Guide for Sustainable Mattress Disposal: A Green Approach
Recycling Mattresses: A State-by-State Approach
In the United States, the issue of mattress recycling is gaining momentum, particularly in states with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws. Here's a look at the current state of mattress recycling across the nation.
Connecticut Leads the Way
As of mid-2025, Connecticut is a U.S. state with an active EPR law specifically for mattress recycling. Under Connecticut’s EPR program, mattress manufacturers are responsible for creating and funding plans to collect and recycle mattresses. This shift in financial and logistical burden from municipalities to product manufacturers benefits consumers, who can drop off their mattresses at designated locations free of charge.
Other States Follow Suit
Other states are actively exploring or developing EPR frameworks for mattresses, but few have fully implemented laws yet. For instance, Massachusetts is in the process of studying and recommending EPR policies for mattresses through legislative commissions and product stewardship councils. Bills such as H.881 aim to establish mattress recycling programs, but these are still under development or advocacy stages as of July 2025.
States like Oregon and Colorado have begun implementing EPR for packaging and paper but do not currently have widely reported mattress-specific EPR laws.
Summary of Mattress EPR Requirements
| State | EPR Status for Mattresses | Manufacturer Requirements | Consumer Requirements | |-------------|-------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------| | Connecticut | Active law; existing mattress recycling EPR | Must fund and operate approved mattress recycling programs, including free consumer drop-off sites | Access to no-cost drop-off; relief from disposal fees | | Massachusetts | Under study; bills proposed for mattress EPR | Legislative proposals seek to hold manufacturers responsible for recycling program costs | Expected eventual access to recycling programs | | Oregon | EPR active for packaging/paper; mattress EPR not confirmed | Producers required to fund packaging recycling; mattress EPR unclear or evolving | Currently no direct mattress EPR consumer changes reported |
Key Points on Connecticut’s Mattress EPR Program
- Mattress manufacturers develop state-approved recycling plans.
- Financial responsibility lies with producers, alleviating municipal costs.
- Consumers can drop off mattresses at designated locations free of charge.
- The goal is to improve mattress recycling rates and reduce landfill impact and local government expenses.
No comprehensive national mattress EPR program yet exists—most states are at various stages of implementing or considering laws. Connecticut is a prominent example with a functioning mattress EPR law, while Massachusetts and other states are still in policy development or advocacy phases.
Recycling Options Beyond EPR
For states without EPR laws, options still exist for mattress recycling. Bye Bye Mattress provides a directory of recycling centers and companies that accept mattresses for recycling. It's essential to contact each company to learn whether they offer pick-up or if individuals must transport the mattress to the location themselves.
Lifting heavy objects, such as a mattress, can be harmful and may worsen hernias. Therefore, it's crucial to exercise caution when recycling a mattress.
Donating or Disposing of Mattresses
Some charities will accept mattresses in good condition, offering a chance for reuse. However, older mattresses may accumulate mold and dust mites, causing or worsening respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions. In such cases, disposal at a landfill may be the best option.
When a mattress is unsuitable for recycling or donation, it should be disposed of at a landfill. Protective bedding and following manufacturer instructions can prolong mattress life, reducing the need for premature disposal.
In conclusion, while the United States is making strides towards implementing EPR laws for mattress recycling, individual states are at various stages of development. Consumers can take advantage of existing programs in states like Connecticut and make use of resources like Bye Bye Mattress to find recycling options in other states.
- For households in states like Massachusetts, Colorado, or Oregon that don't currently have specific EPR laws for mattresses, using recycling services like Bye Bye Mattress can help locate recycling centers and companies that accept mattresses for recycling.
- In addition to promoting sustainable living and home-and-garden practices, implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws for mattresses aligns with the concept of sustainable living, as it encourages manufacturers to create more eco-friendly products and reduces the negative impact on the environment from mattress disposal.
