The short answer
If Fairfax County collects your trash, ask for a special pickup. If you have a truck, drop it at the I-66 Transfer Station or I-95 Landfill for $17. If it's in good shape, try to donate it. If you'd rather not move it yourself, a junk removal crew carries it out for you.
1. Fairfax County special pickup (county collection customers only)
About 10% of Fairfax County households get trash service from the county itself. If that's you, you can request a special pickup by phone at 703-802-3322 or with the county's online form. Loads under 2 cubic yards are covered, up to five free collections per type of item each fiscal year (July 1 to June 30).
Most households use a private trash company or HOA contract instead. In that case the county can't pick it up, and you need to ask your trash company what they charge for a bulk item.
2. Drop it off yourself for $17
Fairfax County takes mattresses and box springs at the I-66 Transfer Station (4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax) and the I-95 Landfill Complex in Lorton. The residential fee is $17 per piece, so a mattress and box spring together cost $34. Bring proof that you live in the county, such as a driver's license or a utility bill.
This is the cheapest route if you have a pickup truck or a friend with one. A queen mattress won't fit in most SUVs, and it needs to be tied down for the drive.
3. Donate or sell it
Charities and resale shops are picky about mattresses because of bedbugs and stains. Call first and expect a no unless it's nearly new with no tears or marks. Listing it for free online works faster for clean mattresses in good shape.
4. Store haul-away
Many mattress stores will take the old one away when they deliver a new one, sometimes for an extra fee. Ask before you buy, because they usually want it bagged and ready at the door.
5. Have it picked up
We carry mattresses out from any room, including upstairs and basements, and take them to the county facility for you. A mattress or box spring is $79 each, and you'll know the price before we come.
Questions
Can I put a mattress out with my regular trash in Fairfax County?
Only if your trash company says so. County collection customers need to schedule a special pickup. Private trash companies set their own rules and fees for bulk items.
How much does Fairfax County charge to drop off a mattress?
$17 for each mattress or box spring at the I-66 Transfer Station or the I-95 Landfill, under the FY2027 residential rates.
Sources
- Fairfax County: trash collection for county customers
- Fairfax County residential disposal rates, FY2027
- Fairfax County: I-66 Transfer Station and I-95 Landfill Complex
County fees change each July. Check the county's page before you go.