Mattresses are notoriously difficult to recycle and take up a lot of space in landfills. However, the recycling industry has been working to reduce the environmental impact of mattresses by implementing specialised recycling programs. Governments around the world have also recognised the issue and are encouraging Stewardship Programs to address it.
In Australia, for example, the Government is working with the mattress industry to establish the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council (ABSC). Similarly, the EU, UK, and USA have adopted similar programs. Manufacturers and retailers are also being called upon to play their part in finding sustainable solutions to this global challenge.
For the general public and mattress retailers to increase the amount of recovered material from the mattress, they must ensure that Steam Cleaning is identified as a cause for concern. Mattress manufacturers clearly state on their care label that water, fluids, chemicals and detergents should be avoided but there is no government body enforcing the rule.
