From the Legal Hotline

By Teri Henning, General Counsel; Melissa Melewsky, Media Law Counsel
Pennsylvania Newspaper Association

Q: Can we advertise the sale of used mattresses and other used bedding in our newspaper?

A: PNA does not recommend accepting ads for used mattresses and other filled bedding.

The Pennsylvania Bedding and Upholstery law applies to the sale of all second-hand mattresses, pillows, bolsters, feather beds, and other filled bedding. Pursuant to the law, items such as used mattresses must be sterilized or disinfected using a process approved by the Department of Labor prior to sale. Only those persons who have obtained a permit from the Department of Labor can sterilize used bedding. Additionally, used bedding that has been sterilized must bear an approval tag listing the permit number of the person who performed the sterilization.

Most individuals seeking to sell a used mattress have not obtained the proper permit from the Department of Labor and cannot complete the required sterilization and tagging process.

Any person who is found to be in violation of the law could be fined up to $100.00 per offense or be sentenced to serve up to 6 months in prison.

You can read the entire Bedding and Upholstery Law on the Department of Labor Web site.

PNA Legal Hotline: (717) 703-3080

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