Blog > 2025 Mattress Buying Checklist: Choose The Perfect Mattress!
2025 Mattress Buying Checklist: Choose The Perfect Mattress!
The Ultimate Mattress Buying Checklist 2025
Buying a mattress is a major purchase and you want to make sure you’re picking the right one. Getting the right mattress for you can make a big difference in your sleep quality. It can be difficult to know what is the right mattress for you and there are multiple factors to consider. The last thing you want is to buy the wrong mattress!
Our mattress buying checklist will help you purchase the right mattress to match your particular needs.
1. Mattress Checklist: Why Should You Buy a New Mattress?
On average, a mattress will last around 7-8 years. If you think it’s time for a new mattress, you’re probably right, especially if you don’t feel well rested when you wake up. Besides that, there are a few more reasons to buy a new mattress.
You’re in pain
Waking up in pain every morning is a good indication that it’s time for a new mattress—barring any medical issues or injuries. Do you find you sleep better in a different bed? If so, your mattress is definitely to blame.
You’re getting older
As we age, our body changes as well. What was comfortable for us a decade ago might not be anymore. It’s possible you might need more support so you can improve your sleep. If you’ve slept on the same type of mattress for years, it’s best to test out a different type to see if that is more comfortable.
Your kids are getting older
You aren’t the only one getting older. If you’re a parent, you already know how fast kids grow and change. Kids tend to sleep more, especially in the teenage years, for optimal growth and development. Sleeping on a mattress that is not supportive or too small can end up harming your child’s overall growth due to poor sleep quality. It might be tempting to give your child a hand-me-down mattress. It’s best to avoid these and buy a mattress that provides better support and comfort.
Your current mattress is old
Besides waking up in pain, your current mattress getting old is another reason to buy a new mattress. High-quality mattresses will last longer than cheaper, lower-quality ones. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, your current mattress is too old and it’s time for a new one.
1. Sagging
2. Damage and tears
3. Visible staining
4. Poor support
5. Visible dust, dirt, or mold
6. Poor motion transfer
A mattress you like is on sale
If you’ve been thinking about buying a new mattress and have one picked out, when it goes on sale is a great reason (and time) to buy. Mattresses are often on sale during holidays and in the summer months. It’s best to buy a mattress on sale and get a good deal than to wait.
2. Mattress Checklist: What to Look For When Buying a New Mattress
Now that you’ve decided it is time to buy a new mattress, the next question is which one do I want? Knowing what to look for will ultimately help you decide what mattress to buy.
Mattress Types
Latex
Latex mattresses are made from the material extracted from the rubber tree. These mattresses are some of the highest quality available and provide exceptional comfort and support. Latex mattresses are often made with organic materials, making them a great option for eco-friendly shopper and those with back pain.
Latex Pros
Similar to comfort to memory foam
Provides excellent support for neck and back pain
Durable and will last much longer than other types of mattresses
Latex Cons
Might be too firm for some
On the pricey side, not recommended for those on a budget
Memory foam
The classic memory foam mattress is one of the most popular mattress materials. Memory foam mattresses provide excellent support and comfort at a lower price. The materials in memory foam molds to your body for a contouring comfort.
Memory Foam Pros
Provides pressure relief by conforming to body shape
Lower cost
Variety of options
Memory Foam Cons
Materials restricts ventilation
Some models can have a chemical smell
Innerspring
This is the most common type of mattress. The classic spring mattress uses metal springs to support you. The top layers of an innerspring mattress will have foams, a cover, and other materials.
Innerspring Pros
Easy to find at mattress stores and furniture stores
Cost-effective
Variety of options available
Innerspring Cons
Lower priced varieties lack in quality and might not provide enough support
Limited motion isolation
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are growing in popularity. These mattresses combine the best features of other types of mattresses. Hybrid mattresses have a coil support core and are topped with comfort layers that are often made from foams, latex, or specialty materials. Most commonly, hybrid mattresses will have memory foam or latex as the top comfort layer.
