How to Buy a Mattress

In this article we will cover the basics of a how to buy a mattress for your bed, or replace an existing mattress that has "seen better days." Unfortunately mattresses can be expensive. Accordingly, many people keep their old mattresses way too long.

But, when you start waking up in the morning with regular back-aches or other muscle soreness, it is time to considered throwing out your old mattress and shopping for a new one. The basic points to consider are listed below in order of importance.

Point Number 1: make sure your new mattress is firm enough. You should always lie down and test a mattress for yourself before buying. Every person is different and will require a different firmness in their mattress to adequately support their body comfortably. But a good general rule of thumb is to always opt for a mattress that is slightly firmer that you think you need. After all, mattresses soften with wear, and just because it feels firm enough when brand new, doesn't mean it will be a year from now.

Point Number 2: Thicker padding equals more comfort. Be sure to ask about the construction of a mattress. Better mattresses tend to have both thicker padding and higher coil counts than cheap mattresses. Remember, the higher the coil count, the less sagging you can expect over time. Also check for extra comfort cushions that may be sewn onto the mattress.

Point Number 3: Get the right size. There are four standard bed sizes in the US: twin, double, queen and king. Choose a size that fits both you and your room. Generally, are larger size will be more comfortable, with increased room to move around.

Point Number 4: What's under the surface? You'll want to ask questions about the mattresses padding. It may look wonderful on the outside but it is what's inside that counts. A polyester-cotton blend is a popular filler used by many of the better mattresses. Also check for a quilted padding on top. The thicker the padding, in general, the more expensive (and comfortable) the mattress will be.

Point Number 5:  Don't get ripped off. Department stores and mattress specialty stores are good choices because you can test the mattress in the showroom, but running from one store to another is tiring and wastes a lot of time. A better method is to narrow down your choices by searching online, and then when you have it down to 2-3 mattresses, visit a retail outlet to try those specifically.

There is little doubt though, that shopping online offers the best prices on more expensive mattresses. If cost is a primary concern (and for most of us it will be), you should know that the internet mattress dealers will often sell high-quality mattresses as much as 40% off their retail price.

But since you can't very well test out a mattress online, one very popular solution is to check the brick and mortar stores to decide on the mattress you want, and then search online for the lowest price on that model. Now you know how to buy a mattress and get the best possible price too! Sweet dreams.