Ultimate Mattress Buying Guide

Everything you need to know about buying a new mattress....all in one place!
We have constructed the Ultimate Mattress Buying Guide in order to give you all the unbiased information you need to make a decision on your next mattress purchase.  We cover all the most asked about topics with straight forward and simple answers.  This is the most thorough guide you will find anywhere!

PRE MATTRESS BUYING

1. When is it time to get a new mattress?
   • Mattresses are one of those items that we use everyday, but rarely give them too much thought. Most of us start to wonder if we should get a new mattress when we move, start experiencing back pain, or sleep of a way more comfortable mattress somewhere else such as a hotel or a friend’s house.  These are all good indications that maybe you should get a new mattress.  Although your mattress may seem fine, when it is more than 10 years old you should probably get a new one.  Old mattresses are full of dusk and bacteria, loose their supportive properties, and all that cushion and padding usually wears down.  Lastly, you should get a new mattress if yours starts to sag or becomes uncomfortable.  A new mattress can make a huge different in your sleep and comfort, and that reflects how you feel during the day!
2. Can I get a mattress topper for my old mattress?
   • Mattress toppers are a great way to add comfort to an old mattress. A mattress topper will add a nice layer of comfort and cushion to a mattress that may not be so comfortable.  Although this is not a permanent solution, it is a cheaper alternative to buying a new mattress, especially if a new mattress isn’t in your budget, or if you just require a short-term solution.  Another reason to get a mattress topper is if your mattress is too firm.  Mattress toppers come in various thicknesses and are made of memory foam, latex, soft foam, cotton, or a mix of these materials, to provide a soft and comfortable cushion on top of your existing bed.  They can make a firm bed feel softer and more comfortable.
3. Do not get the cheapest mattress if you don’t have to!
   • Many people do not realize the importance of a good sleep and often decide to buy the cheapest mattress they can find. If your budget permits, do not buy the cheapest mattress!  We spend an average of 8 hours a night on our mattresses and trust me when I say quality matters when it comes to mattresses.  Make sure you choose a mattress that has sufficient padding and support.  Cheap mattresses often have minimal padding that wears out quickly, and you will start to feel those coils underneath the padding after a short time.  Cheap mattresses will also sag quicker because the support layers are not as strong.  We are not saying you have to buy the most expensive mattress, but we do suggest that you steer away from the least expensive options.  Unless your mattress is for a guest room and you don’t want your guests to stay over for too long, go for a middle to high end mattress instead of the cheapest option available!  It will last longer and you will be more comfortable and have better sleeps for many years. 
4. Deciding on what size mattress to get.
   • There are 5 mattress sizes to choose from that are the most popular. Single or Twin, Twin XL, Double or Full, Queen, and King.  Deciding on the size of the mattress depends on the size of the room you are putting it in, but we suggest getting the largest size that you will be comfortable on if your rooms allows for the space.  Single or Twin and Double or Full-size mattresses are great for children and young adults, or for a single adult of you have a smaller room.  If you are a little taller, a Twin XL size gives you a longer surface area for those legs to stretch out.  Queen size is the most popular for adults and can fit 2 adults on it comfortably.  If you have the space, a King size mattress will give you the most room so you can spread out, toss and turn, and not disturb your partner. 
5. Where to search for a new mattress?
   • There are so many places to buy a new mattress. You can shop at traditional mattress stores, furniture stores, or other retail stores.  There is also a vast selection of mattresses you can buy online through the same retailers or through marketplace retailers or other online only retailers.  The selections are endless, and they can seem overwhelming.  The best way to buy a new mattress is to physically go into a store and try out your options.  Reading specifications and descriptions online will never give you an accurate understanding of how a mattress will actually feel like.  If you do decide to buy a mattress online without trying it out first, make sure there is an easy return or exchange policy just in case you are not happy once you try in out at home.  Ultimately the best thing to do it try in store first and let your body decide what is best for you!
6. How to compare mattresses from different stores?
   • If you have already started shopping for a new mattress and visited a few stores, you may have noticed that each store has a different model name and it is nearly impossible to find that same mattress anywhere else. The reason is, mattress stores do not want you to compare and price shop because many of them have very high margins and well-trained sales staff to convince you their mattresses are the best. The best way to compare mattresses is to look at the specifications, coils counts, and layers inside the mattress and compare that to other models you may find.  Chances are that if you find a mattress at one store from the same brand with similar specs, it is the same mattress just with a different name and different colour fabrics at another store.  Always ask for the spec card to compare mattresses from various retailers.  That is the best way to compare mattresses!   
7. How to spot a good sale on mattresses?
   • You may come across a mattress on sale at an unbelievable price that may seem too good to be true. 50% OFF, 60% OFF, 75% OFF ONE DAY ONLY!  Don’t let that fool you.  Just because a mattress says it used to cost $5,000 and now its on sale for $500 doesn’t always mean it’s a great deal.  Always look at the specifications of the mattress.  The coil count, the layers inside, how thick are those layers, and ultimately compare those specifications to other mattresses in the same price range.  Compare those specifications to other mattresses at other retailers.  You may be surprised to learn that the same $5,000 mattress on sale for $500 is priced at regular price somewhere else for $899 and on sale for $399.  Don’t look at the overall discount, it’s the final price that counts and what’s inside the mattress!
8. Which mattress is best for me?
   • There is no such thing as one mattress that works for everyone. We are all unique individuals with different requirements when it comes to mattresses.  Ultimately your body is the judge and it will tell you which mattress feels the best and which mattress is the best for you.  Sure, you may sleep on a random mattress and think its good for you.  A lot of people are comfortable on many different types and firmness levels of mattresses.  The best way to shop for a new mattress is to try out as many as you can.  You will be surprised by the differences you will find between various mattress styles and types.  After trying out as many mattresses as possible you will truly begin to understand which mattress is the best and most comfortable for you!

