Where to Shop for a Mattress in the United States
Where to Shop for 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 reduce shopping frustration. American shoppers have more choices than ever, including local mattress stores, national chains, furniture stores, warehouse clubs, department stores, manufacturer showrooms, and online mattress companies. Your ideal place to shop will vary according to what you want to spend, what kind of mattress you need, where you live, and whether you want to try it first.
A mattress is also different from many other household purchases. Because comfort varies from person to person, the lowest-priced option may not offer the best overall value. A useful retailer comparison should include the mattress itself, as well as return policies, sleep trials, warranties, delivery charges, financing options, and old mattress removal.
This guide covers the main mattress-buying options in the USA and the factors you should consider before selecting a store.
Where Can You Buy a Mattress in the United States?
Mattresses are sold through several types of retailers across the country. While certain stores are dedicated mainly to mattresses and sleep products, others sell mattresses alongside a larger selection of furniture and household goods.
Among the most common mattress retailers are:
- Local independent mattress stores
- National and regional mattress chains
- Home furniture stores
- Warehouse clubs
- Department stores
- Large big-box stores
- Manufacturer-owned mattress stores and showrooms
- Online mattress companies
- Online marketplaces
- Mattress factory-direct retailers
Every type of mattress retailer comes with its own pros and cons. If you want to lie on and compare several beds before deciding, a mattress showroom may be the better choice. Online shopping may be more convenient for buyers who already know their preferred mattress type and firmness.
Local Mattress Stores
Independent mattress stores can be found in cities, suburbs, and smaller communities across the United States. An independent mattress retailer might run one local showroom or maintain multiple locations across a state or metro region.
Independent mattress retailers often give shoppers access to multiple mattress brands. Depending on where to try a mattress the store, you may find traditional innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, latex mattresses, hybrids, adjustable bases, foundations, pillows, mattress protectors, and other sleep products.
Shopping locally can provide access to salespeople who know the available mattress lines. In many local showrooms, you can test several firmness levels and mattress constructions during one visit.
Local retailers may also compete with larger chains by offering services such as local delivery, mattress setup, old mattress removal, flexible pricing, or package deals that combine a mattress with a foundation or adjustable bed.
If you are comparing local mattress stores, always review the retailer's policies for returns and comfort exchanges before you pay. Policies can vary greatly from one business to another.
National and Regional Mattress Store Chains
Specialty mattress chains are another major option for shoppers in the United States. For example, Mattress Firm operates stores across many markets, while other mattress chains serve more limited geographic areas.
These retailers generally put mattresses and sleep products at the center of their business. Inside a typical specialty mattress showroom, shoppers may find multiple mattress brands together with adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and other 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.
Major mattress chains often promote sales around Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and other holiday weekends. Even during a sale, look at the total purchase price rather than relying only on promotional claims.
Mattress Departments at Furniture Stores
Many American furniture retailers have dedicated mattress departments. 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.
Buying from a furniture retailer may make sense when you need an entire bedroom setup, since one store may carry the mattress, bed frame, headboard, dresser, and nightstands.
The main drawback is that mattress selection can vary by location. Compared with a general furniture showroom, a specialty mattress store may provide a larger selection of models and more mattress-specific guidance.
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.
Warehouse Clubs
Many Americans also purchase mattresses through membership-based warehouse clubs. For example, copyright and Sam's Club offer mattresses from several brands through both physical stores and their websites.
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.
This option works well for shoppers who already understand the differences between memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses and do not need to test a large number of beds.
Remember to consider membership requirements, delivery arrangements, return procedures, and whether mattress removal is available in your area.
Buying Mattresses From Department Stores and Big-Box Retailers
Another place to shop for a mattress is through department stores and major big-box retailers. Depending on the market, shoppers may encounter mattresses at stores such as Macy's, Walmart, Target, and other large retail chains.
The number and type of mattresses available can vary substantially. Some retailers allow customers to try beds in-store, while others mainly sell boxed mattresses for online ordering or store pickup.
