How to Dispose of a Futon in Japan: The Complete 2026 Guide

Got an old futon and no idea what to do with it? You're not alone. Disposing of a futon in Japan is one of the most-searched questions by expats and tourists, and the rules are genuinely confusing. This guide gives you every option — cheapest to easiest.

Quick answer: A futon is oversized waste (粗大ごみ / sodai gomi) in Japan. You can't put it in regular trash. Most wards charge ¥400–¥1,000 to collect one. Read on for all the details and free alternatives.

If you searched for "futon disposal", "how to get rid of a futon", or "how to dispose of a futon in Japan", this is the exact process you need.

Why You Can't Just Throw It Out

Anything over 30 cm in any direction is classified as oversized waste in Japan. A folded futon is at least 100 cm long — way over the limit. Putting it in your regular bag will result in:

1. A yellow rejection sticker
2. The bag left on the curb
3. Possibly a polite note from your building manager

Option 1: Sodai Gomi (Official Disposal) — ¥400–¥1,000

This is the standard route. Step by step:

Step 1 — Apply

Call your ward's sodai gomi center or use their online form. You'll need:

• Your address
• The item type (布団 / futon, マットレス / mattress)
• Quantity

Step 2 — Pay

You'll be quoted a fee. Typical Tokyo prices in 2026:

Item	Cost
Single futon (敷布団)	¥400
Double futon	¥800
Mattress (single)	¥1,000
Mattress (double)	¥2,000
Comforter / Kakebuton	¥400

Step 3 — Buy the Sticker

Buy sodai gomi shōken (粗大ごみシール) at any convenience store — Lawson, FamilyMart, 7-Eleven all have them. Tell the clerk the amount you were quoted.

Step 4 — Tag and Put Out

Write your name (or assigned ID) on the sticker, attach it to the futon, and put it out at your collection point on the assigned morning.

💡 Tip: Roll the futon up tightly and tie it with string. It's much easier to carry and won't unfold on the curb.

Option 2: Recycle Shops — Free or Pay You

Some recycle shops will take futons for free if they're in good condition. Brands like:

• Hard Off / Mode Off — clean, used futons accepted in some locations
• 2nd Street — branded futons (Nitori, Muji) considered
• BookOff Bazaar — limited acceptance

Call ahead. Most won't take stained or damaged items.

Option 3: Donate

• International schools and hostels sometimes accept clean bedding
• Mottainai Japan organizes pickups in some areas
• Facebook Sayonara Sales in Tokyo / Osaka are popular for moving expats

Option 4: Furniture Removal Services — ¥3,000–¥10,000

If you're moving and have multiple items, services like:

• Karu-Karu
• Eco Recycle Japan
• Ekisapo

…will pick up everything in one trip. More expensive, but saves you time and multiple ward applications.

Ward-by-Ward Quick Reference

Ward	Single Futon	Mattress	Online Form
Shibuya	¥400	¥1,000	✅
Shinjuku	¥400	¥1,000	✅
Setagaya	¥400	¥1,200	✅
Minato	¥400	¥1,000	✅
Meguro	¥400	¥1,000	✅
Suginami	¥400	¥1,200	✅
Toshima	¥400	¥1,200	✅
Shinagawa	¥400	¥1,200	✅

Prices change. Always confirm with your ward.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Cutting the futon up to fit in regular trash — many wards explicitly forbid this
2. Leaving it without a sticker — it won't be collected
3. Putting it out the night before — wildlife will tear it apart
4. Forgetting to apply in advance — most wards need 3–7 days notice

How GomiSense Helps with Oversized Items

Even after reading this guide, you might still wonder: "Is my pillow a futon? Is my dog bed sodai gomi?"

GomiSense answers in seconds:

• Snap a photo — AI recognizes the item and dimensions
• Get the exact category for your ward
• Direct link to your ward's online application form
• Reminder the morning of pickup so you don't forget

Stop guessing about oversized waste. Download GomiSense free → Get the app

Final Tips

• Plan ahead — sodai gomi pickups can be 1–3 weeks out
• Combine items in one application to save calls
• If you're moving, schedule your sodai gomi a month before your move-out date

Disposing of a futon shouldn't take an afternoon of research. Sort with confidence. 💙