Shopping for a mattress might not be as exciting as shopping for a new car or gadget, but the fact is - you spend more time in your bed than on any other piece of furniture in your house. There are certain things to know before buying a mattress in order to choose the right one for your needs. The right mattress for you will allow you to sleep through the night without disturbances and wake up energised.

If you’re unsure what to look for when mattress shopping, read on. In this post we give you an overview of the most important things to know before buying a mattress. 

What to Know Before Buying a Mattress?

There are the obvious factors to determine when looking for a new mattress such as what size mattress will fit your bedroom, your budget and whether you want to shop online or in-store. Here are some of the other crucial things to know before buying a mattress:

1. Different Mattresses Are Suitable for Different Sleeping Positions

Your preferred sleeping position would greatly determine which type of mattress is most suitable for you. A mattress might feel comfortable when you try it in-store but cause you trouble down the line because it’s too firm or too soft for your usual sleeping position. 

If you normally sleep on your side a soft to medium-firm mattress would be best for you because it can curve to the shape of your body without putting pressure on your joints. Back and stomach sleepers benefit from a medium to firm mattress because they need appropriate support. A firm mattress can ensure your spine remains properly supported throughout the night, while a soft one can let you sink into the bed. 

If you toss and turn at night or sleep with a partner who has a different sleeping position to you, it might be best to choose an option that covers all bases. Medium firm mattresses are a good choice because they offer enough support for back sleepers while still offering pressure relief for people sleeping on their side. 

things you need to know before buying a mattress

2. Determine The Materials You Like

There are many options for mattress fillings on the market. Memory foam is one of the better known ones but it’s certainly not the only option. You can get lighter and more breathable materials such as polyurethane foam, but they’re not always as durable. Natural or synthetic latex is also an option. Latex foam is bouncy, breathable and offers more comfort and durability. Natural latex is also antibacterial and suitable for people who suffer from allergies. On the downside, latex mattresses can be more expensive compared to other options. There are also other fibre fillings that can go in a mattress such as wool, cotton or silk. 

Before deciding on a new mattress you should consider which material you prefer. You might find that certain materials flare up your allergies or make you feel too hot while sleeping. Choosing a material that best suits your requirements ensures that you get a good night’s sleep every night. 

3. Metal Coils Are Common But Aren’t the Only Option

Innerspring mattresses are common and affordable but they aren’t always the best option. Regular open coil mattresses are often prone to sagging quicker and can be noisy. In addition, when the mattress gets worn the springs can poke through the fabric and hurt your back while sleeping. 

Pocket springs are a more advanced option that’s a lot more durable and offers greater support and comfort. If you want to avoid metal springs completely there are also fully foam mattresses that can be either made entirely of memory foam or a combination of memory foam and latex. 

4. Don’t Rush and Consider Your Options

A mattress will last you for the next decade or so, therefore you shouldn’t rush into buying the first mattress you try. The last thing you want is spending hundreds of pounds on a mattress that’s not comfortable enough and having to go through the hassle of returning it. 

Spend some time researching all your options and informing yourself on the difference between mattress types in order to find one that’s best suited for you. Our mattress buying guide can help you choose the right mattress for you. 

5. Some Brands Have Better Value

There’s a reason why some mattresses are more expensive than others. Some brands are better established and more well-known than others. This means that their products would be a safer bet because you can rest assured that they’re higher quality. Always choose mattresses from brands that are trusted. Even if you have to pay a bit more, the investment will be with it because you know you’re getting a mattress that will last longer. 

6. Manufacturer Guarantee is Important

The manufacturer guarantee or warranty you get on your mattress is important as it’s reassurance for you on how long your mattress will be able to last. The longer the guarantee offered by the manufacturer, the better. The average mattress guarantee is around five years, but some premium mattress brands might offer a 10 or even 30-year guarantee period. 

7. There is No Universal Mattress to Suit Everyone

The most important thing to know before buying a mattress is that there are no universal mattresses. Your friend might have told you all about their new mattress that they absolutely love but that doesn’t mean you should rush to buy the same one. You should choose a mattress that suits your individual needs and preferences to guarantee you get optimal comfort. 

The Bottom Line

When choosing a mattress it’s essential to consider your personal needs above anything else, after all you’ll be the one sleeping on said mattress for the next few years. Research your options before making a decision to find which type of mattress will be most suitable for your sleeping position, allergies and so on. And finally, don’t run to buy the same mattress as someone else just because it was recommended to you. 

If you need further help with selecting a new mattress, then don’t hesitate to contact us!