What’s A Mail Order Mattress? Best Mail Order Mattresses

Last Updated On September 18th, 2024
What’s A Mail Order Mattress? Best Mail Order Mattresses

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If you’re thinking it’s time to throw out that old mattress, we suggest you start looking into mail-order mattresses. Also known as bed in a box mattresses, mail-order mattresses are mattresses sold online and shipped straight to your home.

Online, you can find mattresses to meet anybody’s preferences. There are hybrid beds, memory foam beds—even water beds! But it doesn’t stop there.

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Mail order mattresses are generally more affordable than mattresses sold in stores despite being of the same quality, if not better. Shopping for a bed online is also much more convenient, especially for busy folk who don’t have the time to drive out to a store.

We break down some of the best mail order mattresses you can get right now, along with sharing why you might prefer online mattress shopping over shopping in a store

Popular Types of Mail Order Mattresses

Although you can find practically any type of bed online, some of the most popular mail-order mattresses include memory foam, latex, hybrid, and innerspring beds.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses

Memory foam mattresses are popular for their incomparable pressure and pain relief. They’re an excellent mattress option for chronic pain sufferers or anybody looking for instant comfort at night.

Although the beds are called “memory foam,” the foam layers aren’t made up entirely of memory foam. Instead, a memory foam layer makes up the top of the bed, while the base foams are typically made from poly-foam since it’s durable and sturdy.

Memory foam mattresses were a key part of normalizing mail order mattresses. Once assembled, the entire mattress is compressed so it’s thinner and rolled up, before it’s slipped inside a package and shipped out as mattresses in a box.

The most common complaint regarding memory foam beds is they can trap body heat. This is because a memory foam mattress responds and softens to body heat to alleviate pressure.

Most modern memory foam manufacturers have resolved this by adding cooling features to the bed. These types of manufactured memory foam, such as copper or gel memory foam increase the material’s breathability without affecting its pain-relieving properties.

With  so many memory foam mattresses nowadays having cooling features, shoppers often appreciate them as an affordable mattress with durable comfort and support.

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Latex Mattresses

Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses

Latex mattresses are produced from the sap of rubber trees. They’re naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and durable, and as a sustainable option, it’s both safe for you and your home. They’re typically shipped in the same way that memory foam mattresses are, compressed and rolled up in a box.

Although latex beds help alleviate pressure, they aren’t always as pressure-relieving as memory foam beds are. However, latex beds are still worth trying out as mattresses for pressure points.

Dunlop and Talalay latex are the two types of natural latex foam used in mattress construction. The main difference between the two lies in their production process. Dunlop latex is created through a simpler and more traditional method where the sap is whipped into a froth, poured into a mold, and then baked. This results in a denser and firmer latex foam.

On the other hand, Talalay latex undergoes an additional step where the whipped sap is partially filled in the mold, then vacuum-sealed and flash-frozen before being baked. This process produces a lighter, softer, and more consistent foam. It is often considered the better option for pressure relief.

Despite latex beds costing more than most mattresses, they’re also highly durable, lasting between 12 to 15 years on average. So, if you invest in a latex mattress, it may end up saving you money in the long run since you won’t have to buy new mattresses as frequently.

See also:

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses

Hybrid mattresses are complex, luxurious types of beds. They contain a pocketed coil support core and a comfort layer made from either memory foam, poly-foam, or natural latex.

A hybrid bed is a good choice if you’re looking for good airflow, bounce, and support, but also need superior pressure relief.

One issue with hybrid mattresses is that they’re usually on the expensive side, yet have a short lifespan—lasting about 5 to 7 years on average. So although hybrid mattresses have a lot to offer, investing in an expensive bed may not be worth it if it won’t last as long as other mattresses.

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Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses

Innerspring beds are one of the oldest types of mattresses that are still used today. They feature a coil support layer and a comfort layer commonly made from cotton, polyester, or wool.

Innerspring mattresses are known for being supportive, breathable, and cheap, so they’re quite popular. However, they’re notorious for having a low satisfaction rating from users.

