Do you accept items with bed bugs?

Short answer:

For safety reasons, Bulky Donations does not accept items with active bed bug infestations, including mattresses, furniture, or other household items. If an item previously had bed bugs, we require written proof from a licensed exterminator confirming the infestation has been fully treated. Items found to be infested at pickup may result in cancellation without refund.

Last updated on Feb 1, 2026

Our policy on bed bugs and infested items

For the safety of our customers, donation partners, and service providers, Bulky Donations does not accept items with active bed bug infestations. This includes mattresses, box springs, furniture, and any other items that may be contaminated.

Bed bugs spread easily and can survive during transport, storage, and handling. Because donated items are often redistributed to charities, shelters, resale stores, or directly into new homes, accepting infested items would pose a serious health and safety risk.

Why items with bed bugs cannot be donated

Even a single infested item can lead to widespread problems if introduced into a donation facility or another household. Bed bugs can hide in seams, joints, fabric, and wood, making them difficult to detect and eliminate.

Accepting items with bed bugs could:

• Put charity staff, volunteers, and recipients at risk
• Contaminate donation centers, trucks, or storage facilities
• Cause infestations in other homes or businesses
• Lead to significant cleanup and extermination costs

For these reasons, items with active infestations are considered unsafe and are not eligible for standard donation pickup.

Mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture

Mattresses and box springs are especially high-risk items when it comes to bed bugs, which is why we apply extra scrutiny to these types of donations. Upholstered furniture such as couches, chairs, headboards, and fabric-covered bed frames can also harbor bed bugs deep within the material.

If any of these items show signs of an active infestation at the time of pickup, service may be refused and the pickup may be canceled.

What if the item had bed bugs in the past?

We understand that bed bug issues can be resolved professionally. If an item previously had bed bugs but has since been treated, we may be able to proceed only with proper documentation.

To be eligible for pickup, you must provide:

• A certificate or written confirmation from a licensed professional exterminator
• Documentation stating the infestation has been fully treated and eliminated
• Proof that the item is safe to handle and transport

Without professional verification, we cannot accept or remove the item.

What happens if bed bugs are discovered during pickup?

If our provider arrives and finds evidence of an active bed bug infestation, the pickup may be canceled on the spot to prevent contamination. In these cases, the order may be considered ineligible for service and could result in cancellation without a refund.

This policy helps protect everyone involved in the donation process and ensures we can continue providing safe, reliable service.

How to properly dispose of infested items

If you are dealing with bed bugs, we recommend contacting a licensed pest control professional first. They can advise you on proper treatment and safe disposal methods.

In many cases, infested items must be:

• Fully wrapped and sealed in plastic
• Labeled according to local disposal guidelines
• Handled by specialized waste or junk removal services

Your local waste management provider or pest control expert can guide you on the safest and most compliant way to dispose of these items.

Before you book

If you’re unsure whether your items qualify for donation pickup, reviewing this policy before scheduling can help prevent delays or cancellations. During booking, you’ll be asked to provide details about your items so eligibility can be confirmed prior to your pickup.

Accurate descriptions help ensure your pickup goes smoothly and that items can be safely accepted by our providers and donation partners. If any verification is needed or an item raises eligibility concerns, we’ll follow up with you based on the information you provide so everything can be addressed ahead of pickup.

You can also manage or update your order anytime by visiting Manage My Order, or explore more answers in our Help Center.

For more details on donation eligibility and safety requirements, see our Donation Acceptance & Disposal Policy.