Buying guide and tips
Just like buying a car, finding a perfect mattress takes research and a lot of test drives. Just the thought of shopping for a new mattress can cause shoppers to lose a little sleep! After all, what if you make a bad choice? The wrong mattress can have you tossing and turning during the night, limiting your ability to get deep, restful sleep, and can lead to aches and pains that last throughout the day. The right mattress can help you sleep more soundly and wake up feeling more refreshed and energized.
While finding the right mattress for you may take some time and effort, it's an investment that can last for eight to 15 years or more, so it's time well spent.
Take time to relax
First off, be prepared to spend a good deal of time trying many different mattresses in several stores. John Zubak, owner of Serta Sleep Centre stores in Kamloops, B.C., and Prince George, B.C., has spent more than 17 years in the mattress industry and recommends spending some time relaxing on a lot of mattresses in a variety of stores before you buy. "There are so many mattresses made, it's important to realize that there is no perfect mattress for everyone," he explains. "It really comes down to letting your own body decide which is the right one for you."
Don't forget your partner!
Shopping for a new mattress shouldn't be a task you fit in between errands. Set aside some quality shopping time and your body will thank you for years to come. "The key is to really relax and discover how your body feels on each mattress," Zubak says. "If the bed is for two people, make sure both people try the mattress at the same time." Many industry experts suggest a test of at least 15 minutes per mattress to get an accurate sense of how your body will react to each. And if you have a special pillow, bring that along, too.
Cushioning means comfort
A good quality queen-size mattress set can range in price from $900 to $1,400. While memory foam and futon mattresses are a growing niche in the mattress market, pillow-top or European-style mattresses are the biggest sellers. According to Zubak, most higher-end coil mattresses provide similar back support. The difference in quality, durability and comfort level lies in the cushioning on top of the coils. Ask your retailer about the layers of foam and padding for each mattress and, if possible, look at the cut-out versions of mattresses many stores carry to demonstrate the construction. "More cushioning helps the body stay in place longer," Zubak says. "A well-cushioned mattress lets you reach a deeper level of REM sleep and leaves you more rested because you aren't feeling uncomfortable and shifting positions while you sleep."
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