The continuous coils in innerspring beds are noisy, prone to breaking, and don’t support your body as well as pocketed coils. The comfort layers in innerspring beds provide little in terms of pressure relief and are notorious for going flat or shifting out of place.

Plus, it’s wise to be wary of mail order innerspring mattresses. Innerspring mattresses are constructed with metal coils in an open design that can be challenging to compress and roll up for convenient shipping in a bed-in-a-box format. This compression process may affect the mattress’s durability and lead to quicker wear and tear over time. Some manufacturers do mail their innerspring mattresses without compressing them, but this comes with its own complications.

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Air Mattresses

Air Mattresses
Air mattresses

Air mattresses, also known as inflatable mattresses, have gained popularity as a convenient and portable option for mail-order mattresses. These mattresses are constructed using air chambers that can be inflated or deflated with ease.

When ordering an air mattress online, customers typically receive a compact package containing the deflated mattress, along with an air pump for inflation. The mattress can be easily set up by following the provided instructions, and once inflated, it offers a comfortable sleeping surface.

Additionally, air mattresses are often more affordable compared to other types of mattresses, making them a budget-friendly choice for those seeking a comfortable sleep surface without breaking the bank. Their simple setup and inexpensive design make them popular guest mattresses and mattresses for on-the-road travel or camping.

However, it’s essential to note that air mattresses may not offer the same long-term durability and support as traditional mattresses made from memory foam or innerspring. The air chambers are susceptible to punctures or leaks, affecting the mattress’s performance and lifespan.

Furthermore, some users may find that air mattresses lack the same level of contouring and support as foam or hybrid mattresses. Especially for individuals with chronic back or joint pain.

See also:

Waterbeds

Waterbeds
Waterbed mattresses

Waterbeds, once a popular sleep choice in the past, have evolved into a unique and niche category of mail-order mattresses. A waterbed consists of a large vinyl bladder filled with water, providing a buoyant and contouring sleep surface. These mattresses are available in different styles, including hard-sided waterbeds with a wooden frame and soft-sided waterbeds that resemble traditional mattresses, making them more suitable for modern bedrooms.

When purchasing a waterbed as a mail-order mattress, customers can expect to receive the waterbed bladder along with the necessary accessories such as a heater to regulate water temperature and a fill kit to facilitate filling and draining the mattress. While the waterbed bladder can be shipped in a relatively compact package, the wooden frame (if applicable) is usually shipped separately and may require some assembly.

However, it’s essential to consider some drawbacks before choosing a waterbed as a mail-order mattress. The installation and setup process may be more complex than traditional mattresses, especially for hard-sided waterbeds with frames.

And the difficult setup isn’t the only issue. Waterbeds require regular maintenance, such as adding water conditioner and checking for leaks, which some users may find cumbersome. Moreover, the motion transfer can be an issue for couples sharing the bed, as movement on one side can cause disturbances on the other.

See also:

Why Buy a Mail Order Mattress?

There’s a multitude of benefits to buying a mail-order mattress. They’re readily available, affordable, and high-quality. Also, you can avoid talking with a pushy salesperson or trying to relax on a bed in public.

Mail-Order-Mattress

Convenience

With work, commuting, and having families, not all of us have the time or energy to drive out to a mattress store and spend hours comparing different beds.

One of the great things about mail order mattresses is that you can search through them from the comfort of your home at any time of the day. With the convenience of mattress shopping, you don’t have to worry about allotting time to drive out to a mattress store and spend hours there. This way, even the busiest of people can get a mattress easily.

No Buying Pressure

Sometimes, having someone watch and follow you around while looking at mattresses can feel uncomfortable and put pressure on you to buy something you aren’t 100 percent confident about. This is the exact scenario that happens to many of us in mattress stores.

The employees at mattress stores are almost paid on commission, meaning they make money when the customer they’re helping makes a purchase. For this reason, salespeople are notoriously pushy and eager for you to purchase a bed, regardless of whether or not it’s truly right for you.

Shopping online saves you from these uncomfortable situations as you can shop in silence.

Online brands still have customer service representatives you can chat with if you have questions, but they won’t pressure you into buying things. Even if customer service reps try pressuring you, you can easily click out of chats or ignore them, versus awkwardly leaving a mattress store because you’re not interested.

