Are you considering purchasing a secondhand mattress to save some money but feeling unsure about sleeping on a used bed? You’ve come to the right place! Continue reading to discover everything you need to know about secondhand mattresses. By the end of this article, you should be able to decide if a used mattress or a new mattress is the best option for you.
Is it Legal to Sell a Used Mattress?
First, it’s essential to ensure that you are buying your secondhand mattress from a legitimate seller. Many states have specific regulations for selling used mattresses, requiring sellers to disinfect the mattress and attach special red and yellow tags to mark them as used. However, some states completely ban the sale of used mattresses. The legality of selling a used mattress depends on the laws in your state. As a quick reference, selling a used mattress is illegal in Kansas, and while Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, and Washington prohibit retailers from selling used mattresses, individuals can still sell them. In other states, the sale of used mattresses is permitted, but most require sanitation and clear labeling.
Should You Buy a Used Mattress?
Whether or not you should purchase a secondhand mattress depends on your situation. If you know the previous owner personally and can confirm that the mattress is clean and in good condition, it can be a great way to save money. For instance, buying a used mattress from a friend or family member who is upgrading to a larger bed could be a smart, budget-friendly option.
However, we recommend exercising caution if you plan to buy from less reliable sources, like Craigslist or thrift stores. Even if the mattress appears to be in good condition, there’s a higher risk of encountering bed bugs. Additionally, you might find a new mattress at a comparable price that offers better durability and a longer lifespan than a used bed. Check out our best cheap mattresses article for some great options! You could also wait for an annual mattress sale to grab a new bed at an affordable price. To learn more about when to find the best mattress deals, read our guide on finding the best mattress sales.
Pros of Buying a Used Mattress
Buying a used mattress can save you a significant amount of money compared to purchasing a brand-new one. If the cost of a mattress is your primary concern, secondhand options may be a good fit for your budget.
Additionally, choosing a secondhand mattress can be an eco-friendly choice, as it helps keep mattresses in good condition from being sent to landfills.
Cons of Buying a Used Mattress
There are several risks associated with purchasing a used mattress. First, you may be exposing yourself to bed bugs, scabies, and dust mites.
Secondhand mattresses often do not come with warranties, and you’re unlikely to get a trial period or a return window.
Finally, used mattresses tend to have shorter lifespans than new beds. You may need to replace a used mattress in just a few years, although this may not be an issue if the mattress is only used in a guest room.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Mattress
If you decide to purchase a used mattress, there are some important things to check for. If you’re buying from a mattress retailer, look for refurbished mattresses. These have been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, making them some of the best options when buying secondhand.
Next, inspect the mattress for any structural issues. If you notice sagging or divots in the sleep surface, it’s better to pass on that mattress. Indentations can lead to back pain and indicate significant wear. If you’re still interested in a mattress that shows minor signs of wear, consider using a mattress topper to improve comfort (although it won’t fix major structural issues).
When buying used, opt for a latex, innerspring, or hybrid mattress, as these tend to last longer than memory foam mattresses and will provide more years of use, even secondhand.
Check the mattress for any visible stains. Mattresses can collect bodily fluids, skin cells, and dirt over time, making cleaning difficult. Also, take a moment to smell the mattress! Mold, mildew, and smoke leave a distinct, musty odor, so make sure the mattress doesn’t have any unpleasant smells before buying.
If you do go ahead with the purchase, invest in a new mattress protector. This will help maintain cleanliness and, if you get a bedbug-proof protector, can prevent a potential infestation.
Speaking of bed bugs, it’s essential to inspect your used mattress carefully before bringing it home. If you see any signs of infestation, avoid buying it altogether. Bed bug infestations are notoriously difficult to treat. To inspect for bed bugs, look for rusty red stains or tiny dark spots, which could indicate blood or droppings. Then, flip the mattress and check the corners and seams for live bugs, which are about the size of an apple seed. Look for tiny eggs, which are white or clear and about the size of a poppy seed, and shed skins, which are pale yellow. If you find any of these signs, don’t buy the mattress.
How to Clean a Used Mattress
Do you have a used mattress and need to clean it? For an in-depth cleaning guide, check out our how to clean your mattress article. To quickly sanitize your mattress, begin by misting it with a bleach-free disinfectant. Blot the surface with a damp cloth and allow the mattress to dry. After that, you can follow the steps in our guide to tackle any stains. Finally, make sure to buy a mattress protector to keep your used mattress clean and fresh.
FAQs
Can you sell a used mattress?
It depends on your location. In most states, selling a used mattress is allowed, though it’s subject to specific sanitizing and labeling regulations. However, selling a used mattress is prohibited in Kansas.
What should I do with a used mattress?
If your used mattress is still in good condition, you may want to donate or sell it. If it’s no longer usable, your best option is to schedule a large trash pickup or take it to a recycling facility. For more details, check out our guide on how to get rid of your old mattress.
Can I recycle a used mattress?
Yes, you can recycle a used mattress. Our mattress recycling guide will help you understand the process.
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