Buying a Mattress Online vs. In-Store: Which One Is Right for You? (2024)

Discover the contrasting experiences of purchasing mattresses online versus in-store. Online shopping offers convenience, extensive options, and price comparisons, while in-store allows physical testing and personalized guidance. The choice boils down to personal preferences.

There are two main ways to shop for a new mattress: in-store and online. We’ve written extensively about the benefits of shopping online for a mattress (and how to do it without trying out the mattress first).

Now, we’re delving specifically into the differences between buying a mattress online vs. in-store and sharing tips for buying a mattress in-store if you decide to go that route.

Buying a mattress online vs. in-store

Choosing to buy your new mattress online or in a brick-and-mortar store really comes down to your personal preferences.

If you enjoy being able to gather information, read reviews, browse at your own pace, compare multiple mattress brands, and get the best prices, then buying online is probably your best choice.

On the other hand, an in-store purchase is probably your best option if you prefer personal service, salespeople who can offer advice and answer questions, and a chance to touch and lie down on a mattress before making a decision.

Benefits of buying a mattress online

Shopping online offers the ultimate convenience because you can do so 24/7. There’s no sales pressure, no salesperson watching you lie down on that mattress you might be interested in.

It’s easier to comparison-shop between brands and to shop around from one site to another looking for excellent value, free delivery, and customer-friendly return policies.

Downsides of buying a mattress online

No matter how descriptive the words you read about a mattress may be, there’s no guarantee that it’ll suit you without actually lying on it. And you can’t do that when you buy from an online store—unless you’re able to test it out in a showroom. (Saatva has Viewing Rooms across the country where you can do this.)

It can also feel overwhelming as you try to take in the many options available online without the educated guidance of someone like a mattress store salesperson.

Benefits of buying a mattress in a store

One advantage of buying in a mattress store is it gives you the opportunity to lie down on the mattress rather than imagine what it feels like based on a written description.

You can get advice and insights from salespeople who can be valuable resources in helping you decide. If you need a mattress sooner than later, then purchasing it in-store may be your best bet. It can also be easier to schedule delivery.

Downsides of buying a mattress in a store

Even the biggest mattress store can only hold so many different mattresses, and not nearly as big a variety as online. Additionally, a downside of working with salespeople in a mattress store is you may feel pressure to buy a mattress.

Unlike online mattress stores, traditional mattress stores typically offer a limited return policy. This is very different from our Viewing Rooms, where you can try the mattress in person and still enjoy our full 365-night home trial.

Find the best Saatva mattress for you in-store or online

Contour5 Mattress

Luxurious body-hugging feel and pressure relief with 3” of ultra-premium, high-density 5-lb memory foam.

Shop Now

Zenhaven Latex Mattress

Natural latex responds to every curve for pressure-free support and responsive comfort. Natural latex is supple, resilient, and durable, for the ultimate in elevated sleep. (It's naturally hypoallergenic too.)

Shop Now

Tips for buying a mattress in-store

If you do want to shop for a mattress in a store, these tips can help you get the most out of the experience:

  • Do a bit of research before visiting a mattress store. Have a good idea of the price for a specific mattress online to compare the in-store price.
  • Be sure to take advantage of sales events, usually around holidays like Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.
  • Don’t let yourself feel pressured even if a salesperson seems too eager to earn a commission by keeping you in their sights.
  • Definitely take at least 15 minutes to lie on a mattress that interests you, and shift around on it as you might in your own bed.

FAQs

Should you buy a mattress online or in a store?

As we’ve shown in this article, only you can answer this question for yourself. It’s a matter of your personal priorities and preferences.

How do I find the best mattress?

The best mattress is the one that’s right for your needs. You’ll find it by being familiar with your personal sleep position, the sleep position and habits of your bedmate, and your and their preferences for mattress firmness and materials. By doing your research, you can match your needs with the specific mattresses that would suit both of you.

Shop for a Saatva mattress in-store or online

You can shop for a Saatva mattress in-store or online. Saatva has Viewing Rooms in cities across the country where you can enjoy pressure-free shopping with non-commissioned sleep guides ready to answer all your questions. We also have a mattress quiz to help you determine which one is right for you.

Regardless of which way you shop for a Saatva mattress, you’ll get free white glove delivery, a 365-night home trial, and a lifetime warranty.

Buying a Mattress Online vs. In-Store: Which One Is Right for You? (2024)

FAQs

Is it best to buy a mattress in store or online? ›

Choosing to buy your new mattress online or in a brick-and-mortar store really comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy being able to gather information, read reviews, browse at your own pace, compare multiple mattress brands, and get the best prices, then buying online is probably your best choice.

Why are mattresses so much cheaper online? ›

Mattresses are usually cheaper online

Because they don't have a physical shop to maintain, most online exclusive mattress brands can sell their product for a more affordable price.

