Mattress Buying Guide
How to Choose a Mattress
You spend a third of your life asleep, so when buying a mattress you want to make sure you’re getting the right fit for your sleep needs. We’ve compiled the ultimate mattress buying guide to help you find the perfect mattress and achieve restful sleep. This guide will answer many of your mattress-buying questions, explain different mattress types, and help you select a mattress based on your budget and comfort needs.
What Type of Sleeper Am I?
The type of sleeper you are can have a major impact on the type of mattress you will find most comfortable. Although most people change positions during the night, they tend to favor one position. Take note of the position you most often wake up in and see if our recommendations match your preference!
Side sleepers
Side sleeping is the most common position, where sleepers curl up on their right or left side with the side of their hips and shoulders contacting the mattress. Although this position can deter snoring, it can also cause hip or shoulder pain if your mattress isn’t soft enough. Many side sleepers might find themselves hugging a pillow or placing a pillow in between their legs while they sleep.
For side sleepers we recommend a mattress with a soft top layer. This could be a memory foam mattress or a hybrid mattress with layers of memory foam combined with innerspring. This soft and supportive top layer helps reduce pressure points in the hips and shoulders so you can avoid waking up with aches and pains when sleeping on your side.
Back sleepers
Although it’s not the most common sleep position, sleeping on your back is considered one of the best sleeping positions for spinal alignment. Back sleeping allows your spine to mimic your typical posture when standing. Laying flat on your back also distributes your weight evenly across your frame, so there aren’t any pressure points that could cause pain.
Since your spine is relatively straight in this sleeping position, if you’re a back sleeper you should look for a mattress that supports the curvature of your spine, particularly in the lower back. Additionally, many people carry weight around their midsection, so you want to avoid having this region sink too much into the mattress. Back sleepers may prefer a firm or medium-firm mattress for this reason, which can be found in a variety of materials from traditional innerspring to memory foam.
Stomach sleepers
Stomach sleeping is typically the least common sleeping position since it can come with some aches and pains over time. Twisting your head to one side on your stomach can cause neck pain and the weight of your body pushing into the mattress can strain areas of your spine, especially the lower back.
If sleeping on your stomach is still your favorite position, look for a mattress with plenty of support to keep your hips and stomach from sinking too deep into the mattress, which can throw off your spinal alignment. Stomach sleepers might also like a pillow top mattress because it provides a plush surface with underlying support.
Hot sleeper
There’s nothing more unpleasant than waking up drenched in sweat! A common issue many sleepers encounter is running hot while they sleep. Luckily there are mattress materials designed with cooling properties to help you stay comfortable while you sleep, such as Tempur-Pedic mattresses made with PureCool+™ Phase Change Material that absorbs excess heat while you sleep. Other mattresses feature a cool-to-the-touch outer layer. If you tend to overheat, try to avoid mattresses that are dense and don’t allow much airflow.
Acid reflux
Trouble sleeping due to acid reflux? Try to avoid sleeping on your back, which can allow stomach acid to pool in your esophagus. An adjustable base can be helpful to prop up your upper body and relieve your symptoms so you can get some rest.
Snoring
If you or your partner want to solve a snoring issue, try switching to a side sleeping position, which can help keep your airway open. Memory foam mattresses can be helpful if you are trying to transition to becoming a side sleeper. An old mattress that is sagging and not supporting your body correctly could also be the culprit, so you may be due for an upgrade. Your partner will definitely appreciate some relief from snoring symptoms!
Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep. It can be linked to many cardiovascular and metabolic issues, so it’s important to notice the symptoms and treat the disorder effectively. In addition to wearing a therapy device called a CPAP machine while sleeping, sleep apnea sufferers may benefit from an adjustable bed that elevates the upper body. This helps the sleeper avoid sleeping in a flat position that could potentially obstruct the airway.
Back Pain
Back pain is another common complaint among sleepers. Back pain after sleeping could be caused by an old mattress, so sometimes an upgrade is all that’s needed to solve the issue. You might also consider a medium firm mattress or a memory foam mattress to mold to your body and help relieve aches and pains from tossing and turning all night.
Innerspring mattresses offer a conventional and supportive sleep surface. Many people are familiar with them since they are the most common type of mattress. Innerspring mattresses use carefully designed metal coils surrounded by soft padding to support the entire body while you sleep. Coil count and gauge are vital in assessing an innerspring mattress. Coil count pertains to the number of coils in the mattress, while gauge refers to the thickness of the coils. A higher coil count coupled with a lower gauge typically equates to a more supportive and long-lasting innerspring mattress.
Memory foam mattresses have become more popular in the past two decades and are now available in a range of comfort types, from soft to firm. Memory foam is renowned for its ability to mold to your body, providing personalized support and relieving pressure. The feel of a memory foam mattress is determined by its density and firmness. Density refers to the weight and quality of the foam, with higher densities being more durable and supportive. Firmness levels, ranging from soft to firm, allow you to customize your comfort according to your preferences and sleeping style. Memory foam mattresses isolate motion, making them an ideal choice for couples or those easily disturbed by movement during sleep. Memory foam mattresses also relieve pressure points, reducing aches and pains. They are typically hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, making them a popular choice for individuals with allergies.
