When you buy a new mattress, you may not consider what happens to it when you decide to return it. The process of what happens to returned mattresses is an important factor to understand when making an informed decision when shopping for a mattress. In this article, we will review the process of what happens to returned mattresses in order to provide an overview of the process.
What Happens to Returned Mattresses?
What Does Tempurpedic Do With Returned Mattresses?
Tempurpedic takes a customer-centric approach for returned mattresses. They provide customers with an array of options to ensure that the returned mattress is recycled, reused, or disposed of responsibly. They work with mattress recycling centers to ensure that the mattress is broken down and reused as much as possible. In many cases, the foam materials are recycled and used to make new products. Any remaining materials that cannot be recycled are disposed of responsibly.
What Do Other Mattress Companies Do With Returned Mattresses?
Other mattress companies may have different policies for returning mattresses. Some companies may donate returned mattresses to charities or other organizations that can use them. Other companies may also have partnerships with mattress recycling centers, where they take the returned mattresses and break them down into their component materials. The foam is then recycled and reused to create new products. Any remaining materials are then disposed of responsibly.
In any case, most companies strive to ensure that returned mattresses are recycled, reused, or disposed of responsibly. It is important to research the policies of different mattress companies to ensure that the returned mattress will be handled in an environmentally friendly way.
Evaluation of Returned Mattresses
Once a mattress is returned, the mattress company inspects and evaluates the mattress to determine what do mattress companies do with returned mattresses. The company will assess the condition of the mattress, including any visible signs of damage, wear and tear, or stains. They will also inspect the workmanship and materials to ensure there are no manufacturing defects or other issues that make the mattress unfit for resale. Depending on the company’s policies and the condition of the mattress, it may be refurbished and resold, given a deep clean and resold, recycled, or discarded.
Processing of Returned Mattresses
Cleaning
Returned mattresses need to be thoroughly cleaned before being repackaged and resold. This includes vacuuming, steam-cleaning, and even replacing certain parts of the mattress. All of this is done to ensure that the mattress is free from any potential germs or bacteria and is safe for consumers to use.
Repackaging
Once the mattress has been cleaned, it needs to be repackaged. This involves wrapping the mattress in plastic, shrink-wrapping it, and sometimes even placing it in a box. This ensures that the mattress is protected during transit and is ready to be resold.
Reselling
The final step in the process of returning mattresses is reselling. The mattresses are typically sold at a discounted price and come with a warranty. This is to ensure that consumers are aware that the mattress is a “return” and that it may not be in perfect condition. However, most consumers are happy to take advantage of the discounted prices.
Disposal of Returned Mattresses
- Mattresses that have been returned are either sold as a refurbished or outlet product, or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
- The refurbished mattresses are inspected, cleaned, and repaired as necessary, before being resold.
- Mattresses that cannot be sold as a refurbished or outlet product are recycled in accordance with state and local guidelines.
- The mattress is broken down into its component parts and the materials are separated for recycling.
- Steel springs, foam, and other components are recycled by approved third-party vendors.
- The remaining components are disposed of in an environmentally-friendly manner, such as in a landfill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a mattress that I bought online?
Yes – Most mattress companies offer a return policy, allowing customers to return their mattress within a certain period of time, usually between 30 days and a year. The return process is usually fairly straightforward and involves the following steps:
- Contact the company to initiate a return.
- Wait for the company to send a return label.
- Package the mattress and attach the label.
- Ship the mattress back to the company.
- Wait for the company to inspect the mattress and process the return.
- Receive a refund for the purchase.
Note – Customers may need to cover the shipping costs for returning the mattress, depending on the company’s return policy.
Can I return a mattress if I don’t like it?
Yes, you can return a mattress if you don’t like it. The process of returning a mattress can vary depending on the store, so it’s important to read the return policy before making a purchase. Generally, the process can include:
- Arranging a pickup or drop-off of the mattress
- Inspecting the mattress for any damages
- Confirming the return with the store
- Receiving a refund or store credit
It’s important to keep in mind that some stores may not accept returns, or may impose restocking fees for returned mattresses. It’s also important to note that if a mattress is deemed to be used or damaged, it may not be eligible for a return.
How Soon Can I Expect to Receive a Refund After I Return a Mattress?
Once you have returned the mattress, processing the refund typically takes between 2-4 weeks, depending on the store’s policy. You should receive an email notification when the refund is processed. If the refund is not processed within the expected timeframe, contact the store directly.
Are There Any Restocking Fees for Returned Mattresses?
- Yes. Many mattress companies charge a restocking fee for returned mattresses. The fee can range from 15-25% of the original purchase price.
- No. Other mattress companies do not charge a restocking fee. These companies are typically more willing to accept returns and work with customers.
- Cancellation Fees. Some mattress companies may also charge a cancellation fee for returned mattresses. This fee usually ranges from $50-$150.
It is important to be aware of any restocking fees or cancellation fees prior to making a purchase. It is also important to read the return policy carefully before making a purchase.
Are there any steps I need to take to ensure my mattress is safely returned?
Yes, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your mattress is safely returned:
- Pack the mattress in its original packaging. Remove any extra parts or accessories that may have been included, such as pillows or toppers.
- Make sure the mattress is securely wrapped in a protective cover before packing.
- Ensure that the mattress is properly supported during shipping so that it does not become damaged.
- Include the original receipt or order number with your return.
- Keep track of the return tracking number, so you can be sure the mattress is being returned safely and in a timely manner.
Following these steps will help ensure that your mattress is safely returned and that you receive a full refund.
Conclusion
Returned mattresses are a common occurrence in the mattress industry, but the process of what happens to them afterwards is often unclear. Fortunately, companies have several options for dealing with returned mattresses, including reselling, donating, recycling, and disposing of them. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and companies should carefully consider all factors before deciding which option is best for their business.
Overall, mattress return policies should be clear, customer-friendly, and up-to-date, as this helps to ensure that the customer experience is satisfactory and that the mattress is disposed of responsibly.
