for yard waste collection and open yard waste containers.

Voorhees Bulk Trash Schedule


Haddonfield

  • Bulk pickup is the first week of every month.
  • Place mattresses items curbside (sealed in plastic).
  • Two bulk items allowed per collection cycle.

Haddonfield Public Works Bulk Info


Collingswood

  • Weekly bulk pickup allowed.
  • Call ahead for mattress disposal approval.
  • Use plastic wrap to prevent open container violations.

Collingswood Trash and Bulk Guidelines


Need Faster Mattress Pickup? Call Junk Rescue!

If you can’t wait for your township’s bulk collection, Junk Rescue offers same-day mattress removal services! We handle everything, including:

  • Recycling through approved disposal sites.
  • Avoiding landfill dumping when possible.
  • Safe transport using regular trash trucks with secure loading methods.

Call (844) 292-5865 or book online for stress-free pickup!


Mattress Disposal Drop-Off Centers Near Cherry Hill

Want to drop off yourself? Here are two great local options:

Camden County Landfill

  • 9600 River Road, Pennsauken
  • Camden County, NJ does not have a specific disposal fee for mattresses at their landfills. Instead, mattresses are likely considered “bulky waste” and subject to a per-ton fee, which is $109.58 as of 2025

Burlington County Resource Recovery Complex

Mattress Curbside Pickup Rules and Business Owner Responsibilities

If you’re planning to leave your mattress out for curbside pickup, it’s crucial to know the local rules.
Across Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Pennsauken, and nearby towns, mattresses must be:

  • Placed next to but separate from your trash cart or recycle cart.
  • Properly wrapped in a plastic bag if required by township code.
  • Set out no earlier than 5:30 PM the evening before your scheduled collection day.

Failing to follow proper curbside pickup guidelines may cause your mattress to be left behind, requiring you to remove it yourself (and risk fines).

Business Owners Take Note:
If you’re disposing of mattresses through a rental property, hotel, or commercial establishment, mattress disposal falls under the responsibility of the business owner — not the township.
This means private contractors like Junk Rescue must be used, and proper disposal documentation may be required under local or county regulations.

Also, keep in mind:
Mattresses and certain electronics fall under the State of New Jersey Electronics Waste Management Act, meaning they cannot simply be tossed with regular trash if they contain components requiring recycling — like adjustable bases with motorized parts or integrated electronics.

Pro Tip: If your old mattress has electrical parts, treat it like consumer electronics and schedule a specialized pickup.

Related Disposal Services You Should Know About

Most townships like Cherry Hill and Pennsauken also offer services for recycling or disposing of other consumer electronics and related items near Nixon Drive. Here’s how to handle common junk items alongside your old mattress:

ItemDisposal Method
TVs (TV disposal)Through township recycling centers or stores like Best Buy locations (check the Best Buy website for details).
Computer PeripheralsDonate to Magnum Computer Recycling or local Goodwill Stores.
Cell Phones & MP3 PlayersRecycle at a local grocery store or electronics retailer that accepts recyclable products like those found at 1 Perina Boulevard.
Rechargeable BatteriesDrop off at hardware stores or recycling centers — never toss in regular trash carts or place cart near regular trash bins.
DVD Players & CD PlayersRecycle with small electronics programs.
Fax Machines & Car Audio SystemsDispose of at e-waste events or the recommunity facility (Camden County).

Many townships now offer zero sort recycling for small electronics, making it easier than ever to dispose of tech safely.


Other Household Items: Disposal Quick Tips

  • Yard Waste: Set out during designated yard waste collection days, including regular trash day; avoid open recyclable containers, especially those containing loose recyclables, metal items, and building materials.
  • Grass Clippings: Must be placed in biodegradable bags or designated bins.
  • Latex Paint: Allow it to dry out (add kitty litter if needed), then dispose with bulk trash.
  • Oil Paints: Hazardous — must be taken to approved hazardous waste collection sites.
  • Medical Waste: NEVER place in curbside trash — use approved sharps disposal programs.

 


For a Complete Listing of Recyclable Items:

Visit your township’s official site or explore the Education Station at Eastgate Square Mount Laurel, located near Mount Laurel Road, which offers an interactive trip through waste management best practices.

Also, check out:


Final Thoughts: Responsible Mattress Disposal Pays Off

Getting rid of a mattress legally in New Jersey is easy — whether through normal residential collection, private contractors, or local recycling centers.
Following local rules around placement of yard waste, plastic bags, and proper collection days ensures you stay compliant and avoid fines.

When in doubt, partner with Junk Rescue — we make junk removal fast, legal, and easy across Cherry Hill, Pennsauken, Haddonfield, Voorhees, and surrounding areas!

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