How do you choose a mattress?

This post was sourced from submitted reader questions and posted by wikiHow Editorial Staff, based on our article: How to Shop for a Mattress: The Only Guide You Need .

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wikiHow Editorial Team

03/06/25 6:42pm

Choosing a mattress is an important decision, as the average person spends about one-third of their life sleeping. The top four things to consider when buying a mattress include mattress type, firmness, size, and price.

Type: Innerspring mattresses are the traditional option. They contain coils that make the mattress durable and supportive. Foam mattresses don't contain springs, and are made out of various types of foam that conform to your body. Hybrid mattresses contain both springs and foam, but are typically the most expensive.
Firmness: Matresses use a scale of 1 (softest) to 10 (firmest). Choose the firmness based on whether you want a lot of support (firm, good for back sleepers), a mix of support and flexibility (medium, good for side sleepers) or a lot of give (soft, good for stomach sleepers).
Size: The most common mattress sizes include twin, full, queen, and king. Single sleepers can opt for a twin (38 by 75 inches) or full size (54 by 75 inches) mattress. Couples typically prefer a queen (60 by 80 inches) or king (76 by 80 inches).
Price: Consider your budget when shopping for a mattress, but keep in mind that this is an investment. Expect to spend $500-$1,500 for a good mid-range mattress, depending on its size, material, type, and durability.

Buying a mattress doesn't have to be a hassle, though, especially since there are so many options online! Plus, most companies provide a trial period so you can test out the mattress at home and make sure it's right for you. Some of the best mattresses currently on the market include:

Linenspa Innerspring Mattress: Best mattress on Amazon
Leesa Studio 10” Mattress: Best foam mattress
PlushBeds Natural Bliss Vegan Mattress: Best latex mattress
Plank Firm Mattress from Brooklyn Bedding: Best firm mattress
Helix Midnight Luxe: Best customizable mattress

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Richard Prasad
Mattress Design Expert

05/05/25 10:15pm

The first thing to consider when choosing a mattress is the size. Consider if the mattress is for one or two sleepers and if there are any height requirements for the mattress itself—good mattresses are about 12 to 15 inches in height. Then, think about what you'll put the mattress on and what kind of platform or foundation it will have.

Next, you've got to figure out the right firmness and comfort level. Test out both spring and latex mattresses to see which type you prefer—spring mattresses have more flexibility and mobility, while latex mattresses lack malleability. The right mattress for you depends on your body type, height, and weight, any sensitivities you may have, and your sleeping position. Side sleepers usually prefer softer mattresses that are more forgiving. Back sleepers need something firmer.

Don't just shop based on price. A mattress is an investment and typically costs between $2,000 and $4,000. And, your pillow is just as important as your mattress, since it aligns your neck and shoulders!

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