Affordable, Yet High-Quality Mattresses

Online, you can find the biggest selection of mattresses in the world, ranging from affordable and simple beds to complex and luxurious mattresses. Some companies offer a blend of both budget and luxury mattresses so you have lots of beds to choose from.

Brick and mortar stores have high mark-ups on their mattresses due to the high overhead costs of running a physical store. Brick and mortar store owners have to pay rent, energy bills, and their employees, all of which account for the high mattress prices.

Since online mattress retailers don’t have to face as many fees, they can get away with lower prices on their beds—and even run lots of deals and discounts all the time!

Wide Selections and Easy Comparisons

Browsing mail order mattresses offers such a wide selection of potential options, it would be difficult to put a precise number on it. But it wouldn’t be an overstatement to say there are hundreds of mattresses to choose from, making it a convenient and appealing option for consumers who want to look at everything there is without leaving their home.

Plus, another one of the significant advantages of shopping online for a mail order mattress is the ease of comparisons. Shoppers can access detailed product descriptions, specifications, and customer reviews for each mattress, providing valuable insights into the mattress’s features and performance.

With all the information readily available on the website, consumers can efficiently evaluate and compare multiple mattresses side by side, making an informed decision without feeling rushed or pressured by sales staff. And before you have a chance to get intimidated by the number of mattresses you can choose from, let us reassure you that many mail order mattress retailers offer useful tools and resources to aid in the comparison process.

These may include mattress quizzes or interactive features that help customers find mattresses tailored to their specific sleep preferences, body type, and any health considerations. Such tools streamline the selection process, ensuring that shoppers are presented with mattresses that are likely to suit their individual needs.

Long Trial and Warranty Periods

Online mattress companies practically invented the concept of sleep trials, which are extended periods where, after you purchase a mattress, you have the opportunity to return it for a full refund if you decide it’s not right for you.

Trial periods can last between 15 to 365 days, but the industry standard for online brands is 100 days. The sleep trial should start when the mattress arrives at your door, not the day when you order it. We recommend going for a mail order mattress with a trial period between at least 30 or 60 days so you have ample time to properly adjust to your new bed and decide if you want to keep it.

Not only that, but online brands typically have excellent warranties covering sags and defects. A 10-year warranty is standard, but some brands offer 15, 20, and even lifetime warranties for their beds.

Best Mail Order Mattresses

Quick Guide: A 30-Second Summary

Best Memory Foam Mail Order Mattress Amerisleep AS3
Best Hybrid Mail Order Mattress Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid
Best Latex Mail Order Mattress Amerisleep Organica

The AS3 mattress is our most commonly chosen model. The bed stands 12 inches tall and relies on conforming memory foam for pressure relief and targeted support to prevent aches and pains. We recommend the AS3 for most sleeping styles and couples.

Mattress Highlights
  • Ventilated mattress cover and breathable foams prevent overheating
  • Zoned support promotes even weight distribution
  • Balanced feel works for a wide range of people
Recommended For
  • Side and back sleepers
  • Hot sleepers
  • Couples with different firmness preferences

The AS3 is easily one of our most popular mattresses here at Amerisleep. With its medium firmness level, this memory foam bed is an excellent choice for practically any sleep position, but especially back sleepers, side sleepers, and combination sleepers. The AS3 is also popular amongst couples thanks to its motion isolation and breathability.

At 12 inches tall, the AS3 contains three layers of foam. The mattress’s cover is a soft, lightweight material designed to stay cool and draw moisture away from your body.

The top layer of the mattress is Bio-Pur®, a plant-based memory foam. During the production process of Bio-Pur®, we partially replaced the petroleum-based oils—chemicals in traditional memory foam—with castor oil. This results in a more breathable, durable, and sustainable variation of memory foam.

The AS3’s second layer is called the Affinity layer with HIVE® technology. The HIVE® technology is a support system with five zones built to support your spine and relieve pressure points where needed. Around your head, back, and legs, the foam is extra supportive, but around the hips and shoulders, the foam is cushiony.

