For more, watch our interactive video. You can skip to chapters on the different types of mattresses, tips for test driving a mattress, and more. Common claims that haven’t held up in our tests: Foam Layers Make a Better Bed More innerspring mattresses now include foam on top. But the foam is often too thin to make a difference on some of the hybrid models. Hybrid innerspring models that scored well in our tests had a foam layer several inches thick, though performance still varied. More Coils, the Better The better innerspring models we tested had 600 to 1,000 coils. But even if one mattress has more coils than another, the coils could be made of thinner-gauge metal. You’ll also hear about coil variations such as Bonnell (hourglass type), continuous wire, and individually pocketed springs. None of those is inherently superior. Gel Provides a Cooler Sleep Some mattresses (noted in our Ratings) have a layer of gel-infused foam that’s supposed to provide a cooling effect.
But that layer is buried beneath other layers. While our tests have shown that innerspring mattresses containing gel did tend to sleep slightly cooler, the reverse was true with gel-infused foam beds. Extra Lumbar Support Helps Back Sleepers A special lumbar-support zone is one of many ways manufacturers try to differentiate their product lines. But there’s no guarantee that it makes any real difference, and it hasn’t shown significant benefits in our tests. Forget About Comparison Shopping If you like a mattress at one store and ask elsewhere for something similar, you're likely to be steered toward a same-brand mattress claimed to have the same construction, components, and firmness. But they’re probably not the same. Mattress makers offer some lines nationally, but when those brands are sold through major chains such as Macy's, Sears, and Sleepy’s, they're for lines exclusive to those chains. And manufacturers don't publish a directory of comparable mattresses.
When we went to three bedding chains and asked for mattresses similar to those we’d bought at three department stores, five of the six were way off the mark. So use our Ratings as a guide, and insist on the precise make and model that scored well in our tests. Also check our Ratings of mattress brands and stores, based on subscriber surveys. If possible, lie on any mattress that you’re considering. Wear loose clothes and shoes you can slip off. Make yourself comfortable, and shoo away the salesperson if you’re feeling pressured. Salespeople should expect you to take your time. Spend at least five or ten minutes on each side and on your back (your stomach, too, if that's a preferred sleeping position). Panelists who took beds home for a month-long trial rarely changed the opinion they formed after the first night. Shopping online or at a warehouse club? Tryouts aren’t usually an option, so checking return policies before you buy is extra important. Make sure the store offers a full refund or credit toward another mattress.
Return periods, often called “comfort guarantees,” range from a couple of weeks to 120 days. Some retailers, including Macy’s and Sears, charge a 15-percent restocking fee. Costco and some online sellers provide free pickup if you want a refund or exchange, but otherwise, you’ll have to pay for it—or cart the mattress to the store. And you’ll be responsible for any damage. Once you’ve settled on a model, try to bring the price down. Many businesses, such as warehouse clubs, have fixed prices and won’t budge. But for retailers that do negotiate—particularly specialty chains—huge markups allow them to lower prices by 50 percent or more during their frequent sales. Our recommendation: Any time of year, insist on a sale price you’ve seen for the mattress you know you want, and don’t be afraid to walk out if you feel you’re getting a raw deal. Don’t Be Bullied Into Buying a Box Spring You might not need it. For an innerspring mattress, the box spring (also called a “foundation”) is a wood frame enclosing stiff wire and covered with fabric to match the mattress.
For foam or adjustable-air mattresses, it’s a box several inches high. If you're switching to a foam or adjustable-air bed from an innerspring, you'll need a boxy foundation that lacks springs and wire. Otherwise, if your box spring isn't broken and is still structurally sound, consider keeping it and saving money (roughly $150 to $300 for a queen-size). One caveat: Some brands require you to buy their box spring to receive full warranty coverage. It can range from 10 to 25 years and covers only manufacturing defects such as sagging and loose or broken coil wires. Coverage is frequently prorated, meaning that it decreases over time. Never accept delivery without inspecting the mattress (and the box spring, if you buy one) for stains and other damage. Also be sure that the mattress has a label that states “all-new material” before you send the driver on his way. If it’s not there, refuse delivery. And keep it on afterward in case you do have to file a warranty claim in the future.
The Sealy Bed Collection Every Sealy bed is hand made in Australia using materials sourced and crafted locally. We understand that choosing a new mattress can be a confusing process, with so many options available. gives you a good starting point by identifying the best Sealy bed to suit your unique needs. Sealy beds are available in a wide variety of stores across Australia. The best way to get a feel for your new Sealy bed is to head in store. Rest easy knowing your new sleep system is backed by a Sealy guarantee. You can now register your guarantee online. Finding your perfect sleep starts here. What size mattress are you looking for? You have not viewed any products recently. How to Buy a MattressMattress Sizes ChartMattress Names/Terms GlossaryNeed a New Mattress? One of the most important factors to achieve a better night's sleep is a comfortable amount of space. It is important to consider the actual amount of sleeping space you will have available for a new mattress.
Generally, a mattress should be longer and wider than the amount of space you and your partner uses to sleep. The recommended size for two adults to sleep on is a queen or king size bed. Please note that mattress sizes are slightly less than the standard bed size to fit inside the bed's frame. The Bedding Experts can ship the next day across America! View our great web specials for all mattress sizes: The following images are a general guide to help you make the best decision. Twin 39''x 75'' (inches) Twin size is generally made to accommodate one child or one adult sleeper. On occasion when you need to lay with your child it should accommodate, but will be a bit crowded. If you are a taller adult you may want to consider a twin-XL which will give you added length. Twin (also referred to as ‘single’) is great for smaller guest spaces, bunkbeds, and daybeds. Twin-XL 39''x 80'' (inches) Twin-XL size (Extra-Long) is 5 inches in length longer than the standard twin.
This size is great for taller youth or adults. Twin-XL is the same length as a queen or king, In fact two of them side by side equals a king. Full 54''x 75'' (inches) Full size or also known as a ‘double/standard’ was commonly used for two adults 30 - 40 years ago when the homes and bedrooms were built much smaller. Now it is usually purchased for single person use and sometimes smaller guest rooms. It is a tight fit for two adults and the same length as a twin. Two adults sleeping on a full size is equivalent to each person sleeping on a crib mattress (27 inches of sleep space). Most people with a sleeping partner opt for the queen size. Full can sometimes be special ordered in extra long. Queen 60''x 80'' (inches) Queen size is the most popular size sold. Ideal for two adults who don't want a king size in order to save living space. Also great for those who just like to spread out. King 76''x 80'' (inches) King size (also known as an eastern king) is the same length as a queen but much wider (16 inches).