Mattress Shopping 101

Come prepared

• Dress comfortably so you can test many mattresses.
• Bring your favorite pillow to replicate the proper sleeping position.
• Know the dimensions of your current set (floor to top of mattress). Know length and width as well.
• Know your room dimensions for possibly purchasing a larger set. You may decide to upgrade.

Be smart in-store

• Start with a comfort / technology test on good-quality mattresses.
• Determine your comfort preference first. Try a plush and firm innerspring mattress.
• Next try other technologies if you are curious to experience different feels, including memory foam and latex foam mattresses. At this point, do not worry about the details of what’s in the mattress.

Know four basic comfort levels when you test
Each manufacturer may have different names, so choose by your comfort preference. Remember: Comfort is different for everyone. So try several different comforts when you’re in the store. A good mattress should provide you with the right support at every comfort level.

• Ultra Plush–a very soft-feeling surface.
• Plush–firmer than the ultra plush, but less firm than cushion firm.
• Cushion Firm–firmer than an ultra plush, but softer than firm.
• Firm–the hardest of the comfort levels.

Found one you really like?

• Ask about the product’s features and benefits.
• Compare it to one of higher and lower price.
• Learn the difference between like firmnesses but different prices.
• Buy the best mattress you can–if it passes your comfort test.

What to ask

• What’s inside the mattress that offers proper back and body support?
• What’s inside the mattress that minimizes tossing and turning?
• If it’s an innerspring, insist that the coils be twice-tempered. This helps the coils retain strength and prevent mattress sag.
• All mattresses must meet Federal Flame Retardancy guidelines.
• Purchase one that uses fabric and fiber for flame retardancy versus one treated with chemicals.

Know the types of mattresses

• Innerspring
• Memory Foam
• Latex Foam