The Ultimate Guide: How to Buy a Mattress for a Perfect Night’s Sleep

If you’re in the market for a new mattress, you might feel overwhelmed by all the options. With so many types, features, and price points, how do you really know what the best choice is for your needs? Don’t let it keep you up at night any longer! We’ve done the research and provided you a mattress buying guide for you to demystify the process and set you up for sweet dreams.

This comprehensive mattress-buying guide will explain the most important factors to consider, helping you confidently choose the right mattress for your sleep style, budget, and preferences. From understanding different materials and firmness levels to trial periods and warranties, we’ve got you covered. With the right knowledge upfront, you’ll sleep better at night, knowing you made the perfect decision.

Read on as we examine individual needs and preferences, price and quality considerations, and the different mattress types and firmness levels that will determine your selection. 

Discover why Airpedic mattresses should top your list!

Step 1: Determine Your Individual Needs 

The key to finding your perfect mattress match is understanding what will give you the best sleep, so consider the following:

Sleep Style and Health Considerations 

Think about how you normally sleep – do you tend to sleep on your side, back, or stomach? Your sleep position directly impacts the level of firmness and support you’ll need. For example, side sleepers typically prefer a medium to plush feel, back sleepers usually need firmer support, and stomach sleepers fall somewhere in between. Sometimes it’s healthy or physical conditions that influence our sleep position, such as arthritis, sleep apnea, or joint pain. And what about temperature? Do you prefer a cool sleep environment, or is a cozy, warm cocoon more your style? 

Weight Distribution and Partner Preferences

Body weight and height are critical factors when choosing a mattress, as they directly impact comfort, performance, and longevity. This is even more of an issue if you share the mattress with a partner. You’ll need to consider mattress materials and customizability options that accommodate different sleep preferences or weight differences to minimize disturbance caused by movement.

Budget and Price Considerations

With mattresses ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, setting a budget will help narrow down your options. While a higher price tag usually means higher quality and durability, an expensive mattress is not always feasible or the best choice. Focus on getting the best value for your money based on materials, construction, warranty, and the level of comfort and support you need without sacrificing quality.

Expert Advice and Resources

Fortunately, you don’t need to go it alone when buying a mattress. For instance, if you suffer from chronic pain or medical conditions that affect your sleep, you might want to consult with a healthcare professional for advice on how the right mattress can ease your symptoms. In addition, reputable mattress manufacturers like Airpedic staff qualified sleep experts who can provide personalized consultations to help determine the best mattress for your needs, preferences, and budget. Online quizzes like this one from Airpedic make an excellent tool for identifying mattress models to meet individual considerations and make informed decisions on how to buy a mattress.  

Regardless of your sleep style and individual needs, Airpedic has the right mattress to exceed your expectations, as you can see in this satisfied sleeper’s review:

“After 5 Years we are just as happy with our Airpedic 1000. The mattress is still very supportive and comfortable and we highly recommend the mattress to anybody looking for the ability to have individual settings, as well as the separate support setting for your low back.”

– Jeff and Cindy Williams

Step 2: Balance Quality and Price 

Budget is always a consideration, but a perfect night’s sleep just might be priceless! While it can be tempting to focus primarily on price, buying a mattress is a long-term proposition and should be considered an investment – not only in a bed but in quality sleep. Sleep profoundly impacts overall health, wellness, and quality of life, and there is a direct correlation between mattress quality and sleep quality. Luckily, a durable mattress can provide consistent comfort and support for years, ultimately saving money on replacements and minimizing the risk and effects of sleep-related issues.

What makes a mattress stand the test of time? Premium construction and materials such as high-density memory foam, natural latex, and durable coil systems top the list, all contributing to better support, comfort, and longevity. While this can translate to a higher purchase price, there are excellent mattresses at reasonable prices. Airpedic has a long history of providing premium quality mattresses at competitive prices. Features like hypoallergenic materials that reduce the need for frequent replacements and innovative designs that enhance energy efficiency and longevity make Airpedic mattresses even more cost-effective, both in the short term and the long run. As one Airpedic customer puts it best:

You don’t have to overspend on a luxury mattress brand to get a high-quality mattress. Sacrificing construction and materials might end up costing you more in the form of multiple replacements and poor-quality sleep. Fortunately, many mattress retailers also offer financing programs that allow for budget-friendly payment plans, so you can focus more on how a mattress performs, meets your needs, and makes you feel when making your purchase decision.

