Ashley Hanson

Mattress Buying Tips When it comes to choosing a mattress, there are several factors you want to consider to ensure you get the best one to suit your needs. Mattresses come in a variety of sizes and prices, along with a variety of features. All of these things can make it difficult or overwhelming when you're just starting to shop for your new mattress. With this in mind, take a look at our top things to look for when you buy a new mattress. Know the Size You Want Just because you're replacing your current mattress doesn't mean you have to stick with the same size. If you have a king and you no longer require that big of a bed, consider downsizing to a queen or a full. This can free up a lot of room in your bedroom. Or if you're living on your own, consider going to a larger size if you need it. Know Your Options There are several types of mattresses available to buy, and knowing the more popular options can help you narrow down your mattress choice. There are four mattress types that come to mind and they are listed below. ● Air.​ Air mattresses allow you to customize the firmness level to your needs easily. This type of mattress also allows both sides of the bed to be at separate firmness levels. ● Hybrid.​ Hybrid mattresses have a spring base with a thick foam top. If you purchase a good quality hybrid mattress, it gives you the best qualities of a traditional innerspring mattress and a memory foam mattress. ● Innerspring.​ An innerspring mattress is the most common type, and it is typically the least expensive. These mattresses come in a wide range of firmness options with springs covered by a layer of foam, but they typically don't last as long. ● Memory Foam.​ A memory foam mattress is one of the more expensive options, but their thick top layer provides excellent cushioning. They do tend to be hotter than other mattress choices, but they last longer. Try Before You Buy You want to actually lay on and test your prospective mattress before you buy it. Get into your favorite sleeping position, roll around, sit up like you're reading in bed, and sit on the edge of the bed to test the mattress's firmness level. Ideally, you want to spend at least ten minutes on each mattress you try. If you're purchasing your mattress online, go into a brick and mortar mattress shop and ask to try the model number you're considering. Check on Trial Periods and Returns As a mattress is one of the more expensive household purchases you can make, you want to know about any return or trial periods. You'll typically have around 30 days to test your mattress and return it if you run into problems. Be aware of any return fees associated with your mattress as well, as many stores will charge them. Buy a New Mattress Every Eight to Ten Years Even though eight years doesn't seem like a long time to have a mattress, it's plenty of time for it to wear out in spots or to form lumps. You can help to prolong the life of your mattress by flipping and rotating it as the company suggests. Check the Box Spring or Foundation Today, many mattresses come with a foundation or a box spring already attached. Additionally, your new mattress may fit your old box spring, so you don't necessarily need to purchase a new one. It is important to do your research on this part as it can end up saving you between $150 to $300 easily on just this part alone. Check Your Delivered Mattress If you choose to have your mattress delivered to your door, never accept the delivery without thoroughly inspecting your mattress and foundation. You're looking for things like obvious defects, stains, rips, or tears, and look for a label that says, "All new materials." If you see problems, refuse the delivery and make a note of just in case you have to file a warranty claim. Buying a new mattress is an investment that you want to take your time with and do your research. All of these tips can help you find the perfect mattress for your needs, it just takes time, but it's worth it.