Why is mattress recycling more important than you think? Because the impact goes far beyond just getting rid of an old bed. Every day in the U.S., more than 50,000 mattresses are discarded – adding up to over 18 million per year. Most of these end up in landfills, where they take up valuable space and release harmful toxins as they slowly break down.
That’s why mattress recycling is more important than you think. It’s a hidden waste problem that affects communities across the country — and one that Tough Stuff Recycling is working to solve right here in Massachusetts.
The Secret Cost of Mattress Waste
Mattresses might seem harmless — but improper disposal has real consequences. Most mattresses are made from non-biodegradable materials like synthetic foam, polyester fabric, and metal springs. If you skip mattress donation or recycling, your old bed could sit in a landfill for decades. As it slowly breaks down, it can release harmful substances into the environment — including flame retardants and volatile organic compounds.
Beyond pollution, there’s also the issue of space. One mattress can take up as much as 40 cubic feet in a landfill. And here in Massachusetts, where landfill capacity is already limited, bulky waste like mattresses adds unnecessary strain to the state’s solid waste system.
Why Recycling Mattresses Matters
Here’s the good news about mattress waste: On average, you can recycle 75–90% of a typical mattress. By choosing mattress recycling over the trash, you’re helping reduce landfill strain and build a greener Massachusetts. You’re also supporting a circular economy — a system that keeps valuable materials in use for as long as possible.
In short, when you recycle your mattress, you help reduce the need for brand-new resources, lower carbon emissions, and prevent illegal dumping. It’s a simple action that delivers a win-win situation.
When Should You Recycle Vs. Donate
Not sure whether to recycle or donate your mattress? If it’s still in great condition — clean, untorn, and under five years old — donation might be a great option. Local charities and shelters often welcome gently used mattresses.
But if your mattress is older, sagging, or showing signs of wear, recycling is likely the better option.
Keep in mind, Massachusetts regulations also help guide your decision. Thanks to the Massachusetts Mattress Disposal Ban, it’s illegal to toss a mattress in the trash. That makes recycling the default — and with services like ours, it’s never been easier.
How to Get Rid of a Mattress Responsibly
Getting rid of a mattress responsibly in Massachusetts is easier than ever. With Tough Stuff Recycling, you can choose between curbside pickup or convenient drop-off locations — whichever works best for you. Just remember: before your mattress can be recycled, you’ll need to prepare it properly. That means placing it in a mattress bag to keep it clean and protected from rain or dirt.
The Local Impact of Mattress Recycling
Ever wonder what happens to your mattress after it’s recycled? Thanks to the Massachusetts mattress disposal ban, recycling isn’t just a good idea — it’s the law. And that’s where Tough Stuff Recycling comes in.
When you recycle with us, you’re joining thousands of Massachusetts residents and businesses who’ve already helped divert over 1 million mattresses — and thousands of tons of waste — from local landfills.
As a local Fitchburg-based company, we partner with municipalities, haulers, retailers, and individuals like you to make mattress recycling easy, affordable, and accessible across the state.
The Tough Stuff Way
Tough Stuff Recycling was founded to address a growing environmental challenge in Massachusetts: bulky mattress waste. With deep roots in sustainability and a commitment to customer service, we’ve grown into one of the state’s most trusted mattress recyclers, with CEO Mike Gurnee leading the way.
Ready to Recycle Responsibly?
Mattress recycling is critical for the environment and our community. This simple action will affect future generations greatly, and in a positive way. Instead of illegally dumping your mattress, consider picking the cleaner and easier option.
Ready to recycle responsibly? Schedule your mattress pickup with us today and join the movement toward a cleaner, greener Massachusetts.