The 2026 State of Mattress Removal Report

Executive Summary

About This Report: This analysis combines publicly available industry data from the Mattress Recycling Council, Product Stewardship Institute, and state regulatory agencies with proprietary operational data from A Bedder World's network of 7,500+ contractors across all 50 states. A Bedder World has processed over 1.15 million mattresses since 2011, providing unique ground-truth insights into actual removal costs and recycling outcomes.

Section 1: The True Cost of Mattress Removal in 2026

According to the Mattress Recycling Council, Americans discard more than 50,000 mattresses daily—roughly 18 million annually. The Product Stewardship Institute estimates that less than 10% are recycled nationally, with the rate dropping below 5% in states without mandatory recycling programs. Understanding disposal costs has never been more important as landfill tipping fees rise and more states consider recycling mandates.

1.1 National Cost Overview

According to HomeGuide and Angi pricing surveys, the national average for professional mattress removal falls between $100-$250. However, costs vary dramatically based on disposal method, mattress size, and geographic location.

A Bedder World's analysis of over 1.15 million mattress removals across all 50 states shows an average cost of $135. This reflects the company's focus on recycling-first disposal, which requires transportation to certified recycling facilities rather than the nearest landfill.

1.2 Cost by Service Type

A Bedder World Pricing Structure:

• Single mattress (curbside): $135 average
• Box spring add-on: $30-$40
• White glove in-home removal: +$50 (compared to curbside)
• Same-day service: +30%
• Stair carry: No additional charge
• Commercial/volume rates: $20-$30 per piece

1.3 Landfill Disposal Fees by Mattress Size

The following are typical landfill tipping fees for mattress disposal (self-haul only, does not include pickup service):

Note: Many landfills across the country have stopped accepting mattresses entirely or now charge significant premiums due to the space mattresses consume and their inability to decompose. These fees are rising annually and vary significantly by region.

A Bedder World charges a flat rate regardless of mattress size, with box springs at $30-$40 additional. This provides cost certainty compared to variable landfill fees and eliminates the need for self-transport.

1.4 Cost by Major Metro Market

A Bedder World's analysis of removal costs across 800+ US markets shows an average of $135, with significant regional variation driven by labor costs, landfill tipping fees, and local recycling regulations.

Most Expensive Markets:

• San Francisco Bay Area
• New York City metro
• Boston/Massachusetts
• Denver/Colorado
• Baltimore/Maryland

Most Affordable Markets:

• Florida (statewide)
• Georgia/Atlanta metro
• Arizona/Phoenix metro
• Illinois/Chicago area
• Texas (major metros)

The price disparity reflects a key market dynamic: states with mattress recycling programs (California, Connecticut, Colorado) have banned or restricted landfill disposal, forcing haulers to transport mattresses to certified recycling facilities. This increases costs but ensures proper recycling. Meanwhile, states like Florida still allow cheap landfill disposal, keeping prices lower but sending more mattresses to landfills.

1.5 What Drives Cost Variation

Based on industry research and A Bedder World operational experience, these factors most significantly impact removal pricing:

1. Geographic location — Labor costs, landfill tipping fees, and recycling facility availability vary dramatically. According to the Environmental Research & Education Foundation, Northeast states average $84.44/ton in tipping fees versus under $40/ton in Western and Southern states.
2. Access difficulty — Stairs, narrow hallways, and elevator requirements can add $20-$50 to base pricing.
3. Mattress condition — Heavily soiled, wet, or bed bug-infested mattresses require special handling, adding $25-$75 or resulting in refusal of service.
4. Volume discounts — Multiple mattresses typically reduce per-unit cost by 15-30%.
5. Urgency — Same-day service commands 20-50% premiums over scheduled pickups.
6. Disposal destination — Recycling-focused services may price differently than landfill-bound disposal.

