Mattress and Box Spring

Industry officials and salespeople recommend "test driving" a mattress before making a purchasing decision. If you will share the bed with someone, take him or her along. Wear comfortable clothing and easy-to-remove shoes and leave your dignity behind.

Take your time. Ask the salesman to leave you alone as you try each bed. Then, lie on the bed, move around, bounce a little, and sit on the edge. If you sit in bed to read or work, sit in the position you are likely to use.

SUPPORTIVE TIP #1: Firm does not always mean better; it comes down to personal preference and body shape. The mattress should support your spine and have a bit of give at the pressure points where your body sinks deeper into the mattress. No mattress is right for everyone.

Check Warranty: Some manufacturers and stores offer a "sleep guarantee" or test period. If after buying the mattress, you find it's not the right one for you, they will swap it for a different style. Check on delivery costs: If they charge for each change, it can get costly.

Don't base the useful life of your mattress on the warranty, which is protection against defects and faulty workmanship, not loss of comfort. Test your old mattress twice a year as you would a new one to be sure it is still comfortable and offers adequate support.

SUPPORTIVE TIP #2: As you shop for bed frames, look for adequate slats for supporting the box spring and mattress and determine that the slats fit tightly into the frame. For beds designed to be used without box springs, a solid base provides support and even wear.