What percent of people buy mattresses online? ›

Statistics About Mattress Sales

42 million mattresses sold in 2022, accounting for about $10 billion. There are more than 9,200 mattress stores in the United States. In 2022, a slightly higher percentage of mattress buyers (43%) purchased online, versus in a physical store (42%), according to a survey.

What should we check before buying a mattress? ›

  • See what your health care provider thinks. ...
  • Visit stores to test out mattresses. ...
  • Watch out for gimmicks. ...
  • Be aware that firm mattresses aren't always best. ...
  • Read reviews from real customers. ...
  • Ask for recommendations online. ...
  • Think about adjustable beds. ...
  • Look for generous trial periods and return policies.

How do I know if my mattress is good quality? ›

A good mattress needs to give support and comfort, and that includes for those who suffer from back problems. Although a firm mattress is recommended by some retailers, you should always look for a mattress that keeps your back aligned while sleeping and relieves pressure points along your spine and joints.

How long do online mattresses last? ›

Mattress Lifespan & Longevity

The longevity of a mattress in a box largely depends on the quality and mattress materials chosen; however, like many other mattresses, these are just as durable as traditional mattresses with proper care, which last about 7 to 10 years. The higher the quality, the longer it will last.

Should I spend money on a nice mattress? ›

Investing in a high-quality custom sized mattress can save money over time by replacing your mattress less frequently. A good quality mattress can save you money on healthcare costs.

Does a more expensive mattress make a difference? ›

These lower-priced options are, likewise, made with lower-quality materials and often need to be replaced within fewer than five years. In short, paying for a higher-quality product often pays off in the end, as the price is also linked to the longevity of your mattress.

Does price matter when buying a mattress? ›

Lauri explains that 'cheaper mattresses are thinner, with just a few layers of material'. A truly budget bed is unlikely to give you the comfort you want or the support you need. Plus, it'll come with a shorter sleep trial and a less extensive warranty, so if you don't like it, you might need to buy another mattress.

What is the most sold mattress size? ›

The most popular mattress size is a queen. Non-standard mattress sizes provide a customized fit for some sleepers, but bedding for non-standard sizes can be hard to find.

What can I expect to pay for a good mattress? ›

Sure, many feature-rich $3,000 luxury mattresses feel like a dream, but that doesn't mean you can't find a good mattress for a reasonable price. Since the price range for mattresses is $400 to $3,000 or more, a reasonable price for a good mattress is probably in the $1,000 to $1,500 range.

What time of year is the biggest mattress sale? ›

Across the board, the best month to buy mattresses is in April or May. New product lines come out in June in time for summer and fall sales, so stores are trying to get their old stock out of the warehouses. That means deep discounts and easier negotiation in the spring months.

What I wish I knew before buying a mattress? ›

What I wish I knew before I bought a mattress
  • Material matters. (Image credit: Saatva) ...
  • Get the right size. (Image credit: Tempur-Pedic) ...
  • Firmness labels are not universal. ...
  • Try before you buy. ...
  • Get a good warranty. ...
  • High price doesn't always mean high quality. ...
  • 'Orthopedic' beds aren't medically approved. ...
  • Always read the reviews.
Jul 19, 2024

How many inches of mattress is best? ›

If you are a side sleeper, a 12 to 14-inch thick mattress most likely will provide the extra cushioning you need. Back sleepers are often comfortable on a 10 to 12-inch thick medium-firm mattress, while stomach sleepers may need a 10-inch mattress firm enough to prevent sinkage beneath your abdomen.

Which type of mattress is best? ›

Most people will choose an innerspring or latex mattress for back support. You'll also want to factor in your size (heavier body weights will need firmer mattresses) and the severity of your condition. Latex or innerspring (with natural materials) win out again regarding chemical exposure.

What's the best day to buy a mattress? ›

Let's dive into the best times to buy: Holiday weekends: Retailers love a holiday, especially when it comes to sales. Keep an eye out for Presidents' Day in February, Memorial Day in late May, Fourth of July, Labor Day in early September, Veterans Day in November, Black Friday, and let's not forget Cyber Monday!

What are the disadvantages of a mattress in a box? ›

Mattresses in a box have durability problems because they use low-density foam. These mattresses often offer limited styles, usually just all-foam or hybrid. Packed and rolled mattresses can lose spine support, especially in the middle. Roll packing impacts the quality of foam more than they are telling you.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Annamae Dooley

Last Updated:

Views: 6472

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (45 voted)

Reviews: 84% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Annamae Dooley

Birthday: 2001-07-26

Address: 9687 Tambra Meadow, Bradleyhaven, TN 53219

Phone: +9316045904039

Job: Future Coordinator

Hobby: Archery, Couponing, Poi, Kite flying, Knitting, Rappelling, Baseball

Introduction: My name is Annamae Dooley, I am a witty, quaint, lovely, clever, rich, sparkling, powerful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.