Hybrid Pros
Provides more comfort, support, and contouring
Excellent motion isolation
Often includes extra layers for cooling and additional support/comfort
Hybrid Cons
Often more expensive than other models
Memory foam materials in hybrids tend to be too hot for some
Airbed
To some, an airbed is a blow up mattress that you take camping or use for a guest bed. Today, an airbed is a high-end mattress with a customizable internal air chamber to adjust firmness. Airbeds are adjusted with a remote or an app. The top layers of the airbed are made from mattress materials like latex or memory foam.
Airbed Pros
Adjustable
Great for couples who prefer different firmness levels
Long-lasting
Airbed Cons
Most expensive type of mattress
Repairs are costly
Type of Sleeper
The position you sleep in is a major factor in determining the best type of mattress to purchase. Most mattress shoppers don’t consider this and end up with a mattress that doesn’t suit their needs or primary sleep position, which can end up causing aches, pains, and the hassle of returning a mattress. Here’s a breakdown of the most common sleep positions and what type of mattress works the best for each.
Back Sleeper
Those who sleep on their back find firmer mattresses ranging from a level 7-8 the most comfortable. Firmer mattresses provide enough support for the entire back.
Side Sleeper
If you sleep on your side, you can experience pain in the hips and back if your mattress is too firm. A soft mattress with a firmness level of 3-5 is recommended for side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeper
Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended, but many still find it the most comfortable sleep position. A medium firmness (level 5-7) mattress will most likely provide the most comfort and support.
Combination Sleeper
Those who switch positions frequently while sleeping need a mattress that provides comfort and support for the body in all positions. Because combination sleepers change positions frequently, it's best to go with a softer mattress to relieve pressure points. Try a mattress with a firmness of 4-5 to get the most comfort and support.
Shipping & Delivery
There are many alternatives when it comes to purchasing a mattress. As many of these options are online, mattress companies have streamlined their shipping and receiving process, making it easy for both them and customers. In the U.S, it usually takes about a week to receive a new mattress purchased online.
If you need a mattress sooner, it’s best to make a purchase at a local store. This isn’t always possible, depending on the options in your area. Some online mattress stores provide expedited shipping and white glove delivery. When buying a mattress either online or in a store, make sure you know their shipping policies, fees, alternatives, or added costs.
Sleep Trial & Return Policy
One of the biggest downsides of purchasing a mattress online is that you can’t test it before buying. For many, buying a mattress online is concerning. Luckily, online mattress companies offer sleep trials.
A sleep trial is a risk-free way to test a mattress's specified length of time. Most sleep trials range from 90 days up to an entire year. You can easily return (or exchange) the mattress if you decide it's not right for you. Pay attention to sleep trial policies before purchasing a mattress.
Warranty
Besides trials, returns, and shipping/delivery, warranties are vital when purchasing a new mattress. Each mattress company has a different warranty that covers various defects, including faulty manufacturing. Ideally, choose a mattress with a warranty of at least 10 years—considering the average mattress lasts about eight years, this is a reasonable length of time. Before you buy a mattress, check the warranty terms to see what is and is not covered.
3. Mattress Checklist: What To Consider When Buying A New Mattress
Buying a mattress is more than just deciding on what type of mattress to purchase. Here are a few more things to consider to make sure you end up with the right mattress.
Testing
Testing a mattress in person isn’t always possible, especially if you are buying a mattress online. This is why sleep trials are so important. If there is a mattress you want to buy, test it in a store if you can before purchasing. At any of our SleePare stores, you can test up to 20 online mattresses that you can’t find anywhere else! Testing a mattress will ensure that you buy the right mattress the first time and avoid the hassle of returning if it doesn’t work out.
Size
The size of mattress you need depends on your life circumstances or your living space. For example, if you share a bed with a partner, you’ll want at least a queen or a king-size mattress. For smaller spaces, a full-size mattress might work the best. Queen-size is the most popular and works for couples and single sleepers.