BASICS OF BUYING A MATTRESS

1. What are the different types of mattresses?
   • Mattresses come in various styles which ultimately affect how they feel. When it comes to coil mattresses the most popular types are traditional, euro-top, and pillow-top mattresses.  Traditional mattresses are the most basic and are ideal for back and stomach sleepers.  Euro-top and pillow-top mattresses have an extra layer of padding on top which provides extra cushion for your shoulders and hips if you sleep on your side.  When it comes to mattresses without coils, we have regular foam mattresses which are the most basic type.  These are simple with a firmer foam core and softer foam on top for comfort.  Memory foam mattresses have a foam core and a memory foam layer on top which helps take the shape of your body for ultimate pressure relief.  Latex mattresses are similar but use latex instead and can even be made entirely out of latex.  Lastly, we have hybrid mattress which are usually a combination of a pocket coil core and memory foam top.  Try them all out and see which one you prefer better!
2. What’s better coil or foam mattresses?
   • The most common mattress dilemma is which is better, foam or coil. Ultimately, they are both good, and it really comes down to personal preference.  They do feel different.  Some people like the feeling of a memory foam mattresses while others are accustomed to a coil mattress.  Which one lasts longer? Both should last the same amount of time if comparing within the same price range and quality.  The biggest difference between coil and foam mattresses is that foam mattresses tend to trap more heat.  Although the cooling memory foam layers do help, a coil mattress will always have more breathability and air flow due to its design.  If you are an extremely hot sleeper stay away from foam mattresses.  For most people, room temperature and lighter sheets are sufficient to regulate their sleeping temperature.  Try them all out and see which you prefer better!
3. What types of coils are there in a mattress?
   • The 2 most popular coil types are continuous innerspring and pocket coil. Continuous innerspring coils are more traditional and involve one wire that is wound up to form the coils in the mattress.  Innerspring mattresses tend to be less expensive, but they are bouncier.  You will feel more partner movement on an innerspring continuous coil mattress compared to a pocket coil mattress.  Pocket coils are the most popular coil types in spring mattresses.  Each coil in individually wrapped and moves independently.  This means is that when one person gets into bed or moves in the middle of the night, the partner on the other side does not feel the movement.  This is because each coil moves separately and does not affect the surrounding coils.
4. What are the types of foam mattresses?
   • Foam mattresses can be separated into 3 basic categories. Foam, Memory Foam, and Latex.  Foam mattresses are the most basic and usually involve a firmer foam core and sometimes a softer foam layer on top for comfort.  Memory Foam mattresses have a firmer foam core with memory foam on top.  The thickness and density of the memory foam ranges from various models which affects how the mattress feels.  Lastly, we have latex mattresses.  Latex is a little more “bouncy” compared to memory foam, and it is by far more resilient to wear and tear.  Latex mattresses can also have a foam core with latex on top or be made entirely out of latex.  Latex and memory foam are the most expensive components of a mattress so the more of these materials there are inside, and the higher the quality, the more expensive the mattress will be.
5. What is the difference between eurotop and pillowtop?
   • Euro-top and pillow-top are 2 terms used interchangeably, but they do have slight differences. The biggest difference is in the way they are stitched.  A euro-top mattress is stitched flat and even with the side of the mattress.  A pillow-top mattress is stitched a little bit under the pillow-top giving it that look of a pillow on top of the mattress.  Other than that, the differences are minimal.  Once you put your sheets on you may never see a difference.  Both euro-top and pillow-top mattress can come in various firmness levels from plush to extra firm and price ranges.  Its mostly esthetic so do not overthink it too much!  You shouldn’t be set on one over the other.