A Bedder World Pricing Factors:

• Stair carry: No additional charge
• Same-day service: +30%
• White glove in-home removal: +$50 (vs. curbside pickup)
• Volume discount (commercial): $20-$30 per piece

1.6 Year-Over-Year Cost Trends

A Bedder World's pricing data from 2020-2025 shows an average annual increase of 4%, driven by:

• COVID-related service disruptions (2020-2021)
• Rapid inflation across labor and fuel costs (2021-2023)
• Increased landfill tipping fees nationwide
• Rising demand as consumers upgraded home furnishings during the pandemic

This 4% annual increase aligns with broader service industry trends and is expected to continue as landfill fees rise and more states consider recycling mandates.

Section 2: State Mattress Disposal Regulations

2.1 States with Mandatory Recycling Programs (EPR)

Four states have enacted Extended Producer Responsibility legislation requiring manufacturer-funded mattress recycling programs. These programs collect fees at point of sale and provide free disposal options statewide.

California — The Largest Program

Law: Used Mattress Recovery and Recycling Act (SB 254)
Effective: December 30, 2015
Program Operator: Mattress Recycling Council / Bye Bye Mattress

California law requires retailers to offer take-back of old mattresses within 30 days of new mattress delivery. The program has removed over 512,000 illegally dumped mattresses through its mitigation initiative.

A Bedder World provides mattress removal services throughout California, offering an alternative to self-transport drop-off for residents who prefer pickup service.

Connecticut — First in the Nation

Law: Public Act 13-42
Effective: May 1, 2015
Program Operator: Mattress Recycling Council / Bye Bye Mattress

Connecticut achieved the most dramatic recycling rate improvement: from 8.7% to 63.5% in the program's first year alone.

Rhode Island — Highest Current Fee

Law: General Law 23-90
Effective: May 2016
Program Operator: Mattress Recycling Council / Bye Bye Mattress

Oregon — Newest Program

Law: Senate Bill 1576 (Mattress Stewardship Act)
Effective: January 1, 2025
Program Operator: Mattress Recycling Council / Bye Bye Mattress

Oregon represents the newest EPR program, still building out collection infrastructure throughout 2025-2026.

2.2 States Considering Legislation

Massachusetts — Most likely to become the 5th EPR state

Massachusetts established an Extended Producer Responsibility Commission in November 2024 (Chapter 239 of the Climate Law) with recommendations due January 15, 2026. The state already banned mattress landfill disposal as of November 2022—the only state with such a prohibition without a corresponding EPR program.

• Active Bills: H.1023 and S.614
• Annual Mattress Disposal: ~600,000 units
• Current Recycling Rate: 66% (through fragmented local programs)
• Timeline: Legislation possible by mid-2026

Other States with Introduced Legislation:

2.3 States with Landfill Restrictions

Some states and municipalities restrict mattress disposal in landfills without comprehensive EPR programs:

• Massachusetts — Banned as of November 2022
• King County, WA — Banned from county landfills
• Various California counties — Local restrictions beyond state program

2.4 State-by-State Quick Reference

A Bedder World provides mattress removal services in all 50 states. The following table summarizes disposal regulations and options by state.

Important Note: Many landfills across the country have stopped accepting mattresses or now charge significant premium fees ($50-$200+) due to the space mattresses consume and difficulty processing them. Even in states without EPR laws, residents may find local landfill disposal increasingly difficult or expensive.

2.5 Illegal Dumping Penalties

States impose escalating penalties for illegal mattress dumping:

The Mattress Recycling Council invests approximately $1 million annually in illegal dumping mitigation, having removed over 512,000 illegally dumped mattresses in California since program inception.

Section 3: The Mattress Waste Crisis

3.1 Scale of the Problem

According to the Mattress Recycling Council and Product Stewardship Institute:

A Bedder World's Perspective on the Crisis:

A Bedder World has witnessed the mattress disposal challenge firsthand across all 50 states over 14 years. Key observations:

• Regional regulatory differences create price disparities: States with mattress recycling programs (California, Connecticut, Colorado, Oregon) have banned or restricted landfill disposal. This increases removal costs but ensures proper recycling. States like Florida still allow cheap landfill disposal, keeping prices lower but sending more mattresses to landfills.
• Landfill fees are rising everywhere: Many states without formal recycling laws have begun charging additional fees for mattress disposal at landfills. Mattresses don't break down and take up significant space, so landfills increasingly charge premium tipping fees or refuse them entirely.
• Infrastructure gaps remain the biggest challenge: A Bedder World is actively working to secure warehouses, transfer facilities, and recycling centers to handle demand, but there are not nearly enough mattress recycling facilities nationwide. The fact that mattresses can be recycled—yet the vast majority still end up in landfills—represents both a problem and an opportunity.

