When you are thinking about buying a new mattress, there are many different types available; from water beds, air beds and traditional spring beds. The one thing most people look for when shopping are the mattress warranties, many believing it is an indication of the product’s durability. Unfortunately, this is usually not the case and buyers need to know how to buy a mattress before considering any warranty information.
What to Expect From a Mattress Warranty?
Depending on the manufacturer, a mattress warranty can be between 10 and 20 years, but that does not mean you should expect it to last that long. Most warranties cover defects in materials and workmanship and possibly design flaws, but even that leaves the manufacturer room for discussion in the event the mattress was not used under normal circumstances.
If you don’t know how to choose the right mattress you may want to ask someone who does. Lying on the bed in the store for at least 15 minutes will give you better idea about how to pick the right mattress, but if the foundation on which the mattress will rest once you get it home is different than the one in the store, it won’t feel the same. It may also void some mattress warranties.
Inner spring mattresses will often suffer from broken springs or ripped seams, many of which are covered under warranty. Waterbeds, hospital beds and adjustable beds will have different types of warranties covering more than the mattress alone. Although, some manufacturers may have a separate warranty for the mechanical functions of the bed that are not part of their mattress warranty.
On average, the mattress industry sees only about a one-percent return rate under mattress warranties. Before you buy a mattress based on the warranty alone, be sure to understand what it covers. Those who know how to find the right mattress understand that the foundation for the mattress will need to support it properly or the warranty could be voided. Also, if certain tags are removed or the frame is not designed for a certain type of use, the mattress warranty may not be honored.
Prorated Mattress Warranties
Additionally, some manufacturers pro-rate their warranties, meaning the longer you own the mattress the less the manufacturer will give for a replacement. If you understand how to buy a mattress before you get to the store, you will have a better chance of finding one that fits you and will be covered under the mattress warranty that protects your investment.
Many people find that after a few years, their mattress doesn’t provide the support they had in the beginning. Most who know how to choose the right mattress understand the mattress warranties are not a guarantee against normal wear and tear or from regular deterioration. It should be noted that mattress warranties are among the most consumer-friendly when compared to many other industries.
When you arrive at the store, don’t pretend you know everything about mattresses unless, of course, you do, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Find out about the type of support that will be needed to maintain the firmness of the mattress, the foundation required and the frame you will need to help the mattress last longer and help extend its warranted life.