KNOW WHAT YOU NEED FROM YOUR MATTRESS

It’s important that you know what you need from your mattress. Do you have back pain? Do you or your partner snore? Do you sleep hot? Do you wake up feeling tired more often than you do feeling rested? These are all important questions to consider before looking for a mattress. Providing this information to the sales associate will help them narrow your search and find your perfect mattress.

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

If it’s been a while since you purchased your last mattress, you may want to reacquaint yourself with the types of mattresses that are available to you.  It's also incredibly important to research the company you plan to do business with.  Facebook, Google and Yelp reviews are a good starting point but also check out your local Better Business Bureau's ratings and history. The most common types of mattresses are: 

TRADITIONAL INNERSPRING

Mattresses designed with a system of coils to provide a traditional feel with a little bit of bounce. Innersprings range from a wire-tied coil to an individually encased coil, depending on quality.

MEMORY FOAM

Mattresses made entirely with multiple layers of dense foam that contour to your unique body type. Generally purchased for their ability to relieve pressure points and reduce motion transfer between sleeping partners.

HYBRID

Combines the bounce and support of an innerspring with the added comfort of memory foam in one mattress. Some hybrids feature more springs while others feature more foam to help sleepers  find that “in-between” feel.

EXPECTATIONS ON COMFORT LIFE

Comfort life refers to how long a mattress delivers on the quality of sleep it had when newly purchased.

Most mattresses have the same 10-year warranty, but how long a mattress maintains its comfort varies based on quality of materials and use. When thinking about your new mattress, don't just ask "how long do I want it to last?" Ask yourself, "how long do I want it to be comfortable?" 

 

TEST OUT THE PRODUCT

It may feel odd to lie down and conduct a “rest test” in-store, but that really is the best way to know if a mattress is right for you. It is recommended to lie on the bed for 2-5 minutes in your preferred sleeping position (example: back, side, stomach). It is also recommended to use a pillow during your test to get an accurate feel of the mattress.  Sleep Center has an experienced staff with their focus on helping you buy the perfect mattress not sell you the most expensive one.  

 

FIND THE FEEL THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

Unfortunately, there is no standardized measurement for mattress firmness. One brand’s “soft” may be another brand’s “medium.” When deciding on the right firmness, pay attention to how each mattress fills into your lower back and how it feels on your shoulders and hips if you're on your side. You should look for a supported feel in your lower back and for low levels of pressure in your hips and shoulders. Be sure to take some additional time testing out the product to find out what works for you.

GET REVIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is more than enough information on the internet about mattresses and the options that you should choose. When doing your research, make sure to look at credible sites.  Many of the review sites and videos are cloaked as non bias but if you read the fine print they receive a commission from the mattress company they are "recommending".  Ask friends and family about brands that they love and explore the websites of brands and retailers you trust.

THINK ABOUT POWER

For some people, a bed is no longer just a place to sleep. Whether you're streaming your favorite television show, catching up on emails, or breaking in that new video game, an adjustable base gives you nearly infinite possibilities to relax in your bed. Adjustable bases also may help to alleviate snoring, reduce tension, and help with a number of other sleep issues.

ASK ABOUT OFFERS

Buying a new mattress is a big decision and an investment. Luckily, retailers have promotions and offers that help make the decision a little easier and get you the best value for your dollar. Be sure to ask about things like: Financing options, delivery procedures, specials offer or promotions and trial periods/ return policies.  

TRIAL PERIODS AND RETURN POLICIES

It's normal to have an adjustment period when sleeping on a new mattress. Give yourself at least 14 days to fully adjust before deciding if your mattress is right for you. Before you buy, it's important to know if your retailer has a trial period for peace of mind when purchasing.  Sleep Center Superstores in Gainesville, Florida has the most consumer friendly policies.  Some retailers have strict guidelines in place, be sure to ask all the questions. 

WARRANTIES

Mattress warranties cover manufacturer defects outside of regular wear and tear. Mattress warranties are a good indication of how long a bed can be used but not necessarily how long a mattress will maintain its comfort. 10 years is the industry standard for warranties, and it's recommended that you replace your mattress every 8-10 years. Mattress replacement varies based on quality and use of your mattress.  Some manufacturers offer 20+ year warranties.  No one should sleep on the same mattress for 20 years.  It's also important to note, those lengthy warranties are usually prorated and offer little to no help in the latter years of the warranted period.