Step 3: Choose A Mattress Size

Choosing the right mattress size is crucial for ensuring a good night’s sleep. If you’re shopping for a mattress, consider how much space you need to sleep comfortably and the size of your room.

Twin XL mattress: 38×80 inches. An excellent choice for taller individuals or those with limited space, as it offers extra legroom without taking up too much room.

Full mattress: 53×75 inches. Also known as a double, provides a snug fit for single sleeper and can accommodate two who don’t mind being close. 

Queen mattress: 60×80 inches. Ideal for couples who prefer more space, offering ample room for two without overwhelming a medium-sized bedroom

King mattress: 76×80 inches. Delivers maximum space and comfort, allowing couples to sleep without disturbing each other’s space.

When selecting a mattress size, ensure it harmonizes with your room dimensions and personal comfort preferences.

Step 4: Choose a Mattress Type

There are many types of mattresses and materials, the most common being innerspring, memory foam, latex, and hybrids. Specialty technologies, orthopedic mattresses, and adjustable firmness options offer even more benefits with these materials and construction types. Consider features like temperature regulation, responsiveness, and durability to determine which type is right for you.

Innerspring Mattress

Innerspring mattresses contain coils or springs that provide support and allow for airflow. They tend to be very responsive and bouncy, quickly adjusting to changes in position. Although they may often be affordable, a spring mattress can be more prone to sagging over time and have a motion-transfer feeling that can be disturbing for sleeping partners.

Memory Foam Mattress

Foam mattresses, including memory foam, mold to your body for support and pressure relief. They minimize motion transfer between sleepers and are very durable. However, some people find memory foam to be too hot and also heavy, and difficult to move due to its contouring nature.

Latex Mattress

Natural latex comes directly from the sap of rubber trees and is all-natural, toxic-free, and non-allergenic. It offers moderate contouring with a buoyant, lifting sensation and is naturally cooling. Latex also minimizes motion transfer and is very durable and supportive

Hybrid Mattress

Hybrid mattresses blend memory foam or latex with coil springs, offering the best of various materials. The springs provide bounce, support, and breathability, while the foam delivers plush contouring. Hybrids are designed to balance comfort and support, catering to various sleeping styles.

Specialty Air Mattress

Adjustable air mattresses, like those by Airpedic, provide ultimate customization and support with orthopedic health in mind. With multiple zones that can be adjusted to provide different levels of firmness and support to different areas of the body, Airpedic mattresses enhance sleep position and quality as they ease pressure points.

Eco-Friendly Mattress Options

Many consumers seek sustainable and environmentally responsible materials in a mattress, as well as natural fabrics such as wool or natural cooling materials like organic cotton or latex for temperature regulation. These premium materials may also make a mattress hypoallergenic or more resistant to microbes but do add to the cost.

Adjustable Beds and Customization Options 

For the ultimate sleep experience, you can’t beat an adjustable bed base. Raising the head and foot of the bed using a wireless remote or smartphone app lets you find your perfect position for sleeping, reading, and lounging. Be sure to choose a compatible mattress to maximize the benefits of an adjustable bed frame. Mattresses and adjustable beds can be further customized with toppers or additional comfort layers to allow partners completely individualized sleep experiences. 

Step 5: Choose the Best Firmness Level for Your Sleep Style

The firmness level of your mattress is one of the most important factors for sleep comfort and body support. How firm or soft do you want your mattress to be? The answer depends on your individual preferences and how your typical sleeping position affects your spine and joints.

