How to dispose of carpet padding is easier than disposing of the carpet itself, because the most common pad, rebond foam made from recycled foam scraps, is itself recyclable. Many carpet installers and some foam recyclers take clean, dry pad. If no recycling option exists near you, roll it tightly, tie it, and put it in the trash within your city’s size limits, or take it to a transfer station with the carpet.
Types of carpet pad
| Pad type | Recyclable? |
|---|---|
| Rebond (multicolored foam) | Often, if clean and dry |
| Prime urethane foam | Sometimes |
| Rubber or sponge rubber | Rarely |
| Fiber or felt | Rarely |
| Memory foam | Sometimes, through foam recyclers |
Recycling options
- Carpet installers: many haul away old carpet and pad, and some send pad to recyclers.
- Foam recyclers: in some areas, they accept clean pad and turn it back into rebond.
- County programs: some regions with carpet recycling programs accept pad separately.
Keep pad dry and free of tack strip, staples, and dirt. Wet or moldy pad is usually not accepted.
Removing the pad
Carpet pad is stapled to wood subfloors or glued to concrete. Pull it up in sections, then pull or hammer down remaining staples. Tack strip around the edges has sharp nails; remove it carefully and keep it separate. See removing wall-to-wall carpet.
Trash and debris
If recycling is not available:
- Cut the pad into strips about 3 to 4 feet wide.
- Roll each strip tightly and tie with tape or twine.
- Bag if your hauler requires it.
- Check weight and length limits for curbside.
Large amounts go to a transfer station, often with the carpet as bulky waste. See how to dispose of carpet.
Pet damage and odors
Pet urine often soaks through carpet into the pad, which is a common reason to replace it. Bag soiled pad to contain odor. It is not suitable for recycling.
Tack strip and staples
Tack strip goes in the trash, wrapped or boxed so nails cannot poke through. Run a magnet over the floor to catch staples. See magnet sweep for fasteners.
Reuse ideas
Clean pad pieces are useful as kneeling pads, packing material, or under equipment in a garage. A few large clean pieces can be offered free online.
How to dispose of carpet padding FAQ
Is carpet padding recyclable?
Rebond foam pad often is, through installers or foam recyclers, if clean and dry.
Can carpet padding go in the trash?
Usually, if rolled and tied within your city’s size and weight limits.
Will carpet installers take old padding?
Many include removal and haul-away of carpet and pad in their price.
How do I remove carpet padding staples?
Pull them with pliers or a floor scraper, or hammer them flush.
Can wet carpet padding be recycled?
Usually not. Wet or moldy pad goes in the trash.
The bottom line
How to dispose of carpet padding: ask your installer or a foam recycler about rebond pad recycling, keep it clean and dry, and otherwise roll, tie, and bag it for trash or haul it with the carpet to a transfer station. Use the map to find a site near you.
Guides and tools
Furniture disposal guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides