( 
SHOPPING TIPS
You spend nearly one third of your life in bed, so why just go for the cheapest bed you can find? These are aspects you need to consider when buying a mattress!
Comfort – Mattresses don't have to be as hard as a board to be good for you, though some people may prefer a firmer feel. Today, mattresses are built with luxurious new cushioning materials and surface treatments. While these mattresses may feel more plush, the core provides necessary support for your body.
Support – A quality mattress and foundation gently support your body at all points and keep your spine in the same position as good standing posture. When selecting a mattress, keep in mind that your body should be able to relax, with your spine supported in its natural curve.
Space – Select a mattress that provides you with enough room for free, easy movement, especially if you're sleeping with a partner. Couples should select a queen- or king-size mattress to ensure that both individuals have enough space to feel comfortable.
Durability – Durability refers to how long support and comfort will continue. Like all products, a mattress and foundation gradually wear out. Eventually, you won't receive that same support and comfort as you did when the sleep set was new. That's why you should re-evaluate your set regularly—twice a year.
Don't look to the warranty to tell you how long to keep your sleep set. The warranty protects you against products defects and workmanship mistakes, not gradual loss of comfort and support.
Matching Sleep Sets – Matching mattresses and foundations are engineered to work together. Mismatching sets, putting a new mattress on an old foundation can impede comfort and reduce the useful life of the mattress.
Value – Buy only quality products made with all new materials. Shopping for the best value—not the lowest price—is a healthy investment in your quality of life.
Guide created: 03/05/06 (updated 10/26/09)
Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our 