Side Sleepers

For side sleepers, a medium to medium-soft mattress is usually ideal. Something too firm won’t cushion your major pressure points, such as your shoulders and hips. A mattress with a firmness rating of around 4 to 6 out of 10 will allow your body to sink in slightly, helping keep your spine straight while reducing pressure on your sides.

Back Sleepers

If you frequently sleep on your back, look for a medium-firm to firm mattress that keeps your spine aligned while you rest. A mattress that’s too soft won’t provide enough support for your lower back, which can lead to back pain. Back sleepers often find the most comfort on a mattress rated around 7 out of 10 in firmness.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleeping requires a firm mattress for the best support and alignment. If a mattress is too soft, your midsection will sink in too far, straining your lower back. A firm mattress, rated 8 or higher out of 10, will keep your body on an even plane for the most comfortable stomach sleeping position. Some stomach sleepers also benefit from a mattress with extra lumbar support.

For people who change positions or couples who have different sleep styles, adjustable bases can help with lumbar support and positioning, while toppers can provide a plusher feel to a firm mattress without reducing support. However, only adjustable air mattresses like Airpedic allow you to adjust firmness and support levels, not to mention on each side of the bed separately. 

Step 6: Secure a Generous Trial Period and Warranty

Whether you shop for a mattress online or in person, the real test of its suitability is how well you sleep on it. Therefore, it’s crucial to buy a mattress that offers a satisfaction guarantee backed by a generous trial period and comprehensive warranty. Quality materials and construction help a mattress resist sagging, indentations, and premature wear, but a manufacturer that stands behind its product with a long-term warranty provides peace of mind against manufacturing defects and premature deterioration. An in-home trial period and exchange option also ease the anxiety of making the wrong choice and boost confidence in the manufacturer.

Mattress Warranties

Reputable brands that stand behind their mattresses typically offer warranties of 10 years or more. A robust warranty provides coverage and peace of mind if an issue arises, indicating the company’s belief in the durability and quality of its products. The best warranties offer comprehensive, non-prorated coverage, meaning they cover all defects in materials or workmanship for the life of the warranty. A limited warranty covers only certain components, while prorated warranties reduce coverage over time. For the best coverage, look for a non-prorated, comprehensive warranty that assures repair or replacement for any issues. Top brands like Airpedic offer 20-year warranties on their mattresses.

Mattress Trial Periods

When investing in a big-ticket item like a mattress, you want to ensure it’s the right choice for your needs and sleeping habits. Many reputable mattress brands offer generous trial periods to test out your new bed at home. Look for sleep trial periods of at least 90 to 120 nights, giving you ample time to determine if the mattress suits you and your partner. During the trial, you can return or exchange the mattress, often for a restocking or delivery fee, if it’s not the right fit.

When your new mattress arrives, spend at least a couple of weeks sleeping on it before deciding if you want to keep it. It can take time for your body to adjust to a new sleep surface. Pay attention to how well you sleep and how you feel during the day. Are you waking up with fewer aches and pains? Do you feel more rested and recharged? These are good signs you’ve found a keeper.

If you’re still not sleeping soundly after a month, it may be time to return the mattress for a different model. If you purchased from a company that allows you to exchange your mattress for a different firmness level or type, you can invest in your sleep quality without the worry of buyer’s remorse. After all, you spend a third of your life in bed—you deserve the best!

While price is one factor in your mattress buying decision, focus on value and quality first. Your mattress is an investment in your health, comfort, and sleep quality for many years to come. Find an option tailored to your needs that is backed by a solid warranty and trial period. In the long run, the rest you get each night is worth the investment in a high-quality mattress. The cheaper alternative may not provide the same value or longevity, ultimately costing more in the end. With a solid warranty and trial period, your investment is even more secure.

Other Factors to Consider When Buying a Mattress

Material Quality

The quality of materials used in a mattress greatly influences its comfort, support, and longevity. Look for certifications such as CertiPUR-US® for foam mattresses, which ensure the materials used are free from harmful chemicals and meet specific standards for content, emissions, and durability.

