The mattress bag law is real
NYC requires mattresses and box springs to be fully sealed in a plastic bag before curbside collection to help prevent bedbug spread. DSNY says an improperly sealed item can result in a fine of up to $300. Set it out on the correct trash-only collection day and follow your building's placement rules.
Curbside bulk pickup is free
DSNY collects furniture such as couches, dressers, and tables at no charge when it is set out on the correct collection day. The applicable day depends on the material and local schedule. Check the current DSNY instructions and your building's placement rules rather than relying on an old bulk-pickup routine.
Donation beats disposal when time allows
Housing Works, City Ops nonprofits, and some Salvation Army locations do free furniture pickups for items in sellable condition — but slots book 1–3 weeks out and they will decline worn items at the door. Photograph honestly and book early. A donation receipt is also a small tax write-off.
When to just pay someone
Same-week deadline, walk-up building, or a landlord requiring broom-clean? Paid removal ($75–$300 per item range in Manhattan) buys the labor and the timing. If you're already moving, bundle disposal into the move quote — a crew that's already in your apartment disposes of furniture far cheaper than a separate junk-removal dispatch.