The base of the AS3 is Bio-Core® foam. This durable layer reinforces the upper layers and helps your mattress last as long as possible.

The foams in the AS3 are CertiPUR-US® certified, so you can sleep peacefully knowing your bed is free from heavy metals, flame retardants, and other harsh chemicals.

If you’re looking for a little extra bounce from your bed, we also offer the AS3 Hybrid. It’s almost identical to the regular AS3, only it contains pocketed coils and a thin base foam instead of the usual Bio-Core® support foam.

With the AS3, we provide free shipping and returns, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 20-year warranty covering sags and defects.

Quick Summary

  • The most popular mattress offered at Amerisleep
  • Zoned technology cushions and supports your body where needed
  • Bio-Core® aligns the spine and reduces wear
Save $300 on the Amerisleep AS3 with our discount code
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The AS5 Hybrid mattress offers a plush yet supportive surface, perfect for side sleepers who desire a luxurious sleep experience. We would also recommend the AS5 Hybrid for petite sleepers

Mattress Highlights
  • Bio-Pur® foam provides a weightless, cloud-like feel
  • Active Flex layer maximizes support without impacting softness
  • Pocketed coils provide a needed bounce for sleepers
Recommended For
  • Side sleepers
  • Plus-sized sleepers
  • Joint pain sufferers

Our most luxurious mattress is the Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid. It’s renowned for its cloud-like softness and its superb support levels. The AS5 Hybrid is the thickest and softest bed we offer, and it’s great for petite sleepers and side sleepers. Thanks to how we designed the AS5 Hybrid, it’s also our best mattress for plus-sized people.

The bed is 14 inches and contains 3 inches of Bio-Pur®, 2 inches of Active Flex foam, 8 inches of pocketed coils, and a thin layer of base foam.

The star of the AS5 Hybrid is the Active Flex layer. Most soft mattresses can be unsupportive and cause you to feel trapped in bed, especially if you’re a larger person. The Active Flex layer improves the bed’s support without sacrificing cushioning and also ensures you sleep on the bed, not in it.

The pocketed coils in the AS5 Hybrid contour closely under your body’s curves to promote healthy spinal alignment. The coils on either side of the soft mattress are reinforced to provide proper edge support and prevent you from falling out of the bed.

Finally, the base foam supports the upper layers and helps maintain the bed’s shape.

The AS5 Hybrid is another one of our beds available in both hybrid and foam models. The original AS5 memory foam mattress contains Bio-Core® foam in place of the pocketed coils and is great if you prefer a bed with minimal bounce.

As with other Amerisleep mattresses, the AS5 Hybrid comes with a 100-night sleep trial, a 20-year warranty, and free shipping and returns.

The Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid—and all Amerisleep beds—are available from sizes twin to California king.

Quick Summary

  • Plush mattress suitable for plus-sized people
  • Comfortable for side sleeping and reducing pain
  • Active Flex prevents misalignment and increases the bed’s springiness
Save $300 on the Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid with our discount code
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Our Organica mattress is the most unique option we offer at Amerisleep. It’s 13 inches thick and has a medium feel. The Organica’s balance of support and cushioning makes it a great choice for most people, but especially combo sleepers, side sleepers, and couples.

Mattress Highlights
  • Springy, yet cushiony feel ensures you never feel “trapped”
  • Cooling, organic cotton cover surrounds the layers
  • eco-INSTITUT and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certifications
Recommended For
  • Side and combo sleepers
  • Eco-conscious shoppers
  • Couples with different firmness preferences

The newest mattress we offer here at Amerisleep is the Organica. This latex hybrid is unlike any other Amerisleep bed and contains both sustainable and upcycled materials. With its medium feel, the 13-inch Organica is excellent for anybody looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

When you lay on the Organica, its Talalay latex layer distributes your body weight and soothes pressure. That and the New Zealand Joma Wool® in the bed work to keep you cool at night. The pocketed steel coils offer lots of bounce and support while further promoting air circulation throughout the bed. An organic cotton cover with tufted rosettes secures all of these layers together.

Inside the Organica’s GOTS® certified cotton cover is 1 inch of New Zealand Joma Wool®, 3 inches of GOLS® certified Talalay latex, 8 inches of steel coils, and 1 inch of Dunlop latex.