3.2 Environmental Impact

According to the Mattress Recycling Council's 2022 Life Cycle Analysis, each mattress that reaches a landfill rather than a recycling facility represents significant environmental cost:

Per Mattress Environmental Impact (recycling vs. landfill):

• Water saved: 500 gallons
• Energy saved: Enough to power a home for 3 days
• GHG reduction: Equivalent to 60 miles of driving
• Landfill space conserved: 23-40 cubic feet

Cumulative Impact of MRC Programs (2015-2025):

According to Mattress Recycling Council program reports, EPR programs have achieved:

• Materials diverted from landfills: 575+ million pounds
• Landfill space saved: 14.9 million cubic yards
• Total mattresses recycled: 15+ million units

Landfill Hazards:

Mattresses contain chemicals that pose environmental risks during decomposition:

• Flame retardants (PBDEs, TDCPP, antimony trioxide) — Leach into groundwater, bioaccumulate in food chain
• Volatile organic compounds — Released during foam breakdown
• Heavy metals — Present in some components

According to peer-reviewed research published in environmental science journals, flame retardant concentrations up to 133,000 ng/L have been detected in landfill leachate, with documented links to neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption.

3.3 Mattress Composition and Recyclability

According to the Mattress Recycling Council, a typical mattress contains the following recyclable components:

Recyclability by Mattress Type:

According to industry recyclers and MRC data, recovery rates vary significantly by mattress construction:

A Bedder World Mattress Type Breakdown (2024-2025):

Based on over 1.15 million mattresses processed:

• Innerspring: 55%
• Hybrid: 20%
• Memory foam: 15%
• Other (air beds, futons, etc.): 10%

Industry Trend Observed: While innerspring mattresses still dominate disposal volumes, A Bedder World has observed that "bed-in-a-box" foam and hybrid mattresses from online retailers appear to have shorter lifespans than traditional innerspring mattresses. The hybrid spring units used by many online retailers seem to break down more quickly, leading to faster mattress turnover and increased waste volume.

Additionally, the rise of "free trial periods" from online mattress retailers has created a new waste stream: essentially brand-new mattresses returned by customers testing multiple options. Companies like ShareTown have emerged to resell these returns through secondary marketplaces.

Section 4: Mattress Disposal Options

4.1 Free and Low-Cost Options

EPR State Drop-Off (CA, CT, RI, OR)

• Cost: Free
• Requirements: Resident of participating state
• Process: Locate drop-off via ByeByeMattress.com, transport mattress yourself
• Pros: No cost, guaranteed recycling
• Cons: Self-transport required

Municipal Bulk Pickup

• Cost: $0-$30 (varies by city)
• Requirements: Schedule in advance, place at curb
• Process: Call city waste department or schedule online
• Pros: Convenient, low cost
• Cons: Not available everywhere, may go to landfill

Retailer Haul-Away

• Cost: $0-$200 (often free with premium purchases)
• Requirements: Purchase new mattress
• Process: Request at time of purchase
• Pros: Convenient, no extra trip
• Cons: Only available with new purchase

Charity Donation

• Cost: Free (if accepted)
• Requirements: Mattress must be in good condition—clean, no tears, no stains, no bed bugs
• Organizations: Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Salvation Army (1-800-SA-TRUCK), local shelters
• Pros: Helps others, free pickup possible
• Cons: Strict condition requirements, many organizations don't accept mattresses

