Frequently Asked Questions

Call Republic at (800) 442-9006 to schedule an appliance pick-up for items like stoves, refrigerators, over the stove microwaves (built-in style), washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and water heaters. There will be a $35 fee per appliance. Once payment is received, no refunds are granted. Republic will pick up appliances/white goods on Fridays only.

You must use a licensed asbestos removal contractor to dispose of asbestos. Check the yellow pages for licensed contractors.

Automobiles and other vehicles can be donated to an area charity for a tax deduction.

• Other Charities
• Kids Car Donations
• Veteran Car Donations

Bikes not Bombs, a non-profit organization located in Roxbury, is working to promote community development and alternative transportation. Donated bikes are shipped to third world countries and used locally to train young people as bicycle mechanics. Kids can also build/recondition a bike through the Earn-A-Bike program. Part of the program involves the kids participating in community service (617) 522-0222.

Fluorescent bulbs: Dispose of expended or broken fluorescent bulbs at the Department of Public Works Facility, 75 Newcrossing Rd.  Fluorescent bulbs, including energy saving compacts, contain a small amount of mercury. If a fluorescent bulb breaks in your home, do not inhale the vapor and do not use a vacuum for cleanup. Sweep the pieces together with a brush or broom - not with your hand - and clean up bits of glass with a wet rag or towel, then place the towel and the pieces into a plastic bag. Fluorescent bulbs emit no mercury unless they are broken.

Homeowners and contractors can donate good quality used and surplus building materials to Building Materials Resource Center. Save on disposal fees and earn tax deductions. Call (617) 442-2262 to schedule a pick-up. Visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website for more options and information.

Mattress Recycling

Since Monday, October 31, 2022, Republic Services no longer picks up mattresses or box springs as bulk waste.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has made amendments to its waste ban regulations which include the banning of mattresses from the trash stream and a requirement for them to be recycled.  

As a result, the Town of Reading has contracted with Tough Stuff Recycling to pick up and recycle mattresses and box springs for a fee.  Residents have two options available:

Pricing is for EACH mattress or box spring being disposed

$55.00 for curbside pickup

$33.00 for drop off at DPW garage (resident brings mattress or box spring to the DPW garage with proof of payment).  

For both curbside and drop off services, go to Tough Stuff Recycling's Website or call their Customer Service at: 978-307-4118.

IMPORTANT:  Mattresses/box springs must be placed in a mattress bag prior to placing curbside for pick up. Mattresses being dropped off at the DPW garage do NOT need a mattress bag.

Mattress bags are available at the DPW Administration office in town hall or the DPW garage free of charge with proof of payment that resident has scheduled with Tough Stuff Recycling. If you have any questions, please call the Department of Public Works at 781-942-9077.

What is accepted as part of the Mattress Recycling Program?

All size mattresses, including crib and foam. All size box springs. Each piece is considered a unit. 

What is NOT included in the recycling program?

Air or water beds, mattress pads and toppers, pet beds

Important:  Mattresses and box springs must be

• Free of bed bugs and other insects/vermin
• Not heavily soiled
• Dry
• Free of human bodily fluids
• Removed from any solid waste, trash, debris
• Placed in a mattress bag and put curbside on day of pickup