6. Are pillow top mattresses softer than traditional mattresses?
   • Pillow top and euro top mattresses can be softer than traditional mattresses. This is because the pillow-top and euro-top is an extra layer on top of the mattress for added comfort.  If the layer is made with soft foam, then the mattress will feel softer overall.  Although some traditional mattresses can be soft as well, there is less material in between you and the coils and therefor a softer traditional mattress can break down faster and become uncomfortable if you start to feel the coils.  Most traditional mattresses are made to be firm or extra-firm to avoid this problem.  If you want a softer mattress go for a pillow-top or euro-top over a traditional mattress as it will last longer.
7. Should I get a firmer mattress or a softer mattress?
   • Firmness is very subjective and really depends on the individual. Some people prefer a softer mattress while other prefer to sleep on an extra firm mattress.  If you sleep on your side you may prefer a softer mattress because it will cause less pressure on your shoulders and hips.  If you sleep on your stomach or back you may prefer a firmer mattress to provide you with added support.  Every mattress breaks down over time and because a little bit softer over the years.  With this in mind, buying a mattress that is super soft may not be the best option as it will only get softer over time and may lack the needed support after a few years.  Ultimately its your personal choice to decide what feels better for you, Firm or Soft.
8. How does my sleep position affect the mattress I should buy?
   • The way you sleep at night can affect which mattress you should buy. If you sleep on you stomach or back, you may prefer a firmer mattress to give you the most support for you back and body.  If you sleep on your side, you may prefer a softer mattress so that you have extra cushion and pressure relief for your shoulders and hips.  Traditional mattresses tend to be firmer and better for stomach and back sleepers.  Euro-top and pillow-top mattresses are more suitable for side sleepers as they have that extra cushion for your side, but they are also good all around mattresses for all sleeping positions if you toss and turn at night.  Memory foam mattresses are also great for all sleeping positions since they are great at relieving pressure from your whole body.  Try out different mattresses in a store in the positions that you regularly sleep in to get the best idea of which mattress is best for you! 
9. The importance of trying out a mattress before you buy.
   • It is especially important to try a new mattress out before you buy to ensure that it will be comfortable and suitable for your needs. You can read all the reviews, details, descriptions, and specifications on mattresses online, but you will never really know how a mattress feels until you actually lie down on it.  You may buy a mattress and it may work for you, but until you try out as many mattresses as possible you will never really get to know which mattress is the best one for you.  We spend an average of 8 hours a day sleeping on our mattress.  There are not many other things we use as frequently in our daily lives as much as we use our mattresses.  With such an important investment which affects your sleep and daily life, it is worth taking the time and effort to really see all of your options and pick the best one for your needs!
10. How to try a mattress in a mattress store?
    • When visiting a mattress store it may feel a little awkward lying down on beds especially with a salesperson standing right over you. However, it is very important that you try out the mattresses properly in order to determine which one is best for you.  Tell the salesperson to leave you alone for a few minutes if you feel uncomfortable.  Don’t just sit on the edge of a mattress to see how it feels.  Sitting on a mattress does not feel the same as lying down.  Get right onto the mattress with your feet up to get the best feel of a mattress.  Try lying down in different positions as you would at home to see how the mattress really feels.  Take your time.  Don’t get on and off right away.  Spend a few minutes on each mattress and try out as many as you can before deciding on the one that’s right for you!