4.2 Paid Professional Options

Dedicated Mattress Removal Services

• Cost: $50-$150
• Examples: A Bedder World, local recyclers
• Pros: Recycling-focused, specialized expertise
• Cons: May have limited geographic coverage

A Bedder World Service Details:

• Service area: All 50 states, with hubs in 800+ major cities
• Average pricing: $135 for single mattress (curbside)
• Box spring: $30-$40 additional
• White glove in-home removal: +$50
• Scheduling: Next-day pickup typically available
• Recycling commitment: 85% recycled, 10% donated, 5% landfilled
• Documentation: Recycling receipt provided

Junk Removal Companies

• Cost: $100-$250
• Major providers:
  • 1-800-GOT-JUNK: $130-$150 minimum, $200+ for king-size mattresses (volume-based)
  • College Hunks Hauling Junk: $100-$200+ (truckload-based)
  • LoadUp: $89 minimum, averages closer to $150 (itemized)
• Pros: Widely available, same-day often possible
• Cons: Higher cost, may not prioritize recycling

Self-Haul to Landfill/Transfer Station

• Cost: $50-$200 (tipping fees vary widely)
• Requirements: Vehicle capable of transport, physical ability to load
• Pros: Lower cost if landfill still accepts mattresses
• Cons: Labor required, mattress goes to landfill, many facilities now refuse mattresses or charge premium fees

Dumpster Rental

• Cost: $280-$500 per week
• Best for: Multiple items, home cleanouts
• Note: Some areas prohibit mattresses in dumpsters

4.3 Retailer Haul-Away Programs

Note: All retailer haul-away programs require purchase of a new mattress. These are not standalone removal services.

California Legal Requirement: Retailers must offer free take-back within 30 days of new mattress delivery.

4.4 Mattress Removal Service Comparison

When choosing a mattress removal service, consider cost, recycling commitment, and service model:

Note: 1-800-GOT-JUNK minimum is $130-$150, but king-size mattresses typically cost $200+. LoadUp advertises $89 minimum but averages closer to $150. Mattress Firm only offers removal with new mattress purchase.

Key Differentiators:

A Bedder World vs. General Junk Removal (1-800-GOT-JUNK, College Hunks)

• Junk haulers charge based on truck space, making single mattress removal expensive ($200+ for larger mattresses)
• General haulers prioritize convenience over recycling—many mattresses go to landfill
• A Bedder World specializes in mattresses with 85% recycling rate and 10% donation rate

A Bedder World vs. LoadUp

• Both offer transparent, per-item pricing
• A Bedder World provides coverage in all 50 states through 7,500+ contractor network; LoadUp limited to 50+ metros
• A Bedder World emphasizes recycling and eco-friendly disposal with 85% diversion rate

A Bedder World vs. DIY Options

• Municipal pickup is cheaper but may take weeks to schedule and mattresses typically go to landfill
• EPR drop-off is free but requires self-transport
• A Bedder World offers next-day pickup while prioritizing recycling

4.5 What NOT to Do

Illegal Dumping

• Fines range from $500 to $50,000 depending on state
• Possible jail time for repeat offenders
• Vehicle may be impounded or forfeited

Burning

• Releases toxic fumes (flame retardants, synthetic materials)
• Illegal in most jurisdictions
• Fire hazard

Leaving at Curb Without Scheduling

• May result in fines
• Creates neighborhood blight
• Often not collected

Section 5: Commercial Mattress Disposal

5.1 The Hotel Industry Challenge

The hospitality industry presents unique challenges in mattress disposal due to volume requirements and operational constraints. Major hotel chains typically replace mattresses every 7-10 years, though luxury properties may refresh more frequently to maintain brand standards.

