Where Should You Buy a Mattress in the United States
Where Should You Buy a Mattress in the United States
Blog Article
Finding where to buy a mattress in the USA is easier when you understand the available shopping options, which can help you make a more efficient purchase. Mattress shoppers in the United States can buy from a wide variety of sellers, such as local mattress stores, national chains, furniture stores, warehouse clubs, department stores, manufacturer showrooms, and online mattress companies. The best place to shop depends on factors such as your budget, mattress preference, location, and desire to try a bed before purchase.
Unlike many household products, choosing a mattress is strongly influenced by individual comfort needs. Comfort is personal, and the lowest price does not always mean the best value. A useful retailer comparison should include mattress construction and firmness, as well as return policies, sleep trials, warranties, delivery charges, financing options, and old mattress removal.
This guide explains the main places to buy mattresses throughout the United States and what to consider before choosing a store.
Where Can You Buy a Mattress in the United States?
Across the United States, mattresses are available from several categories of retailers. While certain stores are specialty mattress retailers, others sell mattresses alongside a larger selection of furniture and household goods.
Among the most common mattress retailers are:
- Local independent mattress stores
- Large national and regional mattress retailers
- Furniture retailers
- Warehouse retailers
- Major department stores
- Big-box retailers
- Manufacturer-owned mattress stores and showrooms
- Direct-to-consumer online mattress companies
- Large online marketplaces
- Factory-direct mattress retailers
Every type of mattress retailer comes with specific advantages and potential drawbacks. If you want to physically test multiple mattresses before deciding, a mattress showroom may be the better choice. If you already know what type of mattress and firmness you prefer, buying online may offer greater convenience.
Local Mattress Stores
You can find local independent mattress stores in major cities, suburban areas, and smaller U.S. communities. These businesses may operate a single showroom or several locations within one state or metropolitan area.
Independent mattress retailers often give shoppers access to multiple mattress brands. A local mattress showroom may offer several types of mattresses, including traditional innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, latex mattresses, and hybrids, plus adjustable bases, foundations, pillows, mattress protectors, and other sleep products.
One advantage of shopping locally is access to sales staff who may be familiar with the mattresses they sell. You can usually compare several firmness levels and mattress constructions in one visit.
To compete with larger chains, local retailers may provide local delivery, setup, old mattress removal, flexible pricing, or package deals that combine a mattress with a foundation or adjustable bed.
When comparing independent stores, check the retailer's return policy and comfort exchange rules before paying. Return and exchange terms are often very different from one business to another.
National and Regional Mattress Store Chains
Another common place to shop is a national or regional mattress retailer. For example, Mattress Firm operates stores across many markets, while other mattress chains serve more limited geographic areas.
These retailers generally specialize in mattresses and sleep-related products. Many chain showrooms carry multiple well-known manufacturers, as well as adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and bedding accessories.
One benefit of a specialty mattress chain is the ability to test multiple beds at the same location. Some retailers also provide online inventory information that lets you research models before visiting a store.
Promotions are common at chain retailers around U.S. holidays and shopping events, including Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and other holiday weekends. However, shoppers should compare the final purchase price rather than assuming every advertised sale represents the lowest available price.
Mattress Departments at Furniture Stores
Mattress departments are common at furniture stores throughout the United States. You can find mattresses at furniture retailers including Ashley, Rooms To Go, and various regional chains, where beds are sold alongside bedroom furniture, sofas, dining sets, and other home furnishings.
If you are furnishing a complete bedroom, a furniture store can be convenient because the mattress, bed frame, headboard, dresser, and nightstands may all be available from one retailer.
The main drawback is that mattress selection can vary by location. A specialty mattress store may offer more models or more detailed mattress-specific assistance than a general furniture showroom.
A furniture store can still be a strong option when price shopping for a mattress, especially if you also need bedroom furniture or want several large items delivered at once.
Buying Mattresses From Warehouse Clubs
Many Americans also purchase mattresses through membership-based warehouse clubs. Retailers such as copyright and Sam's Club sell mattresses from a variety of manufacturers online and in their warehouse locations.
Warehouse clubs can offer competitive pricing, but the in-store mattress selection may be smaller than what you would find at a dedicated mattress showroom. You may find some beds on display, but much of the selection may be boxed or listed through the retailer's website.
If you already understand memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses and are comfortable buying without testing numerous beds, a warehouse club may be a practical choice.
Before buying, check membership requirements, delivery options, return procedures, and old mattress removal availability.
Department Stores and Big-Box Retailers
Another place to shop for a mattress is through large general merchandise stores. Depending on where you live, mattresses may be available through retailers such as Macy's, Walmart, Target, and other major chains.
Mattress selection can vary widely from one retailer or location to another. At certain stores you can test mattresses on display, while other retailers focus more on boxed mattresses available for shipping or pickup.
