No, you shouldn’t buy a used mattress – here’s why

Whether you’re strapped for cash or simply don’t want to spend the money on a mattress, buying second-hand may seem like an attractive option. Some people give up on this idea, while others see it as a good money-saving trick. But is it safe?

Unlike if you bought one of this year’s best beds For all sleepers, second-hand purchases exclude warranties, sleep trials and free returns. This means that once you spend your hard-earned money, you won’t be able to get it back, even if the bed is incredibly uncomfortable.

Besides that, there’s also the risk of bedbugs and dust mites, as well as the potential for bodily fluids, dead skin, and even food and drink residue. Here we’ll look at why it’s not safe to buy a used mattress and offer some alternatives to buying second-hand.

Is it safe to buy second-hand mattresses?

There are various risks of buying a second-hand mattress, which we will detail in a moment. In general, we do not recommend purchasing a used mattress because it is not safe for your home and your sleep health.

From unhygienic surfaces to infesting your home with bugs, it’s best to avoid used bedding. A second-hand mattress also has no warranty. Buying directly from a manufacturer will eliminate these risks and be a better investment of your money.

Is it legal to sell second-hand mattresses?

In some states, it is illegal for a retailer to sell a second-hand mattress, but it may be legal for individuals to sell and buy a mattress. In other parts of the country, it is legal provided proper rules are followed. For example, in North Carolina, it is legal to sell a used mattress as long as it has been sanitized and meets certain safety standards.

Other states require the mattress to be in a certain condition before it can be resold and/or the condition of the mattress to be clearly labeled. By the way, it is completely illegal to sell a used mattress in Kansas, but some second-hand retailers can get around this by including a mattress with a bed frame and labeling it an ‘accessory’.

Before purchasing a second-hand mattress, check with your state’s health department to find out what the regulations are to make sure you’re not purchasing from an illegal seller.

Risks of buying a second-hand bed

While it may be tempting to buy a second-hand mattress for those looking for a good bargain, there are risks worth knowing before buying…

1. You can bring bedbugs into your home

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Bedding is a perfect breeding ground for them, as well as bedding that absorbs sweat, body fluids, dead skin, and spills. bed bug.

Since bedbugs will likely live inside the mattress rather than on the surface, it can be difficult to tell for sure if the mattress is infested.

This is especially common if there are tears or holes in the mattress cover. And by the time you realize this, it may be too late as these critters can spread through a home very quickly.

2. No warranty or trial period

You can expect a generous mattress from reputable mattress brands like Saatva, Purple and Tempur-Pedic. bed trial To ensure you are satisfied with your new mattress with every purchase. Similarly, since mattresses are a significant investment, you’ll usually get a warranty that covers all repairs and replacements for between 10 years and lifetime.

Buying second-hand means you won’t get any insurance coverage, and even some used mattresses can still be very expensive. This means that if you discover any damage or defects after purchase, you will not be entitled to a repair.

It also takes 30 days for your body to adjust to a new sleeping surface; Therefore, if you still wake up with back pain, joint pain and fatigue after a month, you will not be able to return your mattress and receive it. refund.

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3. You can buy from an illegal seller

Some individuals and even stores may be selling illegal second-hand mattresses, including stolen mattresses. Purchasing items like this can often be a scam and your money could be wasted if your mattress is found to be a stolen item and taken back.

This risk increases if you are buying from an individual and it can be very difficult to determine whether the seller is legitimate. Laws regarding the sale of second beds also vary by state.

4. The mattress may be of poor quality or damaged

If there is no time to properly test the mattress or prove that it is certified as a safe mattress, the product itself may be of poor quality or damaged.

Not only is this a frustration and waste of money, it can also be dangerous. For example, if the materials used are not certified as flame resistant, you may end up with a piece of furniture that could be life-threatening.

Similarly, some foams used mattresses can be toxic. While the vast majority have been rigorously tested to ensure they are safe, there will be no proof when buying second hand.

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Are there any benefits to buying a second-hand mattress?

Although the risks far outweigh the benefits, there are some situations where buying a second-hand mattress can pay off. For example, you may often confide in a friend or family member who is getting rid of their mattress, and this could be a great opportunity to pick up a bed you might not otherwise be able to afford.

If you’re on a small budget and need a new mattress urgently, second-hand options can help you get the most for your money. You can reduce the risk if you know what to pay attention to.

Make sure you’re aware of your sleeping needs, the type of bedding you’re using, and any signs of wear, tear, damage, and infestation.

We do not recommend anyone to buy a second-hand mattress due to possible risks and dangers. There are some alternatives instead.

1. Buying a new, cheap mattress

Some of this year cheapest beds They’re great options that don’t compromise on support, comfort, or even the feeling of luxury. For example, Siena Memory Foam mattress It’s our top-rated budget mattress and starts at just $199.

Many reputable mattress brands, such as Siena, will offer a wide range of entry-level mattresses for lower budgets. under $500 for queen size.

The benefit of buying from these brands is that you can be assured that the construction and materials will be of high quality, and you can take advantage of the generous benefits they offer, such as free shipping and returns, sleep trials and warranties.

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2. Choosing a mattress protector

If you’re looking to upgrade your mattress but can’t afford the right mattress yet, a mattress protector can make a big difference. These are usually made of foam and are designed to not only cushion your body but also relieve pressure, which can help relieve any pain you may be experiencing.

Prices can range from $50 to $500, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a high-end product that feels luxurious. You can take a look at our site best bed topper A guide to finding the right choice for you, to suit your sleep needs and budget.

3. Increasing your budget

Although it’s not always possible, it can be a good idea to increase your budget when shopping for your next mattress.

Affordable mattresses, especially second-hand ones, will not last long and will likely need repairs or even replacement soon after purchase, costing you more money in the long run.

But if you can stretch your budget a bit, you can buy a mattress that will last you twice as long, or even a lifetime, and save you money in the end. Timing your purchase around major shopping events can help you maximize your savings, too.