A mattress accompanies us for many years – but eventually, it's served its purpose. Every year, large quantities of old mattresses accumulate. If you want to act sustainably, you shouldn't just dispose of them in the general waste, but rather send them for recycling.
The short answer: Old mattresses can be recycled by separating and reusing their materials. The most sustainable way to dispose of them is through a collection/recycling service or an official disposal facility. Additionally, a longer lifespan and reconditioned mattresses help save resources.
Key takeaways
- Mattresses do not belong in general waste; they should be recycled.
- During recycling, foam, textiles, and metal are separated for reuse.
- A collection service is the most convenient sustainable option.
- Longer lifespan and reconditioned mattresses save resources.
Why mattress recycling is important
Mattresses are bulky and consist of several materials that decompose poorly. If they end up in general waste, valuable raw materials are lost, and an unnecessary amount of waste is created. Recycling returns most materials to the cycle – this conserves resources and protects the environment.
What happens during mattress recycling
In the recycling process, the mattress is disassembled into its components: foams can be reprocessed and reused, while textiles and metal (e.g., from springs) are collected separately and sent for their respective recycling. This turns a bulky waste item back into raw material.
How to sustainably dispose of your old mattress
| Option | Advantage | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Collection/Recycling Service | Convenient, directly with new mattress delivery | Often available as an additional option |
| Official Disposal Facility | Professional recycling | Arrange transport yourself |
| Bulky Waste Collection | Simple | Recycling not always optimal |
You can find detailed instructions for Switzerland in the article Disposing of a mattress.
Sleeping more sustainably: Extending lifespan
The most sustainable mattress is one that lasts a long time. Good care significantly extends its lifespan – see Mattress care. And when a replacement is truly necessary, the article How often should you change your mattress? clarifies.
Reconditioned mattresses: Saving resources
Another lever is reconditioned mattresses: Tested returns receive a brand-new cover and a second life instead of being discarded. The Ora Ultra Second Life is exactly such an option – tested Ora Ultra mattresses with new covers that conserve resources. Additionally, Ora offers a collection service for your old mattress, ensuring it is properly recycled.
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Sustainable options from Ora
With the Ora Ultra Second Life, you give a tested mattress a second life. And when you buy a new Ora Ultra, your old mattress can be properly recycled via the collection service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mattress Recycling
Can mattresses be recycled?
Yes. During recycling, foams, textiles, and metal are separated and reused. This keeps most materials in the cycle.
What's the best way to dispose of my old mattress?
The most convenient way is through a collection/recycling service when your new mattress is delivered, or alternatively, through an official disposal facility. This ensures proper recycling.
What is a reconditioned mattress?
A tested, returned mattress that is fitted with a brand-new cover and given a second life – this saves resources.
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