Rest Easy Melrose, Mattresses Will Soon Be Recyclable!

Beginning in September, mattresses and box springs in Melrose will be recycled thanks to a partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Green Mattress Recycling, LLC of Milford. This initiative will last through October 2022 with the potential to continue.

For the duration of the program, residents may schedule mattress or box spring pickup with the Department of Public Works for $25 per unit, or drop them off at the City Yard for $10 per unit, on Saturdays beginning September 4 through December 4.

Please note that mattresses will no longer be collected as trash.

Mattresses and box springs pose a waste disposal challenge, as they are difficult to transport, do not compact easily, and can get caught in incinerator processing equipment. At least 75% of mattress components can be recycled, but more often than not, these large items end up in landfills. As a result, MassDEP has proposed adding mattresses to the list of materials banned from disposal in Massachusetts. Environmental Outreach Coordinator, Lisa Scott, said this program will put Melrose ahead of the curve.

“Melrose is a regional leader in sustainability and waste management, and this collaboration with MassDEP and Green Mattress allows us to be proactive in responding to regulation changes,” said Scott. “Beyond the clear environmental benefits, this program has operational and administrative benefits as well.” 

Green Mattress disassembles mattresses and box springs, separating them into component parts fit for recycling: foam, fabrics and fibers, box springs and steel inner-springs, and wood, with an aim of recycling 95% of each unit.

All size mattresses, including crib mattresses, and all size box springs are part of this program. Each piece is considered one unit, no matter the size. The recycling program does not include futon mattresses, sofa bed mattresses, air or water beds, mattress pads and toppers, or pet beds. Metal and wood bed frames are not part of this program and will be discarded as a normal bulky item.

Residents interested in signing up for curbside pickup may do so through DPW, and Green Mattress will carry out the collection. Current available dates for curbside collection are Wednesday September 29 or Wednesday October 27 with more dates being added in the fall as the program develops.

Payment must be made in advance by check at the Resident Services Office at the City Yard (72 Tremont Street) or the Engineering Division in City Hall, Monday through Friday.

If you have questions, please contact Lisa Scott, Environmental Outreach Coordinator, at recycle@cityofmelrose.org or 781-665-0142.