Edge Support

Edge support is crucial for people who tend to sit or sleep near the edge of the bed. A mattress with strong edge support prevents sagging and provides a more stable and comfortable surface. This feature is especially important for couples who want to maximize their usable sleep surface or for individuals who have difficulty getting in and out of bed.

Motion Isolation

If you share your bed with a partner, motion isolation is a key factor. Mattresses with good motion isolation minimize the transfer of movement from one side of the bed to the other, allowing both partners to sleep undisturbed. 

Temperature Regulation

Temperature regulation is vital for a comfortable sleep environment, especially if you tend to sleep hot. Some mattresses come with cooling technologies such as gel-infused foam, or naturally breathable materials that help dissipate heat. Consider these features if temperature control is a concern for you.

Allergies and Sensitivities

For those with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic mattresses can make a significant difference. Natural latex mattresses are often hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold. Additionally, mattresses with removable and washable covers can help maintain a cleaner sleep environment.

Additional Accessories for a Great Night’s Sleep

To complement your new mattress and achieve the best sleep possible, consider investing in some key accessories. Items like adjustable bases, pillows, and bedding can significantly enhance your comfort and support. A mattress protector or pad is essential, as it protects your mattress from spills and stains, effortlessly extending its lifespan. Look for a protector that is waterproof yet breathable for maximum comfort.

An adjustable base, like those offered by Airpedic can greatly improve your sleep experience. At a minimum, an adjustable bed allows you to raise the head and foot of your mattress. This helps relieve pressure points, makes it easier to get in and out of bed, and provides a comfortable lounging position for reading or watching TV. More advanced models offer lumbar support, massage functions, under-bed lighting, and wireless remotes.

Don’t invest in a high-quality mattress only to skimp on pillows. A variety of pillow shapes—contour, wedge, bolster, and body pillows—allow you to position support where you need it most, especially regarding sleep position. Side sleepers need a thicker pillow to keep the spine aligned, while back and stomach sleepers need a thinner pillow. Memory foam, down, and down alternative pillows provide cushioning and contouring for all sleep positions.

High-quality bedding, such as sheets with a high thread count, a breathable and comfortable duvet or quilt, and, of course, a mattress protector, can also make a significant difference in your sleep quality. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, or bamboo are excellent choices for bedding since they are soft yet durable and help regulate temperature.

Remember the little things, like eye masks, earplugs, a sound machine or fan for white noise, humidifiers, aromatherapy, and more. Creating the optimal sleep environment will ensure you get the best rest every night. With the right mattress and accessories tailored to your unique needs, you’ll be sleeping like a baby in no time.

Reviews

While warranties and price tags can indicate how long a mattress should last, customer reviews often reveal how long it actually lasts in real-world conditions. Look for brands with overwhelmingly positive reviews, particularly those that mention durability and lifespan, not only on the mattress manufacturer or retailers’ own sites but also from consumer reporting, social media, and editorial sites. 

Doing some research on consumer opinions of different brands and models that suit your needs and budget can help you identify the right mattress to provide you with years of quality sleep. Your perfect mattress match is out there

Why An Airpedic Mattress Is the Ideal Choice for a Perfect Night’s Sleep

Now that you know what to look for when buying the right high-quality mattress for you, it is clear that Airpedic checks all the boxes—and then some! Here’s how Airpedic mattresses measure up on the most critical factors.

The Right Mattress for You

Airpedic’s comprehensive range of adjustable air mattresses is sure to offer the right mattress for you, namely one that addresses your sleep style and body type, your sleep preferences and habits and those of your partner, and your budget and price considerations, all while providing a finely-crafted, long-lasting, superior-quality mattress backed by countless positive customer reviews and an unbeatable customer support experience, warranty and trial period. Remember what we said about checking the boxes!

Each Airpedic bed provides unparalleled customizable support and comfort. Adjustable air chambers in the base are controlled by wireless remotes, giving one or two sleepers total control over their personalized sleep experience. The bed is topped by your choice of mattress to cater to your preferences for firmness, material, and feel. 

