Top Guide to Buying a New Mattress (2024)
Intro
Buying a new mattress can be overwhelming. It may require a lot of research and patience, but at the end of the day, how will you know which mattress is the best? Well, it doesn't have to be stressful. Especially when you have everything you need to know right here on this page!
Your mattress is an important asset to your home. Not only is it part of your ideal sleep environment, but it's also a long-term investment. One of the biggest mistakes you can do is buying a mattress the same day you decide you need a new mattress. Odds are you won't be satisfied with your purchase.
In this top mattress buying guide, we will go over the basics of what to expect when you want to buy a new mattress.
Contents
- When to get a new mattress
- Understanding mattress lingo
- Different mattress types
- How to pick a new mattress
- Best time to buy a mattress
- Where to buy a mattress
- Tips and advice
The first question most people will ask is, "What is the best mattress?" It's a good question, but not quite. The real question you should ask is, "What is the best mattress for me?" Everyone is different, so everyone has a unique way of sleeping. It's a fact of life. Consider this question when reading our guide.
When to get a new mattress
When you want to buy a new mattress, you need to ask yourself whether you actually need a new mattress. Mattresses have a long lifespan (7-10 years), so it's important to take full advantage of your sleep investment.
If you're not sure, Jonathan Stevens would like to help you know when it's time to replace your old mattress. You can read that article here in our guides. Trust us, it will help you get started and maybe save you some money!
Understanding mattress lingo
The mattress world can be somewhat confusing, especially if you don't know what the terminology means. Do you know the difference between a hybrid mattress and memory foam? What about comfort levels or box-spring mattresses?
If you don't, then read our article on mattress lingo. This will help you with those less-than common mattress terms when you're out buying a new mattress. Especially when you're discussing your sleep preferences or negotiating on prices.
Different mattress types
When searching for a new mattress, you need to know the different mattress types. Our mattress buying guide wouldn't be complete without it. They're typically 5 types of mattresses: Innerspring, foam, hybrid, air and water (the latter two being less common). Don't be distracted by their prices and reviews. The most expensive mattress type might not be for you, and a customer review will be biased based on their sleep preferences.
- Innerspring: This is your traditional type of mattress. This mattress is equipped with a coil system and usually padded with an upper layer of material (maybe foam or fiber). There are many types of coil mattresses to choose from.
- Foam: It provides good support and relieves your pressure points. There are many types of foam to choose from, all with different characteristics. Some foam mattress include latex material.
- Hybrid: Combines the qualities of an innerspring and foam mattress (or foam sub-type). This is known as a foam-on-coil combo. This mattress provides the support an innerspring gives, but the comfort of what foam is popular for. This type of mattress is usually you jack-of-all-trades.
- Air: This mattress is very basic and affordable. It is made up of air chambers that allow sleepers to add or remove air based on their preferences (soft or more firm). These beds may also include a layer of foam or other fibers for extra comfort.
- Water: Just like an air mattress, a water bed has chambers filled with water to provide most of the support and comfort. These were introduced in the mid-80's and have become less popular since then. Modern waterbeds have a layer of foam or fiber on top, much like air beds.
Each mattress type has its own specification based on common sleep preferences. Not everyone is the same, so mattresses shouldn't be the same, either. You wouldn't buy a truck if it didn't suit your needs, right? No! You would buy a vehicle based on what you need it to do. The same goes for a mattress. It must suit your needs as a sleeper.
Jonathan Stevens has 5 different mattress types to choose from on our website. Everything from our value line to our 5 star hotel mattress line. We also have 4 comfort types ranging from plush, luxury firm, firm, and extra firm.
Selecting a new mattress
"What is the best mattress for me?" Do you remember that question? It's time to start asking it. When selecting your new mattress, keep in mind these 2 basic rules:
- Neutral alignment: Meaning your spine (and body) is aligned to the mattress as you lay on it.
- No discomfort: When you lay on the mattress, be sure there is no discomfort anywhere on your body. All your pressure points need to be relieved. You need to be comfortable!
Your body has curves and arches. When you lay on a bed, the mattress (whatever the type) must support those curves and arches. This will help you keep your body at neutral alignment. In other words, straight. If it doesn't, you'll wake up with a back or a neck ache.
Comfort needs to be taken into consideration, too. When laying on the mattress, your pressure points need to be relieved all throughout your body. Don't know where your pressure points are? You'll know when you're uncomfortable on your mattress! If you continually toss and turn and wake up feeling tired, then your mattress might not be relieving your pressure points.
Avoid aches and pain
If you're feeling any aches or pain when you wake up, then your mattress isn't properly supporting you. Any neck or shoulder pain might have something to do with your pillow. Back pain, however, usually means your mattress isn't giving you the style of comfort your body wants.
You'll have to figure out the degree of firmness and softness you need for your body to rest comfortably. As mentioned above, your body needs to be in neutral alignment. This in turn will relieve the discomfort you might be feeling from your old mattress.
Sleeping position
Those who sleep on their sides may need a softer mattress. You'll need a mattress that will conform to the curves and arches of your body. It's important to relieve your pressure points when laying on the mattress before making a final decision.
Stomach sleepers might prefer a firmer mattress. You don't want a mattress that will engulf your entire body. A denser mattress will be more comfortable than being smothered in your sleep!
Then there's the back sleepers who prefer something in the middle. A mattress than can conform to your body will be great, but keep in mind that your spine needs to be straight (neutral alignment).
For more information, Mattress Clarity has an article that goes in-depth for all sleep positions.
Cool or hot?