Scale of Commercial Disposal:

• Marriott International: ~1.4 million rooms globally requiring periodic mattress replacement
• Hilton Worldwide: ~1.1 million rooms across 6,800+ properties
• IHG (Holiday Inn, etc.): ~900,000 rooms in 6,000+ hotels
• Hyatt: ~245,000 rooms in 1,150+ properties

Based on industry data from A Bedder World's commercial partnerships, major hotel renovation projects typically involve:

5.2 Commercial vs. Residential Pricing

Commercial mattress disposal pricing differs significantly from residential due to volume discounts, logistics complexity, and documentation requirements:

Additional Commercial Considerations:

• Coordination costs: Projects require advance scheduling around guest operations
• Documentation: Chain hotels often require detailed recycling certificates
• Logistics complexity: Multi-story buildings, service elevator restrictions
• Timing constraints: Work must often occur during specific hours or renovation windows

5.3 Hotel Industry Recycling Initiatives

Several major hotel chains have implemented mattress recycling programs as part of broader sustainability initiatives:

Marriott International's "Serve 360" Program:

• Target: Divert 45% of waste from landfills by 2025
• Partnerships with regional recycling facilities
• Pilot programs for mattress component reuse in new properties

Hilton's "Travel with Purpose" Initiative:

• Goal: Cut environmental footprint in half by 2030
• Furniture and mattress donation programs
• Regional partnerships with social enterprises for refurbishment

IHG's "Journey to Tomorrow" Plan:

• Zero waste to landfill target for corporate offices by 2030
• Property-level recycling incentives
• Partnerships with local recycling organizations

5.4 Other Commercial Segments

Healthcare Facilities:

• Hospitals: 15-25 mattresses per 100 beds annually
• Nursing homes: 20-30 mattresses per 100 beds annually
• Special handling requirements for infection control
• Documentation for regulatory compliance

Educational Institutions:

• Universities: ~10,000-50,000 mattresses per major renovation cycle
• Dormitory upgrades typically every 8-12 years
• Student housing operators: 15-20% annual turnover in some markets

Military and Government:

• Barracks renovations: 500-2,000 mattresses per project
• Strict documentation and security requirements
• Often require certified destruction for security reasons

5.5 Commercial Documentation

Commercial clients typically require comprehensive documentation that includes:

• Certificates of Recycling: Proof of environmental diversion from landfills
• Weight tickets: Detailed tracking of material volumes
• Chain of custody: Documentation from pickup to final disposition
• Compliance reporting: Support for sustainability reporting and certifications
• Insurance coverage: Liability protection during removal and transport

A Bedder World provides detailed documentation packages that meet corporate sustainability reporting requirements, including data that clients can use for LEED certification points and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting.

Section 6: What Happens to Recycled Mattresses

6.1 The Recycling Process

Mattress recycling involves systematic disassembly to recover valuable materials. The process typically follows these steps:

1. Collection and Transport

• Specialized vehicles transport mattresses to recycling facilities
• Proper handling prevents damage that could reduce recovery rates
• Some facilities require mattresses to be dry and relatively clean

2. Initial Inspection and Sorting

• Mattresses assessed for contamination, mold, or pest infestation
• Severely damaged units may be rejected for landfill disposal
• Different mattress types (innerspring, foam, hybrid) sorted for appropriate processing

3. Dismantling Process

• Fabric removal: Quilted top and sides stripped manually or with specialized tools
• Foam extraction: Polyurethane foam layers separated and collected
• Spring extraction: Steel coils removed from innerspring mattresses
• Wood processing: Box spring wood frames broken down for separate recovery

4. Material Processing

6.2 Recycling Rates and Reality

While mattresses contain 75-90% recyclable materials by weight, actual recycling rates vary significantly by region and infrastructure availability:

Material Recovery Rates in Practice:

Based on data from A Bedder World's processing partnerships, actual material recovery varies significantly:

• Steel springs: Nearly 100% recovery rate - highly valuable and easy to process
• Foam materials: 70-85% recovery, with quality depending on age and contamination
• Fabric materials: 40-60% recovery due to contamination and mixed fiber types
• Wood frames: 85-95% recovery, primarily used for biomass or composite materials

Economic Factors Affecting Recycling:

• Steel market prices: When steel prices are high, recycling becomes more economically viable
• Transportation costs: Distance to processing facilities can exceed material value
• Labor intensity: Manual disassembly requires significant labor investment
• Contamination issues: Mold, pests, or excessive wear can render materials unrecoverable

