Shopping for a new mattress can be a daunting task. You want to find the perfect mattress that will provide you with the best night's sleep, but there are so many options to choose from—and each one comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Of course, you want to find the right mattress at the right price, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up buying something that doesn’t fit your needs. That’s why it’s important to be aware of some of the common pitfalls when shopping for a mattress.
In this article, we’ll discuss a few key mistakes to avoid when in the market for a new mattress so you don’t end up wasting your time or money. From understanding your needs to doing research on brands before purchasing, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
So let’s dive into what you need to consider next time you shop for a mattress.
Falling Into the Price Trap
When you're shopping for a mattress, it's easy to fall into the trap of making price your top priority. But beware—the highest price tag doesn't always guarantee the best sleep quality.
Take an honest look at your budget and decide how much you can realistically spend on a mattress. It's essential to remember that cost does not necessarily determine a mattress' quality—there are plenty of lower-priced mattresses that offer great value and comfort.
Just make sure you read the fine print and check out customer reviews.
Do your research, compare prices, and look beyond the sticker shock of high-end mattresses. Your goal should be to find a mattress that offers you both quality and value in one package—and that doesn't necessarily mean spending more money than you can afford.
Buying the Wrong Size Mattress
Choosing the wrong size mattress is a common mistake when it comes to mattress shopping. Many shoppers think that just because they live in a medium-sized room, they should get a full-size mattress and bed. Not so! You don't want either your bed or your room to look cluttered and cramped.
To find the right size, measure your space first. A queen mattress takes up 30 inches of space on either side, so make sure you can fit two of those in your room without running out of space. If you have the room, then you might consider upsizing to a king—which is best for taller adults and couples who don't sleep curled up together.
On the other hand, if you're tight on space and struggle with storage, then you may want to opt for a smaller bed like a twin or full instead. It's all about finding the right balance between comfort and being practical—make sure to take your time and weigh all of your options!
If you already have a bed make sure to buy the right mattress for its size. If you have a queen-size bed buy a queen-size mattress and not a king-size one.
Not Trying Out the Mattress Before Making a Purchase
When shopping for a mattress, you're probably tempted to just go with the fanciest one with all the latest features. But before you buy, don't forget to try out the mattress first!
It might not be possible for you to try out the mattress in-store, but if it is—you absolutely should. No matter how many reviews you read online, nothing beats actually feeling how a mattress responds to your body. Do your best to spend at least 15 minutes lying down on different mattresses and testing them out for comfort and support.
To get the most accurate reading of how well it will work for you, make sure to mimic your sleep position as closely as possible—like curling up in a ball if you're a side sleeper or sprawling out flat on your back if that's how you usually sleep. If you're shopping as a couple, take turns trying it out and see how two people can fit comfortably on the bed.
Also bear in mind that some mattresses come with adjustable firmnesses or layers of foam or latex to suit different preferences—so make sure to ask about this if this is something that interests you.
Overlooking Sleeping Habits and Body Type
When shopping for a mattress, you don't want to forget about your own sleeping habits and body type. Not everyone is the same, and what works for one person may not work for another—even if the mattress has good reviews or is made of the same quality material.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when evaluating mattresses:
If you’re a stomach sleeper, look for a firm model that will support your body while you sleep.
Side sleepers should find a softer mattress with enough cushioning so that their hips and shoulders don't sink into the base layer of foam.
Back sleepers should look for something in the middle—a medium-firm mattress that's neither too soft nor too hard.
Heavier folks may require denser mattresses with more coils or layers of foam to support their weight better.
Lighter individuals may require less support and prefer a low-profile mattress with fewer coils or layers of foam.
Remember—the perfect mattress is out there for each individual person or couple! Do your research and try different mattresses until you find one that is most comfortable for you and your unique lifestyle needs and body type—it certainly pays off in the long run!
Not Considering Delivery Options
Don't forget to consider your delivery options when shopping for a mattress! Many retailers also offer delivery and setup services, but they may come with a price tag. If you choose to have your mattress set up for you, make sure to factor this cost into your budget.
Other delivery considerations include whether you need the mattress delivered on a certain day, such as a weekend or holiday. Make sure all of the details are discussed with the delivery team before placing an order.
Additionally, some stores offer a setup service that likely requires additional funds and time.
Free Delivery
Many stores offer free delivery to customers, but others may apply additional charges for door-to-door delivery service or mattress removal. Be sure to check the store's return policy before you order a mattress online—there may be additional fees associated with returns or exchanges if it doesn't fit in your space correctly.
Delivery & Setup
Some mattresses require special setup due to their size and weight; if you want a professionally installed mattress, ask if the local store offers such services and be sure to account for the extra cost in your budget. Alternatively, if you choose to purchase a mattress online, check if mattress setup is available in your area for an extra fee.
Ignoring Warranty & Return Policies
When shopping for a mattress, never forget to read and consider the warranty and return policy of the store you’re purchasing from. Most mattresses offered by reputable brands come with warranties that can last up to 10 years!
Besides knowing what type of warranties are attached to the mattress you’re considering, be sure to ask about the store's return policy and any fees associated with returns.
Length of Warranty
You want to make sure that if anything happens to your mattress in the future, it will be covered under warranty as long as it is still within the terms of the coverage. Most warranties cover structural damage due to defects in workmanship or materials, so make sure you know exactly what is and isn’t covered before you buy.
Return Policy & Fees
A good mattress store should clearly state its return policy on its website or in-store for shoppers. You should also ask about any restocking or delivery fees associated with a return so there are no surprises later on if you decide you need a different size or model of mattress.
Having a good understanding of what protections and policies are in place will help ensure that shopping for a new mattress doesn't end in an unfortunate mistake.
Conclusion
Regardless of what mattress you end up buying, you’ll need to make sure that you pay attention to common pitfalls associated with buying a mattress. Avoiding these mistakes will help you find the perfect mattress for you and your needs.
Don’t fall for gimmicks and helpful salespeople, choose the mattress that’s right for you and your body, understand the warranty and return policies, and make sure to check the materials and construction before you buy.
Sure, selecting the perfect mattress can be a tricky process, but if you stay informed and take the time to research your options, you’ll be sure to find the perfect mattress to give you the restful sleep you need.
Further Reading:
Sleep Cozily With the Right Bed Comforter
Sleeping in Style: Selecting the Right Bed Sheets for Your Bed
Refresh in a Flash: Fast Ideas to Refresh the Look of Your Room