Menu
MattressFirm Logo
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

Woman is using eye mask in bed while electric fan is blowing on the foreground
Bed Basics
Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers in 2025If you struggle to stay cool at night, you’re not alone. At least 57% of adults in the U.S. report feeling too hot while sleeping on occasion.
Matty against a blue background. Text reads: Matty Asks Mattress Sizess
Bed Basics
Matty Asks: Mattress SizesGot questions about buying a new bed? We’ve heard ‘em all. Our Sleep Experts® are here to help with all the answers. Whether you’re curious about bed fillings, accessories, pillow lofts, under-bed options, or anything else in your bedroom, we’ve got answers. And there’s no question too small or too silly.
A bed with a duvet, two pillows and a blue headboard in a white bedroom.
Bed Basics
How Long Does a Mattress Last? Think about how many years you have slept on your current mattress. How long has it been since you upgraded? If you’re struggling to find an answer, that may mean it has been too long. Even if your mattress looks like it’s holding up well, it may be time to start searching for your next bed.
An illustration Sleep Expert® and a customer talking in store next to a mattress.
Bed Basics
Should I Shop for a Mattress In-Store or Online?If you’re short on time, buying a mattress online may seem like the best option. But before we give you our expert-approved mattress shopping tips, keep in mind there are pros and cons to each. The biggest perk of shopping in-store is getting the help of our Sleep Experts®, who are trained to make your mattress shopping experience quick and easy. Plus, we have thousands of stores across the nation, so you won’t have to go far!
A couple laying on an adjustable bed looking at a tablet.
Bed Basics
Tips and Tricks for Styling an Adjustable BedYour bedroom should reflect your style and taste in a way that helps you to de-stress and get into a relaxed state before bedtime. Of all the elements in your bedroom, the most important is the mattress that enables you to get great sleep each night, and many people have further optimized their rest with an adjustable bed.
A white bedroom opens onto a grey bathroom. Beside the bed is a nightstand with a plant and a bowl.
Bed Basics
Bedroom Makeover: 20 Tricks To Transform Yours on a Budget[Note: If you buy something using a link on our site, we may earn a commission.]
KD Houseman's headshot against a blue background. Text reads: Get Matched with KD Houseman
Bed Basics
Get Matched With KD HousemanThere’s a lot that goes into getting a good night’s sleep. Bedding, pillows, your sleep environment, and, of course, the mattress you sleep on. With all these factors to keep in mind, you may wonder how exactly the Sleep Experts® at Mattress Firm ensure they’re helping you get the best sleep yet.
An illustration of two purple pillows in the clouds. Text reads: Sleep Week Expert Sleep Tips
Bed Basics
Our Sleep Experts' 7 Top Tips for Good SleepNobody gets great sleep every night. But if you want the best sleep you can get, Sleep Experts® at Mattress Firm are here to help. With 200+ hours of training, they know better than most how to set yourself up for those eight hours of quality zzz’s to help you feel your best.
Two people making a bed together with light blue sheets. Two deluxe comfort cool pillows are on the corner of the bed.
Bed Basics
Cool Down With Sleepy’s Deluxe Comfort Cool PillowFind yourself constantly flipping your pillow over to find the cooler side? Those nights are over.