6.3 Challenges in Mattress Recycling

Technical Challenges:

• Complex construction: Modern mattresses use multiple adhesives and composite materials
• Fire retardants: Chemical treatments can limit recycling options for some materials
• Hybrid designs: Memory foam and latex combinations require specialized processing
• Contamination: Bodily fluids, allergens, and pest infestations pose health and processing challenges

Economic Challenges:

• Labor-intensive process: Disassembly requires skilled manual labor
• Facility infrastructure: Specialized equipment and space requirements
• Market volatility: Commodity prices for recovered materials fluctuate significantly
• Competition with landfills: In many regions, landfill tipping fees are lower than recycling costs

Regulatory and Logistical Challenges:

• Transportation regulations: Bulk mattress transport requires specialized vehicles
• Health department requirements: Used bedding regulations vary by state and locality
• Facility siting: NIMBY concerns and zoning restrictions limit facility development
• Seasonal variations: Higher disposal volumes during spring cleaning and moving seasons

Innovation in Mattress Recycling:

• Automated disassembly: Some facilities are developing mechanical separation systems
• Chemical recycling: Research into breaking down polyurethane foam to base chemicals
• Design for recycling: Mattress manufacturers exploring easier-to-disassemble designs
• Regional processing hubs: Centralized facilities serving multiple states to achieve economies of scale

Section 7: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does professional mattress removal typically cost?

A: Residential mattress removal typically costs $125-$180 per mattress, depending on location and service level. Commercial volume pricing ranges from $45-$140 per unit based on quantity. Additional fees may apply for stairs, difficult access, or same-day service in markets where available.

Q: Can I get mattress removal for free?

A: Free options include:

• Municipal bulk waste collection (varies by city, often 1-2 times per year)
• Retailer haul-away programs when purchasing a new mattress ($25-$100 fee typical)
• Charity pickup for mattresses in good condition (Salvation Army, Goodwill in some areas)
• EPR state programs (California, Connecticut, Rhode Island) that include disposal fees in mattress purchase price

Q: What happens to my old mattress after removal?

A: In EPR states (CA, CT, RI), 65-77% of mattresses are recycled into component materials like steel springs, foam padding, and fiber filling. In other states, recycling rates are much lower (5-30%), with most mattresses going to landfills. Professional services like A Bedder World prioritize recycling when facilities are available.

Q: How far in advance should I schedule mattress removal?

A: Most professional services require 24-48 hours notice for scheduling. Peak moving seasons (spring/summer) may require longer lead times. Emergency or same-day service may be available in some markets for an additional fee.

Q: Will the removal service take my mattress if it has bed bugs or stains?

A: Policies vary by service provider. Many companies will remove stained or worn mattresses but may charge additional fees or require special handling. Severe infestations or health hazards may result in refusal of service. Always disclose condition when scheduling.

Q: Can I put my mattress on the curb for regular trash pickup?

A: This varies by municipality. Many cities prohibit mattresses in regular trash and require bulk waste scheduling. Some areas have specific collection days or require advance registration. Check with your local waste management department for specific rules.

Q: What should I do to prepare for mattress pickup?

A: Preparation steps include:

• Remove all bedding and linens
• Clear pathways for removal crew
• Inform service of any access challenges (stairs, narrow hallways)
• Be present or arrange for someone to be available during pickup window
• Have payment ready if not prepaid

Q: Are there mattress types that can't be recycled?

A: Challenges exist for:

• Water-damaged mattresses (mold, severe contamination)
• Mattresses with extensive pest infestations
• Some specialty foams and composites
• Mattresses with certain fire retardant chemicals
• Extremely old mattresses where materials have degraded

Q: What's the environmental impact of mattress disposal?

A: A single mattress takes 23-40 cubic feet of landfill space and can take 80-120 years to decompose. In the US, approximately 15-20 million mattresses are disposed of annually. Recycling can divert 75-90% of materials from landfills, but infrastructure limitations mean most still end up in landfills outside EPR states.

