Buying a mattress is a significant investment, one that can impact your sleep quality and overall health for years to come. Yet, with so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. From memory foam to innerspring, and from firmness levels to budget considerations, finding the perfect mattress might seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry—you don’t have to lose sleep over it!
In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of what to look for when buying a mattress and share tips on how to get the best deal. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current mattress, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process with ease. And as an added bonus, we’ll keep things fun and engaging because, let’s face it, shopping for a mattress should be as relaxing as a good night’s sleep.
What to Look for When Buying a Mattress: In-Depth Guide
Buying a mattress is an investment in your well-being, so understanding what to look for is crucial. Let’s break down each factor in detail to ensure you’re well-equipped to make the best choice.
1. Mattress Type
The type of mattress you choose plays a major role in your overall comfort, support, and sleep quality. Each mattress type has its unique advantages and may be better suited to different sleep preferences.
Memory Foam:
Memory foam mattresses are made from a material that softens and conforms to your body’s shape with heat and pressure. This contouring and support feature provides excellent pressure relief, particularly for people with joint pain, arthritis, or back issues. The foam cradles your body, distributing weight evenly to reduce pressure points. Memory foam is also known for its superior motion isolation, which means that movement on one side of the bed won’t disturb the other. This makes it a great option for couples, especially if one person is a restless sleeper. Traditional memory foam can retain heat, so look for models with cooling features, like gel-infused foam or open-cell construction, if you’re a hot sleeper.
Innerspring:
Innerspring mattresses have been around for decades and are built with steel coils that provide support and bounce. These mattresses are ideal for those who prefer a firmer feel and enjoy the classic “bounce” of a spring mattress. The coil structure allows for better airflow than foam mattresses, making innerspring beds more breathable and cooler to sleep on. Innerspring mattresses come in various coil types (e.g., pocketed coils, continuous coils) and configurations. Pocketed coils, where each coil is encased in fabric, offer better motion isolation and are often found in higher-end models.
Hybrid:
Hybrid mattresses blend the best features of memory foam and innerspring mattresses. They typically have a pocketed coil support core with layers of memory foam or latex on top. This construction provides a balanced feel of support and comfort. Hybrids are versatile mattresses, accommodating a wide range of sleepers, including those who want the support of coils but prefer the comfort and contouring of foam. They are particularly good for couples with differing sleep preferences.
Latex:
Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic rubber. Natural latex is derived from rubber tree sap and is hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for people with allergies. Latex mattresses are known for their durability, often lasting longer than other types. Latex provides a responsive, bouncy feel, similar to innerspring, but with added pressure relief. It’s a great option for those who want a balance between support and contouring without the “sinking” sensation of memory foam. If you’re environmentally conscious, look for mattresses made from organic or natural latex, which are more eco-friendly and often biodegradable.
Adjustable Air Mattresses:
Adjustable air mattresses feature air chambers that can be inflated or deflated to change the firmness level. Some models allow each side of the bed to be adjusted independently, making them an excellent choice for couples with different firmness preferences. These mattresses can provide great support and are particularly beneficial for people with changing comfort needs, such as those with fluctuating health conditions. Many adjustable air mattresses come with smart technology, allowing you to adjust firmness through a smartphone app, adding a modern convenience factor.
2. Firmness Level
The firmness of a mattress refers to how soft or hard it feels when you lie down. Your preferred sleeping position is a major factor in determining the ideal firmness level.
Side Sleepers:
- Soft to Medium: Side sleepers typically need a mattress that allows their shoulders and hips to sink slightly into the bed, maintaining proper spinal alignment. A softer mattress (rated 3-5 on the firmness scale) offers the necessary contouring for side sleepers, helping to relieve pressure points.
Back Sleepers:
- Medium-Firm: A medium-firm mattress (rated 6-7 on the firmness scale) is generally ideal for back sleepers. It provides a balanced level of support, keeping the spine in a neutral position while offering enough give to be comfortable.
Stomach Sleepers:
- Firm: Stomach sleepers require a firmer mattress (rated 7-8 on the firmness scale) to prevent their hips from sinking too deeply, which can lead to an unnatural curve in the spine and cause back pain.
Combination Sleepers:
- Medium: Combination sleepers, who switch positions throughout the night, typically benefit from a medium-firm mattress (around 5-7 on the firmness scale). This firmness level provides versatility, supporting various sleep positions and ensuring comfort.
3. Support and Pressure Relief
Support and pressure relief are two critical aspects of a good mattress.
Spinal Alignment: A supportive mattress helps maintain the natural alignment of your spine. This is especially important for those with back pain, as proper spinal alignment can alleviate discomfort and promote better sleep posture.
