What Happens to Returned Mattresses? Unpacking the Complexities

The world of mattress shopping can be somewhat deceptive. Many stores, particularly bricks and mortar locations, offer a

Flexible Return Policy

Mattresses are unsold items that are returned for various reasons, such as dissatisfaction with comfort, fit, or brand. But where do these returned mattress end up once they hit the return department?

The answer varies widely depending on the state and regulations. In the United States, no state allows the resale of returned mattresses directly to the public. However, retailers have alternative options to mitigate their losses. Let's delve into the detailed processes:

Lunacy of Drugstore Returns: A Case Study

Back in the 1990s, a well-known furniture retail chain in Oregon faced a significant challenge. With several million dollars worth of returned mattresses piling up and no avenue to sell them under Oregon's stringent laws, the company was left grappling with the implications of mattress disposal.

The mattress returns were compounded over several years, leaving the retailer with a massive and unsellable inventory. Sanitizing the mattresses to make them fit for resale was not an option, as the state forbade the sale of previously owned mattresses, including those treated. This left the retailer with the dire choice of donating the mattresses, which was also not permitted, or disposing of them, both costly and environmentally damaging.

Mattresses in the Clearance Section: The Solution

Most mattress retailers holding larger inventories take a more strategic approach. When a mattress is returned, the retailer often opts to place it in a clearance section. Here's why this is significant:

The True Mechanism:

Returned mattresses are initially stripped of any protective covers, tags, and papers. They are then subjected to a thorough cleaning process, typically involving disinfection and sanitization, to prepare them for resale. The price of a mattress in a clearance section typically drops significantly over time, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

Once the mattress is back in stock, the retailer may lower the price to below what was originally a sale price. This not only clears the inventory but also recoups a portion of the losses incurred from the returned item. For consumers, this presents a unique opportunity to purchase a quality mattress at a discounted price.

Additional Costs and Taxes

It's important to note that when you return a mattress, you are likely to face additional costs. Many retailers require you to purchase a protector to keep the mattress clean, which can add up to $30 or more. Additionally, some retailers may charge for the pickup or at least a part of the return shipping cost. These additional expenses are not negligible, even if you don't intend to keep the mattress.

Conclusion

The process of dealing with returned mattresses is complex and varies based on state laws and retailer policies. Retailers have to navigate through layers of constraints to ensure they can recoup costs and maintain profitability. For consumers, the returns policy can offer a savings opportunity, but it's important to be aware of the extra costs and time.