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Step 1
Do some research on what's available. You don't want to go shopping without a good idea of what your options are (see Resources below). Take a look at different types of mattresses, including spring mattresses, sleep number mattresses and memory foam mattresses. Know the differences and which one you think you may prefer. Check up on prices so you are aware of what to expect to pay.
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Step 2
Take a block of time and go shopping. Choosing your mattress is not something to do when you have somewhere to be in 30 minutes. Allow yourself all the time you are going to need to find the perfect one. Remember, you'll spend about 30 percent of your time laying on that mattress.
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Step 3
Test the mattress physically. Don't have a mattress delivered to your home that you didn't try lying down on before making the decision. Take a pillow along so you get the feel of sleeping in the bed. Spend some time laying there on the mattresses relaxing; a 30 second test isn't long enough to really know how the mattress is going to feel to your body.
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Step 4
Consider the size of the room you are going to put the bed in, as well as the people that will be sleeping in it. If the bed is for a child in a small room, then a single bed may do the job. However, if you have a large room and two adults are going to be sharing the bed, a queen size bed or even a king size bed may be a better choice.
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Step 5
Consider that spine alignment while sleeping is important. The mattress that you choose should conform to the way your spine naturally curves. The right mattress can help provide better spine health and the wrong one can leave your spine feeling uncomfortable. Make sure that your spine is not unnaturally curved when you are laying down and testing a mattress.
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Step 6
Look for a good warranty that lasts for at least 10 years. You need to be protected from any defects from the manufacturer.
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Step 7
Compare prices before making your final decision. While you want a great mattress, you'll want to get the best price on the mattress you want as well. Once you know what mattress you want, start comparing prices at various stores. In many cases a bit of time spent comparison shopping may save you $50, $100 or even more.