A big-box retailer may be a practical choice for an affordable mattress, a guest-room mattress, a child's mattress, a dorm-room mattress, or a convenient bed-in-a-box product.
When comparing mattresses, look at the exact model rather than relying only on the brand name. A single manufacturer can offer numerous product lines that differ in construction and comfort.
Mattress Brand Stores and Manufacturer Showrooms
Some mattress brands have manufacturer-operated retail locations. Other manufacturers sell through authorized dealers that display selected 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. You may be able to compare multiple firmness levels and models from that brand without sorting through unrelated products.
The main limitation is that you will have fewer opportunities to compare different brands directly.
Shopping for a Mattress Online
Online mattress shopping has become a major part of the U.S. mattress market. Consumers can buy directly from many mattress brands online and have beds delivered across a large portion of the United States.
Many mattresses are compressed and shipped in a box, while larger, heavier, or more complex models may arrive at full size. Certain companies also offer room-of-choice or white-glove delivery services.
Online shopping provides access to a large number of mattress brands without visiting several stores. Websites allow shoppers to review mattress specifications, prices, customer policies, and construction details before deciding.
The major disadvantage is that you usually cannot lie on the mattress before ordering it. When you cannot test a bed beforehand, carefully reviewing the sleep trial and return policy is essential.
Check the Sleep Trial Before Ordering
A sleep trial allows you to sleep on the bed for a specified time before deciding whether it is right for you. Sleep trial periods are different among mattress companies.
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 pickup, transportation, restocking, or processing fees.
Do not equate a large number of trial nights with a no-cost return policy. What matters most is the detailed terms behind the sleep trial.
Mattress Types You Will Find at U.S. Retailers
Understanding common mattress categories can simplify the buying process. Most retailers group their inventory according to several common mattress construction types.
Traditional Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring beds combine metal coils for support with comfort materials on top. Innerspring construction can be found in basic mattresses as well as higher-end models featuring thick cushioning and individually wrapped coils.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam beds rely on foam-based construction instead of traditional coils. Memory foam is known for contouring to the body and limiting motion transfer between partners.
Hybrid Mattress Construction
A typical hybrid combines an innerspring-style support system with foam or latex comfort materials. Hybrids are common in American mattress showrooms because they combine characteristics of both foam and innerspring beds.
Latex Mattresses
A latex mattress can be made with different forms of natural and synthetic latex. They tend to have a responsive feel rather than the deep contouring associated with some memory foam beds.
Adjustable Air Mattresses
Some premium mattresses use adjustable air chambers that allow sleepers to modify the firmness of each side of the bed. Adjustable air-chamber mattresses should not be confused with temporary portable air beds.
What to Look for in a Mattress Retailer
The ideal mattress retailer is not always the nearest store or the one promoting the biggest sale. Evaluate the retailer as a whole before deciding where to buy.
Consider the following factors when evaluating a mattress store:
- Mattress selection: A good selection should let you compare different mattress types and firmness levels.
- Transparent pricing: Ask what is included in the advertised price and whether delivery or setup costs extra.
- Return policy: Make sure you understand whether the store provides refunds, exchanges, store credit, or comfort exchanges.
- Sleep trial: Review how long the mattress can be tested and what return charges may apply.
- Warranty coverage: Check the manufacturer's warranty conditions.
- Delivery: Ask where the delivery service ends and whether setup is included.
- Mattress haul-away: Check if the retailer provides removal of the mattress you are replacing.
- Financing: Evaluate the full cost of financing, not just the monthly payment.
Make sure the mattress model you tested is the same model shown on the sales paperwork. Because mattress names and product lines can vary among retailers, direct price comparisons are sometimes difficult.
What Does a Mattress Cost in the USA?
U.S. shoppers can find mattresses costing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the product.
Mattress pricing varies according to dimensions, materials, construction method, manufacturer, thickness, features, and retail channel. Within the same mattress collection, a queen typically costs more than a twin and less than a 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. Premium beds may include specialty foams, latex, advanced support systems, cooling materials, handcrafted construction, or adjustable features.