Measurements can vary from brand to brand. Here’s the standard measurement for the most common mattress sizes:
Mattress Size
Measurement
Twin XL
39 inches x 80 inches
Twin
39 inches x 75 inches
Full
54 inches x 75 inches
Queen
60 inches x 80 inches
King
76 inches x 80 inches
California King
72 inches x 84 inches
Firmness
Mattress firmness is measured on a scale ranging from 1 to 10, with a level one being the softest and the level 10 being the firmest. On average, most mattresses are in the medium firm range, which measures about 5-7. Most soft mattresses measure at level 3 and the firmest mattresses measure around 8-10.
Thickness
When mattress shopping, many overlook the overall thickness of a mattress. The depth of a mattress can vary among brands and even sizes. Whatever thickness you find the most comfortable is frequently related to your weight and build. Heavier people will usually find a thicker mattress more comfortable, while smaller people tend to prefer thinner mattresses.
Price
Everyone wants a good deal on a new mattress. Prices vary among brands, materials, and sizes. When shopping both online and in stores for a mattress, prices will vary and, more often than not, online stores will have the best deals.
Here’s what you can expect to pay depending on the materials:
Memory Foam
$700-$1,100
Memory foam mattresses provide great comfort and support at a good value.
Innerspring
$600-$1,000
Innerspring mattresses are the easiest to find, the most common type of mattress available, and are cost-effective.
Hybrid
$1,700-$2,000
Hybrid mattresses have both a spring base and a support core made from various materials to provide a luxurious sleep experience. These mattresses are much more expensive due to their advanced design and materials.
Latex
$1,400-$2,000
Latex mattresses are made from all-natural materials and often include organic cotton and wool. These mattresses provide excellent support and are more expensive than memory foam or innerspring mattresses.
Airbed
$2,000–$2,500
Airbed mattresses are constructed with customizable air chambers that adjust the firmness of the bed. Because of the chambers and the top portion of the mattress, which is usually made with memory foam or latex, these are the most expensive mattresses available.
Sleep problems
If you have any health issues, injuries, or have certain requirements to get the best possible sleep, you will benefit from a certain type of mattress. You can help relieve some common sleep problems with a new mattress. For example, if you suffer from allergies, a latex mattress or one made with organic materials is a great option.
Here are a few more sleep problems that can be aided with a new mattress:
Back pain
A mattress that corresponds to your sleep position can help relieve back pain. Make sure to choose one that provides enough support and contouring.
Sleeping Hot
Getting too hot when sleeping is a common problem for many. If you tend to wake up sweaty and uncomfortable, try a hybrid mattress with cooling features. Avoid memory foam mattresses as they retain heat.
Disturbing your partner/Motion Isolation
If you sleep with a partner and you tend to wake each other up at night when getting in and out of bed, you need a mattress with good motion isolation. Mattresses with better-than-average motion isolation prevent movements from waking up your sleep partner.
Edge support
Mattresses with edge support will prevent you from falling out of bed. This is ideal if you sleep with children or pets.
Height
Taller individuals or those with back or knee problems tend to have a better experience with a taller mattress. Taller mattresses allow for an easier transition in and out of bed.
4. Mattress Checklist: What Features Make A Good Mattress?
What makes a good mattress is subjective — one person might prefer a soft memory foam while another will prefer a firmer hybrid mattress. Even though everyone will have their own personal preference for a mattress, there are some features that universally make a good mattress.
Mattress Material
The material a mattress is made from is the key component in its overall comfort. From innerspring to memory foam, advanced hybrids, and eco-friendly latex, each mattress material has its own pros and cons. Everyone will have their own preference. For a good mattress, choose the material that is the most comfortable for you. There is no “best” overall mattress or mattress material.
Size
Many don’t realize, but the size of your mattress affects how well you sleep—if you’re taller than average or sleep with a partner, you’ll obviously sleep more comfortably in a king-size bed vs a full size bed.
Once you have a bed frame, most people will keep that size for a long time. However, as your life and living situations evolve, it’s important to upgrade your mattress and bedding to go along with it. Changing your mattress size can keep you comfortable and sleeping well.