Q: Can I donate my used mattress?

A: Mattress donation is heavily regulated due to health codes. Many charities no longer accept used mattresses due to sanitation concerns and liability issues. Some options include:

• Local homeless shelters (call first to check policies)
• Animal shelters for use as pet bedding
• Furniture banks in some communities
• College dorm swap programs

Q: How do EPR programs work?

A: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs in California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island require mattress manufacturers to fund recycling infrastructure. Consumers pay a fee ($10.50-$16.25) when purchasing new mattresses, which funds collection and recycling programs. This has achieved recycling rates of 65-77% in participating states.

Q: What should I look for in a mattress removal service?

A: Key factors include:

• Proper licensing and insurance
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Commitment to responsible disposal/recycling
• Flexible scheduling options
• Good customer reviews and Better Business Bureau rating
• Clear policies on access challenges and condition requirements

Q: Is it illegal to dump a mattress?

A: Yes, illegal dumping of mattresses is prohibited in all states and can result in significant fines ($500-$50,000+) depending on jurisdiction and repeat offenses. Many states also impose vehicle forfeiture penalties for repeat violations. Always use legal disposal methods.

Section 8: Industry Outlook 2026-2027

8.1 Regulatory Trends

Extended Producer Responsibility Expansion:

Following the success of EPR programs in California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, several states are considering similar legislation:

• New York: Assembly Bill A5829 proposes comprehensive EPR for mattresses and furniture
• Massachusetts: H.851 includes mattresses in expanded EPR framework
• Washington: SB 5144 under consideration for 2026 implementation
• New Jersey: A2178 proposes regional EPR program potentially including neighboring states

Municipal Regulation Changes:

• Increasing cities implementing mattress landfill bans (Portland, Seattle, San Francisco)
• Enhanced illegal dumping enforcement with camera surveillance programs
• Mandatory recycling content reporting for waste management companies
• Integration of mattress disposal tracking with property transfer requirements

8.2 Market Consolidation Trends

Professional Service Industry:

The mattress removal industry is experiencing consolidation as regional operators scale to meet growing demand:

• Technology adoption: Companies investing in booking platforms, route optimization, and customer management systems
• Regional expansion: Successful operators expanding to adjacent markets through acquisition and franchise models
• Specialization: Companies developing expertise in commercial contracts, healthcare facilities, and hospitality clients
• Vertical integration: Some companies acquiring or partnering with recycling facilities to control entire value chain

Recycling Infrastructure Development:

• Investment in automated dismantling technology to reduce labor costs
• Development of regional processing hubs serving multiple states
• Partnerships between recycling facilities and end-use manufacturers
• Mobile processing units for rural and underserved markets

8.3 Technology and Innovation

Recycling Technology Advances:

• Automated disassembly: Robotic systems for consistent material separation
• Chemical recycling: Breaking down polyurethane foam to base chemicals for reuse
• Material recovery optimization: AI-driven sorting to maximize component value
• Contamination detection: Advanced screening systems for health and safety compliance

Industry Software Solutions:

• Integrated logistics platforms connecting consumers, removal services, and recycling facilities
• Blockchain tracking for complete chain-of-custody documentation
• Predictive analytics for demand forecasting and capacity planning
• Mobile apps for real-time scheduling and customer communication

8.4 Economic Projections

Market Size Forecasts:

Pricing Trend Analysis:

• Residential services: Expect 3-5% annual increases due to labor and fuel costs
• Commercial services: Volume discounts likely to increase as competition intensifies
• EPR program impact: States with EPR programs may see reduced consumer costs as infrastructure scales
• Rural markets: Transportation cost pressures likely to maintain higher pricing

8.5 Environmental Impact Goals

Industry Recycling Targets:

• 2026 Goal: Achieve 50% national recycling rate (up from current ~25%)
• 2027 Goal: Establish recycling infrastructure within 100 miles of 80% of US population
• Long-term Vision: 75% recycling rate by 2030 through combined policy and infrastructure development

