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Can A Mattress Harm the Environment?

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When trying to be environmentally aware it can be nearly impossible to take everything into account. Quite often something like a bed may not be thought of as a potential environmental hazard as a bed can last for years in your house when compared to some daily expendable items like single use plastics.

A bed can inherit many toxic chemicals over the years including bacteria build up and microplastics. Most mattresses are made with foam or synthetic fibres, which are not always going to be biodegradable. On the other hand- many environmentally focused beddings materials are not going to be able to withstand the years of use that we bring upon our beds. This was a situation I found myself in when I bought this bed just before leaving Sydney.

This is where the importance of being personally responsible with how we dispose of our mattresses. Many local tips have the ability to make sure these materials are disposed of safely as to not end up in our waterways.

The good news is it is possible to recycle a mattress according to Planet Ark.

How do You Recycle a Mattress

A matrass can be recycled into three different compounds.

  1. Timber: This can be reduced into woodchips and be used for mulch, particle board and animal bedding
  2. Springs: Springs can be melted down and used in anything from vehicles, appliances and even building infrastructure
  3. Foam: Not many people are aware that foam can actually be recycled into carpet underlay. In some areas there is even a shortage of recycled goods for this process.