Firmness
Firmness, along with material, is the key factor in mattress comfort. What you find comfortable is subjective, based on sleep position and body type. Over time, your body and sleep positions might change, so what you once found comfortable might not work for you anymore.
Remember when looking for a new mattress, that firmness and support are not the same—a firm mattress can be lacking in support, or a soft mattress can provide excellent support. If you have trouble deciding which firmness level to choose, consider your sleep position first.
Price
When it comes to mattresses, you don’t always get what you pay for. New mattresses from online stores are lower priced due to limited overhead and improved manufacturing with modern materials. It’s possible to purchase a cheaper mattress that is high quality.
Still, you want to make sure that you’re buying a quality product that will last. A mattress that costs $200 is going to be lower quality than one that costs $500. Online stores also have frequent sales and discounts, so you can get a mattress worth much more than you pay for it.
Longevity
A mattress is an investment and you want to buy a higher-quality mattress that will last for many years. Modern mattresses are made with better materials and give greater overall support that will last longer. Mattress longevity is directly related to price; expect to pay more for a mattress that will last longer.
5. Mattress Checklist: Where to Buy a New Mattress
Offline
If you want to test your mattress before buying, consider purchasing your mattress at SleePare. Even though the most popular and highly recommended online mattress stores have sleep trials, there is no comparison to actually trying out mattresses in person. At SleePare, you can try (for free) and buy the best online mattresses at exclusive prices. In our stores, our mattress experts can help you find the best mattress for you, something you don’t get online.
Online
Buying a new mattress online is a more convenient option for many. Online mattress stores make it easy to shop and receive your mattress. When buying online, there are endless options to choose from. Deciding which mattress to buy can be a challenge. Here’s a few that SleePare recommends:
Shanir Kol, founder and CEO of SleePare, pioneered the “Try and Buy” model in eCommerce, enhancing mattress shopping by combining in-store trials with online purchases. Launching in 1999, his company focuses on customer satisfaction and eco-friendly practices, aiming to minimize mattress waste and expand sustainably.
This place is truly a gem for those drowning in endless mattress searching. The place is extremely clean, well lit, cozy and comfortable. There's also wide variety of mattresses of different price range and firmness. Also, big shout to Fazi who assisted our trip to SleePare today. She is so knowledgable, respectful, kind and easy to talk to. I never thought I would leave a mattress shop feeling elated and joyful, but this place is top notch.
Valerio was fantastic in helping me purchase my mattress coming into the city. He provided expert advice and personal insight to ensure that I made the best purchase possible. I will definitely be coming back to this store!
Valerio was absolutely amazing! He helped me pick the perfect mattress. He is so personable and was patient with my indecisiveness. Would 100 percent recommend coming in to see him for your perfect mattress.
I really enjoyed going to SleePare. The person I worked with, Fazi, was excellent and was able to give me great information about each mattress I tried and the differences in comfort. It was a great experience. Would definitely recommend!
Amazing experience! Valerio is super knowledgeable, friendly and he gives you space to try a lot in peace! We bought our mattress and made a great deal!
Fazi was excellent and so knowledgable about each mattress. Her patience and expert advice made me feel confidant in my decision, never feeling I was being pressured. Highly recommend!
Fazi greatly helped us in the search of our new mattress. Our experience with her was delightful. She did not only take her time to understand our needs but also took time to educate us on all the aspects and details around a mattress choice.
Have had a nightmare of a time navigating the mattress industry on my own, especially after a few bad purchases from online bed in a box brands. Thankfully, Malcom and Sleepare helped my partner and I pick out what will hopefully be the perfect mattress for us. Really appreciate Malcom's knowledgeability and patience in answering all of our questions and being incredibly accommodating.
