and I am cheap cheap cheap and save money every way I can... but OH NO!
OUT WITH THE OLD!
LOVE the suggestions you already have, Craig's List is a great way to go! Write up a really funny post and maybe it will go viral... heck, maybe some furniture store or local show will take pity on you and GIVE you one!
(Until you save up the money)
Yeah, if you have an IKEA near you they have a great "dent-and-ding" area with floor models! Got our lovely couch there! Even, if you are just looking for a bed frame, Salvation Army can have stuff or there are even cool things online for how to make a headboard with your favorite fabric!
Suggestions: What about...
Painting it all?
If you really can't get a new mattress right now a really good foam topper so it ~feels~ totally different?
If DH can't part with it then do you have a spare room? Put it all in there and get pieces-parts until you can save up for a new set!
I have a cheaper mattress but really good foam topper and now it's the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in! Total: about 450 for the mattress and 150 for the memory foam. DONE!
Check out "Bobs" for comfy mattresses!
One thought to get you though the nights until then:
He chose it, she left it. If you are thinking about it deiced that she hated it!
I'd list it for sale OR swap on Craig's List, such a good idea!
And, watch Craig's List in general, you'd be amazed at what you find there! We got a free nursery glider chair, brand new cushions, for FREE! The chair alone was $300, the cushions still had the prices on them, they were $199! I just took them off and washed them... POOF, new chair!
(Amazing for us, we never could have bought that chair!)
As far as if what you are feeling is 'right'...
First, it is what you are feeling so YES!
Second, I'd be RIGHT THERE WITH YOU! That's a no go for me on ex's old bed!
Third, if it bothers you fit it!
I SAY GO FOR IT! CHANGE IT UP AND YOU'LL SLEEP BETTER!
Good luck,
Sara H