Bed Bug Risk When Buying Used Mattresses and Furniture Online

Online marketplaces make it easy to buy used mattresses, beds and sofas at attractive prices. But when you cannot see and inspect an item properly, you cannot be sure what is hiding in it. Bed bugs are one of the main risks of second-hand soft furnishings.

This guide explains how to reduce the risk.

The short answer

Buying used mattresses and upholstered furniture online carries a real bed bug risk, because the bugs hide in seams and crevices that photos do not show and sellers may not know or say. To reduce risk, avoid used mattresses where possible, ask the seller specific questions, request detailed photos of seams, frame and underside, inspect in person before paying, refuse items with any signs, and after purchase keep the item outside the bedroom, inspect again, and treat it before use. For mattresses, buying new is the safest option.

Why online used items are risky

• Photos rarely show seams, undersides and hidden crevices.
• Sellers may be unaware of an infestation, or unwilling to say.
• Items may have been stored in unknown conditions.
• Transport can spread bugs to your vehicle and home.

Questions to ask the seller

1. Where was the item used and stored?
2. Has the home ever had bed bugs or other pests?
3. How old is it, and why are you selling?
4. Can I inspect it in person before paying?
5. Can you send close-up photos of the seams, frame and underside?

Inspecting in person

• Use a torch and check seams, piping, tags and folds.
• Check bed frame joints, slats and screw holes.
• For sofas, check seams, under cushions and the underside.
• Look for dark spots, shed skins, eggs and live bugs.
• Walk away if you see anything suspicious.

Safer choices

1. Buy mattresses and pillows new.
2. For hard furniture, such as wooden tables, the risk is lower than for soft items, but still inspect.
3. Choose sellers with verifiable details and a willingness to let you inspect.

After you buy

1. Transport the item wrapped in plastic.
2. Keep it in a garage, balcony or outdoor area at first, and inspect again.
3. Vacuum and steam seams where suitable.
4. Use mattress and pillow encasements.
5. Consider professional inspection or treatment before use.
6. Monitor the area with interceptors.

If you find bed bugs afterwards

Do not move the item around. Seal it in plastic if you must, inform the seller and call a professional.

When to call a professional

For valuable furniture, ask a pest control provider to check it before it enters your home.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to buy a used mattress?

It is risky. A new mattress is safer.

Can a seller guarantee no bed bugs?

They may not know. Inspect for yourself.

Is wooden furniture safe?

Lower risk than upholstered items, but bugs can hide in joints and cracks.

Will steam make it safe?

It helps on surfaces but does not reach deep inside mattresses.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on bed bug control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full bed bug treatment guide for Bangalore.