I had a great experience at SleePare and recommend them wholeheartedly. I had developed back pain and sciatica on my old mattress even though it was in great condition, and my Physical Therapist recommended that I change to a mattress with more cushioning as well as more support. SleePare is not restricted to just one or two brands. In their large showroom I could actually try a variety of brands for as long as I wanted. I figured that having to spend 8 hours on a mattress required a long testing. Raveena helped me and she was perfect. She first took time to understand my particular needs. Then she guided me with great expertise toward the type of mattress that would fit my needs. I was impressed by how knowledgeable she was and I trusted her answers because she did not embellish them or push to make a sale. Their generous free return policy of 100 days allowed me to try my new mattress at home. I don't understand how people can buy something online as personal and sensitive as a mattress without even knowing if they like it in the first place, and then go through the trouble of having to return it. SleePare was the place I was looking for: they are straight shooters that offer a nice selection of many brands with expert and honest advice. I've been sleeping on this mattress for 8 months and back pain and sciatica no longer wake me up.
Valerio was so lovely, and extremely knowledgeable about the matresses! He energetically gave us details on each bed in the showroom. There was a wide range of mattresses on display including some that were not advertised on their website, so we were glad we came in. My partner and I felt comfortable enough to try some beds together, it was a very queer friendly space and we felt confident enough to make a decision. We ended up getting a great deal on a typically expensive mattress, and he was very accommodating to our drop-off schedule. We had so much fun. 🌈❤️
Went there on 5 days ago to look for a king size mattress. Made an appointment. Read a bunch of reviews on line and went to check out the mattress that was highly recommended. Valerio helped us understand how mattresses are made and encouraged to try them. We eventually chose a different mattress to the one we went to check out. Very positive experience. Would recommend you go before committing to a mattress type based on reviews on line like NYT or Forbes ranking etc
I was warmly greeted by Fazi, who listened to my concerns about the kind of mattress. I thought I might be looking for. She cordially offered information and insights relating to my search and then spent significant time with me showing a variety of mattresses that she thought would offer me good sleep and good value. It was an A+ experience.
Malcom was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. They’re to help but also patient and let me take my time, and happy to answer all my questions. A very positive experience, and I’m looking forward to improved sleep on my new mattress!
Visited Sleepare today. Valerio helped us out purchasing mattress. He was helpful, polite, and friendly. Got the mattress that we wanted with great price. Great experience.
Great experience. Store Manager, Fazi, is very welcoming and helpful. We were given enough information and time to make a decision with no pressure whatsoever. Made a daunting effort clear and simple. Would highly recommend.
Valerio helped my wife and I find the mattress we’ve been needing for months! He walked us through every option and told us the composition of each type! We would have been lost without him! We will only ever come back here for anything we need in terms of our bedding in the future! He made the process stress free and we’re walking out with exactly what we were looking for! 10/10
I feel grateful to live in an area where a showroom like this is available. After all, a mattress is one of the most important purchases we make in our lives, and it's certainly risky making a blind buy!During my appointment, not only was I able to physically test mattresses from companies that have no brick-and-mortar locations, but the associate named Fazi was absolutely instrumental in my ultimate purchasing decision. I was very impressed with her knowledge of the mechanics behind each mattress, and ways to distinguish between whether any bed-related accessories are worth the money. Even if you're not local to NYC, I'd highly recommend visiting here for a consultation. I'm glad the word is spreading about this place!
Wow, what a fantastic experience! The best customer service of any mattress store I've ever been too, bar none. Fazi was incredibly attentive, offering excellent feedback and advice throughout the process of exploring all the various products Sleepare has to offer. I was really impressed by her attention to detail, and the patience and care she showed me as I asked many (MANY) questions! I am very much planning on buying my mattress from SleePare -- can't recommend this store enough.
I had a great experience today when I visited SleePare Mattress Store in Manhattan on West 30th made all the more wonderful by Fazi. She is so knowledgeable, helpful, patient and kind. I had done a little research about beds over the last couple of weeks, but actually trying out the mattresses in this showroom with Fazi’s knowledge about each and her suggestions for me to ponder, I feel I am better equipped to pick the right mattress for me and my problematic lumbar spine. I would and will recommend highly to anyone looking to buy a mattress to go to SleePare. Thank you SleePare and Fazi!
