Different organizations have different rules regarding donated mattresses.
Charitable organizations often have specific rules that must be followed when they accept donated mattresses. These rules are meant to ensure that donated mattresses are clean and will not pose a health threat to beneficiaries. Before you go through the trouble of loading up the mattress and driving to a donation center, you should contact the charity to learn about their specific rules. Does this Spark an idea?
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army accepts donated mattresses and will provide a receipt for tax deduction, depending on the condition of the mattress. According to the Salvation Army website, smaller mattresses in good condition provide a $35 tax credit if the mattress is in high quality condition. The tax credit can be as much as $75 for large mattresses in high quality condition. Tax credits are lower if mattresses are in poor condition, and the organization will not accept mattresses which are seriously torn or impossible to use without repair.
Shelters
Shelters for battered women, runaways and homeless people often need extra mattresses. Some shelters will accept any mattress which can be slept on, although rules vary from shelter to shelter. If there are stains or torn fabric on the mattress, you may have to repair or sterilize the mattress before donating. Some shelters will make arrangements to pick up the mattress so you won't have to deliver it.
Online Advertising
You can also donate mattresses to needy individuals through free online classified websites, such as Craigslist. There are no formal guidelines when donating a mattress through these advertisements. It is advisable to remove any smell, dirt or stains from the mattress, however. These flaws may dissuade someone from taking the mattress. You may also need to repair tears or holes.
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