INTERMEDIATE GUIDE TO MATTRESS BUYING

1. Coil Counts - Is it better to have more coils in a mattress?
   • Most people think that the more coils in a mattress the better it is. This is partially true, and only to a certain extent.  Sure more coils usually mean more support, but the gauge or the thickness of the coil is also very important.  The ticker the coil the stronger it is.  So what if you have 2000 very thin coils in your mattress.  Maybe having 800 thicker coils will be just as good or even better.  Sometimes coil counts can be misleading.  Many manufacturers will stack 1000 smaller coils on top of 1000 regular coils and the salesperson will tell you that the mattress has 2000 coils!  So what?  Is that necessarily better?  A good average number of coils in a queen size mattress is 800.  A little more can be slightly better but anything double or triple that amount is usually just a marketing tactic and doesn’t carry much benefit.  Look at the mattress specs and buy from a reputable brand to ensure quality and long life in your new mattress.
2. What makes a mattress more expensive?
   • There are many factors that can affect the price of a new mattress. One of the biggest is the retail margins and the skill of the salesperson to convince you that mattress is worth it, but we won’t get into this too much here.  When comparing mattresses at the same store the biggest factors that affect price will be the quality of the components, and the amount of components in a mattress.  When you increase the quality of the coils or the density of the foams the price will start to rise.  When you add layers to the mattress such as memory foam or latex, and increase the thickness of those layers, it will also attribute to a higher cost.  Basically, the higher the quality of the materials, and the more materials used, the more expensive the mattress will be.  This doesn’t necessarily mean it is better for you, but it will cost more.
3. Brand name mattresses vs. no name mattresses?
   • Can you get a better-quality mattress from a no-name manufacturer for a better price than the equivalent mattress from a brand name manufacturer? Of course, you can! But it will take a lot of research on your end to make sure it is the same or better quality. There are many lesser known manufacturers out there that claim to have more coils, more foam, better quality, and many other claims.  However, a lot of them use lower quality materials to justify the lower price.  The mattress may feel great at first, but many times it will not last as long as a mattress from a reputable brand. When buying a brand name mattress, you may pay a little bit more, but you are ensuring that you are getting a good quality mattress, and more importantly, proper warranty support if something was to go wrong down the road.  It is your choice, do the research, or get peace of mind from a reputable brand name manufacturer.
4. Mattresses made in Canada vs. mattresses made over seas.
   • We love to support our local economy and the majority of the products we carry are made right here in Canada! Not only does this lessen the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process, which is better for our environment, we are also able to ensure better quality control over products manufactured here instead of overseas.  Although you could get good quality mattress that is manufactured overseas, many countries do not have the same health and safety standards of the materials used as we have here in Canada.  The most important is the fact that all of our suppliers use CertiPUR-US certified foam which are made without ozone depleters, mercury, lead, formaldehyde, phthalates, are low VOC just to name a few of the requirements.  We strive to bring quality and safe products to our consumers and feel it is best to source from local manufacturers!
5. What are the best mattresses for side sleepers?
   • Side sleepers require additional padding in order to relieve pressure points from the shoulders and hips while sleeping at night. Euro-top and Pillow-top mattresses provide the required additional cushion for a comfortable sleeping position on the side.  Even if you prefer a firmer mattress, a firm pillow-top or euro-top mattress will provide the necessary added comfort.  Memory foam mattresses are also great for side sleepers because memory foam conforms to the shape of your body and is one of the best materials to provide pressure relief.  It is best to try out various mattresses in store to see which one is best for you.  We are all unique with different needs and there could be major difference in your sleep comfort from one mattress to another even if they look similar on paper.  Try Euro-top, Pillow-Top, and Memory Foam mattresses in a store to find the best one for sleeping on your side!
6. What are the best mattresses for back and stomach sleepers?
   • Stomach and back sleeper require additional support in order to keep the spine straight while sleeping at night. Traditional and Firm or Extra Firm mattresses provide the required additional support for a comfortable sleeping position on your stomach or back.  A firm traditional coil mattress or even a firm euro-top or pillow-top will provide the necessary support for your body.  Firm memory foam mattresses are also great at relieving pressure and help to keep the spine in an optimal position when sleeping on your stomach or back.  We are all unique with different needs and there could be major difference in your sleep comfort from one mattress to another even if they look similar on paper.  Try as many firm or extra-firm mattresses in a store to find the best one for sleeping on your side!
7. A memory foam mattress vs. a mattress with memory foam.
   • There is a huge difference between a memory foam mattress vs. a mattress that just has memory foam in it. Many mattresses on the market today have a layer of memory foam inside which claims to help in dispersing heat and keep you sleeping cooler.  The reality is that you may not actually see a huge benefit unless the memory foam layer is near the top, and thick enough with enough gel to help disperse the heat.  Memory foam mattresses on the other hand almost always have a memory foam layer at the top which is at least 2 inches in thickness.  This ensures that the gel in the memory foam actually helps to disperse the heat from your body, and the layer is thick enough so that you can feel the pressure relieving and body conforming benefits of the memory foam itself.
8. Pros and Cons of a memory foam mattress.
   • Memory foam mattresses are great at taking the shape of your body and providing the best pressure relief. They do feel totally different compared to a traditional coil mattress and this feeling may take some time to get used to.  Many memory foam mattresses feature a gel infused memory foam which helps to whisk away heat from your body and help you to sleep cooler at night.  However, mattresses which are all foam tend to trap more heat compared to a coil mattress.  There is simply not as much airflow and ventilation for heat to escape in a mattress that is all foam.  For most people this is not an issue because room temperature and your bedding have the largest impact on sleep temperature, however if you are a very hot sleeper you may want to steer away from a mattress that is made entirely out of foam.
9. Pros and Cons of a pocket coil mattress.

