General Purchasing Tips for Specialty Beds

Because comfort is so highly subjective, giving advice about “comfort” purchases is a very tricky proposition. Consumer Reports recently tested a traditional bed, an air bed, and a memory foam bed on a number of variables. All three of the beds tested were heavily advertised and expensive beds, but the range of responses from Consumer Reports’ testers was all over the map because of personal comfort preferences. However, despite such personal preferences there are certain things you should always consider when purchasing a mattress

Test the bed: Quite possibly the single most important thing you can do if you’re considering a new bed. Many consumers are uncomfortable with the thought of taking off their shoes and plopping down on an in-store bed, but that’s exactly what you need to do. Assume your favorite sleeping position for a few minutes, and then try some other positions as well. An in-store trial isn’t an option if you order online, but most online suppliers allow you to test the bed in your home for 20-30 days.

 

Examine the warranty: Warranties within the mattress industry vary widely in terms of coverage, support and expiration, so take a look at the warranty on any potential mattress before dropping a large chunk of money on your new bed.

 

Look for a comfort guarantee: Particularly if you order your bed from an online supplier, it’s important that you have the ability to return your bed if you discover it isn’t for you. Most online suppliers offer a 20-30 day trial period within which you can return the bed, but scrutinize the offer closely – expensive return fees are sometimes hidden within the guarantee.