The Smart Way to Buy a Mattress Online
Buying a mattress online used to be a gamble. Today, it's one of the smartest ways to get a premium mattress at a fraction of the retail price — if you know what to look for. This guide walks you through every step.
Step 1: Assess Your Sleep Needs
Before you browse a single mattress, answer these questions:
Sleep Position
- Side sleeper: You need more cushioning and pressure relief
- Back sleeper: You need balanced support with moderate contouring
- Stomach sleeper: You need a firmer surface to prevent your hips from sinking
- Combination sleeper: You need a responsive mattress that works in multiple positions
Body Type
- Lighter (under 130 lbs): Softer mattresses work better since you don't compress foam as much
- Average (130-230 lbs): Most mattresses are designed for this range
- Heavier (over 230 lbs): You need denser foam or hybrid construction for adequate support
Health Considerations
- Back or joint pain? Look for zoned support systems
- Sleep hot? Prioritize cooling technology
- Allergies? Consider hypoallergenic materials
- Sharing a bed? Motion isolation matters
Step 2: Understand Mattress Types
Memory Foam
Pros: Excellent pressure relief, great motion isolation, quiet Cons: Can sleep hot, slower response time, edge support can be weak Best for: Side sleepers, couples, pain sufferers
Innerspring
Pros: Bouncy feel, good airflow, strong edge support Cons: Less pressure relief, more motion transfer, can be noisy Best for: Stomach sleepers, those who prefer a traditional feel
Hybrid
Pros: Best of both worlds — coil support with foam comfort, good airflow Cons: Heavier, can be more expensive Best for: All sleep positions, hot sleepers, combination sleepers
Latex
Pros: Natural materials, responsive, durable, naturally cool Cons: Expensive, heavier, limited contouring compared to memory foam Best for: Eco-conscious buyers, those who want a bouncy feel
Step 3: Set Your Budget
Here's what to expect at each price range:
- $300-600: Entry-level foam mattresses. Decent for guest rooms or temporary use
- $600-1,200: Mid-range with good materials. This is the sweet spot for most buyers
- $1,200-2,500: Premium mattresses with advanced features and longer lifespans
- $2,500+: Luxury mattresses with the best materials and technology available
Pro tip: With AJ's 30-50% discount, a $2,000 retail mattress can be yours for $1,000-1,400.
Step 4: Check the Fine Print
Trial Period
Look for at least a 90-night trial. Most quality brands offer 100-365 nights.
Warranty
Standard is 10 years. Premium brands offer 10-25 years. Make sure you understand what's covered.
Return Policy
Free returns are important. Some companies charge a return shipping fee that can be $100+.
Delivery
White glove delivery (setup and old mattress removal) is worth paying for. Many brands include it free.
Step 5: The Hybrid Approach
The best strategy? Combine online research with in-person expertise:
- Research online — Read reviews, compare specifications, narrow your choices
- Consult an expert — Talk to a sleep specialist who can assess your specific needs
- Test in-store — Visit a showroom to feel your top picks in person
- Buy at a discount — Get the best price whether you buy online or in-store
This is exactly the hybrid shopping model AJ Dedeaux offers. Start with an online consultation via Instagram DM or Zoom, then visit the Mattress Firm showroom if you want to test before buying.
Common Online Mattress Buying Mistakes
- Buying based on price alone — Cheap mattresses cost more in the long run when they need replacing sooner
- Ignoring your sleep position — The most reviewed mattress might be wrong for how you sleep
- Skipping the research — Spending even 30 minutes researching saves years of poor sleep
- Not using a sleep expert — Free consultations save you time and money
Ready to Find Your Perfect Mattress?
Skip the guesswork. Call AJ at 813-444-9626 or DM @Bestwhenrested on Instagram for a free sleep assessment. Get personalized recommendations and exclusive 30-50% savings on Tempur-Pedic, Beautyrest, Nectar, Serta, Sealy, and Stearns & Foster.