• Pocket coil mattresses are the most popular type of mattress and can be found in most homes and hotels. It is the mattress we are most accustomed to.  They can range in firmness levels from very soft to extra firm and come with a variety of styles and price ranges.  Pocket coil mattresses can come equipped with a euro-top or pillow-top and come with layers or memory foam, latex, and other specialty foams.  If you require an extra-firm mattress you may not find the firmness you are looking for in a pocket coil mattress as the coils will always have some movement and give, compared to a mattress which is all foam.   With so many styles and options to choose from there is sure to be a pocket coil mattress for any type of sleeper out there!

10. What is the difference between memory foam and latex?
    • Memory foam and latex are 2 types of foams used in mattresses. Memory foam is a foam designed to contour and take the shape of your body for the ultimate pressure relief.  It is heat sensitive meaning it will be stiffer in the cold and softer when it is warm. Memory foam has a feeling similar to quick sand and you sink into it when lying down, and then gets right back to its original shape when you get off.   Latex is another popular type of foam used in mattresses.  It is made of a natural tree sap and similar to rubber.  Latex has a bouncier feel compared to memory foam which is more comforting.  Latex is instant to bounce back to its original shape as memory foam takes some time to come back up.  Latex is also one of the most resilient of foams.  Try out memory foam and latex mattresses in a store to see which one you prefer better! 

ADVANCED GUIDE TO MATTRESS BUYING

1. What is a Mattress Coil Gauge?

• The coil gauge is a measure of the thickness of the wire used to make the coil. The lower the gauge, the thicker the wire, and the higher the gauge, the thinner the wire.  On average, the coil gauge in a mattress range from 12 to 15.  If you have a lower gauge coil, it will be stronger, heavier, and stiffer, and likely result in a firmer support.  If you prefer more give and bounce in a mattress, you may prefer a higher gauge coil.   Although the coil gauge is a good indication of the quality of the coils in the mattress, other factors such as the quality of the foams used in the top layers are equally as important, because those parts typically wear out much faster than the coil system in the mattress.

