How to Recycle Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses represent the most traditional and widely recycled sleep system design, featuring steel coil spring assemblies that provide structural support and durability. These mattresses typically contain 300-1,000 individual steel springs, depending on size and quality, with coil gauges ranging from 12-15 (thicker wire indicating firmer support). The spring systems are engineered using various designs including Bonnell coils, offset coils, continuous coils, and individually wrapped pocket springs, each offering different support characteristics and manufacturing complexities. Modern innerspring mattresses incorporate multiple comfort layers including polyurethane foam, cotton padding, wool, and synthetic fibers, all encased in ticking fabric that often includes flame retardant treatments to meet federal safety standards. The average innerspring mattress contains 25-40 pounds of recyclable steel springs, making these mattresses the most economically viable option for recycling operations. The recycling process achieves 90-95% material recovery rates, with steel springs commanding $150-300 per ton in scrap metal markets, while padding materials can be processed into new textiles or insulation products. Industry data shows that innerspring mattresses account for approximately 60% of the 15-20 million mattresses disposed of annually in the United States, yet only 8-12% are currently recycled outside of EPR states, representing a significant missed opportunity for both environmental protection and resource recovery.
- 1Strip all bedding and remove mattress covers
- 2Inspect for broken springs protruding through fabric
- 3Clean surface and check for pest infestations
- 4Remove any attached bed frame or headboard connections
- 5Separate box spring if it's a matched set
- 6Document condition with photos for recycling facility
- 7Ensure dry conditions for transport and storage
- Scrap metal dealers and recycling centers
- Specialized mattress disassembly facilities
- Mattress retailers with manufacturer take-back programs
- Municipal recycling programs (increasing availability)
- Furniture liquidation centers with recycling services
Innerspring mattresses have the highest recycling success rate due to valuable steel content. Springs are easily separated and processed. Some recyclers pay for high-quality steel coil mattresses.
Innerspring mattress recycling provides exceptional environmental benefits due to the high value and infinite recyclability of steel components. Each recycled queen-size innerspring mattress recovers 25-40 pounds of steel springs, preventing 80-130 pounds total from landfill disposal while generating significant carbon emission reductions of 95-160 kg CO2 equivalent compared to manufacturing new steel from ore. Steel recycling conserves 1,400-2,500 pounds of iron ore, 740-1,200 pounds of coal, and 120-180 pounds of limestone per mattress, while requiring 75% less energy than primary steel production. The padding materials, including cotton, wool, and synthetic fibers, can be processed into insulation, carpet padding, or new textile products, achieving overall material recovery rates of 90-95%. Water conservation benefits include reducing the 25,000-40,000 gallons typically required for virgin steel production through utilizing recycled content. The steel spring recycling process is highly efficient, with magnetic separation allowing for rapid material sorting and processing. Economic incentives are strong, with steel springs commanding $150-300 per ton in scrap markets, making innerspring mattress recycling the most financially viable of all mattress types and supporting sustainable business models for recycling operations.
Estimated value: $8-20 scrap value for steel components; $75-300+ resale if excellent condition
- Flame retardant chemicals in fabric and foam
- Antimicrobial treatments on fabric surfaces
- Volatile organic compounds from adhesives
- Lead content in very old mattresses (pre-1980)