New Zealand Joma Wool® is a natural flame barrier and thermo-regulator. By using a natural flame retardant, we didn’t have to add any potentially harmful chemicals to your mattress, helping you stay safe.

The Organica’s Talalay latex comfort layer is long-lasting, buoyant, and breathable. Talalay latex offers superb pressure point relief without causing you to sink into your bed, making it a good option for restless sleepers who switch positions frequently. Plus, we added air channels throughout the foam to keep air flowing while you rest.

The pocketed coils in the Organica are similar to our other hybrid models. However, rather than a poly-foam base, we use Dunlop latex for the Organica. Dunlop latex is firm and durable, making it the perfect sustainable base foam.

The Organica has the most sustainability certifications of all Amerisleep mattresses. Next to the GOLS® and GOTS® certifications, the Organica is eco-INSTITUT, Rainforest Alliance, and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified.

Like other Amerisleep mattresses, the Organica comes with a 100-night sleep trial, a 20-year warranty, and free shipping and returns. It’s available in sizes twin through California king.

Quick Summary

  • New Zealand Joma Wool® layer regulates your body temperature
  • Talalay latex is durable, cooling, and does not off-gas
  • Spring layer features reinforced edges
Save $300 on the Amerisleep Organica with our discount code
Shop Now

Choosing the Right Mattress for Your Needs

As you’re unlikely to be able to try an online mattress before it arrives in the mail, you need to consider how a mattress’s construction and features will suit your needs, sight unseen. Yes, with a good sleep trial you can always return a mattress that isn’t right for you, but that only slows you down in your search for the perfect mattress. It’s smart to try and get your mattress choice right the first time.

Mattress Firmness

The mattress firmness needed for different types of sleepers can vary based on their preferred sleeping positions, body type, and individual comfort preferences. Trying out different mattresses and considering those with risk-free trial periods can help individuals find the best mattress firmness that suits their specific needs and preferences.

Sleeping Position

It’s important to note that individual preferences may vary, and some sleep styles might prefer a slightly firmer or softer mattress based on their body weight and personal comfort level. Plus, factors such as mattress material, construction, and quality also play a role in determining the overall comfort and support a mattress provides.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers generally benefit from a mattress with medium to soft firmness. This allows a mattress for side sleeping to conform to the curves of their body, providing proper support to the shoulders and hips.

A mattress that is too firm may create pressure points on these areas, leading to discomfort and potential pain. Softer mattresses help maintain proper spinal alignment and promote a comfortable sleep experience for side sleepers.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers typically require a medium to medium-firm mattress. This firmness level provides enough support to keep the spine properly aligned without sinking too deeply into the mattress. A lightly firm mattress for back sleeping helps distribute weight evenly, reducing the risk of back pain and promoting healthy sleep posture.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers generally need a mattress with firm support. Such mattresses for stomach sleeping prevent the midsection from sinking too deeply into the mattress, which can strain the lower back and cause discomfort. A firmer mattress helps maintain a neutral spine alignment, reducing the risk of back pain for stomach sleepers.

Combination Sleepers

Combination sleepers, who frequently change positions during the night, often benefit from a medium to medium-firm mattress. This firmness level accommodates various sleeping positions, providing enough support for back and stomach sleeping while offering sufficient contouring for side sleeping. These mattresses for combination sleepers allow them to move comfortably without feeling stuck in the mattress.

Body Type

Lightweight Sleepers

Lightweight individuals typically weigh less than 130 pounds. For them, a softer mattress with medium to soft firmness is generally recommended.

A softer mattress for lightweight sleepers allows for better contouring, ensuring that lighter body parts receive adequate support. It helps prevent pressure points, allowing the mattress to conform to the body’s natural curves for lightweight individuals who may not exert as much pressure on the mattress surface.

Heavyweight Sleepers

On the other end of the spectrum, individuals who weigh over 230 pounds are considered heavier sleepers. For them, a firmer mattress with medium-firm to firm support is often advised. A firmer mattress helps distribute weight more evenly, preventing excessive sinkage and maintaining proper spinal alignment.