A softer mattress will retain heat around your body. A firmer mattress will be less hot and provide better air circulation abound your body. People like to sleep in a cooler environment, even with layers of sheets. Your mattress is no exception. If you feel that your body temperature is something to consider, then a gel-foam mattress might be what you're looking for.
Other factors
If you're sleeping with a partner, you'll want a mattress that will minimize movement from the other end of the bed. This is called movement isolation. Those who are living with their partner might be disturbed by their partner's movement. When you're looking for a mattress, keep in mind movement isolation. Mattresses with softer layers will help with this issue.
Also find a mattress with good edge support. When you get up from bed, you'll most likely swing your legs over the side and sit there for a bit. A mattress with good edge support will not sink or break after continual use. Jonathan Stevens ComfortFlex mattresses doesn't rely entirely on foam, instead it utilizes a continuous coil system that extends to the edges for maximum support.
Myths about mattresses
Our mattress buying guide also includes these common myths should that be avoided when buying a new mattress. Don't make mistakes off these myths when looking for a new mattress! Jonathan Stevens has a mattress for everyone so you can get the best quality mattress at every price range.
- Mattresses are expensive: If mattresses are expensive, then it must be better! Some brands may be more expensive, but this myth is hardly true. When comparing mattress types, look at comfort level rather than prestige.
- More coils means it's better: Not necessarily. More coils does not mean you'll have a more comfortable night's rest. It's all about comfort layers for your new mattress.
- Buy a firmer mattress: If buying a firm mattress will solve all your back problems, think again. Although a firm mattress will help your back, a bed that is too firm can cause lower back problems. You still need a soft enough mattress to provide comfort and neutral alignment.
- Sleep position doesn't matter: This is simply not true! Next to your mattress, your sleep position is most important. After all, you're predominantly buying a new mattress based on your sleep position. If you don't, it will negatively affect your health.
So how much should you pay?
If your budget is tight, then this might be a concern. However, its normal to go for a bargain deal and still reap the benefits of a good night's rest.
Remember, the cost of a new mattress will depend on the retailer and locale. If you live in a dense, populated area, expect your average mattress to be a little expensive. If you live in an area where its less dense, then you can see mattress prices dip a little.
The average amount you would like to spend on a mattress, without sacrificing comfort, is around $600 - $1000. Anything more will grant more options, but will also be more expensive. Also remember that you may need to find a new base for your new mattress. An older base might be too worn out for another 7-10 years of use. On top of that, consider a mattress cover, pillows, and sheets to go along with your new mattress investment.
Negotiating, or haggling, is a time-proven buyer tactic that can help you save a lot of money. However, it requires some research on your part. The salespeople are professionals, so they know what they're talking about. If you've seen the same type of mattress elsewhere less expensive than what you found in-store, then mention it! They might match or even beat that price (with proof, of course). Read this article on how to get the best price on a new mattress by haggling.
Best time to buy a mattress
So we know a new mattress can be expensive, but there are deals and specials you can take advantage of when deciding to buy a new one. If you drive past your local mattress store, you'll probably see a deal or two being advertised. If you peruse online for a new mattress, you'll see coupons that can be applied towards your next purchase, including a mattress.
However, the best time to really reap those benefits is during holiday specials. You'll also have the opportunity to buy a new mattress the week leading to the actual holiday. Sometimes it'll extend past those dates and into the next week. It's a bargain sale you can't pass up, so keep that in mind when you're buying a new mattress.
Notable holiday's:
- President's Day
- Memorial Day
- July 4th
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving
- Black Friday
- New Years
DISCLAIMER: Jonathan Stevens doesn't do sales since our mattresses are factory direct. All our mattresses are already at sale price for the best deal possible 365 days a year.
Where to buy a mattress
In our modern age, you can buy almost anything off the internet, including a new mattress! Despite trial periods and free delivery, online mattress shopping isn't for everyone. Read our Top 7 Differences Between Buying a Mattress Online vs. In-store to help you decide. Everything from comfort to delivery will be covered in that topic.
As far as in-store locations, Jonathan Stevens has 9 convenient stores spread throughout Michigan. Our "Dream Team" (sleep consultants) are well-trained to help you with your next purchase in a professional and efficient manner. Make an appointment today!
Tips and advice
Shopping
When shopping in-store, always try to lay down on the mattress for at least 10 - 15 min. If that makes you uncomfortable, remember that the salesperson can always be asked to give you a moment.
If you remember buying a new car, you most likely remember giving it a test drive before buying it. A mattress is a big and important investment, just like your car. Don't be nervous to give it a try!
Warranties
Always check your manufacturer's warranty. If you want to have insurance about your new mattress, then you can ask the salesperson to go over it with you. Warranties will usually last the lifespan of a mattress (about 10 years) and only apply to the original owner. If you want more information on a typical mattress warranty, check here.
At Jonathan Stevens, we have our warranty listed on our website. Including proper care, the do's and don'ts, and sleep tips.
Delivery
When purchasing a new mattress, whether online or in-store, make sure delivery is free or affordable to your budget. We offer free delivery directly from our factory floor, so you don't have to worry about! Your mattress will be constructed the day before it arrives at your home.
Trial Periods
Trial periods will vary and its only given from online retailers (usually 100-nights or so). This is one of the few advantages online mattress companies have when customers try out their new mattress after purchase.
Conclusion
So now you've gone through our mattress buying guide. Hopefully by now you're equipped with the knowledge we have given you. We pride ourselves to give you everything you need to make the right decision for your next purchase. Be sure to take your time and do your research. Have you been asking yourself, "What is the best mattress for me?" That will keep you on track. Use our guide to assist you in your next sleep investment!