Rather than focusing only on the purchase price, consider expected lifespan, support for your sleeping position, and the retailer's return protections.
Is It Worth Testing a Mattress in a Store?
An in-store mattress test can be helpful, although you should spend more than a few seconds evaluating it.
If possible, lie in your normal sleeping position for several minutes. Side sleepers should pay attention to pressure around the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers should check whether the lower back feels supported while the body remains properly positioned. Stomach sleepers generally need a surface that prevents excessive sinking around the torso.
Whenever possible, couples should test the bed together. The right mattress for a couple can depend on the individual needs of both sleepers.
Trying a mattress in-store provides useful information but only for a short period. This is one reason a reasonable sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can be valuable.
How to Choose Mattress Firmness
Mattress comfort levels are often labeled soft, medium, medium-firm, firm, and extra firm. There is no single firmness level that works for everyone.
Your preferred firmness can depend on body weight, sleeping position, mattress construction, and personal comfort. Because there is no universal firmness scale used by every manufacturer, two mattresses labeled "medium-firm" can feel different.
Treat firmness labels as general guidance rather than precise measurements. You can reduce the chance of choosing an unsuitable firmness by trying beds in person and reviewing comfort exchange options.
Mattress Delivery, Installation, and Setup
Mattress delivery options are not the same at every store. Before placing your order, confirm where the delivery team will leave or place the mattress.
Typical mattress delivery choices include different service levels depending on the retailer. Some retailers will also remove packaging, an old mattress, or an old foundation.
Apartment and condominium residents should confirm that building access will accommodate the delivery.
How to Dispose of or Recycle an Old Mattress
A new mattress purchase often creates another question, how will you dispose of the old mattress? The rules for getting rid of a mattress are different depending on your state and municipality.
A retailer may be able to take your old mattress away at the same time it delivers the replacement. Depending on your location, mattresses may also be accepted by several local disposal and recycling services.
States including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have formal programs for mattress recycling. 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.
Best Times of Year to Buy a Mattress
Mattress retailers run promotions throughout the year, but holiday weekends are common times for sales in the United States. Retailers frequently advertise mattress deals around Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.
A major sale weekend may offer discounts, but you should not assume it is always the cheapest time to buy. Manufacturers and retailers can change prices, bundles, financing offers, and free accessory promotions throughout the year.
Compare the complete package. Paying slightly more may make sense when the purchase includes delivery, setup, a foundation, old mattress haul-away, or a more favorable return policy.
Buying a Mattress Near You
If you want to shop in person, searching for mattress stores near me can provide a useful starting point. 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. In smaller cities and rural communities, local mattress selection may be more limited, which can make regional retailers and online mattress stores more useful.
Before traveling between multiple showrooms, a mattress directory can help you find and compare nearby retailers. After comparing nearby mattress shopping options, verify directly with the retailer that your preferred models are in stock for testing.
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Mattress
Before completing your mattress purchase, consider asking the salesperson or online retailer these important questions:
- Do you currently have this mattress available?
- How much will I pay in total once delivery and additional charges are included?
- What happens if the mattress is uncomfortable, can I return or exchange it?
- Is there a mandatory adjustment period before I can exchange the mattress?
- What fees, including pickup, transport, or restocking charges, apply to returns?
- Are warranty claims handled by the retailer or by the mattress manufacturer?
- Must the mattress be used with a particular foundation or bed frame to maintain warranty coverage?
- Does delivery include setup of the new mattress?
- Can the delivery team remove my existing mattress and foundation?
- How soon can the mattress be delivered?
Clarifying these details before buying can reduce confusion later.
Where to Buy Your Next Mattress
No mattress retailer is ideal for everyone. If you value in-person assistance and showroom testing, a local mattress store may be a good fit. National mattress chains may offer a wide product selection and locations in many markets. Warehouse clubs and big-box stores can be attractive for shoppers focused on value, 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.
Use the directory to find mattress stores across the United States, explore retailers near you, and compare your options before shopping in person or online. A little research before buying can make it much easier to find a mattress that fits your body, sleeping style, budget, and home.
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