Here is a top-line look at the Airpedic range:

• Airpedic™ 500 Series: This budget-friendly mattress combines memory foam comfort with a gel-infused cooling layer and adjustable support, offering an affordable solution for a cool and supportive sleep experience.
• Airpedic™ 600 Series: Designed for medium-firm support, this mattress features cooling foam and gel layers that provide excellent pressure relief, making it ideal for those seeking balanced comfort and support.
• Airpedic™ 650 Series: With a temperature-regulating plush top and medium-firm support, this mattress offers responsive, body-conforming comfort, perfect for those who need a cooler sleeping surface and targeted support.
• Airpedic™ 700 Series: This plush firmness model features luxurious memory foam and cooling layers, providing exceptional pressure relief and body-contouring comfort, ideal for sleepers who desire a softer feel.
• Airpedic™ 800 Series: Offering a medium plush feel, this well-balanced mattress combines cooling comfort with responsive luxury, making it suitable for sleepers who seek a blend of softness and support.
• Airpedic™ 850 Series: This mattress features a buoyant medium-firm feel and plush pressure relief with a gel swirl surface layer, delivering a breathable and supportive sleep surface for enhanced comfort.
• Airpedic™ 1000 Series: With a 14.5-inch high profile and a 4-layer design, this mattress offers plush, pressure-relieving comfort with gel-infused layers and patented pressure-reducing support, ideal for personalized comfort and deep sleep.
• Airpedic™ 1100 Series: This 14-inch hybrid mattress features a luxurious quilted pillow top and ultra-plush feel. It combines high-density foam layers and advanced air chamber technology for customizable, pressure-relieving support and traditional comfort.
• Airpedic™ 1200 Series: This premium mattress features natural latex and five comfort layers, offering ultimate plush luxury and breathable support, perfect for those seeking an eco-friendly and integrative sleep experience.

Airpedic also offers A-to-Z customer service from the moment you first speak to one of our highly skilled sleep specialists or take our online sleep assessment through the seamless delivery of your new bed and beyond through our industry-leading 120-day trial period and twenty-year warranty. 

With thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews like the one below, you can feel even more confident in your choice of Airpedic to accompany you in your next few decades of slumber! 

“After sleeping on the bed now for 6+ weeks, all I can say is that I wished we had ordered it sooner! The Airpedic 850 King mattress is simply amazing. We haven’t had a bad night’s sleep with the new mattress.”

– David and Ashley Booth

“This mattress is so comfortable that we can’t think of a time we ever slept like this. On this mattress, we don’t toss and turn, and we don’t get hot lying on it.”

– J. Carlock

Conclusion

With this comprehensive mattress-buying guide, you are now equipped to create your perfect sleep sanctuary. Remember to consider your needs, budget, sleep style, and preferences while shopping. Don’t compromise on guaranteed performance, premium materials, and quality craftsmanship, all of which come standard with every Airpedic mattress. An Airpedic adjustable air bed ensures you’ll never settle for less, cradling you into restful slumber night after night for years to come. Sleep tight!

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Learn how Airpedic’s innovative beds can transform your sleep experience! Visit Airpedic.com or contact Airpedic today for a FREE, no-obligation consultation with a sleep expert, and take the first step to joining Airpedic’s thousands of happy, satisfied, and well-rested customers!

    * Call 1-866-939-6155 

    * Chat with a sleep specialist at Airpedic.com.

Airpedic stands proud as a respected authority in sleep solutions, establishing itself as a leader in the mattress industry through a commitment to innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. Cutting-edge technology, premium materials and peerless construction combine to provide incomparable customization, comfort, support and longevity. What’s more, thousands of positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers tell the tale. Not only do customers praise Airpedic’s product and process, they also note their effectiveness in alleviating sleep-related issues like joint discomfort, back pain, and even heartburn and snoring. With its generous trial periods and warranties, Airpedic has earned the confidence of its customers, whose trust in the performance and reliability of Airpedic mattresses keeps them coming back.