Mattress Shopping Mistakes You Should Avoid – A Complete Guide
When it comes to buying a mattress, there’s no denying that it can be a challenging task. With so many options available in terms of materials, brands, firmness levels, and pricing, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. After all, a mattress is a significant investment in your health, comfort, and sleep quality. You spend a third of your life on your mattress, so it’s essential to get it right.
Many people make common mistakes when shopping for a mattress that can lead to poor sleep, discomfort, and even back pain. We’ll go over the most common mattress shopping mistakes and how to avoid them. By understanding these mistakes and learning how to sidestep them, you’ll make a more informed decision and end up with a mattress that suits your needs perfectly.
1. Not Taking Your Time to Test the Mattress
One of the most significant mistakes many people make when shopping for a mattress is rushing through the process. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new purchase or the pressure of making a decision quickly, but this is a decision that requires careful consideration. After all, you’ll be sleeping on the mattress every night for years to come, so it’s crucial to take your time and test it thoroughly.
Why It’s a Mistake:
If you don’t spend enough time testing the mattress, you may not realize how it feels in the long run. A mattress that feels comfortable during the first five minutes of lying on it may start to feel uncomfortable after an hour. Testing the mattress for a longer period, ideally 10 to 15 minutes, will help you get a better sense of how it will feel during sleep.
How to Avoid It:
Don’t rush the process. Lie down on the mattress in your usual sleeping position—whether that’s on your back, side, or stomach. Stay in each position for several minutes to see how your body feels. Pay attention to areas where you feel pressure, and make sure the mattress provides adequate support for your spine. Testing different mattresses from a variety of brands will help you compare and narrow down your choices.
2. Ignoring Mattress Firmness
Mattress firmness is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a mattress. Firmness refers to how soft or hard a mattress feels, and it can significantly impact your comfort and sleep quality. Many shoppers make the mistake of not paying enough attention to the firmness of a mattress, which leads to poor spinal alignment, discomfort, and even back pain.
Why It’s a Mistake:
Choosing the wrong firmness for your body type and sleeping position can lead to restless nights. For example, side sleepers generally need a softer mattress to relieve pressure on their shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers often require a firmer mattress to support proper spinal alignment. Selecting the wrong firmness can make a big difference in your comfort level and the overall quality of your sleep.
How to Avoid It:
Take your body weight and sleeping position into account when evaluating mattress firmness. Lighter sleepers may prefer a softer mattress, while heavier individuals might need something firmer to prevent sinking too deeply. If you’re unsure about what level of firmness is right for you, ask a sales associate for advice, but make sure to test it for yourself before making a decision.
3. Not Considering Your Sleeping Position
Many people overlook their sleeping position when shopping for a mattress, assuming that all mattresses are the same. However, your sleeping position plays a critical role in determining the right mattress for you.
Why It’s a Mistake:
If you don’t factor in your sleeping position, you might end up with a mattress that doesn’t provide the necessary support. For example, side sleepers need a mattress that allows their shoulders and hips to sink in slightly for pressure relief, while back sleepers require a mattress that supports the natural curve of their spine.
How to Avoid It:
Consider your sleeping position before you start shopping. If you sleep primarily on your back, choose a mattress that offers medium to medium-firm support. If you’re a side sleeper, opt for a softer mattress that can contour to your body. For stomach sleepers, look for a firmer mattress to avoid sinking in too much, which can cause spinal misalignment. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice based on your sleeping habits.
4. Overlooking the Trial Period and Return Policy
Most mattress retailers offer a trial period, which allows you to test the mattress in your home for a few weeks to ensure it’s the right fit. However, many people overlook the importance of the trial period and return policy, only to find out later that the mattress doesn’t work for them.
Why It’s a Mistake:
If you don’t check the return policy and trial period before buying, you could be stuck with a mattress that isn’t comfortable, and most mattresses aren’t cheap. A good return policy and trial period provide you with the opportunity to return or exchange the mattress if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
How to Avoid It:
Before purchasing a mattress, make sure you understand the store’s return policy and trial period. Many stores offer trial periods ranging from 30 to 120 days. Make sure the mattress can be returned or exchanged without too many hassles or hidden fees. Don’t forget to check the fine print regarding any restocking fees or conditions.
5. Not Paying Attention to Mattress Quality and Durability
The quality and durability of a mattress are crucial factors in making a long-term investment. Some shoppers focus only on the initial feel of the mattress, but the quality and materials used in construction can impact how long the mattress will last and how comfortable it remains over time.
Why It’s a Mistake:
Buying a mattress based solely on its initial comfort might lead to issues down the road. Low-quality mattresses can sag, lose their shape, and become uncomfortable much sooner than higher-quality mattresses. This can leave you with poor sleep and a mattress that needs to be replaced much sooner than expected.
