When we retire our old mattresses for a new one, it’s because they’re worn out, too small for our current needs, causing us back pain, infested with bed bugs (argh) or for another reason that results in unsatisfactory sleep. It makes sense then that buying a used mattress is not always the first idea that pops into mind.
However, buying used mattresses from Facebook Marketplace or some online mattress sellers is always an option. Perhaps for a guest room, a temporary residence, or because you’re expecting guests.
Whatever the reason you’re choosing second-hand, there are some things you need to consider before making your purchase. In this blog post, we’ll discuss if buying a used mattress is safe – plus provide some handy shopping tips so you can make the right decision for your needs.
What to look for when buying a used mattress
When you’re on the hunt for a new mattress, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, you’ll want to decide whether you want a new mattress or a second-hand one. If you’re on a tight budget, a used mattress might be a good option, but it’s important to make sure it’s in good condition.
Inspect the mattress for any signs of wear and tear and ask the previous owner how long they’ve had it. Keep in mind that traditional foam mattresses have a lifespan of about eight to ten years, so an older mattress might not be as comfortable or supportive as a newer one. Once you’ve found a mattress that seems like a good fit, be sure to try it out first before making your final decision as you’ll be spending a lot of time on it.
Some mattress sellers and retailers also include labels of issues that they have spotted on the old mattress before reselling it. So it’s best to take a look at that next time you visit a used mattress sale.
Don’t forget to factor in the price tag, either. A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. And in some cases, the price that you’d pay for a good mattress that’s been used isn’t so far off the price of decent new mattresses on the market. With these things in mind, you should be able to find the perfect used mattress for your needs.
Our tip? Try looking closer to home. You might have a family member or a friend who’s looking to upgrade or go for a larger or better-quality mattress. These are better choices as you’d get to thoroughly inspect the mattress’s condition, and you’d have a general idea of how worn or how taken care of the mattress is.
The health risks of using a used mattress
A used old mattress may seem like a budget-friendly option, but it could end up costing you more in the long run. Cheap second-hand mattresses often present with bed bugs, dust mites, and even some stains from bodily fluids (gross!).
These may cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and potentially even transmit diseases. In addition, used mattresses may also have some insect droppings, mildew, and dead skin cells trapped in the fabric. These dangerous contaminants can lead to serious health problems if not cleaned properly. Since having a used mattress deep cleaned may cost you a few more dollars, it’s often smarter to invest in a new bed.
Finally, used beds have a shorter lifespan than new mattresses and the innerspring may not be as firm. For all these reasons, buying a used mattress is generally a bad idea. If you’re really looking for a used mattress for a guest room or for infrequent use, check out mattress stores that sell refurbished mattresses instead. These beds have been professionally cleaned and inspected to ensure they’re safe to use.
How to clean and disinfect a used mattress (DIY)
A mattress is a big investment (even a used one), and it’s important to take good care of it in order to prolong its life. One of the most important things you can do is to regularly clean and disinfect your mattress. A mattress protector, mattress cover, or mattress topper can help keep it clean, but you should also vacuum and deep clean before anything else. Here’s how:
Start by vacuuming the mattress to remove any dust, dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris. Then, use a mild soap and warm water to scrub away any stains. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas that may have come into contact with bodily fluids or other potentially hazardous materials. Once you’ve scrubbed the mattress clean, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water and allow it to dry completely. Finally, use a disinfectant spray or powder to kill any remaining bacteria or mould spores.
Regular cleaning and disinfecting will help to keep your mattress fresh and free of harmful contaminants. During summer, you can also bring your mattress outside to dry out in the sun for a natural disinfection process with the sun’s UV rays.
If DIY solutions don’t work in removing tough stains? You may have to pay for a professional deep cleaning service to properly steam and loosen up the stains and remove contaminants from the old mattress.
Should you go for a used mattress?
So should you choose used? We believe that a high-quality mattress is an investment, and while the upfront costs may seem steep, the feeling of sleeping on a fresh new mattress is beyond comparison. If you’re still undecided, mattress companies often offer trial periods. For example, Ecosa offers a 100-night trial period for all its best mattresses.
Whether you’re looking for a memory foam mattress or a hybrid mattress, Ecosa has you covered! Plus, all Ecosa mattresses come with a 15-year warranty period, so you can sleep easy knowing that your new mattress can be enjoyed for years and years to come.