The Shocking Truth About Old Mattresses

When you crawl into bed, the last thing on your mind is probably the age or health of your mattress. But did you know- an old mattress can silently affect both your sleep quality and overall health. 

As mattresses age, they don’t just lose their firmness — they also become a hotspot for dust mites, which are known allergens. These tiny creatures can exacerbate asthma and allergies, leading to disrupted sleep and discomfort. Moreover, the structural wear and tear that old mattresses endure can result in inadequate spinal support, causing aches and pains. 

And beyond health, an ageing mattress can also prove heavy on the pocket, leading to increased expenditure on remedies for sleep-related issues or frequent replacements of beddings. If you're constantly waking up tired or sore, it's time to examine what's beneath those sheets.

How Long Do Mattresses Last?

Think your mattress will last a lifetime just because it was a pricey purchase? Not necessarily. Mattresses, like everything else, have an expiration date. Ultimately, they're built to last 7-10 years, but this isn't a one-size-fits-all figure. The material of the mattress, be it memory foam, innerspring, or latex, plays a significant role in determining its longevity. 

For instance, while latex mattresses boast durability and can often outlast their counterparts, innerspring mattresses might sag or lose support faster. Furthermore, how you maintain and use your mattress – rotating it, using a mattress protector, or even the weight it regularly supports – can either add to or subtract from its lifespan. More about that below:

Going In Depth On The Hidden Hazards Lurking in Old Mattresses

Here are just some of the things that you can encounter in your old mattress. 

First, dust mites. These tiny tenants thrive in older mattresses, feeding off dead skin cells. While they might seem harmless, they're notorious for triggering allergies, asthma flare-ups, and skin irritations. 

Second, mold and mildew. If you've ever spilled water on your bed or live in a humid climate, your mattress might be secretly harboring these fungi. Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory issues and allergic reactions. 

The structural integrity can be compromised too. Over time, the core support of a mattress deteriorates, making it uneven. The result? Potential back pain and disrupted sleep. And in the summer, when you sweat alot, bacteria and odors get trapped, creating an unsavory sleep environment. 

When Should You Throw Out Your Old Mattress?

Are you constantly waking up with stiffness or body aches? A sagging or lumpy mattress could be the culprit, offering uneven support. If your allergies seem to flare up more frequently in bed, accumulated allergens in the mattress might be to blame. And if you find that you sleep better elsewhere – say, a hotel or a friend's place – that could be a telltale sign. For the sake of your health, comfort, and even your mood, knowing when to upgrade is key. According to The Sleep Foundation, it's recommended to replace your mattress every 6 to 8 years.

What To Do With Your Old Mattress

Upgrading to a new mattress can leave you with the challenge of disposing of the old one. Tossing it in a landfill should be your last resort because mattresses take up a lot of space and can take years to decompose. Instead, consider these more eco-friendly and practical alternatives:

1. Donation: Many charities and shelters accept used mattresses that are still in good condition. Before donating, ensure it’s free from bed bugs and significant wear. Organizations like The Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity often offer pick-up services for large items.
   
   
2. Recycling: Over 80% of a typical mattress's components (like steel, foam, and fibers) can be recycled. Find a local mattress recycling facility or program. They can break down the mattress and reuse its parts for various applications, from carpet underlays to scrap metal.
   
   
3. Repurposing: Get creative! An old mattress can find new life in numerous DIY projects. Use the foam for pet beds, or repurpose the springs for a garden trellis. There are countless ways to give an old mattress a second lease on life.
   
   
4. Sell or Give Away: If your mattress is still in decent shape, consider selling it on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp. Alternatively, you can give it away for free; many communities have local groups where members give away items they no longer need.
   
   
5. Return to Manufacturer: Some mattress companies have take-back programs. They’ll reclaim old mattresses (sometimes for a fee) and ensure they’re either recycled or disposed of responsibly.
   
   
6. Composting: While it's a bit unconventional, certain parts of your mattress, particularly natural latex and some foams, can be composted. Do check with local composting guidelines first.

New California Law Puts the Spotlight on Mattress Retailers

The State of California has always been at the forefront of enacting progressive and environmentally-friendly legislation. Taking a stride in this direction, as of January 1, 2021, an amendment has been made to California law, SB 254. This revision underscores the responsibility of online mattress retailers in the state. Here’s what you need to know:

If you’re an online mattress retailer facilitating deliveries within California, you are now mandated to offer a pick-up service for your client’s old mattress. And this isn’t a "get to it when you can" scenario – the law specifies a window of 30 days post-delivery to ensure this pick-up takes place.

For retailers serving clients in the Bay Area, there's an efficient way to meet this mandate without the logistical headaches. Instead of building an in-house pick-up team, partnering with expert mattress removal companies can be a savvy move.

Need a Hand with Your Mattresses? The Mattress Experts Are Here!

Own a hotel, hospital, apartment complex, or storefront? Have a bulk of mattresses that need to be cleared out? Don't let them gather dust or take up unnecessary space. The Mattress Guy offers a seamless bulk pick-up service specially designed for businesses like yours. We don’t just pick them up; we ensure they're recycled responsibly.

Remember, discarding mattresses isn’t as simple as leaving them out with your regular trash. They require special handling, and with our expertise, we make the process hassle-free for you. By choosing The Mattress Guy, not only are you opting for an efficient removal service but you're also making an eco-friendly choice.

Ready to declutter and do your bit for the environment? Give our team a ring at (415) 577-3668 or shoot us an email. Let's make the world a cleaner place, one mattress at a time!