1. What are Foam Density ratings?
   • The foam density ratings of a mattress measure the weight of the foam per cubic square foot. This translates to the quality of the foam used.  Many people associate foam density with the stiffness or hardness of the foam, but this is not the case.  Firmness of the foam is a factor of ILD which we cover in the next video.  Many foams can be of a higher density but still feel soft.  When it comes to the most common type of foam used in a mattress, polyfoam, the average foam density you should look for is 1.8 lb/ft³.  Anything less than that will be of lesser quality, and anything more will have increased durability and more suitable for heavier people.  When it comes to memory foam, a density of 4 lbs./ft³ is the average.  Keep in mind that when you increase in foam density, the foam will be heavier, and the mattress will most likely be more expensive, but it will last longer and break down less over time.
2. What is Foam ILD?
   • Foam ILD stands for Indentation Load Deflection, and it is the measure of the stiffness or how much force is needed to compress the foam. The higher the ILD the harder the foam, and a lower ILD rating translates to a softer plush foam.  Foam used in mattresses ranges from a 16.5 ILD for Plush, and over 44 ILD for Extra-Firm.  The ILD rating alone however is not a good indication of the firmness of a mattress.  A thin piece of foam with a high ILD may feel softer than a thicker piece of foam with a lower ILD.  This is because when measuring ILD a standard test is performed using a 4” thick piece of foam and measured when compressing the foam by 1”.  Thicker pieces of foam provide more support than thinner pieces.  Unless you are a mathematician, it is best to try the mattress in store to get a true idea of the firmness.
3. Dunlop vs. Talalay Latex
   • The difference between Dunlop and Talalay Latex foam is the process used to turn liquid latex into a hardened foam. In the Dunlop process, latex is poured into a mold and hardened in the oven.  It is then washed and dried to create the final product.  It is much more energy efficient than the Talalay process. The Talalay process involves pouring the liquid latex half full into a mold and then expanding it by vacuum pressure.  Once expanded, the latex is frozen and pumped with carbon dioxide, then the temperature is raised to complete the hardening process.  It is also then washed and dried to create the final product.  The difference between Dunlop and Talalay Latex are very minimal and hard to differentiate.  There are many other factors that determine the quality and firmness of the foam other than the way it was manufactured using the Dunlop or Talalay methods.
4. What is the difference between natural and synthetic latex?
   • The difference between natural and synthetic latex is the amount of fillers used to produce the final product. Fillers are used to cut down on the cost of latex foam, and to ensure the final product is more consistent in quality and firmness.  Manufacturers use synthetic latex to ensure that each mattress feels consistent and to cut down the cost of the final product.  Natural latex although can still use filler, will have way less than synthetic latex.  Always look to see if it is 100% natural latex or only 50% natural latex.  Mattresses that are made with 100% natural latex may feel different from one mattress to the other as the lack of fillers prevents consistency but ensures the most pure and natural product.
5. What are the different types of Memory Foam in a mattress?
   • There are 3 basic types of memory foam used in mattresses. The first is Traditional Memory Foam.  Traditional memory foam reduces pressure on various joints in your body and increase circulation while you sleep.  It is the most basic type of memory foam.  Air Cool Memory Foam introduces an open cell structure which makes the memory foam more breathable and helps it to whisk away heat from your body, so you don’t get too hot while sleeping.  Gel memory foam introduces even better cooling properties by blending the memory foam with gel which helps disperse heat quicker and more efficiently.  Gel memory foam can also be blended with gel beads which further enhance the cooling process.  Gel memory foam is also the most durable compared to the other types.
6. What is a Foam Encasement on a mattress?
   • A foam encasement is a border or perimeter of foam which surrounds the coils in the mattress. It is used to hold the coils securely in the mattress.  A foam encasement will help prevent you from rolling off the side of your bed when you get to the edge. A foam encasement can also create a more stable and secure seating edge of the mattress.  When you sit on the edge of the mattress you will not feel the coils and it will provide you with more support.  You will also not feel the coils on the side of the bed.   Lastly, a foam encasement will help a mattress work with an adjustable bed as it eliminates the need for a wire frame around your coils.  Most coil mattresses that are adjustable bed friendly will have some sort of foam encasement.
7. Which mattresses are suitable for an adjustable bed?
   • Adjustable beds are becoming more and more popular as they allow you to raise the head and foot of the mattress to create a more comfortable seating environment when you are reading a book, watching tv, or just want to prop yourself up for comfort. Most mattresses that are made entirely out of foam or contain pocket coils are adjustable bed friendly.  If the mattress is flexible enough and does not contain a stiff wire perimeter it should work with an adjustable bed.  Always check the specifications of a mattress to ensure that it is suitable to work with an adjustable bed.  If the mattress is not meant to work with an adjustable bed, you could ruin the coils and void your warranty. 

