- Shop for the right mattress, not the lowest price.
Determine what you need in a new mattress and shop with benefits in mind.
- If you have a partner, make sure you shop together to get an accurate sense of comfort.
Buy a mattress big enough for both of you, so that you reduce sleep interruptions caused by partner movement. Studies show that when it comes to sleeping with a partner, larger beds provide better sleep for both individuals.
- Firmness is a personal choice, but don’t fall for the myth that you need the hardest surface for the best support.
Concrete is hard, but you wouldn’t sleep on it. A good mattress should provide proper support while remaining relatively plush and comfortable.
- Don’t test a mattress by sitting on its edge or pressing down on the surface.
The best example of this is memory foam: the edges of the mattress handle weight and feel very different than the centre.
- Lie down for at least 15 minutes on mattresses you like, to ensure they conform to your body and are comfortable to you.
- Don’t buy coil mattresses based on coil count alone.
Specialty foams in comfort layers can easily double the price of a coil mattress, and this needs to be considered when buying a new mattress.
- Buy trusted brands.
They have the most to lose if you’re unhappy, which is why they care much more about their materials and workmanship.
- Invest in a better night’s sleep by spending as much as you can afford.
Better mattresses generally cost more, and bargain mattresses are not a bargain if they fail at giving you a better night’s sleep or cause health problems.
- Don’t determine value based on warranty.
Mattress warranties cover manufacturing defects, not comfort or support.