For shoppers seeking budget-oriented beds, big-box stores can be useful, especially for guest best mattress retailer near me rooms, children's rooms, or dorm rooms.
Do not base your comparison on the mattress brand alone, check the exact model and specifications before buying. One manufacturer may produce many mattress lines with different materials, coil systems, foam layers, heights, and firmness levels.
Buying From Manufacturer Showrooms and Brand Stores
Some mattress manufacturers operate their own stores or branded showrooms. Other brands have authorized dealers where shoppers can test specific product lines.
Well-known mattress brands available in the United States include Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Serta, Beautyrest, Purple, Casper, among many others.
A manufacturer showroom may make sense when you have already narrowed your choices to one brand. This can let you compare several models and firmness levels from the same manufacturer without evaluating unrelated mattresses.
The limitation is obvious: a single-brand showroom does not provide the same direct comparison between competing manufacturers that a multi-brand mattress store can offer.
Where to Buy a Mattress Online
Buying mattresses online is now a major part of the U.S. mattress industry. Consumers can buy directly from many mattress brands online and have beds shipped to their homes in much of the country.
Some mattresses arrive compressed in a box, while heavier or more complex models may be delivered at full size. Some mattress companies also provide premium delivery options that place the mattress inside your home.
Online shopping provides access to a large number of mattress brands without visiting several stores. Online shopping can also make it easier to compare specifications, pricing, policies, and construction details side by side.
Unlike showroom shopping, buying online generally means you cannot lie on the mattress before purchase. For that reason, the sleep trial and return policy become especially important.
Check the Sleep Trial Before Ordering
A sleep trial allows you to try the mattress at home for a set period before making a final decision. The length of a trial varies from one retailer or manufacturer to another.
Read the complete policy before buying. Some retailers require customers to keep a mattress for a minimum adjustment period before requesting a return. Other retailers may apply fees for returns, collection, transportation, or administration.
Do not equate a large number of trial nights with a no-cost return policy. The written return terms are more important than the headline number of trial nights.
Common Mattress Types Sold in the United States
Understanding the major mattress types can simplify the buying process. Mattress stores typically organize products by the type of materials and support system used.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses use a coil support system combined with comfort materials above the springs. Innerspring construction can be found in basic mattresses as well as higher-end models featuring thick cushioning and individually wrapped coils.
Memory Foam Beds
Memory foam beds rely on layers of foam rather than a conventional spring system. Memory foam is known for its close-conforming feel and ability to reduce movement across the bed.
Mattresses With Hybrid Construction
A hybrid mattress combines a coil support system with substantial foam or latex comfort layers. Hybrids are common in American mattress showrooms because they combine characteristics of both foam and innerspring beds.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses use natural latex, synthetic latex, or a combination of materials. Compared with some memory foam mattresses, latex beds often feel more responsive and less deeply contouring.
Adjustable Air Mattresses
With some premium air mattresses, sleepers can change support levels using adjustable air chambers. Adjustable air-chamber mattresses should not be confused with temporary portable air beds.
How to Choose a Mattress Store
Choosing a mattress store should involve more than distance or the size of an advertised discount. Compare the complete buying experience before making your decision.
Important factors include:
- Mattress selection: Look for enough choices to compare different materials and firmness levels.
- Transparent pricing: Find out whether advertised pricing includes delivery, setup, or other services.
- Return policy: Make sure you understand whether the store provides refunds, exchanges, store credit, or comfort exchanges.
- Sleep trial: Find out how many nights the trial lasts and whether a return costs anything.
- Warranty: Read the warranty terms to understand what problems qualify for coverage.
- Delivery: Ask whether the mattress will simply be shipped or placed in your bedroom.
- Mattress haul-away: Check if your existing mattress can be taken away during delivery.
- Financing: Evaluate interest charges, promotional conditions, and total repayment.
Before completing the sale, confirm that you are purchasing the exact mattress model you tried. Because mattress names and product lines can vary among retailers, direct price comparisons are sometimes difficult.
Mattress Prices in the United States
U.S. shoppers can find mattresses costing a few hundred dollars at the lower end and several thousand dollars for high-end models or adjustable sleep systems.
Price depends on mattress size, materials, construction, brand, thickness, features, and retailer. For the same model, you can generally expect larger sizes to cost more, with a queen usually between twin and king.
Shoppers on a tighter budget may find entry-level mattresses through online retailers, discount stores, warehouse clubs, and local mattress outlets. Mid-priced mattresses may include hybrid construction, denser foam, enhanced coils, and more substantial comfort layers. Higher-end mattresses may use more costly materials and advanced comfort or support features.
Rather than focusing only on the purchase price, consider how the mattress fits your needs over time and what protections come with the purchase.
