Today on World Recycling Day we are going to talk about something as important as the recycling of mattresses. It is estimated that in Spain approximately 15 million mattresses are thrown away every year, for this reason it is essential that we do not forget about recycling, as it affects the environment. There is the option of contacting the city council of our city and ask them about the furniture collection policy, they usually have established different days. On the other hand, we can also contact them directly so that the municipal cleaning services come to our house and take away the mattress we want to remove. Recycling is within everyone’s reach, and thanks to this it is possible that the mattresses we want to remove can be taken away. mattresses enjoy a second life, 90% of the components of a mattress are reusable and recyclable. Some examples:
- The wood is used to make wood chips for use in heating, sawdust, as well as to make chipboard.
- Polyurethane or sponge can be used to manufacture fillers, insulators or to produce by-products by compacting with adhesive.
- The fabric covering is reused to make textiles or to generate electricity in the biofuel industry.
With the recycling of mattresses we can avoid contamination and harmful effects on the environment. Also, there is a decrease of garbage in landfills and streets, therefore less risk of fires or for our health. The life of a mattress is approximately 10 years according to Asocama (Spanish Bed Association). If you are a creative person, you can use your old mattress to give an original touch to your home, for example by creating a wall planter or a ceiling lamp among many other options. What is clear is that whether you are creative or not, you should never think of leaving your old mattress on the street or in a dumpster without notifying to be picked up, actions of this type are punishable. Remember, something as simple as recycling, and in this case mattress recycling, is within everyone’s reach.
