3 Secrets to Buying a New Mattress

By Jamie Ueda, GoodHouseKeeping editor

Finding the right mattress can be exhausting! By the time you find a new one, you'll be more than ready for a good night's sleep. There are so many retailers carrying different brands and models that it's tough to figure out exactly which one is right for you. While your personal comfort and budget should be at the top of your list of things to look for, here are a few other important things to consider.

1. Coil count 

In the past coil count was equated with quality and a big driver of price -- the higher the coil count, the better and more expensive the mattress. These days the number of coils isn't as closely related to quality as it once was. Some manufacturers are now making coils in a way that allows them to use fewer without sacrificing comfort and durability. Look for features that are important to you, maybe you want a hybrid bed made up of coils and memory foam or maybe you prefer a bed made with fabric that wicks away moisture. Most importantly lay on the bed for at least 15 minutes to know whether it's right for you.

2. Buying a mattress without the foundation may void your warranty 

Some manufacturers have a policy that says that if you don't buy a mattress with a coordinating foundation, your warranty won't be valid. If you're thinking about skipping the foundation because you already have a perfectly good one, be sure to check with the sales person or read the policy on mattress foundations.

3. Return or exchanges can cost you 

Many stores now have comfort guarantees that allow you to exchange the bed you purchased for another one within a certain number of days. Just be aware that there may be an extra delivery fee, exchange fee, or re-stocking fee. Check the policy on comfort exchanges so you know exactly what fees you'll have to pay if you find yourself tossing and turning on your new mattress.

Source: GoodHouseKeeping