Pillow top mattresses are typically innerspring mattresses with a thick layer of padding added to the top. This combination gives the mattress a solid base with a soft top layer. The pillow top is made from materials like wool, cotton or down, or even memory foam or latex foam, so you have plenty of options. The pillow top layer can help alleviate pressure points and promote better spinal alignment for a more restful sleep.
Hybrid mattresses combine the support of innerspring with the comfort of memory foam. They provide a unique sleep experience and are perfect for those who seek balance in their mattress. The innerspring provides the necessary support to keep your spine aligned, promoting healthy sleep posture. Simultaneously, the foam layers conform to your body's shape, relieving pressure on the hips, shoulders, and lower back.
What Should I Spend on a Mattress?
No matter your budget, you want the best value for your new mattress purchase. You may be pleasantly surprised by how many quality and affordable mattress options are available. Raymour & Flanigan offers a wide selection of mattresses for every budget.
It’s important to understand the general price ranges you can expect to see regarding mattress quality. Refer to the below table to get a better understanding when deciding on your mattress budget.
| Price Range | Price Point | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Affordable | $500-$1000 | It’s absolutely possible to find an amazing mattress at an affordable price point! These mattresses offer a great balance of value and comfort, using straightforward materials like innerspring or foam. While they might not last quite as long as premium models, they are a budget-friendly way to get a good night's sleep. |
| Mid-range | $1,000-$2,000 | Mid-range mattresses usually combine more than one material (e.g., innerspring and memory foam). Some mid-range mattresses may include additional features like cooling technology. |
| Premium | $2,000+ | Spending more money on a premium mattress means you’re getting premium materials. These mattresses will typically provide better support to your body. You can expect your mattress to have a longer lifespan and not wear out as fast. |
Affordable
$500-$1,000
It’s absolutely possible to find an amazing mattress at an affordable price point! These mattresses offer a great balance of value and comfort, using straightforward materials like innerspring or foam. While they might not last quite as long as premium models, they are a budget-friendly way to get a good night's sleep.
Mid-range
$1,000-$2,000
Mid-range mattresses usually combine more than one material (e.g., innerspring and memory foam). Some mid-range mattresses may include additional features like cooling technology.
Premium
$2,000+
Spending more money on a premium mattress means you’re getting premium materials. These mattresses will typically provide better support to your body. You can expect your mattress to have a longer lifespan and not wear out as fast.
Adjustable Bases
An adjustable base can raise the head or foot of your mattress to create comfortable positions for sleeping, working, or watching TV. Raise just your feet to soothe aching or swollen legs or raise both the head and feet to any angle for ultimate relaxation. Using an adjustable base has a slew of additional health benefits such as pain relief and increased circulation. They’re also great for those with limited mobility who need support getting in and out of bed.
Adjustable bases can be used with any size bed.
Box Springs
A box spring is the most standard type of mattress foundation, typically made of a wooden frame and slats covered with fabric. Box springs prevent the mattress from sagging, and are 5” or 9” tall, so they can add some height to your bed and make it easier to get in and out of. Additionally, box springs require a bed frame to sit on top of.
Bunkie Boards
Much like a box spring a bunkie board is made of a wooden frame and slats covered with non-slip fabric that sits on the bed frame. It's thinner than a conventional box spring only being 2" in height. This is a perfect low-profile solution that gives your mattress the extra support needed to prevent sagging and helps maintain the mattress warranty.
Platform Beds
Platform beds combine the functionality of a box spring and a bed frame into one piece of furniture. They are typically a low-profile bed that has slats or a solid surface for the mattress to rest on. There are many different styles of platform beds, some that include a headboard and footboard, and some that are a simple frame.
How Long Does a Mattress Last?
The quality of the mattress and frequency of use will affect a mattress lifespan. Generally, a mattress should be replaced every 7-10 years. Keep in mind that as your body changes over time, you may have different mattress needs. So if experience more body pain, or your sleeping patterns change, it may be time for a new mattress.
The following are indicators that it may be time to replace your mattress.
- The mattress is sagging or losing its original shape
- Visible wear and tear
- Allergies worsening
- Sleep pattern altered
- Increased back pain
- Squeaking and other noises from your mattress
Or maybe there’s a life event that has caused the need for a new mattress. Here are just a few that could be a catalyst:
- Moving in with a partner
- Pregnancy
- Injury or surgery
You can find our full line of mattress brands at your local Raymour & Flanigan furniture store or on our website. If you’re looking for a hands-on experience, our in-store associates are happy to walk you through a free and quick mattress comfort test. They will help you sample a variety of mattress types and comfort levels to narrow down the right mattress for you. Book a free consultation at your local showroom to test out mattresses for yourself!
How to get rid of your old mattress
Mattress shopping at Raymour & Flanigan has plenty of perks too! With our white glove delivery service, your mattress will be delivered to your home and set up right in your bedroom. Then, your old mattress will be removed by our delivery team and brought to one of our recycling centers. Did you know Raymour & Flanigan recycles over 17 millions pounds annually? Save yourself from lugging your old mattress out to the curb with free old mattress removal by our delivery team.
120-day Comfort Guarantee
You’ll also have the option of Platinum Protection Plan coverage for your mattress when you shop online or in-store at Raymour & Flanigan, which includes our 120-day Comfort Guarantee. If for some reason your mattress isn’t quite right, you can get a free replacement mattress within 120 days with the Comfort Guarantee. We understand that sometimes you actually need to sleep on your mattress to see if you love it and our Platinum Protection Plan gives you that peace of mind.
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