Does a Good Mattress Really Help You Sleep?

New Beats Old

• Sleeping well depends more on the age of the mattress than its brand or price. You'll feel up to 71 percent more comfortable on a new bedding system than one that's five or more years old, according to an Oklahoma State University study. Your sleep quality may improve by up to 62 percent with a new mattress, and if back and spine problems plague you, you could notice more than a 50 percent improvement. Old mattresses offer less support, which translates to more tossing and turning for sleepers. If your current mattress shows body imprints, feels lumpy or is more than five to seven years old, you may be due for a new one.

Watch out for Low Quality

• Though sleepers appreciate new bedding systems, look out for very inexpensive models. The manufacturers use sub-par steel coils and thin fabric, which will leave you feeling sore the next day. You can find a suitable queen size mattress and foundation for around $1,000, as of May 2011. Retailers mark up bedding systems by up to 50 percent, so never pay full price; wait for sales to crop up around nonreligious holidays.

Consider Your Sleep Style

• If you and your partner prefer a different firmness, shop together to find a model that suits both of you, or consider an air-chamber bed, which allows you to adjust your own side of the mattress. You need enough space to stretch out, so two adults should never opt for a full-size model; choose a queen or king instead. Pillows matter just as much, so take the time to find one tailored to your preferred sleeping position.

Preferred Beds for Sleep Sufferers

• Conventional innerspring mattresses work well for most sleepers, but choose a memory foam or adjustable air mattress if quality sleep escapes you. Six out of 10 people with long-term sleeping difficulties reported improvement after buying a Tempur-Pedic or Select Comfort bed, according to Consumer Reports. Test each bed in stores before committing as you may not adjust to the unconventional feel.

Returns and Warranties

• Most retailers will accept returns, but you'll lose some money because of restocking and shipping fees. Find out exactly how much you'll pay if the bed doesn't work out for you, and ask how long returns are accepted. If your mattress comes with a 10-year warranty, the manufacturer isn't guaranteeing that the bed will stay firm and comfortable for 10 years. Retailers consider some sagging normal; unless your mattress droops more than 1.5 inches, your warranty probably won't protect you against indentations.