Pressure Relief: A mattress with good pressure relief distributes your body weight evenly across the surface, reducing stress on key areas like the shoulders, hips, and lower back. This is particularly important for side sleepers, who often experience pressure on these areas due to the way they sleep.
Zoned Support: Some mattresses offer zoned support, which provides different levels of firmness or softness in specific areas of the mattress. For example, a mattress may be firmer in the middle to support your back and softer under your shoulders and hips for better pressure relief.
4. Motion Isolation
Motion isolation refers to a mattress’s ability to absorb and minimize movement, preventing it from transferring across the bed.
- Ideal for Couples: If you share your bed with a partner, especially one who tosses, turns, or gets up frequently, a mattress with good motion isolation is crucial. Memory foam and latex mattresses are particularly known for their excellent motion isolation, while innerspring mattresses (unless they have pocketed coils) tend to perform less well in this area.
5. Temperature Regulation
Temperature regulation is an important factor, particularly for hot sleepers.
Cooling Features: If you tend to sleep hot, look for mattresses with cooling technologies. Gel-infused memory foam, copper-infused foam, and phase-change materials are all designed to dissipate heat and keep you cool throughout the night.
Breathability: Hybrid and innerspring mattresses tend to be more breathable due to the space between coils, which allows air to circulate freely. Latex mattresses are also naturally breathable, especially those made from open-cell latex.
Cover Materials: The material used in the mattress cover can also impact temperature regulation. Look for covers made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials like organic cotton or Tencel, which help to keep the surface cool.
6. Durability
Durability is key to ensuring your mattress will provide consistent comfort and support over the years.
Material Longevity: Latex and high-density memory foam are among the most durable materials, often lasting 8-10 years or more. Innerspring mattresses tend to have a shorter lifespan, particularly if the coils are made from lower-quality steel.
Edge Support: The edge support of a mattress also contributes to its durability. Strong edge support prevents sagging and helps the mattress maintain its shape over time, especially if you frequently sit on or sleep near the edge of the bed.
Manufacturer Reputation: Research the brand’s reputation for quality and longevity. Reading customer reviews can provide insight into how well a mattress holds up over time.
7. Budget
Your budget will naturally influence your mattress choice, but it’s important to balance cost with quality.
Budget ($200-$700): Expect to find decent mattresses in this range, especially in the foam or innerspring categories. These may not have the advanced features of higher-end models but can still offer good value, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
Mid-Range ($700-$1,500): This price range offers a wide selection of quality mattresses, including hybrids and more sophisticated memory foam models. You can expect better materials, construction, and often longer warranties.
Luxury ($1,500+): Luxury mattresses often feature advanced technologies, high-quality materials like organic latex or premium memory foam, and longer lifespans. These mattresses are designed for those willing to invest in superior comfort and durability.
Consider Long-Term Value: 0
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider the long-term value of your purchase. A more expensive, durable mattress may save you money in the long run by lasting longer and maintaining comfort and support over time.
8. Trial Period and Warranty
A trial period and warranty offer you protection and peace of mind when buying a mattress.
Sleep Trial: Most reputable mattress companies offer a sleep trial period, typically ranging from 90 to 365 nights. This allows you to test the mattress in your home and return it if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Be sure to check the return policy details, such as whether returns are free and if there are any conditions attached.
Warranty: A good mattress should come with a warranty of at least 10 years. This covers defects in materials or workmanship, such as sagging beyond a certain depth or issues with the mattress cover. Ensure you understand what is covered by the warranty and any conditions that may void it, like improper support from your bed frame.
How to Get the Best Deal on a Mattress:
Purchasing a mattress is a significant investment, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to get a quality product. With a little planning, research, and strategic shopping, you can save a substantial amount of money on your next mattress purchase. Here’s how to maximize your savings without sacrificing comfort or durability.
1. Shop Online
Why It’s Effective:
- Lower Prices: Online mattress companies often offer lower prices compared to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. This is because they bypass the middleman, reducing overhead costs like rent, utilities, and staffing. These savings are typically passed on to the consumer.
- Wide Selection: Shopping online gives you access to a vast range of brands and models that might not be available locally. You can compare prices, read reviews, and make an informed decision from the comfort of your home.
- Generous Trial Periods: Most online mattress brands offer trial periods ranging from 100 nights to a full year. This allows you to test the mattress in your own home and return it if it doesn’t meet your expectations, often with no return shipping fees.
- Convenient Delivery: Many online retailers offer free delivery, often in a compact box that makes setup easy. Some even provide white-glove delivery services, which include setting up the mattress and removing your old one.
