Mattresses are problematic for landfills. They take up space, don't compress well, are fire hazards, and can damage equipment. Additionally, they contain non-biodegradable materials and hazardous chemicals that can contaminate water. That's why disposing of them costs extra. And yet, nearly 20 million mattresses are disposed of every year. 

This staggering amount of waste highlights the importance of participating in sustainable practices. By choosing to recycle your mattress, you are reducing the strain on landfills and transforming discarded materials into valuable resources that go straight back into our community.  

Spring Back Utah, a non-profit organization based in Salt Lake City, is leading the charge in this initiative. They have demonstrated that as much as 95% of a mattress, including the foam and other materials, can be recycled — turning what was once considered waste into something new and useful.  

As Earth Day approaches and we all look for ways to give back, discover how recycling makes a difference in your community.  

Materials are Given New Life 

Every mattress that arrives at the facility undergoes careful deconstruction and sorting. This process ensures that as much of the mattress as possible is reused. The metal, including all the springs and coils from mattresses and box springs, is transformed into rebar. This rebar is then used to strengthen roads and infrastructure in Utah. 

The wood from the frame is repurposed into playground mulch or used as fill, contributing to the creation of safer and more sustainable community spaces. The plastic wrapping that was once used to protect the mattress is also given a second life by being transformed into new plastic products.  

Even the pillow top layers of mattresses are given a new life as carpet pads. This leaves only the edging material and the bottom layer as waste.   

Support Those in Need 

Reuse is the best form of recycling. Before disposing of your old mattress, consider donating it if it's still in good condition.  

Jeff Jewett, co-founder of Spring Back Utah, stresses the importance of donating. He says, "If you bring in a mattress that's still in good condition, we'll reuse it. We work with The Road Home, Volunteers of America, and Rescue Mission to donate mattresses to people transitioning to housing after completing various programs. In the last year, we've given away over 1,000 mattresses, providing much-needed comfort and stability to those who need it most."   

Provides Employment Opportunities 

Spring Back Utah's core mission centers on recycling. Yet, this organization has become a crucial bridge to employment for many individuals entering or re-entering the job market.  

By offering job opportunities within its operations, Spring Back Utah teaches valuable skills and provides a supportive environment where workers can build confidence and gain experience. It's a place where second chances are tangible, and the dignity of work meets the necessity of sustainability. Each role filled here contributes to a larger cycle of renewal that benefits both the planet and its people. 

Jewett has witnessed the challenges faced by men and women striving to reintegrate into the workforce and reconnect with their families and communities. Many of these individuals have encountered significant barriers, including past incarceration, a history of addiction, lack of transportation, and homelessness. Jewett understands that finding meaningful employment is not just difficult — it is vital in restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of purpose in their lives.  

"We believe in second chances," Jewett, "and employment plays an important role in an individual's reintegration into society."  

What Can You Do? 

What can you do to make a difference today? Simple. "Get the word out," says Jewett.   

Spreading awareness is a powerful step toward a more sustainable and supportive community. Share the message with your friends, on Facebook, or during community gatherings.

Visit Spring Back Utah's website to schedule a pickup service. Whether arranging for a mattress to be removed from inside your home or leaving it curbside on the day of pickup, the process is designed to be convenient for you.  

RC Willey is a proud partner of Spring Back Utah.  And when you buy a mattress from RC Willey, you can opt for our Deluxe Delivery service, which offers convenient delivery and haul-away services. We will set up your new mattress and dispose of your old one. The old mattress is then taken to Spring Back Utah's warehouse, where it is properly recycled.  

By choosing to recycle, you're not just disposing of an old mattress — you're contributing to a larger movement that values sustainability, community, and human dignity. Together, we can make a significant difference, one mattress at a time. 

Dear Gentle Reader,  

As the buds of spring begin to bloom, so does the opportunity to infuse your home with a touch of elegance and royalty...  

Ok, so we are no Lady Whistledown. But we are here to spill the tea on how to get the Royalcore look in your home.     

This micro-trend had gained immense popularity on TikTok, with over 677.9 million views (as of when this article was written). It is inspired by a love for all things regal, refined, and romantic. It has also become a popular theme in TV shows such as Bridgerton, The Crown, Tudors, and various other period dramas.  

Royalcore is about integrating popular fabrics, motifs, and styles with your current aesthetic and not necessarily about turning your home into a museum or castle. Keep reading to learn some tips and tricks on how to achieve this grand and majestic style in your home. 

Select Specific Wood Types & Finishes

Light woods such as oak or cherry have historically been prized for their ability to bring warmth and brightness into interiors. They reflect more light, making spaces appear larger and more open, so they were often used in settings intended to feel airy and inviting.    

Dark wood, such as mahogany, was popularized by its association with wealth and status, as it was frequently imported from exotic locations. These rich, deep tones add a layer of sophistication and warmth.  

Choose Furniture with Artistic Carvings

If you want to add some regal charm to your home with furniture that boasts artistic carvings, consider focusing on particular styles that will help achieve the desired royalcore aesthetic. Cabriole legs are known for their S-shaped curves that exude grace and elegance. They were initially designed during the lavish Louis XV period and reflect the luxury of Rococo design.  

Similarly, furniture featuring fluted legs brings Neoclassical and Georgian elegance into your space, blending seamlessly with traditional and contemporary decor.   

Introduce Patterns and Motifs for a Noble Ambiance

When achieving the royalcore aesthetic for your home, patterns and motifs are essential elements that can add a touch of luxury and history. Floral designs are particularly important, as they have been used in royal tapestries and estates for centuries. Roses, peonies, and fleurs-de-lis are decorative elements and symbols of nobility and luxury. You can create a subtle yet impactful royalcore look by incorporating these designs into your home. 

Incorporate Luxurious & Lavish Fabrics    

You can add texture and luxury to a room using fabrics like velvet, silk, and lace. Velvet is great for furniture because of its deep color and plush texture. Silk has a subtle sheen and is smooth, making it perfect for reflecting light. Lace has delicate patterns and intricate designs that add Victorian romance and sophistication to window treatments, tablecloths, or decorative accents. 

In the past, leather was a popular choice in royal and noble residences due to its durability and ability to be crafted into beautiful and functional items. Today, it still remains a timeless material that can add a touch of elegance to any space. 

Add Metal Accent Pieces

Consider adding metal accents like a brass lamp base or an iron-legged coffee table to give your room a modern twist. Vintage finishes such as brushed gold or antique silver can seamlessly blend the old with the new. By introducing subtle shine, metal accents elevate any room. 

Make Your Home A Modern-Day Castle

Whether you're planning a party for the latest season of Bridgerton or want your home to feel more elegant, we hope these ideas help. Just remember, you don't need a big budget or a lot of time to start enjoying a home that feels more refined and comfortable. Just a few well-chosen pieces can make a big difference, letting you enjoy a bit of royal style every day.