Menu
MattressFirm Logo
Blog Homepage [The Daily Doze]>Bed Basics
Bed Basics

Buying a Mattress: Online Vs. In-Store

online_640x400

When it comes to buying your next mattress, it may seem enticing to simply order one online. Unfortunately we've seen it time and time again — customers aren't happy with their beds when they select it right off of the internet. If only they would have tested it out in the store beforehand.

Research is very helpful in narrowing down your mattress selection, but you will likely get to a point during your online browsing that you may feel stuck or indecisive. It is hard to make a decision when you can't see or feel what you are looking at. Fortunately, there is simple checklist of questions to know exactly when you should take your mattress shopping efforts offline and directly to a Mattress Firm store.

When Should You Purchase a Mattress Online vs. In-Store?

Do I really know what to look for in a mattress?

If you're like most people, it might be hard to understand what a company means by adjustable bases, pillow tops and mattress comfort level. Each mattress brand defines these features differently. Until you experience these product attributes first-hand by laying on a bed, you may not know what you're getting yourself into with online product details. You want to make sure you understand the type of mattress and all its features fully before making that type of investment for you or your family.

Do I know the quality of the mattress product I see online?

Many mattresses can look very similar online, making it difficult to know the quality of its construction including its coils, material make-up, etc. If you find yourself questioning those photos and general product descriptions that look appealing at first glance, head into a store and test them out. Then you'll know for sure if its the quality you are looking for after you lay on the mattress. Physically testing the Mattress Firm mattresses you are interested in will help you narrow down the best mattress for you.

How does one size bed vary from the next?

You may think a queen mattress will fit nicely in your apartment until it arrives from your online order and overwhelms your small space with unexpected size. Even the height of the mattress and box springs can be different from one bed to the next. Seeing the bed displayed before your purchase will eliminate the frustration and disappointment of unexpected issues. So head into one of our Mattress Firm locations to see if the mattress your are interested in measures up to what you've seen online.

Would I like to see more mattress options?


The problem with many online companies selling mattresses is that they only offer you one or two mattress options on their website. Because everyone is different; and has unique preferences when it comes to the right mattress, the “one mattress fits all" approach simply isn't going to please everyone. If you find that you're unsatisfied with the lack of mattress options, it may be time to visit one of our stores to get a more personalized mattress buying experience. Our sleep experts can show you a wide range of mattresses at different price points and comfort levels helping you discover the bed that feels good and tailored specifically to your needs.

Doing your research beforehand and studying your mattress options can give you a good understanding; but ultimately, consulting a Mattress Firm employee with industry knowledge and taking a few beds for a test run are the best ways to get the mattress that's perfect for you. Check out our mattress selection online at MattressFirm.com or visit a location near you today!

You Might Also Like

King vs. California King: Sizes and Dimensions
Bed Basics
King Size vs. California King Mattress: What's the DifferenceLooking for more room to sleep—whether it’s solo, with your partner, your children or even your furry friends? A King bed can be the perfect choice. After all, Kings offer more than 6,000 square inches of comfy, cozy sleep paradise.
blue square reading Full Vs. Queen
Bed Basics
Full vs. Queen: What’s the Difference?The search is on: You’re looking for the right size mattress for your bedroom. And when you’re on the hunt for a bed, for a new space or an existing one, even a little room can mean a lot.
A twin and twin XL mattress side by side with their dimensions next to them. Twin: 75 x 38. Twin XL: 80 x 38
Bed Basics
Twin or Twin XL: How to Buy the Right Size of BedThe search is on: When you’re on the lookout for a new bed, either for a new space or an existing one, even a little room can mean a lot. That’s where compact beds come in. Read ahead for a walk through all of the key differences between the ever-popular twin bed and the less-common twin XL so you end up with the right choice.
4 ways to clean a mattress
Bed Basics
4 Easy Ways to Clean Your MattressAlthough we sleep on our mattress every single night, we often forget that underneath all of those covers, your mattress needs a little TLC every now and again. It's easy to understand the need to avoid dirty sheets, but have you ever thought about how to avoid a dirty mattress or the best way to clean a mattress?
selecting the right mattress size_RAW.jpg
Bed Basics
Buying Guide: Selecting the Right Mattress SizeOne of the most common mistakes made when buying a new bed is selecting one that's too small. When it comes to mattress sizes, bigger is often better (as long as it can fit in your room!).
how to fold a fitted sheet
Bed Basics
How do you fold a fitted sheet?We’re answering the age-old question: how do you fold a fitted sheet?
A couple standing in front of an empty mattress base with question marks above their heads.
Bed Basics
Do You Need a Box Spring? If you’re searching for the best night’s rest possible, there are several products you will need to add to your sleep setup. Of course, it all starts with the right mattress. Bedding like pillows, sheets and mattress toppers help provide all-night comfort. And a base can help you find your nighttime sweet spot—especially if it’s adjustable.
A cartoon illustration of a hand holding a spray bottle. A vacuum, baking soda and laundry detergent sitting next to a urine stained mattress.
Bed Basics
How to Clean a Mattress: Urine Stains From an accident caused by your little one to the family pet draining themselves on that brand new duvet, figuring out how to clean urine from a mattress as well as how to get the urine smell out of a mattress can be quite the hassle. Find the best way to clean a mattress.
A couple moving a mattress off a bed base with moving boxes behind them.
Bed Basics
How To Get Rid of a Mattress and Make Room for a New OneReplacing an old mattress can be one of the best investments in getting good sleep. But before you tuck into your new bed, one question remains: How to get rid of your old mattress. Because of its size and shape, a mattress can take more thought and planning to dispose of than your average bag of household garbage. Thankfully, there are several ways to get rid of an old mattress. If you’re replacing your mattress, here are some ideas about how to dispose of the old one to make room for your new bed.