How to Negotiate a Mattress Price

The experience of buying a mattress often equates to that of buying a used car or sometimes worse. After all, there's no blue book listing of mattress prices. Most consumers know not to pay a bed mattress sticker price. Although beyond that, many consumers are left in the dark. Research and negotiating are two more ways buyers can use to get the best value on a bed mattress.

Instructions

1. Research mattress prices both online and at reputable dealers. Compare mattress makes by their prices and features. Model names aren't always a reliable way to make comparisons. Sometimes dealers change the model names to confuse customers when shopping around.

2. Narrow down the choices and begin by making an offer on one, several hundred dollars lower than the sticker price. Begin negotiations from this point.

3. Remain uncertain that this particular bed mattress model is exactly what's desired. Flexibility is a must when negotiating. Silence and hesitation work in the buyers favor.

4. Settle on a final price and understand all that's included. Besides buying a mattress itself consider negotiating a box spring, bed frame, delivery and removal services in place of cost. If there's a warranty, understand those terms as well.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to be familiar with the language used in mattress technology. Dealers may use different terms to refer to certain technologies.

• Some sales associates are limited as to how much they can reduce mattress prices. If this seems to be the case, ask to work with a manager when buying a mattress.