How to Pick the Perfect Mattress

Evaluate your current mattress. Assess your comfort level in the bed. Determine if it's too hard, too soft or just right. Make a list of important characteristics you expect in your new mattress.

Decide on the size for the new mattress. Determine if you want to purchase another mattress of the same size or upgrade to a larger mattress. Changing the size likely means purchasing a new bed frame, which adds to the expense of the endeavor.

Determine how much you want to spend on the mattress. Extremely cheap mattresses aren't likely to provide a great deal of comfort and often don't last as long. The most expensive mattresses don't guarantee comfort either. Set a reasonable budget with some flexibility.

Head to a local furniture store. Browse the selection of mattresses. Ask for recommendations from the sales person. Share your preferences so the sales person can make personalized recommendations for you.

Test out the mattresses. Lie down on the mattresses for several minutes to get a good feel for the mattress's comfort level. Try out the mattress in the position you normally use at night. Test it out on your side, stomach and back depending on your normal sleep patterns.

Ask the furniture store if they offer an exchange program should you find the mattress uncomfortable after you take it home. Clarify the details of the option so you aren't surprised if you need to use it. There is often a time limit. You also usually must trade the mattress for another of the same price or higher.