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The Complete Guide to Buying a New Mattress - Megafurniture

The Complete Guide to Buying a New Mattress

Given that you spend more than a third of your life in bed, you want to come home every day to a comfy place to lie on and receive a good night’s rest. But looking to buy a new mattress can be a confusing and frustrating process. Selecting a suitable mattress based on material composition, price, and other factors involves undertaking extensive research on each of these facets. This can be extremely daunting, given the wide spectrum of mattress brands and retailers available both online and in brick-and-mortar stores.

While it is a little tougher to shop online for a right mattress, there are many advantages in doing so.

Apart from being cheaper and much more convenient, most online merchants allow you to test out a mattress for a period of time after purchasing. On the off chance that you are not completely satisfied, you are given the option of returning the mattress for a full refund. That way, there is less risk associated with making the purchase and also less pressure on you to buy. Compare this with buying a product in-store, where you often get salespeople hovering over you every five minutes as you browse. You probably also cannot change your mind once the mattress is used either as there is generally no refund policy for purchases made in-store.

So, if you are open to buying a mattress via an online retailer but not sure where to begin your search, this guide will walk you through the process of ordering a bed online.

We will show you what to look for, how to choose the right mattress product, beds and basics, and navigate the online shopping experience to ensure that you are fully informed of everything you need to know about finding your ideal mattress type before you make your final purchase.

Keep reading to learn how to buy a mattress online and feel free to revisit this guide anytime you need to refresh your memory when making a purchase.


How firm should your mattress be?    

Because comfort is often subjective, it is crucial to find the mattress that feels right for you.

Firmness describes how soft or hard a mattress feels. Some people prefer a softer mattress they can sink right into, while others prefer a firmer mattress for additional back support. Depending on how you sleep, some parts of your body require additional support to keep the spine well-aligned with the entire form.

Ideally, you want a mattress that is firm enough to elevate and hold up your lumbar spine, but also soft enough to curve against the top of your thoracic spine and pelvis. This is fundamental to maintain comfort and helps avoid aches and pains when you lie down.

Mattress Firmness Rating Scale

Firmness scale rating

  • Mattress firmness is assigned using a 1 to 10 scale, with 1 being extra soft and 10 being extra firm.
  • Mattresses are rarely available at both ends of this scale, as most people tend to favour a mattress that falls between 3 (or ‘soft’) to 8 (or ‘extra firm) on the firmness scale. 
  • A mattress of medium firmness generally provides a healthy balance of comfort and support to give you a good night’s sleep, but where you sit on this scale comes down to your personal preferences.
    • Extra soft (1-2)

An extra soft mattress registers between 1 and 2 on the mattress firmness scale. This makes them the least firm out of all mattresses hence hardly any mattresses are listed as a 1 on the firmness scale.

These mattresses provide the least amount of support among all the levels of mattress firmness since the sleep surface will sink very deeply and conform closely.

Sleeping on a mattress like that is only going to hurt your spine, but is likely to be extremely uncomfortable as well.

    • Soft (3-4)

Soft mattresses generally sink somewhere between 1.5 to 3 inches when slept on. These mattresses offer a good amount of body contouring. This means that when you lie on them, they mould perfectly to your body shape and hug it.

Softer mattresses provide much-needed comfort for those who sleep on their sides and suffer from shoulder or hip pain when sleeping on a firmer mattress.

They are, however, not as conducive for back and stomach sleepers.

    • Medium (5-6)

Medium-balanced beds are perhaps the most popular firmness option on the market.

They are best suited for people who require a softer mattress surface to aid in pressure-point relief but who also need more central support compared to what a regular soft mattress can offer.

Depending on your personal preferences, you can either go for the average 6 or something even softer in the area of 5 out of 10 on the mattress firmness rating.

But do note that these mattresses are not ideal for people who require a lot of back support when they sleep.

    • Firm (7-8)

Mattresses ranging from slightly to more firm do not provide as much curvature and sinkage as mattresses of medium firmness.

These mattresses fall between 7 and 8 on the mattress firmness scale, giving a nice level of contour while providing an ample amount of back support.

Unlike a softer mattress, medium firm mattresses will usually have a noticeable amount of bounce. They work well for a wide range of body types and sleep positions from heavier sleepers to combination sleepers who frequently switch positions throughout the night.

    • Extra firm (9-10)

Falling between 9 to 10 range on the mattress firmness scale, extra firm mattresses provide the most support out of all of the available mattress options. But much like extra soft mattresses, not many mattresses have a 10 in firmness.

The top layers and inner composition of an extra firm mattress is designed to keep your body afloat the mattress instead of sinking into it.

While some people find an extra firm mattress pleasant to sleep on, those who require more cushion might find them too solid for their comfort.

 

Ideal mattress firmness for your sleeping position

If you are unsure what firmness level is right for you, consider your weight and sleeping position to narrow down what works best.

Most people tend to adopt one of the three main categories for sleeping styles. These are the side, stomach or back sleepers. There are also those who alternate between the three positions, making them the combination sleeper.

Knowing your favourite sleeping posture can bring you another step closer to identifying your ideal mattress. This would be the position that helps you fall asleep and the position you find yourself waking up to. Once you have identified your preferred sleeping position, you will have a better grasp of the ideal firmness scale and level that caters to your sleep style.

