How to Buy a Mattress

The importance of a good mattress cannot be overstated. It is recommended that we receive a solid 6 - 8 hours of sleep each night, but without a supportive mattress, it can be extremely difficult to get the rest we need.

First of all, how do you know when you need a new mattress? You may need a new mattress if:

You frequently wake in the middle of the night to change position.
You wake in the morning feeling stiff or achy.
You sleep better when away from home.
Your mattress looks or feels saggy or lumpy.
If your mattress has been slept on for over 30,000 hours (a little math is involved with this one)
If you can answer yes to two or more of the questions listed, it may be time to invest in a new mattress. Here are a few helpful tips to help you learn how to buy a mattress.

- When shopping for a new mattress, ALWAYS do it in person. Even if you intend on buying the mattress online, you should still shop for the one you will purchase in person.

- If you find a new mattress you think you like, it is advised that you lay on it for a full 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, you will have a fairly accurate feel for comfort and support of the mattress.

- If fabric protection is offered, it is worth the extra money to pay for it. This will help the mattress from stains caused by food, beverages, and human biological functions.

- Keep in mind that you will spend 1/3 of your life in bed, so don't skimp on your new mattress purchase. It is better to spend a little more on a high-quality, name brand mattress.

- If you are buying a mattress in person, offer to pay cash to receive the best price. Many furniture stores will immediately lower the price, or offer an extra service (such as delivery, fabric protection, etc)at no charge when you pay cash for your purchase.

- When you buy a mattress, look for one with a non-prorated warranty. This is important, because if you receive a pro-rated warranty instead, it means that if you ever have to have work done on it, you will be the one paying for it. With a non pro-rated warranty, you are not responsible for the cost.

August 14, 1:29 PM Charlotte Interior Improvement Examiner Jenny Wagner