Bed Basics

6 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Buy a Mattress

December 13, 2017

After many restless nights, you've decided it's time to invest in a new mattress. Congratulations! You may have already done some legwork researching the perfect mattress or dreaming of what features you want in your next bed. You may have even narrowed it down to two finalists. When flipping a coin doesn't seem very responsible, how do you decide?

We've put together some go-to questions to ask when you're stuck and simply can't narrow down your mattress choice. Grab your notebook and pen and let's get started!

1. What is my budget?

Look at your finances and decide what you can afford to pay for a mattress. Examine the condition of your current bed to determine if you'll need only a mattress or complete set with box springs and frame.

Sometimes, saving up over time makes more sense, but it can also be beneficial to jump on an especially good deal.

2. How do I sleep on the bed?

Determine the way your body lays on the bed or your “sleep position." Ask yourself if the mattress' features align with the support you need. The best sleep position for your body type can prevent against aches and pains giving you sound sleep all night long. Also remember, a Mattress Firm employee can help you determine your sleep position and the best bed for you if you are unsure.

3. What are my must-have features?

From an innerspring support system to gel memory foam, you'll want to study up on what features top your priority list and then visit a Mattress Firm store to touch and feel a variety of mattresses.

These days, beds have an endless amount of features from which to choose, so the best way to determine which ones are for you is often just to come in-store, test multiple beds and find the perfect match.

4. Which size mattress is right for you?

If you and your partner both prefer to spread out on a bed, upgrading to a king size mattress might be the best choice for you.

Before making that purchase though, measure your bedroom and consider any other large furniture that will fill the space. And remember a Feng Shui tip: less clutter or overcrowding in a room will bring peace to our downtime!

5. Is there a move in your future?

If you have a large enough bedroom for a king size bed now, don't forget to think a few years down the road — do you anticipate moving to a smaller or larger home? Given that you may own a mattress for 5-7 years, this is an important factor to consider.

Alternately, if you're saving up for your dream home with a large master bedroom or having kids soon, you might want to purchase a mattress that is a little large for your current apartment, but will fit well in your next home.

6. What does the fine print really say?

Particularly if you're shopping in-store, you have the opportunity to make sure that you fully understand the warranty and return policy for the mattress that you're purchasing. Make sure the return policy is flexible, so that you have the opportunity to test out your mattress at home, and can return it if it's not what you expected.

Be sure to take a look at our Buyer's Guide for more useful resources including a Shopping Checklist.