Circular Economy Integration:

• Mattress manufacturers developing take-back programs independent of EPR requirements
• Research into bio-based and fully recyclable mattress components
• Partnerships between recycling facilities and manufacturers for closed-loop material recovery
• Consumer education initiatives promoting repair, refurbishment, and responsible disposal

8.6 Challenges and Opportunities

Key Industry Challenges:

• Labor shortage: Difficulty recruiting and retaining workers for physically demanding roles
• Infrastructure gaps: Limited recycling capacity outside major metropolitan areas
• Economic volatility: Commodity price fluctuations affecting recycling viability
• Regulatory uncertainty: Varying state and local requirements creating operational complexity

Emerging Opportunities:

• Corporate partnerships: Growing demand from hotels, healthcare, and housing operators
• Government contracts: Military, university, and public housing renovation projects
• Technology licensing: Successful companies licensing systems and processes
• International expansion: Exporting US recycling technology and business models

Strategic Recommendations:

• For service providers: Invest in technology and regional expansion while EPR momentum builds
• For recycling facilities: Develop partnerships with end-use manufacturers to secure demand for recovered materials
• For policymakers: Support EPR expansion while addressing rural infrastructure gaps through regional coordination
• For consumers: Research local options and support services committed to environmental responsibility

The mattress removal industry stands at a critical juncture, with regulatory support, technological innovation, and environmental awareness creating unprecedented opportunities for growth and positive impact. Success will depend on industry players' ability to scale responsibly while maintaining service quality and environmental commitments.

Methodology

Data Sources

Primary Sources:

• Mattress Recycling Council program reports and statistics
• Product Stewardship Institute policy research
• California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) budget documents
• State legislation and regulatory filings
• EPA waste characterization studies

Secondary Sources:

• HomeGuide, Angi, Fixr, HomeAdvisor cost surveys
• International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) market data
• Industry trade publications (Furniture Today, Sleep Savvy, Waste360)
• Academic research on mattress recycling and environmental impact

Proprietary Data:

• A Bedder World operational records from 1.15+ million mattress removals
• Contractor network reporting across all 50 states (7,500+ contractors)
• Customer transaction data 2011-2025

A Bedder World Data Methodology:

• Time period: 2011-2025 (14 years of operational data)
• Total transactions analyzed: 1,154,000+ mattress removals
• Geographic coverage: All 50 states, 800+ city hubs
• Data collection: Aggregated from contractor network reporting and customer transaction records

Limitations

• Industry-wide data relies on aggregator estimates with varying methodologies
• Non-EPR state recycling rates are estimates due to lack of mandatory reporting
• Regional pricing variations may not capture all local market factors
• "Bed-in-a-box" category tracking is imprecise across data sources

About A Bedder World

A Bedder World offers mattress removal services throughout the United States, providing pickup and recycling for residential customers and commercial clients across all 50 states. The company operates a nationwide network of 7,500+ contractors, enabling service coverage in 800+ major city hubs from coast to coast.

Founded in 2011, A Bedder World has processed over 1.15 million mattresses, making it one of the largest dedicated mattress removal services in the country. Unlike general junk removal companies, A Bedder World focuses exclusively on mattress removal with a commitment to recycling and responsible disposal.

Diversion Rate: 85% recycled at certified facilities, 10% donated to charitable organizations, 5% landfilled (damaged/contaminated only).

Commercial clients include hotel chains such as Marriott (300+ locations) and 500+ other brand relationships, municipal/city governments, transfer stations, final mile logistics companies, and furniture retailers. The company has processed over 500,000 commercial mattresses from 1,000+ commercial properties.

Residential customers can schedule pickup online or by phone, with next-day service typically available. Pricing averages $135 for single mattress curbside removal, with box springs at $30-$40 additional. White glove in-home removal is available for an additional $50.

Appendices

Appendix A: EPR Program Comparison

Appendix B: Cost Quick Reference

*Includes same-day (+30%) or white glove in-home service (+$50)