MATTRESS ACCESSORIES

1. Do I need a new box spring with my new mattress?
   • A box spring is required for support of your mattress and to raise the mattress to your desired height. If your bedframe has enough slats or a platform that is supportive enough for your mattress you will not need a box spring.  You could however put a box spring on top of your slats or platform if you require additional height.  If you have a bedframe that is hollow in the middle or does not provide enough support to distribute the weight of the mattress, you will require a box spring.  Many times, an old box spring will outlive an old mattress.  If your old box spring is in good shape and it is not broken, you can go ahead and use if with your new mattress!
2. What are the different types of box springs?
   • Box springs are usually made of wood, or metal wire, or both. Typically, wooden box springs are heavier than metal box springs.  Wooden box springs can also squeak after some time as the wood expands and contracts with different temperatures and humidity levels in your home.  For the most part it is an easy fix by pushing the pieces together again firmly to stop the squeaking.  Box springs with a metal wire almost always have a wooden frame at the bottom, and the metal wire is more prone to bending on the sides if you step on it, or sit on the edge of your bed constantly.  Typically, all box springs do the same job in keeping your mattress supported and off the ground, and there are very minor differences in terms of quality and longevity.  
3. Split Box springs - My Box spring does not fit up my stairs!
   • When bringing a mattress up the stairs or through a tight hallway or doorway, you can bend the mattress and squeeze it through because mattresses are flexible. You do not have this option with a box spring since it is a solid piece.  All king size box springs come in 2 pieces.  This is because most people would not be able to fit a full king size box spring into their room without squeezing and bending along the way!  This is called a king split box spring.  Queen box springs also come in split versions! If you are having trouble bringing a full size queen box spring through a hallway or up the stairs you can opt for a queen split box spring which will make your life a lot easier by bringing in 2 separate smaller pieces instead!
4. Do I need a bedframe?
   • You do not technically need a bedframe for your new mattress. A mattress can lay directly on the floor, or on a box spring on the floor.  If the mattress is properly laid on a flat supportive surface, you will not cause any damage to your mattress.  A bed frame however does bring your mattress higher off the floor making it easier to get in and out of bed.  A bed frame also allows air to circulate under your mattress helping you to sleep cooler.  A metal bed frame is an inexpensive way to get your mattress off the floor and help you sleep cooler and more comfortably!
5. Bed frame vs. box spring vs. platform bed.
   • Your mattress needs to lay flat on a supportive surface to avoid damage and to ensure it feels good when sleeping on it. If you have a platform bed or a bed with slats that is supportive enough, you can rest your mattress directly on top.  You can use a box spring if you require additional height.  A box spring can lay on the floor or on top of a bed frame.  By using a bed frame, you will elevate your mattress off the ground which makes it easier to get in and out of bed.  It will also provide additional air circulation under your mattress to help you sleep cooler at night!
6. How to choose a pillow to go with my new mattress?
   • Pillows are very personal items and it is difficult to recommend a good pillow without trying it out first. Pillows range in styles, firmness levels, and thicknesses.  Your ideal pillow will ultimately depend on your preferences whether you like a foam pillow or a feather pillow, whether you like a soft pillow or firmer pillow, and whether you like a thick pillow or a thin pillow.  If you are buying a pillow with your new mattress it is best to try the pillow on the mattress you have decided on.  The same pillow may feel different on a different mattress based on many factors.  There is no need for a pillow fight, just try out different pillows and see which one works best for you!
7. Different types of pillows.
   • There are many different types of pillows. The most common pillows are stuffed with either a synthetic fibre or feathers.  Memory Foam pillows come in various shapes and sizes and can be made from many small memory foam pieces or just a solid memory foam block.  They can have gel pads on top of the foam, be infused with gel or perforated to help keep the pillow cool.  Pillows also come in various sizes and thicknesses.  Many people with neck problems prefer a thinner pillow while others prefer a thicker luxurious pillow.  Pillows are as unique as you are, so it is best to try out as many different pillows before deciding on which one is best for you!
8. Do I need a mattress protector?
   • Mattress protectors are a great way to protect your mattress from stains and moisture which will help preserve your investment. We all sweat at night so preventing excess moisture from penetrating into your mattress is always a good idea.  If you have children or pets, a mattress protector will also protect your mattress from unfortunate accidents.  Fitted sheet style mattress protectors go over the top of your mattress and they are easy to take off and wash.  Full zippered mattress encasements are great for protecting your mattress from bed bugs as they zip all around the mattress.  Since mattress protectors are waterproof, they are not very breathable.  This takes away from the cooling benefits your mattress may have.  However, there are a lot of options on the market for protectors which claim to be more breathable using special technology to allow them to also be waterproof!

