There are two main ways to shop for a new mattress: in-store and online. We’ve written extensively about the benefits of shopping online for a mattress (and how to do it without trying out the mattress first).
Now, we’re delving specifically into the differences between buying a mattress online vs. in-store and sharing tips for buying a mattress in-store if you decide to go that route.
Buying a mattress online vs. in-store
Choosing to buy your new mattress online or in a brick-and-mortar store really comes down to your personal preferences.
If you enjoy being able to gather information, read reviews, browse at your own pace, compare multiple mattress brands, and get the best prices, then buying online is probably your best choice.
On the other hand, an in-store purchase is probably your best option if you prefer personal service, salespeople who can offer advice and answer questions, and a chance to touch and lie down on a mattress before making a decision.
Benefits of buying a mattress online
Shopping online offers the ultimate convenience because you can do so 24/7. There’s no sales pressure, no salesperson watching you lie down on that mattress you might be interested in.
It’s easier to comparison-shop between brands and to shop around from one site to another looking for excellent value, free delivery, and customer-friendly return policies.
Downsides of buying a mattress online
No matter how descriptive the words you read about a mattress may be, there’s no guarantee that it’ll suit you without actually lying on it. And you can’t do that when you buy from an online store—unless you’re able to test it out in a showroom. (Saatva has Viewing Rooms across the country where you can do this.)
It can also feel overwhelming as you try to take in the many options available online without the educated guidance of someone like a mattress store salesperson.
Benefits of buying a mattress in a store
One advantage of buying in a mattress store is it gives you the opportunity to lie down on the mattress rather than imagine what it feels like based on a written description.
You can get advice and insights from salespeople who can be valuable resources in helping you decide. If you need a mattress sooner than later, then purchasing it in-store may be your best bet. It can also be easier to schedule delivery.
Downsides of buying a mattress in a store
Even the biggest mattress store can only hold so many different mattresses, and not nearly as big a variety as online. Additionally, a downside of working with salespeople in a mattress store is you may feel pressure to buy a mattress.
Unlike online mattress stores, traditional mattress stores typically offer a limited return policy. This is very different from our Viewing Rooms, where you can try the mattress in person and still enjoy our full 365-night home trial.
Find the best Saatva mattress for you in-store or online
Saatva Classic Innerspring Mattress
Our flagship luxury mattress is expertly engineered with coil-on-coil construction for durability, a layer of memory foam for enhanced back support, and a cushiony Euro pillow top for extra comfort.
Loom and Leaf Memory Foam Mattress
Premium memory foam, handcrafted in the U.S. with eco-friendly materials. Breathable organic cotton, cooling spinal gel, and layers of high-density support foam assure a cool, comfortable night's sleep.
Zenhaven Latex Mattress
Natural latex responds to every curve for pressure-free support and responsive comfort. Natural latex is supple, resilient, and durable, for the ultimate in elevated sleep. (It's naturally hypoallergenic too.)
Tips for buying a mattress in-store
If you do want to shop for a mattress in a store, these tips can help you get the most out of the experience:
- Do a bit of research before visiting a mattress store. Have a good idea of the price for a specific mattress online to compare the in-store price.
- Be sure to take advantage of sales events, usually around holidays like Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.
- Don’t let yourself feel pressured even if a salesperson seems too eager to earn a commission by keeping you in their sights.
- Definitely take at least 15 minutes to lie on a mattress that interests you, and shift around on it as you might in your own bed.
FAQs
Should you buy a mattress online or in a store?
As we’ve shown in this article, only you can answer this question for yourself. It’s a matter of your personal priorities and preferences.
How do I find the best mattress?
The best mattress is the one that’s right for your needs. You’ll find it by being familiar with your personal sleep position, the sleep position and habits of your bedmate, and your and their preferences for mattress firmness and materials. By doing your research, you can match your needs with the specific mattresses that would suit both of you.
Shop for a Saatva mattress in-store or online
You can shop for a Saatva mattress in-store or online. Saatva has Viewing Rooms in cities across the country where you can enjoy pressure-free shopping with non-commissioned sleep guides ready to answer all your questions. We also have a mattress quiz to help you determine which one is right for you.
Regardless of which way you shop for a Saatva mattress, you’ll get free white glove delivery, a 365-night home trial, and a lifetime warranty.
