20 Fun Facts About Sofa Bed

Because one old mattress can occupy 40 cubic feet or more in a landfill, mattresses are an obvious


And although 80 percent of these components can be recycled, not everyone
makes the effort. That's one reason Rhode Island has become the third state to require that
Mattresses be recycled linking California and Connecticut. And at least 20 other nations have

Rhode Island launches its approved recycling strategy on May 1. It's operated by Bye Bye Mattress,
Which was created by the Mattress Recycling Council. In the three states where recycling is
Compulsory, mattress retailers are adding a $10 recycling fee to the price of every mattress sold.
At least 20 million mattresses and box springs are discarded every year. In addition to being better
There are Tons of
Materials to glean from a dismantled mattress, a process that's typically done by hand. Steel from

padding. Wood from box springs can be made into wood chips for mulch. And fiber is reprocessed
For any number of uses, like filters for industrial equipment.
Even if you don't live in a state that requires mattress recycling, check the Bye Bye Mattress
Database to find the recycling center closest to you.
That's for when you knock out an mattress, but you certainly don't want to unknowingly buy one. Be
aware that some smaller, lesser-known stores could be selling used mattresses. To avoid ending up
with someone else's old mattress, always look for the label "All New Material" on the tag. And if a
mattress is delivered to you without that tag, don't accept it.
Need a New Mattress?
Among top picks from Consumer Reports' Ratings of dozens of mattresses are the innerspring Sealy
Posturepedic Hybrid Elite Kelburn, $1,350, which had impressive support for side sleepers, and the
Bargain-priced Denver Mattress Doctor's Choice, $500, which had fine back support as well. For a
foam bed, both side and back sleepers should appreciate the Novaform 14" Serafina Pearl Gel,
$800 at Costco. And consider the $800 Sleep Number c2 Bed if you'd like an adjustable-air
mattress. See our mattress buying guide when you haven't shopped for a mattress in many years.