Mattress Shopping Checklist

When shopping for a new mattress, your goal is to find a sleep set that will offer you the most comfort, support and value within your budget.

Use our Mattress Shopping Checklist to make sure you choose a mattress that works for you.

• Comfort—The old thinking was that beds had to be hard to be good for your back. The truth is that the modern foams and fibers used in today's premium mattresses actually enhance the support of the mattress, and are more comfortable as well. But the best way to find out if a mattress is comfortable to you is to try it out in the store. Find your nearest Serta retailer.

• Support—The best mattress for your back is one that supports your spine at all points while allowing it to maintain its natural curve. The thickness of the coil wire in the innerspring and the number of coils determine the surface coverage and support the mattress will offer you.

• Durability—Today's sleep sets are more durable than ever before. But it's important to remember that mattresses today are designed as a set. Since it's the foundation that provides durability, you should look for a foundation with shock-absorbing support elements. Together, a new mattress and foundation will provide the best sleep set performance.

• Size—Considering that most people sleep better when a partner doesn't crowd them, you should buy the largest size mattress that fits in your bedroom and your budget. Mattresses come in four standard sizes: twin, full, queen and king. View the actual measurements of each mattress.

• Warranty—Always make sure that your new sleep set comes with a warranty that protects you against manufacturer defects. Serta Perfect Sleeper and Perfect Night products carry a 10-year, non-prorated warranty. Serta products do not need to be flipped in order for the manufacturers' warranty to stay in effect.

Use the tips below to make mattress shopping an enjoyable, comfortable experience:

• Where To Shop—Mattresses by well-known manufacturers can be found in a wide variety of reputable retail outlets. By working with a reputable retailer, you can feel confident about the quality of the mattress and the dealer's services.

• Ask Questions—If you become confused about a mattress, ask a retail sales associate or contact Serta to find an answer. You can ask us shopping questions by clicking here. Either way, you'll get help making sense of your options.

• Dealer Services—Some of the additional services dealers offer can save you time, money and frustration. Services might include delivery and set-up of your new mattress, removal of your old one or special financing deals.

• Time—You spend one third of your life in bed, so commit some time to shopping for your new mattress. A little research about the features and benefits available in your price range is an investment in the quality of your sleep for years to come.