Two choices of boxsprings/foundations include: flat (stationary) or adjustable. An adjustable foundation allows you to bend, elevate or lower various parts of the mattress with a remote (most newer mattresses are able to be put on an adjustable base but confirm before purchasing). If you are purchasing a king you have the option of dual adjustable bases – one for each partner.
If you already have a boxspring, it likely needs to be replaced depending on the age. If you put a new mattress on an old boxspring, you run the risk of the boxspring wearing down or breaking, causing the mattress to start sagging. If this happens, it can void the mattress warranty. Your old boxspring may also be the old springy type and not the newer foundation type which can change how the mattress feels.
c. Decide on the comfort level you like (just know the basics: firm, medium, soft) – can always try this out in the store to decide. There are variations on these basics like cushion firm if you’re in between or to comprise between partners. Look at what you currently sleep on and start from there.
d. Research the different types of mattresses offered and make sure where you choose to shop has these options for you to try out. The main categories include innerspring, foam (latex, memory or gel), hybrid or air mattresses.
An innerspring mattress uses a steel coil support system. This is one of the most popular types of mattresses. Manufacturers offer different types of innerspring mattresses including springs connected into a single unit and individually wrapped pocketed coils. The innerspring is covered by padding or upholstery materials.
Foam mattresses use one or more types of foam as the support system. The foam may be polyurethane foam, memory (or visco elastic) foam, or latex foam, and can contain gel or other materials. The foam used in such mattresses can be manufactured in a variety of shapes and densities to offer consumers a mattress that has different comfort, feel and heat dissipation features.
The main difference is in the feel of the foams. Memory foam has a slow sinking feel. Latex has a softer, springier feel. Memory foam mattresses have definitely taken off in popularity in recent years. You’ve probably heard many stories on people who love their new memory foam mattress. It features pressure relieving and body conforming properties. Its not only a supportive surface to sleep on but its unique pressure relieving properties allow the mattress to conform perfectly to your body’s shape. Memory foam mattresses can aid those with back pain and also increases overall blood flow and circulation.
A hybrid mattress is a cross between an innerspring and a foam mattress.
An adjustable air mattress is one that you inflate air directly into the mattress until you reach your desired firmness using an electric pump attached to the bed. These typically include additional layers on top, such as foam. Many allow you to have dual mattresses in one so you can inflate individual halves to different firmnesses to suit each sleep partner. But if the air gets low or you want to adjust the bed during the night, the noise of the pump can be annoying. These are mostly only offered at brand stores and not in retail mattress stores.
Choose the right type of store.
Always check the Better Business Bureau for the stores rating. Understand each store’s policies as the competition between mattress stores for your business give you, the customer, the competitive advantage. Make sure the store offers 100% satisfaction or your money back as this is important when buying mattresses. Confirm the store has a large selection of top brands so you can compare each side by side. Memory Foam mattresses are becoming very popular and brands like Tempur-Pedic award certain retail stores which carry the best selection and have the most knowledgeable staff with an Elite Retailer award – check if the store you’re shopping at has that.
Utilize the Retail Sales Associates.
Work with knowledgeable salespeople who can guide you through your bedding choices and narrow down the selection to a specific style that suits your needs. Ask questions and look for detailed explanations when needed. If you don’t feel your salesperson is knowledgeable or helpful, take your business elsewhere.
Go the extra mile.
Remove your shoes and lie down on several different models in various positions; if you sleep on your side then you need to test each mattress in that position. It can take up to 15 minutes to relax enough to feel the true support of a mattress.
Test-drive your new mattress.
Some mattress retail stores allow you to have a sleep trail period (anywhere from 30-120 days) to try the new mattress in your home. If you don’t like it you can exchange it for another style that better suits your needs.
Soon you will be on your way to a better night sleep!
