Large items like mattresses, furniture, and appliances don't belong in your curbside bins or on the street. Improper disposal is illegal dumping — and there are better options.
Disposal Options
Bulky Pickup from Your Hauler
Most garbage companies offer scheduled bulky item pickup:
- Contact your garbage hauler to schedule
- May be included in your service or available for a small fee
- Items must be placed at curb on the scheduled pickup day
Transfer Stations
You can bring bulky items yourself to local transfer stations. Fees may apply based on item type and weight.
Mattress Recycling
California law requires mattress retailers to accept your old mattress when delivering a new one. The Mattress Recycling Council also operates drop-off locations throughout the state.
Before You Dispose
Donate Usable Items
Many organizations accept furniture and household items in good condition:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore
- Goodwill and Salvation Army
- Local shelters and nonprofits
- Craigslist, Nextdoor, or Facebook Marketplace
Repair Before Replacing
Consider fixing what you have — reupholstery, furniture repair, and appliance repair can save money and reduce waste. Furniture repair guide
Large Appliances
Refrigerators, Freezers, and Air Conditioners
These contain refrigerants that must be handled by certified technicians:
- Schedule pickup through your garbage hauler
- Some retailers offer haul-away with new appliance delivery
Washers, Dryers, and Stoves
- Bulky pickup through your hauler
- Scrap metal recyclers may accept them
- Retailers may offer haul-away
Don't Dump Illegally
Leaving items on the street or in vacant lots is illegal dumping — fines can exceed $1,000, and it harms neighborhoods and the environment. Use proper disposal channels instead.
Resources
- RE:Source Guide: resource.stopwaste.org — search for disposal and donation options near you
- Hotline: (800) 606-6606