I had a fantastic experience here. Had an evening appointment and the salesman, Valerio, spent 40 minutes with me explaining the differences between mattresses in great detail. He guided me to a choice that was both extremely comfortable and also not at the top end of my budget range. And he didn't even try to get me to buy something at the super high end. I didn't think I was going to make a purchase right on the spot, but he instilled so much confidence and comfort in the process that I walked out of the store having ordered my new mattress. Fantastic experience, thanks to Valerio!
I recently visited Sleepare for the second time to shop for a new mattress, and Valerio made the experience truly exceptional. From the moment I walked in, he was friendly, attentive, and genuinely interested in helping me find the perfect mattress for my needs.Valerio was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining the differences between various types of mattresses, firmness levels, and materials in a way that was easy to understand. He took the time to ask about my sleeping habits and preferences, ensuring their recommendations were tailored to me.What really stood out was he’s patiencethere was no pressure to rush or make a decision. He encouraged me to take my time testing out different options and answered all my questions thoroughly.Thanks to Valerio, I found a mattress that feels perfect, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. If you’re shopping for a mattress, I highly recommend working with Valerio he truly care about customers and go above and beyond to provide excellent service!
We walked in today at Sleepare in nyc and were greeted by Malcom. We told him what we were looking for (a good quality mattress that helps support hip injuries, is comfortable for back and side sleepers and is not too soft) and although we came in with a Dream Cloud, as soon as we laid on it we didn’t like how much we sunk in. We ended up lovingggg the Helix Dawn which to our surprise was a firm mattress with a plush pillow top and that’s the one we both liked. Malcom let us lay as long as we wanted and gave us insight on each mattress. He was cheerful and attentive and made us feel like the experience was worth it. He also told us about a bundle sale that was ending the same day as our visit and we chose to purchase and get the bundle. So we got a mattress and a mattress cover, pillows, and bedsheets for free! So excited to receive the mattress! Thanks Malcom!
Wow… just wow. Went to try some mattresses and didn’t think I would get such an amazing experience, and it’s all thanks to Valerio! He’s so personable and a great person. Super knowledgeable and professional, and makes you feel right at home. He has your best interest in mind and will not try to sell you the most expensive mattress, but the one that suits you the best. Thanks Valerio for an amazing experience!
Our Sleepare experience was enhanced by Valerio, who made shopping for a mattress a truly enjoyable experience! He had great advice and knowledge of all the different types of mattresses, which helped us make our final choice.
I had a wonderful experience at SleePare. I made an appointment the day before and included my budget along with some preferences and sleep habits (I recommend doing this as well if visiting). I was helped by Malcolm who was incredibly helpful and already had some beds lined up according to my appointment notes. Malcolm was super helpful and not pushy at all. He took great consideration of my constraints and helped me narrow down my choice as well as answer my countless questions. I had some brands in mind but with their help I was able to find a mattress that wasn’t even on my radar and I was much more happy with. This is a great spot to check out online mattress brands in person before committing to a purchase or sleep trial. Overall I was very happy with my experience and definitely recommend Malcolm to help you out!
What a great shopping experience! Valerio answered all our questions and held guide us to find the perfect mattress. On top of the great service, Valerio made us feel welcomed and we trusted his expertise! Very happy with our shopping experience!
Was recommended to come and I loved the experience!!! The service is great, great help in trying to find the perfect mattress explaining the differences between the different types of springs, gel, etc. If you are trying to find a new mattress I recommend going in person to find what you like.
I just walked in.Fazi was ready to help me out. She is smart easy to talk to and knows a lot about these mattresses. 30 minutes later I bought an amazing Helix Elite mattress.Fazi made the purchase easy.
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Test Top Rated Online Mattress Brands in Our SleePare Showrooms. Best Price Guarantee. Free Shipping.
We’ll be explaining where people can test and buy online mattresses: In our 5 stores
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Meet The Author:
Shanir Kol
Shanir Kol, founder and CEO of SleePare, pioneered the “Try and Buy” model in eCommerce, enhancing mattress shopping by combining in-store trials with online purchases. Launching in 1999, his company focuses on customer satisfaction and eco-friendly practices, aiming to minimize mattress waste and expand sustainably.