The right mattress for heavy people provides essential support to prevent the feeling of “bottoming out” and ensures that the sleeper’s body remains adequately lifted on the surface.

Pregnancy

Pregnant individuals face unique challenges when it comes to mattress firmness. As pregnancy progresses, the body’s weight distribution changes, and added pressure is placed on certain areas. Most pregnant people switch to side sleeping in the later months, too.

Generally, a medium mattress offers a balanced combination of support and cushioning for pregnant sleepers. Such a mattress for pregnancy ensures that the spine is properly aligned while providing enough comfort to relieve pressure on sensitive areas, such as the lower back and hips.

Moreover, a responsive mattress can make it easier for pregnant individuals to change positions during the night, and mattress edge support can help them slide out of bed.

Mattress Certifications

When shopping for mattresses, you may come across various certifications that demonstrate the quality and purity of the product. Some are third-party tested to ensure they are free of toxic chemicals. Along with safety, many of these certifications focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, excellent for anyone seeking an eco-friendly mattress. While not always essential, these certifications offer reassurance to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Let’s explore some of the key certifications and what they signify. So, when choosing your mattress, keep an eye out for certifications to sleep well on a product that aligns with your values.

CertiPUR-US®: This certification guarantees that the memory foam used in the mattress meets high purity standards. It ensures that the foam is free from harmful chemicals and has low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions, promoting a healthier sleep environment. This is a top certification to look for if shoppers are concerned if their memory foam mattress is safe.

GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): For those seeking organic latex mattresses, the GOLS certificate is crucial. It signifies that the mattress contains only pure organic latex, free from toxic processing chemicals. Moreover, GOLS ensures that the production process is eco-friendly and socially ethical, protecting both consumers and workers.

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): While GOLS focuses on latex, GOTS extends its consumer protection to organic textile products, such as cotton, wool, bamboo, and other natural fibers present in mattresses. Like GOLS, it emphasizes environmental friendliness and social ethics throughout the production chain.

GREENGUARD Gold: This certification is dedicated to assessing the VOC emissions of the final product. Mattresses with this label have proven to emit extremely low levels of chemicals, ensuring a safe indoor air quality that won’t compromise the well-being of inhabitants, including pets.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100: For both natural and synthetic fiber mattresses, the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification ensures that every component is free from toxic chemicals, guaranteeing a product that poses no health risks to users.

While not mandatory, having a mattress with one or more of these certifications can provide peace of mind for those who prioritize health and want a non-toxic and chemical-free mattress.

Mattress Thickness

Mattress thickness is an often overlooked aspect of a mattress’s comfort, support and durability. Overall, the rule of thumb is that more material in a taller mattress provides extra comfort and resilience.

A thicker mattress generally offers more cushioning and comfort, especially for side sleepers or individuals with pressure point issues. Thicker mattresses typically contain more layers of foam or padding, providing better contouring and reducing the likelihood of feeling the coils or support core underneath. Even firm mattresses can benefit from added material that ensures the bed is still buoyant and responsive.

When it comes to support, the thickness of a mattress can affect how well it aligns the spine and supports the body during sleep. A thicker mattress tends to offer better support, especially for individuals with heavier body weight or specific health conditions. The additional layers and materials in thicker mattresses help distribute weight more evenly, reducing the risk of waking up with aches and pains.

Durability is another critical aspect mattress thickness influences. Thicker mattresses tend to have a more robust construction, which can help a mattress last longer. In other words, the added layers provide extra protection against wear and tear, ensuring that the mattress maintains its shape and support over time.

Investing in a thicker, high-quality mattress can save money in the long run as it is less likely to sag or develop body impressions or indentations.

However, you don’t need to look for a monstrous 20-inch mattress to ensure you have the most durable mattress or the most supportive one. As a general rule, we suggest adults consider mattresses 10 inches or thicker for the best balance of support and comfort.

Bed height is also related to mattress thickness and plays a role in overall sleep comfort. In brief, bed height determines how easy it is to get in and out of bed. A mattress on a lower bed frame may require more effort to sit down and stand up, especially for older adults or individuals with mobility issues.

