It doesn't get much grosser than this recent report that sent chills down my spine. After "Dateline" NBC did a show on used mattresses, the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) commended them last week for exposing the hazards of buying a mattress that does not meet federal and state laws.
Yes, you read that right: there are such things as USED mattresses that are "renovated" and sold like new. In fact, they are sold as NEW when underneath the outer fabric cover on top is a dirty old mattress, probably teaming with bed bugs!
You can go here to
read more on this report, but be careful. It just might scare you and
cause you to feel itchy all over. Bed bug infestations are rampant in
all 50 states now. But it's not just the bugs that can get you. How
about mold, mildew, and other allergens? Old oils and skin cells from
strangers. Digested blood and excrement from old bugs. Bacteria.
Yes, the seller may tell you that the mattress has been sterilized, but
how do you really know? If you ask "Does this bed have bed bugs?" do
you really think a mattress seller is going to say yes?! It's worse
than buying a used car that turns out to be a lemon. Way worse.
The Solution: Buy Your Mattress New!
I don't care how long you have to save your pennies for a new mattress.
There are plenty of affordable mattresses out there, fresh off the
assembly line. You sleep on this thing for a third of your life. Don't
you deserve a new one just for you? Put it this way: what would you do
to avoid wearing used underwear or a using a used toothbrush every day?
Thought so.
Tips for Buying a New Mattress
So, with that all in mind, here are a few tips to avoid the used mattress and get a good one:
- Shop at established mattress stores. Check the Better Business Bureau if you have any doubts. Get referrals from friends and family. Mattresses sold at established department stores are less likely to have problems versus those coming from small, mom & pop shops.
A story like this gives whole new meaning to the term "dirt cheap," doesn't it?
This post is cross-posted at Dr. Breus's blog, The Insomnia Blog.