Mattresses In Melrose Will Soon Be Recyclable

MELROSE, MA — Old mattresses and box springs in Melrose will no longer be thrown in the trash but instead recycled thanks to a partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and Green Mattress Recycling, LLC of Milford.

This new program will last through October 2022, with the potential to continue.

Melrose residents may schedule mattress or box spring pickup with the Department of Public Works for $25 per item, or drop them off at the City Yard for $10 per unit on Saturdays starting September 4 and continuing through December 4.

The town of Melrose says mattresses and box springs pose a waste disposal challenge, as they are difficult to transport, do not compact easily, and can get caught in incinerator processing equipment.

As a result, MassDEP has considered adding mattresses to the list of materials banned from disposal in Massachusetts.

Environmental Outreach Coordinator, Lisa Scott, says this program will put Melrose ahead of the curve. "Melrose is a regional leader in sustainability and waste management, and this collaboration with MassDEP and Green Mattress allows us to be proactive in responding to regulation changes," said Scott. "Beyond the clear environmental benefits, this program has operational and administrative benefits as well."

If you're interested in signing up for curbside pickup, you can do so with the DPW, and Green Mattress will take care of the rest.

The current available dates for curbside pickup are Wednesday, September 29, or Wednesday, October 27 with more dates being added in the fall as the program grows.

Payment must be made in advance by check at the Resident Services Office at the City Yard located at 72 Tremont Street, or the Engineering Division in City Hall, Monday through Friday.

If you have any questions, contact Lisa Scott at 781-665-0142 or recycle@cityofmelrose.org.