How to Tell a Reconditioned Mattress From a New Mattress

Reconditioned mattresses are sold as "refurbished," "reconditioned" or “renovated," which are just fancy terms meaning “used.” Reconditioned mattresses are collected from sidewalks and garbage dumps by men with vans who carry them off to factories. The reconditioned mattresses later show up in stores wrapped in factory plastic and are sold at a discounted rate. Although the reconditioned mattress looks brand new, appearances are deceiving. Lurking underneath the new cover, the reconditioned mattress can be contaminated with fecal matter, bacteria, urine, mold, mildew, fungi and bed bugs, posing a health hazard to the unsuspecting consumer. Know what to look for when you're shopping to avoid bringing home a reconditioned mattress.

Instructions

- 1
  Buy your new mattress from an established mattress store. Double check to make sure it has a good reputation with the Better Business Bureau. Get mattress store referrals from friends and family. Mattresses sold at department stores and reputable mattress retailers are more likely to be honest than smaller, discount mattress outlets.
- 2
  Read the mattress labels. Beginning in 1996, laws were passed that regulated the sale of reconditioned mattresses in 26 states. By federal law, reconditioned mattresses must display yellow tags with the words "used materials" printed on them.
- 3
  Tell your mattress salesman that you only wish to purchase a new mattress, not a renovated, refurbished or reconditioned one. Ask for positive testimonials from satisfied customers who have purchased mattresses at that particular store. Make sure there is a return policy if you are dissatisfied with your new mattress. Insist that your sales agreement include a no-substitution clause in case the mattress you ordered is out-of-stock. Get everything in writing before you pay for the mattress.
- 4
  When your mattress is delivered, check for damage. Demand a replacement mattress or refund if necessary. To make sure it's the same mattress you ordered, check the mattress name with your invoice.

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