“The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep.”

— E. Joseph Cossman

Whether you’re moving into a different size home, getting married, looking for a sleep upgrade, or changing bedroom decor for a child, your actual sleep space — the mattress — is a decision worth considering whenever it’s moving time. Not only that, but mattresses typically go on sale a few times a year, and right around Memorial Day weekend is one of them!

Michelle Ullman from TheSpruce.com shares her top tips to finding the perfect mattress:

1. Know Your Size.

King, California King, Queen, Full-size, or Twin? Think about your lifestyle and the bedroom dimensions when determining which size mattress works best for you and yours. (Keep in mind, changing the mattress size might also mean getting a new frame or headboard, moving up or down stairs, plus new bedding if you don’t already have what fits.)

2. Try It Before You Buy It.

“Yes, it’s awkward, but yes, you really do have to lie down and give the mattress a try before you plunk down your credit card,” states Ms. Ullman. Even if you’re making an online purchase, try to get the feel of a similar or better yet, identical, model in an actual brick-and-mortar store. New mattresses aren’t cheap, but ideally this won’t be a purchase you’ll make again soon. (Of course, avoid shopping in person if you’re sick, and follow all local health ordinances in the store.)

3. Know Your Options.

There are an abundance of different types of mattresses, so it’s a good idea to become familiar with the pros and cons for each:

·  Innerspring are the most common, but not always the most durable;

·  Memory foam can help with cushioning sore joints, but can also be hot;

·  Latex foam is similar to memory foam … but not as hot;

·  Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring and memory foam — giving you the best (or possibly the worst, depending on your preference) of both worlds.

4. Is Extra Soft or Extra Firm Best for You?

Different manufacturers have similar terms that can mean different levels of firmness on a mattress. (Which is another reason why it’s important to try it in person, before you buy.) Decide what’s most comfortable for you (and your sleeping partner).

5. Pillow Top: Take it Or Leave it.

Despite their popularity, the pillow top portion on a mattress might not last as long as the mattress itself, so another alternative is a thicker mattress topper that’s purchased separately.

6. Check the Return Policy.

Is it 30 days? Is it just one week? How about a re-stocking fee? Do your diligence, and learn the return policy ahead of time — and timing for any potential trial periods — just in case you aren’t happy with the initial purchase. This is especially important if you’re shopping online.

7. Budget Generously.

It’s no secret that getting rest from a good night’s sleep increases your overall health and elevates your mood. So, while it’s never wise to spend outside of your budget, consider cutting costs in other areas to save for a well-constructed mattress that truly meets your needs for comfort and maintaining good sleep habits.

If you need some help to move a mattress or a household in Pittsburgh or western Pennsylvania, we’d love to chat. Give us a call or stop by our website for a no-obligation quote today.