City of Charleston piloting free mattress recycling program
February 18, 2021
The city of Charleston recently received grant funding from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control to pilot a mattress and box spring recycling program for city residents.
Why it matters: Due to their padding and springs, mattresses don’t compact well and can therefore waste valuable space in already overwhelmed landfills. But, most mattresses are about 90 percent recyclable. Rather than creating unnecessary waste, mattresses can be disassembled and the steel, wood and foam inside can be repurposed for items like bicycle spokes, bookshelves and moving pads.
How it works: City of Charleston residents can recycle their mattresses via one of the following methods:
1. Drop off: City residents can drop off mattresses and box springs for free at 2150 Milford Street on the first and third Monday of each month between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. (limit four pieces per vehicle). Proof of residency may be requested. Due to COVID-19, participants are reminded to wear a mask and practice safe social distancing.
2. Pick up: For a fee, residents can schedule pick up of these items through a private contractor by visiting bedshred.com.
Mattresses and box springs must be dry with no bed bugs. Waterbeds and air mattresses are not accepted and should be disposed of curbside on residents’ assigned trash collection day.
Learn more: For more information on the mattress recycling pilot program, please visit https://www.charleston-sc.gov/mattress-recycling.