On the other hand, a mattress on a higher bed frame might be more accessible, allowing for a more comfortable entry and exit from the bed. If your bed is not high enough, you can easily remedy it with a set of bed risers rather than replacing the frame completely.

FAQs

Are mail order mattresses worth it?

We love mail-order online mattresses because they are affordable, readily available, and ship right to your door—oftentimes for free!

Although buying a mattress in-store gives you the benefit of feeling a mattress before making a purchase, the sleep trials for online beds make up for this factor. Buying a mattress online generally saves you money compared to mattresses in-store because they can afford to offer the beds at lower prices.

Can you sleep on your mail order mattress right away?

While technically, yes you can sleep on your mail order mattress straight away, we recommend waiting between 24 to 48 hours so your bed can expand.

If you sleep on your bed while it’s still expanding, the mattress can feel stiff and uncomfortable, which can lead to issues such as back pain. Not only that, but your pressure on the bed will only delay the expansion time, leaving you sleeping on a stiff bed for longer than necessary.

With all of this in mind, sleeping on a mail order mattress immediately won’t damage the bed, but it’s better to exercise some patience for your comfort’s sake.

Can you refold a mail order mattress?

Unless you have factory-grade machinery and vacuums in your home, the chances of you getting your mail order mattress back in its box are unlikely.

Folding up your mattress puts its structural integrity at risk, which can void your mattress warranty and make your mattress ineligible for returns. There are a few mattresses designed for folding, but these beds are usually meant for people with extremely limited living space or as a mattress for guests to bring out and put away.

Brands have different criteria for how to return their mattresses, none of which include putting the bed back in their box. When returning a mail order mattress, brands will typically coordinate returns, such as picking up the bed for you or giving you a drop-off location for the bed.

Do you need a box spring with a mail order mattress?

This depends on the bed you purchase. Innerspring mattresses are the only beds in the box—and mattresses in general—that pair with a box spring.

Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses do not pair with box springs. If you place anything but an innerspring mattress on a box spring, you risk harming the integrity of your mattress and voiding its mattress warranty. However, most mattress warranties specify exactly what foundations pair with their beds. To add height to a memory foam, latex, and hybrid beds, we suggest using a box spring alternative.

Do long do mail order mattresses last?

Mail order mattresses have roughly the same lifespan of most mattresses sold in retail stores. The average lifespan of a mail order mattress is between 7 to 10 years, but its exact lifespan will depend on the type of mattress it is.

  • Memory foam mattresses last 7 to 10 years
  • Latex mattresses last 12 to 15 years
  • Hybrid mattresses last 5 to 7 years
  • Innerspring mattresses last 5 to 7 years

What is the best month to buy a mail order mattress?

One of the best months to buy a mail order mattress is in May. When spring is ending and summer is about to start, brands typically want to clear out their current inventory to make space for new products for the upcoming season. This doesn’t mean the old inventory is bad, they’re just from the last season.

Other great times to buy mattresses are around the end of the year, long weekends, and on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Brands often offer large discounts or bundles, such as free or reduced pillows, blankets, bed frames, and more.

Regardless of all of this, lots of online brands are constantly running deals and discounts so you can score big on your next bed.

Conclusion

There are endless mail order mattress options when you shop online. Don’t let the fear of not laying on a mattress before buying it turn you away from buying what could’ve been the best bed for you. Sleep trials are there to remove the stress of shopping online and give you time to decide if you’re truly happy with your purchase.


About the author

April Mayer is a sleep expert and writer with a degree in exercise physiology. She has dedicated her career to exploring the relationship between sleep and productivity. Her insightful articles, such as "The Surprising Way Your Mood Might Be Messing With Your Productivity" and "Wake Up to More Productive Mornings," have been featured in reputable publications like Forbes, Greatist, Real Homes, Thrillist, Tom's Guide, and Eat This, Not That. With a passion for helping others lead more productive lives through restful sleep, April offers valuable expertise on foods and vitamins for better sleep. As a trusted member of the Early Bird team since March 2020, she continues to provide informative and well-researched content.

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