11 Reasons to avoid used mattresses

A new mattress can be expensive, so if you’re offered a used one, you may be tempted, especially if it saves you money. However, you should generally avoid a used mattress, even if you know the person you’re getting it from. Used mattresses can be unhygienic and may not support you properly. Worse still, they could be unsafe or even sold illegally.

Why you shouldn’t have a used mattress

While second-hand goods have become extremely popular at charity shops and online marketplaces, buying a used mattress is not worth the risk. It might seem like a bargain, but you have no idea what it’s been through or what’s hiding inside.

A used mattress may be unsafe

A second-hand mattress is never as safe as a brand-new one. Even if it’s given to you from friends and family and you’re assured of its history, there are still risks involved.

Over time, the components inside the mattress will deteriorate due to wear and tear. The springs might poke through the mattress, and not only will this feel uncomfortable, but it could also cause bruises, marks, and cuts to your skin. The mattress will develop an uneven surface, and there may be a lack of support, particularly around the edges, increasing the risk of falling out of bed.  

Worse still, if you are buying a second-hand mattress from an unknown seller, it may not meet the required safety standards. It might be made with materials that aren’t fire-retardant and can ignite easily, or contain chemicals that are potentially harmful to your health.

New mattresses, on the other hand, must meet strict fire and safety standards before they can be sold, and they must have a permanent label to indicate this.

Health and hygiene

Used mattresses are unhygienic. Each night, they absorb sweat, saliva, dead skin, bodily fluids and even traces of food and drink. Over time, a used mattress can quickly become a breeding ground for unwanted guests, such as dust mites. In fact, a study from Ohio State University estimates that anywhere between 100,000 and 10 million mites could be living inside a used mattress – not a pleasant thought.

A used mattress could also harbour bed bugs. These tiny insects feed on human blood, usually while people are asleep. They can enter homes through furniture, household items, or luggage, and once inside, they are notoriously difficult to eradicate. Reactions to bed bug bites vary: some people may not even realise they’ve been bitten, whereas others develop itchy, irritating marks. In rare cases, they can even trigger severe allergic reactions.

It’s not just dust mites and bed bugs you need to worry about. Many of us share our beds with pets, and animal hair, fleas, or ticks can also find their way into a mattress.

Finally, an unprotected mattress is vulnerable to spillages, which can permanently stain or discolour the surface and leave an unpleasant smell. Over time, an unsanitary mattress can also provide the perfect conditions for bacteria and mould.

No manufacturer guarantee or warranty

Used mattresses rarely come with warranties against defects or poor craftsmanship. Mattress warranties typically only apply to the original buyer and are not transferable to another person. In most cases, second-hand mattresses are sold as seen, and the seller is not responsible for any problems after purchase.

Without knowing the mattress’s age, usage, or how well it’s been maintained, there’s no way to predict how it will perform or how long it will last. 

It might be sold illegally

In some cases, the mattress you’re considering may be sold illegally. It could be stolen, misrepresented, or repackaged to make it look like new.

A second-hand mattress cannot be sold as ‘new’ if it has been used. Even if the mattress looks in good condition, any reused components, such as old springs or fillings, must be declared to the customer, as failing to do so would be misleading.

Never buy a mattress from a door-to-door salesperson or from the back of a van. While these mattresses may seem like a bargain, especially if heavily discounted, they are often sold illegally. There’s no telling where these mattresses have come from; they may be stolen or reclaimed. In some cases, sellers even put a brand-new cover on an old mattress and attach a fake fire safety label to make it look like you’re getting a new model from a reputable seller.

Lack of support

Most mattresses lose their shape and become uncomfortable after about 7 to 10 years. Over time, the layers inside the mattress break down and can no longer cushion the body properly. This often results in an uneven sleeping surface and a lack of support.

Even if the mattress you’re considering is relatively new and in reasonable condition, there’s no guarantee it will be either comfortable or supportive. Comfort is subjective; what feels right for one person may feel too soft or too firm for someone else.

What you see is what you get

When you acquire a used mattress, there’s no way of knowing how it will perform or whether it will suit your sleeping needs. For example, if you share a bed with a restless partner, you may need a mattress that absorbs movement so you’re not disturbed when they toss and turn or get in and out of bed. It might also be the wrong size and feel cramped, or be so heavy that it’s difficult to manoeuvre. 

In contrast, buying new allows you to choose a mattress that matches your needs and preferences. You can compare different models and even test a few in-store before making a decision.

Can’t try before you buy

Used mattresses are usually one-offs, and unlike buying new, you don’t have the opportunity to try them beforehand. You have to rely on what the seller tells you, which may not reflect the mattress’s actual condition or how it feels to sleep on.

