The mattress is one of the biggest expenses to do for the house. You will probably spend more on it than on some furniture. For this reason, you need to know how to choose the best one for you.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Research Before Purchase
Step 1. Visit a mattress site to see offers
If you've never bought a mattress, it's best to see what's out there on the web before going to the store.
- Check the prices online to see if they seem reasonable compared to what they offer.
- Often brands of mattresses produce new ones including those that offer customizable levels of firmness and temperatures. Decide how high-tech you want it because some of these are only available in specialty stores or online.
- Look for the special features of each brand including a trial period or money back guarantee. If you want, you can print out the information and take it to the store.
Step 2. Decide the degree of stiffness
While it's hard to determine without trying it first, there are a couple of physical factors that can influence your decision.
- If you have back problems, consider medium to high stiffness. These mattresses are the ones that support the lower part better, reducing back pain.
- Quilted mattresses are great for those who are not light, because they will not have too much weight that pushes up and on the springs so as to compromise their comfort. Chubby people usually find them more comfortable for this reason.
- Ignore the number of springs as presumed proof of the quality of a mattress. Studies have shown that the number of springs is not really related to the comfort of the mattress.
Step 3. Measure the bed space
Nothing is worse than finding the perfect mattress to buy unless you find that it doesn't fit in your room. Check the space available in the bed and in the room and then decide on the size.
- Twin mattresses are smaller, usually 80x150.
- The widest measurement for a double mattress is approximately 110x150.
- The queen size mattress is the most common in the United States, perfect for a couple due to the size-price ratio. It is about 130x170.
- The king size is the widest standard available, 140x180”.
- Some mattress and store brands also offer special wider beds, called California king, which measure 160x190.
- Make sure the size you want to buy not only fits the bed and room, but also fits through the door.
Step 4. Find a store
Usually, famous mattress brands have representatives and informants instead of a classic store. Make sure the store where you are going to purchase is serious and the staff ready to assist you.
Part 2 of 2: Purchase
Step 1. Test the mattress
To find out if you like it or not you will have to try it in the shop. Find the one that matches your needs and lay down on it.
- Stay on it from 2-3 minutes to 15. The models on display are there for that very reason so don't hesitate to lie down.
- Ignore label descriptions such as "ultra soft," "super soft," or "extra strong." They are not regular terms and are used freely by the brand for advertising. Lie down and feel for yourself if it is soft, stiff, uncomfortable, etc.
- Try a mattress of each type to find out which one you prefer. Compare them to get a better idea of what yours might be.
- Ask to see an internal section, to understand exactly what you will sleep on.
Step 2. Ask if there is a guarantee of comfort
This type of guarantee varies from brand to brand but will allow you to return the mattress within a certain period, free of charge.
- Always do this before buying and check at checkout that the information is correct.
- Find out how long the warranty lasts, it can vary from brand to brand.
- Find out if you have to pay for delivery and collection in case the mattress does not fit. This way you won't have any surprises.
Step 3. Choose a mattress with a trial period
Many mattresses and stores allow this solution for a month. If possible, take this opportunity to check how you sleep.
Step 4. Check the warranty
Make sure the mattress you buy offers a minimum of ten years not to go down.
Step 5. Purchase the necessary accessories
Even if buying just the mattress seems enough to you, a box of springs could also be useful.
- Always buy it together with the mattress because over time the springs tend to wear out, losing elasticity and support.
- Purchase a waterproof protective mattress cover. Not only is it easy to clean if you spill something, but it will help keep the warranty intact. In fact, if the mattress gets stained, it is often no longer guaranteed.
Step 6. Negotiate the price
The prices of the mattresses can be lowered with a little bargaining. Use the numbers you found in searches to figure out which is the best deal.
- Include used pickup and delivery costs in the total cost.
- Ask for free tickets: many shops only offer them on request.
Advice
- Some stores allow you to take the mattress home to try it out. Sometimes there will be a small deposit to pay or your credit will be checked.
- Ask around for a good brand or a good store. Word of mouth is often the best tool for these choices.
Warnings
- Don't be swayed by the salesperson. You have already invested your time and the seller doesn't know what other brands and models are out of their store or warehouse.
- Make sure the mattress is comfortable in the store before you buy it. If allowed, lie down quietly.