Is It Worth Testing a Mattress in a Store?
Testing a mattress in a showroom can help narrow your choices, but sitting on a bed for a few seconds is not enough.
For a more useful showroom test, test the mattress in your normal sleep position rather than simply sitting on it. If you sleep on your side, notice whether pressure builds around major contact points such as the shoulders and hips. If you sleep on your back, consider how well the mattress supports your lumbar area. For stomach sleepers, adequate support can help prevent the center of the body from dropping too deeply into the mattress.
Couples should test the mattress together when possible. The right mattress for a couple can depend on differences in body weight, sleeping position, and firmness preference.
Even a careful showroom test is only a brief evaluation. This is one reason a reasonable sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can be valuable.
What Mattress Firmness Should You Buy?
Retailers commonly describe mattress firmness as soft, medium, medium-firm, firm, or extra firm. There is no single firmness level that works for everyone.
The firmness that feels best may depend on several factors related to your body and sleeping habits. Two mattresses labeled "medium-firm" may also feel different because manufacturers do not use one universal firmness scale.
Use firmness labels as a starting point rather than an exact measurement. To lower the risk of ending up with the wrong firmness, choose a retailer that provides useful comfort exchange protection.
How Mattress Delivery and Setup Work
Delivery services differ between mattress retailers. Before ordering, ask exactly where the mattress will be delivered.
Typical mattress delivery choices include basic doorstep service, delivery inside the home, room-of-choice placement, setup, and white-glove delivery. Some retailers will also remove packaging, an old mattress, or an old foundation.
If you live in an apartment, condominium, or building with limited access, check hallway dimensions, elevator rules, loading restrictions, and delivery scheduling before purchasing a large mattress or adjustable base.
Mattress Disposal and Recycling
When buying a replacement mattress, you also need to plan for disposal of the existing bed. The rules for getting rid of a mattress are not uniform across the United States.
Some mattress stores provide old mattress removal when the new bed is delivered. Other disposal options may include local waste services, transfer stations, mattress recycling programs, and private junk removal companies.
Mattress recycling programs have been established in several states, including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Requirements and recycling fees can vary, so shoppers should check local rules rather than assuming a mattress can be left with regular household trash.
If the mattress is still clean and usable, local charities or nonprofit organizations may accept it, but donation standards differ and many organizations do not take used mattresses.
When to Shop for Mattress Sales
Although mattress promotions appear year-round, major U.S. holiday weekends are common sale periods. Common U.S. mattress sale periods include Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.
A major sale weekend may offer discounts, but it does not guarantee the best available deal. Prices and promotions can change year-round, including discounts, package deals, financing incentives, and included accessories.
Evaluate the entire package before deciding. Paying slightly more may make sense when the purchase includes services that would otherwise cost extra.
Where to Buy a Mattress Near You
Searching for mattress stores near me is a good starting point when you want to test beds locally. Major metropolitan areas across the United States generally include local mattress retailers, large chains, furniture stores, and department stores.
In major U.S. markets including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, copyright, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, Boston, and Washington, D.C., shoppers may have a large number of nearby mattress retailers. Smaller cities and rural areas may have fewer local options, making regional retailers and online mattress stores more important.
A mattress directory can help you identify nearby retailers before you start driving from store to store. Use the directory to compare locations, retailer types, mattress brands, and services, then contact the store to confirm that the mattress you want to test is available.
What to Ask Before You Purchase a Mattress
Before paying for a new bed, ask the salesperson or online retailer a few important questions:
- Do you currently have this mattress available?
- What is the total price including delivery and other fees?
- Can I return or exchange the mattress if it is uncomfortable?
- Do I have to keep the mattress for a minimum period before requesting a comfort exchange?
- What fees, including pickup, transport, or restocking charges, apply to returns?
- If I have a warranty issue, do I contact the store or the manufacturer?
- Does the warranty require a specific foundation or bed frame?
- Will the mattress be installed or set up by the delivery team?
- Can my old mattress and foundation be removed?
- When is the earliest the mattress can be delivered?
Getting these answers before purchase can prevent misunderstandings later.
Where to Buy Your Next Mattress
No mattress retailer is the best choice for every shopper. Local mattress retailers can work well for shoppers who want personalized help and the ability to try multiple beds. A large chain can be useful when you want convenient access to a broad selection. Warehouse clubs and big-box stores can be attractive for price-conscious buyers, while online mattress sellers provide convenient delivery and access to brands without nearby physical locations.
The key is to compare more than the mattress price. Compare all major product and retailer factors before buying.
Our mattress store directory can help you locate mattress stores across the United States, compare nearby retailers, and narrow your options before you visit a showroom or buy online. Doing some research before purchase can help you find a bed that better matches your comfort needs and price range.
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