The mattress industry has changed dramatically within the last twenty years. The big companies control the industry and their reputations were built up ions ago. They have through marketing ploys, deceptions and advertising gimmicks convinced us that something that is cheaper has value. When did the public become so stupid?

Innerspring mattresses companies, particularly the Big S's (Simmons, Serta, Sealy and others), dominate the market. But how to choose? Do you rely solely on what these big companies tell you? Do you rely on their reputations or those cut outs they show you in the stores? Price point? Is it just comfort level? How do you know the level of quality your paying for?

The truth is mattress companies are in business to make a profit. Our grandparents would buy mattresses and it would last them 20 years. Our parents would buy mattresses that would last ten years. But now, most commercial mattresses last 3-7 years. Quality mattresses should last you ten years. But, that’s not good for mattress retailers and the mattress company’s bottom line. The more often you buy, the more money they make. It’s business.

So they deceive you.

Mattress makers rename identical products for each different retail store. One mattress will have scores of different labels, and different fabric, but the exact same guts inside. This makes it impossible to compare product and price. It's hard to shop for the lowest price when you can't compare apples to apples.

The markup on commercially manufactured mattresses is high. Often as much as 400%. A store can give you a 50% discount and still have a sizeable profit margin. You’re mostly paying for the name and marketing. The only real deals in name brand mattress are when the sets are mis-matched.

Unfortunately, some manufacturers also cut corners so that the mattress will wear faster. A particular mattress may be considered top of the line, but worked into the construction are little differences in the material and construction that will cause the mattress to bunch and sagged a bit faster than it should. Most warranties don’t cover normal wear and tear… like body impressions from where you sleep.

The latest ploy is to convince you, that you don’t have to turn your mattress. They play on our lazy tendencies and only have to make a mattress with latex and foam layers on one side of the mattress instead of both. They use our weaknesses and cut their costs and increase profits. It’s not a new technology break through, just a new sales gimmick. Don’t believe it! They should call it a “Can’t flip” design. Really who is fooling whom here.

At the very core of your mattress are the coils. There’s 13-gauge steel, takes 13 strands to an inch, which is cheaper then the 12.5 gauge steel. It’s a bit thicker, takes 12.5 strands to an inch, which cost more. The rest is just foam, latex, cotton, quilting, and stitches in various layering. Most of your big-name mattress makers get their coils from a single company, Leggett and Platt except for Simmons, which makes their own. A higher coil counts doesn’t always mean a higher quality mattress. It’s how the layers are put together and the type of product used in the construction that really makes the difference in the level of quality.

Many chiropractors recommend latex. Latex allows the curves of the body to conform to the mattress. This allows the joints to get blood supply while you’re sleeping which is better for your joints, health and comfort level.

So here are some tips for buying a mattress:

First, considering the expense and how much time your going to spend on it, ask some questions. Have the sales person explain how the mattress is made…. Layer by layer. Have them explain the quality level of the foam, ask if latex is used, ask if there is a protect border between the coils and the latex and foam. Without a protective layer of some kind the coils will break down the foam and the mattress will break down faster. A quality mattress should have layers of latex and foam with cotton padding with buttons to hold it in place. If the sales person doesn’t foam ratings or how the mattress is made without the “cut out” or is on commission, I’d consider leaving the store.

Second, lie on each mattress for at least 15 minutes. Salespeople expect it, so wear loose comfy clothes, and shoes that you can slip off. Lie in all positions, stomach, back, side and measure how comfortable and relaxed you are.

Third, the right firmness. Don't rely on names and descriptions: There is no such word as “posture-pedic”. If a mattress is too firm, it won't support all body parts evenly and will diminish blood supply to the pressure points leaving you stiff and sore in the morning. Too soft and you could sink into the surface and experience tingling, numbness, or even some body aches. Find a mattress that gives enough, but has a solid level of support.

Fourth, the looks of the mattress, the outside fabric is irrelevant to the quality within. After all, don’t you cover your mattress with a mattress cover and a sheet? Don’t let a pretty exterior get the best of you. A pillow top, though nice, isn’t always necessary. These soft layers of foam (or cotton, or wool) sewn to the top of the mattress will add extra dollars to your purchase.

Fifth, box spring or platform? Box springs will make a firm mattress softer and a platform will add firmness to a softer mattress. The box springs will also increase the life of your mattress but are more expensive than a platform. You should have a salesman explain the differences between the two.

Sixth, though we all have to work within our budgets, the common thread to all bargain hunting is quality for less. Try to buy the best quality you can possibly afford. So don’t rush into your mattress purchase. Take the time to do your homework. Buying a quality product ultimately saves you time, money and with a mattresses, adds to your general health and overall well-being. Cutting corners here is not the best choice. Don’t confuse the concept of cheap with a bargain. A bargain always has extra value. We always recommend a custom made mattress, whether it’s from a small mom and pop store or a bigger company, you’ll know how your mattress is made and that you’re not paying for big marketing.

Here a link that has even more details for the well informed bargain shopper to peruse http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mattress

Wishing you a great nights sleep!

Suzanne O'Connor