7 Things to Know Before Purchasing Your Next Mattress

Buying a new mattress can feel a bit intimidating for those who haven’t bought one before. With so many options, materials, and price points, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Since a good mattress is an investment in your sleep, and therefore, in your overall health, it’s up to you to make sure you’re making the right choice.

That’s why you need to go in with a plan. Luckily, this guide will walk you through the seven most important things to consider before you purchase your next mattress. That way, you can go into the process less stressed and more confident.

1. Understand Your Sleep Needs

The first step is to think about how you actually sleep. A mattress that works wonders for a friend might not be the right fit for you. Your sleep position is one of the most critical factors.

• Side sleepers typically prefer softer mattresses that are better at cushioning shoulders and hips, promoting proper spinal alignment.
• Back sleepers often benefit from a medium-firm mattress that supports the natural curve of the spine without letting the hips sink too low.
• Stomach sleepers typically require a firmer surface to prevent their back from arching uncomfortably.
• Combination sleepers who change positions throughout the night might prefer a medium-firm mattress with good responsiveness to make moving around easier.

Also, consider any health issues. If you have chronic back pain, you’ll want a mattress that offers excellent support. If you suffer from allergies, hypoallergenic materials could be a game-changer. And if you share your bed, look for motion isolation properties so you won’t wake up every time your partner does.

2. Know the Types of Mattresses

Once you know what you need, you can explore the different types of mattresses available. Each has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s worth considering a wide variety.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses are known for their body-contouring properties, offering excellent pressure relief. They absorb movement well, making them a great choice for couples. The main downside is that some memory foam can trap heat, though many modern versions include cooling gels or open-cell structures to combat this.

Innerspring

The traditional choice, the innerspring mattress, uses a system of steel coils to support a cushy topper. They are typically bouncy, affordable, and offer good airflow, which helps keep you cool. However, they don’t always provide the best pressure relief and can transfer motion more easily than other types.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses combine the best of both worlds: an innerspring coil system for support and memory foam or latex for comfort and pressure relief. They tend to be more expensive, but they offer a balanced feel that suits many different sleepers.

Latex

Latex mattresses are made from either natural or synthetic rubber. They are known for being durable, responsive, and naturally cooling. Natural latex is also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. The main drawback is the higher price point.

Specialty Options

You might also come across other options like adjustable beds, which allow you to change the position of the mattress, or organic mattresses made from natural, chemical-free materials. These are great for specific needs but also tend to come with a premium price.

3. Consider Mattress Firmness

Regardless of the type of mattress you choose, you’ll need to consider its firmness. While this is subjective, finding the level that’s right for you is crucial for comfort and support. It’s usually rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with most mattresses falling into the soft (3-4), medium (5-6), or firm (7-8) categories.

Your body weight and sleep position are the best guides for choosing firmness. Lighter individuals tend to prefer softer mattresses that allow for more contouring. Average-weight sleepers are usually comfortable on medium-firm options. Heavier individuals typically need a firmer mattress to get adequate support and prevent excessive sinking. As mentioned earlier, your sleep style also plays a significant role in finding the right firmness level for you.

4. Find the Right Mattress Size

Then, you have to consider the size. Choosing the right size is about more than just personal preference; it’s also about your room dimensions and lifestyle.

• Twin (38” x 75 “): Ideal for children or single adults in small spaces.
• Full (54” x 75 “): A good step up for single sleepers who want more room to stretch out.
• Queen (60” x 80 “): The most popular size, perfect for couples or spacious single sleeping.
• King (76” x 80” ): Offers plenty of room for couples who like their space.
• California King (72” x 84 “): Narrower but longer than a standard King, it’s great for taller individuals.

Before you decide, take the time to measure your bedroom to ensure the mattress will fit comfortably. You need to check to see if there will be enough space to move around your bed comfortably, after all.

5. Set Your Budget

Mattress prices vary widely, so it’s wise to have a budget in mind. You can find a decent mattress for under $1,000, but luxury or specialty models can cost several thousand dollars.

On average, you can expect to pay around $1,000-$1,500 for a quality Queen-size hybrid or memory foam mattress online. Innerspring mattresses are often cheaper, while latex and organic options tend to be more expensive. However, if price is a major concern, ClickNFurnish always has a wide selection of affordable mattresses for sale on our site.

No matter how expensive your mattress is, remember to account for hidden costs. Some companies charge for additional services, such as delivery, setup, or removal of your old mattress. While not always needed, factoring these into your budget from the start will help you avoid any unwelcome surprises.

6. Check Trial Periods and Return Policies

One of the best things about the modern mattress industry is the sleep trial. Most online brands offer a trial period, typically ranging from 90 nights to a full year, allowing you to test the mattress in your own home.

This is a critical feature because it takes time for your body to adjust to a new sleep surface. Make sure you understand the return policy before you buy. Some companies offer full refunds, while others may charge a fee for returns or only offer an exchange.

7. Review the Warranty

One of the most important things to know about before purchasing your next mattress is the warranty. This will help protect you against manufacturing defects. Fortunately, most reputable brands offer warranties of at least 10 years, but this timeline can vary.

Read the fine print to understand what is covered. Most warranties cover issues like significant sagging (usually an indentation of 1 to 1.5 inches or more), but not normal wear and tear or comfort preferences.