Tips:
- Look for online-exclusive promotions, as many brands run special deals on their websites that aren’t available in stores.
- Consider buying from well-established online brands with positive reviews and clear return policies.
2. Wait for Sales
Why It’s Effective:
- Timing is Everything: Major holidays and sales events like Black Friday, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Cyber Monday are prime opportunities to score a deal on a mattress. Retailers often offer steep discounts during these times, with some models reduced by 20% to 50% or more.
- Exclusive Offers: In addition to holiday sales, keep an eye out for retailer-specific events like anniversary sales, warehouse clearances, or new model launches, which can also feature significant markdowns.
Tips:
- Plan Ahead: If your current mattress is nearing the end of its life, plan to purchase your new one during a major sale event. Mark your calendar for these key dates and sign up for email alerts from your favorite brands to get notified of upcoming promotions.
- Be Patient: If you can wait, don’t rush into buying a mattress. Holding out for a sale can save you hundreds of dollars.
3. Negotiate in Store
Why It’s Effective:
- Room for Flexibility: Mattress pricing in physical stores isn’t always set in stone. Salespeople often have the flexibility to lower the price, especially if they sense you’re serious about buying but hesitant due to the cost. Negotiating can lead to substantial savings or additional perks like free accessories.
- Added Value: In addition to discounts, you might negotiate for extras such as pillows, mattress protectors, or even free delivery. These add-ons can enhance the value of your purchase and provide additional savings.
Tips:
- Do Your Research: Before heading to the store, research online to know the typical price range for the mattress you’re interested in. This knowledge gives you leverage during negotiations.
- Be Confident: Don’t be shy about asking for a better price. Politely let the salesperson know you’re considering other options and see if they can offer you a deal to close the sale.
4. Bundle Discounts
Why It’s Effective:
- Package Deals: Many mattress brands offer discounts when you purchase a mattress along with related products like bed frames, pillows, or bedding. These bundle deals can provide significant savings, especially if you’re outfitting a new bedroom or replacing multiple items.
- Convenience: Bundling allows you to get everything you need in one purchase, often at a lower total cost than buying each item separately.
Tips:
- Assess Your Needs: Before committing to a bundle deal, make sure you actually need the additional items. Sometimes, it’s better to buy only what you need rather than being swayed by the allure of a bundle.
- Compare Prices: Check the individual prices of the items included in the bundle to ensure you’re getting a genuine deal.
5. Look for Coupons and Discount Codes
Why It’s Effective:
- Instant Savings: Discount codes and coupons can provide immediate savings at checkout, sometimes knocking off a significant percentage of the mattress’s price. Many online retailers offer these codes to new customers or through email newsletters.
- Loyalty Programs: Some mattress companies offer loyalty programs or rewards points that can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.
Tips:
- Search Online: Before making a purchase, do a quick search for discount codes or coupons. Websites like RetailMeNot or Honey can help you find the latest offers.
- Sign Up for Emails: Many retailers offer a discount code just for signing up for their email list. This is an easy way to save, especially if you’re a first-time customer.
6. Check Out Clearance and Outlet Sections
Why It’s Effective:
- Deep Discounts: Clearance sections and outlet stores are gold mines for finding last year’s mattress models at steep discounts. These mattresses are often marked down significantly to make room for new inventory.
- Minor Imperfections: Outlet stores sometimes offer mattresses with slight imperfections, such as a cosmetic flaw or a returned item, at a reduced price. These imperfections typically do not affect the mattress’s performance.
Tips:
- Inspect Carefully: If you’re buying a clearance or outlet mattress, inspect it thoroughly to ensure any imperfections are minor and won’t affect your sleep quality.
- Check the Warranty: Ensure that the mattress still comes with a warranty, even if it’s a clearance or outlet item. This provides peace of mind in case there are any issues down the line.
7. Consider Financing Options
Why It’s Effective:
- Spread Out Payments: Financing allows you to spread the cost of a mattress over several months or even years, making it easier to afford a higher-quality mattress that might be out of your immediate budget. Many retailers offer interest-free financing for a set period, which can be a smart way to manage your budget.
- Upgrade Possibilities: Financing might enable you to upgrade to a better mattress that offers enhanced features, such as better materials or advanced sleep technologies, without paying the full amount upfront.
Tips:
- Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the terms and conditions of any financing agreement. Make sure you understand the interest rates, payment schedule, and any penalties for late payments.
- Interest-Free Period: Opt for a financing plan with an interest-free period if possible. This allows you to pay off the mattress without incurring additional costs.