How to Avoid It:
Look for a mattress made with high-quality materials, such as durable coils, memory foam, or latex. These materials tend to hold up better over time and maintain their shape and comfort. Read reviews and ask the salesperson about the expected lifespan of the mattress. Investing in a mattress that is well-made will ensure you get the most out of your purchase.
6. Failing to Consider Your Budget
Mattresses can vary widely in price, with some models costing thousands of dollars. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of shopping for a new mattress and forget to stick to your budget. However, overspending on a mattress that doesn’t fit your needs can be a mistake.
Why It’s a Mistake:
Spending too much on a mattress may cause financial strain, while choosing a mattress that’s too cheap may compromise your sleep quality and comfort. It’s essential to find a balance between price and quality to ensure you get the best value for your money.
How to Avoid It:
Before you start shopping, set a budget and stick to it. Consider the value of the mattress, not just the price. Remember, a good mattress is an investment in your health and well-being. Look for sales, discounts, or financing options to get a high-quality mattress within your budget.
7. Ignoring the Importance of a Good Foundation
Your mattress needs the right foundation to provide proper support. Many people make the mistake of thinking that their old bed frame or foundation will work just fine with a new mattress. However, a mismatched foundation can compromise the integrity of the mattress and affect its performance.
Why It’s a Mistake:
A foundation that is too old, damaged, or incompatible with your new mattress can cause uneven support and lead to discomfort. It can also shorten the lifespan of your mattress.
How to Avoid It:
Make sure that your mattress is paired with the correct foundation or box spring. If you’re buying a new mattress, it’s a good idea to also invest in a new bed frame or foundation if needed. This will ensure that both the mattress and the support system work together to provide maximum comfort.
8. Overlooking the Brand’s Reputation
Not all mattress brands are created equal. Some brands have a reputation for producing high-quality, durable mattresses, while others may not live up to expectations. Many shoppers make the mistake of choosing a mattress based on price alone without considering the brand’s reputation.
Why It’s a Mistake:
Choosing a mattress from a reputable brand ensures that you’re getting a product backed by quality and customer satisfaction. Lesser-known or poorly reviewed brands may provide lower-quality products that don’t last long or deliver the level of comfort you expect.
How to Avoid It:
Do some research on mattress brands before making a decision. Read reviews, check ratings, and look for customer feedback about the quality and durability of the mattresses. A well-known, reputable brand is more likely to provide a mattress that meets your expectations for comfort and longevity.
9. Neglecting to Ask Questions
Many people fail to ask enough questions when shopping for a mattress, which can lead to confusion and mistakes. Mattress salespeople are there to help guide you, but you need to ask the right questions to ensure you’re making an informed decision.
Why It’s a Mistake:
Not asking questions can result in a poor buying decision, especially if you don’t fully understand the mattress features, return policies, or warranty terms.
How to Avoid It:
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the mattress’s construction, firmness, materials, trial period, warranty, and return policy. Be sure to ask about any additional fees or charges that may apply. The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be to make the best decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best firmness for back pain? A medium-firm mattress is often recommended for people with back pain, as it offers support for the spine while relieving pressure on the back muscles.
2. How do I know if I need a new mattress? If your mattress is sagging, showing visible wear and tear, or no longer feels comfortable, it may be time to replace it. If you wake up with aches and pains or feel restless during the night, your mattress could be to blame.
3. Should I buy a mattress online or in-store? Both options have their pros and cons. In-store shopping allows you to test the mattress in person, while online shopping often offers better deals. Make sure the online retailer offers a generous trial period and return policy.
4. How long do mattresses last? On average, a mattress lasts about 7-10 years, depending on the materials and quality. High-quality mattresses tend to last longer.
5. Can I use my old foundation with a new mattress? It’s recommended to use a new foundation or box spring when purchasing a new mattress to ensure proper support and extend the lifespan of the mattress.
6. How do I care for my mattress? Rotate your mattress every 3-6 months to ensure even wear. Use a mattress protector to prevent stains and damage, and avoid jumping on the mattress to preserve its integrity.
7. What is the difference between memory foam and innerspring mattresses? Memory foam mattresses contour to your body, offering pressure relief, while innerspring mattresses provide support with coils and tend to be firmer.
8. Should I choose a king or queen-size mattress? The decision depends on your room size and personal space needs. A king-size mattress offers more space but requires a larger room, while a queen-size mattress is suitable for most average-sized rooms.
9. Is it better to buy a mattress in-store or online? In-store shopping allows you to test the mattress, but online shopping offers more convenience and often better deals. Just ensure the online store has a good return policy.
Conclusion
Shopping for a mattress is a significant decision that requires time, research, and careful consideration. By avoiding the common mistakes listed above, you can make an informed choice that will lead to better sleep quality and overall comfort. Remember to take your time, consider your sleeping position, ask questions, and think about long-term durability and support. With the right mattress, you’ll enjoy years of restful, pain-free sleep.
