Things to Look for in a Mattress

Size

• When deciding on the size of a mattress, take into account whether it is for one or two people and how much space each needs to sleep comfortably. The most popular size is queen, which measures 60 inches by 80 inches. It is considered ideal for couples who enjoy sleeping close together and for single sleepers who tend to move around. The largest mattresses are king and California king, which measure 76 inches by 80 inches and 72 inches by 84 inches, respectively. Twin mattresses are the smallest, followed by full. The former is best for children, while the latter is recommended for single sleepers shorter than 65 inches and is often deemed too small for couples.

Type and Construction

• The least-expensive mattresses available are innerspring mattresses, which consist of coils or springs layered between upholstery. The higher the coil count, the more supportive the mattress will be and the more movement it will absorb. There are also two varieties of foam mattresses, foam and latex. The former is temperature-sensitive and molds around the body. Both are hypoallergenic.

Firmness

• How firm a mattress you should purchase depends on your preferences and sleep style. Firm mattresses are best for stomach sleepers because they offer the most resistance and help keep the spine properly aligned. Plush mattresses are ideal for people who sleep on their sides because they are softer and therefore provide better distribution of body weight and minimization of pressure points. Back sleepers should opt for a mattress that has enough cushion to conform to the curve of the spine and support the back. Pillow-top mattresses are among the most cushioned. Potential buyers should lie on the mattress in question in their usual sleep position to gauge its firmness and comfort level.

Flammability

• As of July 1, 2007, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that mattresses be resistant to ignition from open-flame heat sources in addition to cigarettes. Before purchasing, make sure the mattress is affixed with the required label confirming that it meets these standards.

Use

• Look for labels or tags that distinguish new mattresses from the refurbished variety. Federal law requires that mattresses made from used materials have a tag that states so. New mattresses will have a white label or tag that states that it is made from all new materials. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) cautions against buying from retailers whose mattresses are not labeled. Note that refurbished mattresses can harbor bed bugs.

Warranty and Guarantee

• Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's warranty, which covers defects, not gradual wear and tear. Some retailers have "comfort guaranteed" policies that allow customers to exchange a mattress if they are unsatisfied. The FTC encourages customers to get the retailer's return and refund policies in writing.