Save cash and the planet with ‘like-new-for-less’ products – from iPhones to mattresses

YOU probably wouldn’t think twice about buying a refurbished iPhone to save hundreds – but what about mattresses?

In fact, savvy shoppers are snapping up £900 Simba mattresses for £250 — plus other surprising “like-new-for-less” gear like vacuums and fridges.

You’d buy a refurbished phone…but what about a mattress?Credit: Shutterstock

Buying refurbished products is good for the environment and something The Sun’s Green Team backs.

But it is also good for your pocket, with prices typically 30 per cent off.

Big brands like Apple and Philips have been offering it for a few years, but demand soared so much during lockdown that eBay now has a dedicated section for refurbished goods.

The site has seen a revamped item sold every 14 seconds since launching late last year.

Amazon has a similar refurbished offering.

EBay offers “like-new” gear from 70 household brands like Dyson, GoPro, Panasonic, Simba, Tefal and Einhell — across tech, home, garden and beauty.

Anyone renovating their home could save hundreds on ovens, hobs, fridges, washing machines and even extractor fans.

Items are inspected, cleaned and refurbished by the maker or a manufacturer-approved seller.

Many might be put off by the thought of a used mattress, but refurbishers say their products have only been used for a very short time and are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

This is more than can be said for mattresses at even the finest hotels — no one seems to mind countless strangers using them for years.

AFFORDABLE

Ian Montgomery, 52, is the managing director of Colchester-based XS Items — an approved eBay seller transforming items from pre-loved to re-bought.

XS Items works with manufacturers like Apple, Samsung and Sage and has a huge range of refurbished products.

Ian says: “We have a stringent review and reporting process with the brands we work with, meaning they give products the final certification to be resold.”

EBay’s certified refurbished items also come with a 12-month guarantee.

Many people have turned to refurbished items while looking to create afford-able home working or home schooling setups over the past year.

James Barnes, 35, a PR officer from Essex, kitted out his home office entirely with refurbished products, saving £1,500.

He snagged a refurbished HP laptop for £559 instead of £999 new, and a Samsung tablet that would cost £439 new for just £239, among other items.

James says: “Often the products are ‘open box’ meaning they were returned without being used and are otherwise new. If they are not up to standard, you can get your money back.”

Amazon’s site has a section called “Amazon Renewed” where shoppers can find tech, kitchen appliances and the like that have been refurbished by Ama-zon or third-party refurbishers.

All products on Amazon Renewed, with the exception of Amazon Devices and watches, have a 12-month guarantee.

Philips, Apple and Dyson sell refurbished items directly but make sure you shop around.

We found a refurbished shaver on Philips’ website that was pricier than a brand new one at Boots.

What is a ‘Certified Refurbished’ item?

Customer buys a brand new product but decides not to keep it.
Customer returns it with little or no damage
Product is expertly restored and vetted to work like new.
Product is packaged in original or new packaging with accessories and new manuals.
Product is resold through eBay’s Certified Refurbished hub.