No sleep trials

Many new mattresses purchased online come with a sleep trial, allowing you to test the mattress at home. If you’re not satisfied within the trial period, you can return it for a refund or exchange.

However, used mattresses do not come with sleep trials, which means you could be stuck with an unwanted mattress.

Shorter lifespan

The typical lifespan of a mattress is between 7 and 10 years. However, a used mattress will often have a much shorter lifespan due to prior wear and tear. While it seems like a cost-effective option, you could end up replacing it sooner than expected, which could cost you more than buying new.

No mattress delivery or collection service

Most mattress companies offer both delivery and collection services, usually for a small fee, which is convenient and saves you time and hassle.

With a used mattress, however, you’ll usually need to arrange collection yourself. This might mean finding a vehicle large enough to transport the mattress safely and asking a friend or family member for help, since mattresses can be heavy and often require two people to carry.

If you have an old mattress in good condition, consider donating it to a local charity. However, coordinating a pickup or drop-off around the same time as receiving your new mattress can be challenging. Alternatively, many local councils offer a collection service. However, you may experience similar issues when arranging a convenient collection date and time.

A used mattress may not be compatible with your bed base

The used mattress you’re considering may not be compatible with your bed base. For example, memory foam mattresses usually perform better on slats or platform tops. If your base is old or worn out, it will not provide adequate mattress support. That’s why it’s usually best to buy the mattress and base together, to ensure they are compatible with each other.

Alternatives to used mattresses

A used mattress isn’t the only option if you’re looking for a mattress on a budget. There are other alternatives where you don’t have to compromise on comfort, hygiene, or quality.

New mattresses

A new mattress can seem expensive, especially if it’s been a few years since you purchased your last one. However, since we spend a third of our lives sleeping, it’s worth spending as much as you can reasonably afford when buying a new one. It doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive, but it should be comfortable and supportive.

Purchasing a new mattress is always better than sleeping on a used one, even if it means spending a little more than expected. New mattresses are clean, hygienic, and backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. Many also come with sleep trials, giving you peace of mind that you can return the mattress if it doesn’t meet your needs.

Most new mattresses contain springs, foam, or a combination of the two. If you’re looking for a traditional sprung mattress, coil springs are an inexpensive option. They can feel quite bouncy and typically contain synthetic materials like polyester. In contrast, pocket springs offer superior support. They work independently and absorb movement, making them ideal for couples. Higher-quality pocket spring mattresses typically contain natural materials like wool, cashmere, and horsehair, which are breathable and more luxurious.

Memory foam and latex mattresses conform well to body shape and provide effective pressure relief from sensitive areas like the shoulders and hips. However, all-foam mattresses can be more expensive.

You could also consider a hybrid mattress, which combines foam with springs. They are usually constructed with a durable sprung base or support layer with a 2- to 4-inch foam comfort layer, giving you the best of both worlds.  

The best times to buy a new mattress are typically during major sales events, such as Boxing Day, Memorial Day, and Black Friday, when retailers often offer significant discounts.

Ex-display mattresses

Stores often sell off display mattresses to make room for new stock. Although these models have often been tested by customers in-store and may not be in perfect condition, they are still considered new, as they haven’t been slept on. Ex-display mattresses are usually heavily discounted to clear quickly, making them much cheaper than buying the same model brand new. Another plus point is that they are usually available for immediate delivery.

Refurbished mattresses

A refurbished mattress has been previously owned or reconditioned with used components. However, unlike a second-hand or used mattress, these models are thoroughly inspected and cleaned to ensure they meet quality, safety, and hygiene standards before being sold. They must also be clearly labelled and described as ‘refurbished’ or ‘reconditioned’ to indicate they have gone through a restoration process.

Refurbished mattresses give older models a new lease of life while helping the environment by reusing components and reducing landfill waste.

Mattress toppers

A mattress topper is an alternative to replacing your mattress and can help make your bed feel more comfortable. It rests on top of your mattress and is held in place with either corner straps or an elasticated skirt. 

Mattress toppers are usually between 1 and 4 inches deep and come in various materials, such as polyester, wool, memory foam, and latex.

However, while a mattress topper can improve comfort, it won’t make much difference if your mattress is old or worn out.

Final thoughts

While a used mattress may seem like a cost-effective solution to buying new, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Used mattresses can be unhygienic, unsafe, or even sold illegally.

Fortunately, there are options if you’re looking for a mattress on a budget that don’t carry the same risks. These include ex-display models, refurbished mattresses that have been cleaned and inspected or buying a new mattress during sales.

If you’re still considering a used mattress, only buy from a reputable seller and find out why they are selling it. Inspect the mattress carefully to ensure it’s safe, in good condition, and of satisfactory quality.