What Is the Best Mattress to Get Right Now?
With countless options available, choosing the best mattress can feel overwhelming. Here’s a rundown of some top-rated mattresses, along with their price ranges, catering to various sleep preferences and budgets:
MattressNextDay Mattresses
Why It’s Great: MattressNextDay offers a wide range of mattresses that cater to various sleep preferences, including memory foam, hybrid, and pocket spring options. The company is known for its fast delivery and competitive pricing, making it a convenient choice for shoppers in the UK.
- Price: Starting from approximately £199 for budget options, with premium models available at higher price points.
- Who It’s Best For: Best for UK-based consumers who want a quick delivery option without compromising on quality. With options across different budgets, MattressNextDay provides a versatile selection for every type of sleeper.
Saatva Classic Mattress
Why It’s Great: The Saatva Classic is a luxury hybrid mattress that combines innerspring support with a plush Euro pillow top. It’s designed to offer superior comfort and support, particularly for those with back pain. The mattress comes in three firmness levels—plush soft, luxury firm, and firm—making it versatile for different sleep styles.
- Price: Approximately $1,495 for a Queen size.
- Who It’s Best For: Ideal for sleepers who need extra support but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. The Saatva Classic is especially beneficial for back and stomach sleepers.
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Why It’s Great: Nectar’s memory foam mattress is renowned for its exceptional comfort and pressure relief. It’s designed to contour to your body, reducing pressure points and ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The mattress also includes a quilted cooling cover, which helps regulate temperature.
- Price: Approximately $799 for a Queen size.
- Who It’s Best For: Best suited for side sleepers and those who appreciate the sinking, enveloping feel of memory foam.
Casper Original Mattress
Why It’s Great: Casper’s original mattress is an all-foam model that balances comfort and support with its zoned support system. The mattress is firmer under the hips and softer under the shoulders, promoting proper spinal alignment.
- Price: Approximately $1,295 for a Queen size.
- Who It’s Best For: Ideal for combination sleepers who switch positions during the night and those looking for a balanced feel.
Purple Hybrid Mattress
Why It’s Great: The Purple Hybrid mattress stands out due to its unique grid layer made from hyper-elastic polymer, offering both pressure relief and support. This grid layer also allows for excellent airflow, making it one of the best options for hot sleepers.
- Price: Approximately $2,199 for a Queen size.
- Who It’s Best For: Perfect for hot sleepers and those looking for a mattress that offers a unique combination of support and comfort.
DreamCloud Premier Mattress
Why It’s Great: The DreamCloud Premier is a luxury hybrid mattress that combines memory foam and innerspring coils. It’s known for its plush Euro top and excellent edge support, providing a luxurious sleeping experience. The mattress also includes a cashmere blend cover that enhances softness and breathability.
- Price: Approximately $1,399 for a Queen size.
- Who It’s Best For: Ideal for sleepers who want a combination of pressure relief and support, especially for those who prefer a medium-firm feel.
Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress
Why It’s Great: Tempur-Pedic is a well-established brand known for its high-quality memory foam mattresses. The ProAdapt model offers advanced pressure relief and motion isolation, making it perfect for couples. It also features a SmartClimate dual cover system for improved cooling.
- Price: Approximately $3,299 for a Queen size.
- Who It’s Best For: Ideal for sleepers who prioritize pressure relief and prefer the deep contouring feel of memory foam.
Making the Right Choice
Buying a mattress is a big decision that can have a lasting impact on your sleep quality and overall well-being. By focusing on factors like mattress type, firmness level, and support, you can find the best option that meets your needs. And with the right strategies, you can secure a great deal without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options or willing to invest in a luxury mattress, the key is to shop smart and take advantage of sales, discounts, and trial periods.
As you embark on your mattress shopping journey, remember that the best mattress for you is the one that aligns with your personal comfort preferences, sleep style, and budget. With so many excellent options available today, finding the perfect mattress has never been easier. So go ahead, invest in your sleep, and wake up refreshed every day on a mattress that truly suits you.
In summary, buying a mattress doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right knowledge and a bit of patience, you can find the mattress of your dreams at a price that fits your budget.
Mattress Next Day: leading UK retailer for affordable mattresses and beds
Mattress Next Day offers a wide range of products from top brands like Emma, Silentnight, and Sealy. Known for their next-day delivery service, they make it easy for customers to get a good night’s sleep quickly. With a variety of sizes and types, including memory foam, pocket sprung, and hybrid mattresses, mattressnextday.co.uk ensures there’s something for everyone. Plus, their commitment to sustainability means your purchase helps plant trees, making it a feel-good shopping experience.
