Wondering about mattress quality ratings? Is there such a thing?
Back pain, fatigue and a sagging mattress all indicate it is time for a new mattress. Many people dread making this purchase because of the time, expense and confusion that can be involved. There is plenty of information available about how to buy a mattress that can cut through the uncertainty. If you’ve decided it’s time to replace your mattress the first step is to take a mattress review to find out what’s available.
Innerspring Mattress
Innersprings are popular because they cost less and offer a variety of options. For some, the answer to how to buy a mattress is simply to find the one that is least expensive. For others, improvements like pocket coils and no flip models are an enticement. But according to one mattress review the drawbacks of innersprings not being able to comparison shop and the rapid rate at which they sag and wear out.
Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses are made with layers of foam glued to a polyurethane base. Most consumers are not sure how to buy a mattress that is foam filled. In many mattress reviews, the pros were reported as better support, the ability to isolate motion and durability. Cons included heat retention, too much firmness and discomfort for larger people.
Airbed Mattress
Air mattresses adjust to give individual support for each sleeper. They also tend to have a longer life span than other mattresses. Disadvantages include expense, comfort level and the sides of the bed being too soft to sit on.
Mattress Cost
Here are a few ideas how to obtain a mattress without spending more than necessary. Consider buying at discount stores, such as Costco or other reasonably priced retailers. Exercise patience and wait for a sale but beware of so called “blowout sales” that are not truly a bargain. Learn to negotiate to get the best price possible. Don’t be pressured into upgrading to a mattress that has features that you don’t really need.
Mattress Scams
Learn how to buy a mattress without being taken advantage of. Manufacturers make identical mattress with a few cosmetic changes on the outside. Retailers give the mattresses different names to give the impression they are selling several unique lines that cannot be found in other stores. This tactic does not allow the customer to comparison shop. Avoid this scam by buying a mattress based on what’s inside rather than the name.
Do as much research as possible about mattress grades, coils, materials and levels. At the store, ask what components are inside of the mattress. The level of the mattress is found on the tag; even over the phone you can ask for the level before going into the store. Many times cushiony padding is placed on top of the mattress when it is on display. Test drive the mattress for a few weeks from the comfort of your bedroom and don’t hesitate to use the “money back guarantee” if the mattress doesn’t live up to its claims.
Mattress Trends
There are many changes in the mattress industry in recent years. Specialty mattresses, such as foam and air, are becoming more popular. Eco friendly, adjustable and homeopathic mattresses are in vogue all around the globe; including mattresses infused with essential oils. And the old standby, the futon, is making a comeback with plusher fabrics and more variety of styles than in years past.
Is There An Official Rating of Quality for Mattresses?
Not that we could find. Consumer Reports has some solid advice on choosing a mattress and a big section with video too, but they don’t rate individual mattresses.
Yelp has a category for many cities called Mattresses, where you can read reviews of various local mattress stores. Be careful to see that there are enough reviews that you are getting a good idea about the store, and not just reviews from a couple of very happy or very unhappy people.
Did we miss anything? Leave a comment and let us know, so that we can continue to improve this page.