POST MATTRESS PURCHASE

1. Preparing for a mattress delivery.
   • Finally, the brand-new mattress you have ordered is scheduled to arrive at your house! That good night’s sleep you have been dreaming about it literally around the corner!  It is important to prepare your home adequately so that your mattress gets delivered quickly and safely.  Firstly, ensure that you have enough space for the delivery personnel to bring in your new mattress.  A mattress is a big piece of furniture to bring into your house so removing as many obstacles will only make the delivery safer and easier for everyone.  If the mattress is going up the stairs, it is a good idea to take off any pictures off the walls.  Chances are the delivery personnel will have to squeeze the mattress up the stairs and they might brush the walls.  Ensure that you have made room for your new mattress in the desired bedroom.  If you have any questions, contact your salesperson, or speak to the delivery crew.
2. My mattress feels firmer than the one I tried in store!
   • In almost every situation, your mattress will feel firmer than the one you tried in the store. This is because floor models have been on display for weeks or even months and many people have already tried them before you.  The mattresses on display are already broken into and the one you are receiving is brand new!  It is like breaking in a new pair of shoes.  They may feel stiff and uncomfortable at first, but if you wear them out a couple of times, they start to feel more comfortable.  Give your new mattress a few nights or even a week or two to break in, it will soften up a little and feel exactly how you remember in the mattress showroom.
3. Getting used to your new mattress.
   • You got your new mattress and slept on it the first night and your back is hurting, and you hate it! This may happen to you.  Your body needs time to get adjusted to a new mattress.  It is a big shock for your body as it was used to sleeping on your old mattress for so many years.  Allow your body to get adjusted to the new mattress and allow the mattress to break in and get adjusted to your body.  This process may take a few weeks but, in the end, it will be totally worth it.  Do not stress and enjoy the process of getting used to your new mattress!
4. Exchanging or returning your mattress.
   • Many stores offer a return or exchange policy if you are unhappy with your new mattress. This is great peace of mind knowing that if you did not make the right decision the first time, you have the option of picking a new mattress that may be better.  The most important thing to realize is that your new mattress takes some time to break in, and your body takes some time to get used to a new mattress.  Try getting adjusted to your new mattress for as long as possible, within the exchange or return period.  If you rush your return or exchange too early, you are not giving yourself enough time to realize what you actually need which will make it more difficult to choose another mattress that is more suitable to your needs.  Be patient, and don’t rush the process!
5. Mattress Warranty
   • Most brand name mattresses purchased through an authorized retailer usually offer a 10-year warranty on any defects in materials and craftsmanship. That is an exceptionally long time that your investment is protected in case something goes wrong.  A mattress warranty usually covers defects that involve the coils or the core of the mattress.  Although warranties can range from manufacturer to manufacturer, they typically cover any sagging that is beyond the acceptable amount as per the warranty.  If your coils break or the mattress becomes deformed it will usually be covered.  Contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly with any warranty concerns within the warranty period.