Purchasing a new mattress can be a daunting task, not a significant financial investment. In these recent years, homeowners who walk into a mattress store have reaped numerous benefits, including a wider range of options, trial periods, money-back guarantees, and (in some cases) much lower markups than in previous years. Despite the improved customer experience, it still pays to be well-informed. Here are eight pointers to help you relax while shopping for a new mattress.
1- Take measurements before you go: Grab your measuring tape and write down the dimensions of your mattress before you go to the store.
When looking at your options, use these measurements as a guide, considering that a comfortable bedroom has at least three feet of remaining space on two sides of the mattress. Remember to measure the doorways and hallways in your home as well—you don’t want your new mattress to get stuck in the hallway!
2- Do your homework: Mattresses are available in various styles, including soft, firm, orthopedic, pillow-top, box spring, innerspring, foam, hybrid, and more. Before you go to the store, do some research on the advantages and disadvantages of each option to help you narrow down your choices and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
3- Test the mattresses: You’ll be sleeping on your mattress for many hours each night, so make sure it’s comfortable. Lie down on each mattress you’re considering for at least 10 or 15 minutes. Spend most of that time sleeping in your usual position, whether it’s on your side, stomach, or back. Any mattress which makes you feel uncomfortable or sore should be ruled out.
4- Don’t be afraid to bargain: The mattress industry is known for its high markups, particularly in smaller stores. Even though many large mattress chains now list the lowest possible price, nothing stops you from haggling. Bring your research from the internet, and don’t be afraid to haggle for a better deal.
5- Take advantage of a trial period: Even if your mattress appears perfect in the mattress store, there’s no guarantee you’ll feel the same way after napping on it all night. Request a 30-day trial period from the mattress store. After that, if you don’t like the mattress after several weeks of testing, you may be ready to revert it for a refund. (Ask about any restocking or exchange fees upfront.) Some companies and manufacturers also provide comfort guarantees, allowing you to return or exchange a mattress within a certain time frame. However, inquire about fees once more.
6- Understand the warranty: Make sure your mattress comes with a decent warranty, usually at least ten years. Also, make sure you know exactly what the warranty covers. Most warranties only cover damages caused by manufacturing flaws, which most homeowners discover within a few months of buying.
7-Purchase a mattress protector: To extend the life of your bed and protect against surface damage, invest in a high-quality mattress protector. This is especially vital because return policies and warranties may be void if the mattress is returned stained.
8- Examine your bed frame: Even the best mattress will be uncomfortable if supported by a shaky frame. Ensure that your bed frame is properly assembled and built to last before purchasing a new mattress. Also, make sure to use a bed frame at all times. It’s possible that simply laying the mattress on the floor will shorten its life.
Conclusion
Even if the mattress appeared to be very comfortable when you tried it out, sleeping on it for sev eral hours every night in your own home may reveal that it isn’t quite what you expected. Finally, look into the mattress store’s trial and return policies, as this can save you a lot of time and aggravation later. Most stores offer a three- to a four-month trial period, but make sure you understand what that entails and in what condition you can return the mattress. Depending on the store, you may receive a full refund or exchange, but you may also be charged a restocking fee.