  • Side sleepers
    With side sleepers, the impact of your weight is mainly concentrated on the broader parts of the body such as the shoulders and hips. Look for a mattress in the range of 3 to 6 for something that can provide ample support for your sides and offers a degree of sinkage for your shoulders and hips.
    A mattress of this firmness also allows your spine to be positioned parallel to the ground in order to prevent excess vertical contortion in that area since this could potentially trigger your pressure points and affect your sleep quality.
    A medium soft to medium firm mattress thus seeks to alleviate the pressure from these sharp points, as it provides support and contouring for your body’s curvature when you lie on your side.
    • Stomach sleepers
    Sleeping on your stomach is sometimes considered the worst sleeping position as a lot of pressure is exerted on your lumbar spine.
    In this case, a mattress in the 5 to 7 or firm to medium firm range is recommended to provide equal weight distribution across your entire body, preventing the torso from contorting into an uncomfortable U-shape. It is crucial to keep your back in a neutral position when you lie on your stomach. This is to alleviate any potential pain in that area by keeping the spine aligned through proper contouring and ample support for your upper body.
    • Back sleepers
    The uncomfortable U-shaped bend is also prevalent among back sleepers. If your mattress is too soft, your body will sink and cause you back pain.
    A firm to medium firm mattress between 5 to 7 will help to distribute your weight fairly equally throughout the mattress instead of allowing excessive pressure to concentrate on a particular body part. When you are lying down on your back, the mattress should lift and set the spine in a neutral alignment. This level of firmness is thus soft enough to provide adequate contouring to the spine while maintaining the requisite support for your spine, lower back and neck.
    • Combination sleepers
    If you find yourself sleeping in multiple positions, then you are probably a combination sleeper.
    Combination sleepers are known to switch between positions throughout the night, rolling over from their back to their stomach to their side and so on and so forth. This constant movement can make selecting a suitable mattress trickier due to your changing needs each time you change your sleeping position. In this situation, you want a mattress that can suit all of your needs well. Something of medium to medium firmness is expected to provide you with the most support while you sleep as it adjusts itself according to how you sleep.
    While a mattress that is around 5 to 8 on the firmness scale is generally the best option for this category of sleeper, you also want to factor in your weight and comfort preferences when deciding what mattress firmness is ideal for you.
     

    What type of mattress to choose?

    The next thing to look at is the types of mattresses that are available and narrow down your choices to find a bed that suits your needs perfectly.

    While the process of selecting a mattress essentially boils down to your personal preference, there is a range of mattress models and styles available on the market with the most common materials being the memory foam, innerspring, pocketed spring, latex and hybrid mattresses.

    This section will outline the pros and cons and price range for the different mattress types to help you whittle down your options and avoid being overawed with options when shopping online.

    Different Types of Mattresses

    • Memory foam mattress

    As its name implies, memory foam mattresses are made predominantly of foam. These mattresses have a low average price point and an average lifespan of 7 years.

    Memory foam creates the sensation of sinking into a mattress and being embraced. This type of cushion is known to mould into your body shape when you press your weight against it, slowly regaining its original shape once the weight is lifted. This extra cushioning and support also makes memory foam perfect for side sleepers and those with physical ailments due to the vast amount of pressure relief they provide for sensitive areas like the shoulders, hips and lower back.

    Another unique property of memory foam is that it keeps motion transfer to a minimum. For this reason, the mattress is ideal for light sleepers who are easily affected by any movement your partner makes during sleep.

    One of the most common issues that people experience with memory foam is that the material retains heat. So, if you are someone who gets warm when sleeping, you may want to consider memory foam materials that incorporate gel-infused cooling agents.

    • Innerspring mattress

    One of the most popular and widely used mattress types, innerspring mattresses primarily incorporate coiled springs as the mattress foundation.

    These beds work best for those in need of major support namely back sleepers, stomach sleepers and heavier sleepers. They also serve as a bouncier option to a foam finish which can oftentimes feel a bit too solid.

    While the innersprings do lend some support to the body, they fall short in terms of pressure relief and are not as effective in absorbing bed movement. This is because the steel coils are intertwined into a single unit so that with every movement your partner makes, the coils will react as a cohesive unit.

    Innerspring mattresses are one of the most popular on the market due to their relative affordability. Although this is due to the material wearing out faster since the coils become depressed with the pressure over the years, causing the mattress to sag and stiffen.

    You may find yourself having to replace an innerspring mattress sooner than you would another type of bed.

    • Pocketed spring mattress

    Perhaps the more advanced of spring-base mattresses, a pocketed spring mattress has up to 3000 springs interwoven into each fabric pocket. They can be custom-built with differing firmness on each side, allowing your body weight to be evenly spread out for maximum support.

    When you lie on the mattress, the open-spring formation inside will compress and provide a comfortable level of resistance to each pressure point. They can also be adjusted to soft, medium or solid tensions depending on how you like your mattress. Additionally, by making use of the stand-alone pocketed coil technology, the mattress is able to provide equal support to a couple sleeping together despite their differing body weights. That way, both parties experience reduced motion transfer during the night which results in a more restful night’s sleep.

    Pocketed spring mattresses also offer superior ventilation by utilising an open-spring formation that promotes air movement better than their foam counterparts. This helps the mattress feel less stuffy which can improve comfort.

    That said while the individual coils in a pocket spring mattress are designed to respond better to your bodyweight, it also runs the risk of wearing these coils out faster due to constant pressure exerted over the years.

    • Latex mattress

    Mattresses made of latex are generally durable and ideal for individuals prone to allergies given that they prevent dust mites from collecting.

    If fancy having that extra bounce in your mattress, latex can be a good option especially if you are a combination sleeper who needs to be able to move around and change positions with ease throughout the night.

    Latex is also a good choice for those whose partners tend to toss and turn while sleeping. The material stifles motion, meaning you are unlikely to experience the effects of your partner moving about in bed. This allows the both of you to get a better night's sleep. But despite being relatively soft and cosy, the mattress does not provide the same sinking experience you get from a memory foam mattress. This means latex may not be the best fit for those who require deep pressure relief at the shoulders or hip.

    Latex mattresses generally have a longer-than-average lifespan of up to 8½ years and a higher average price point compared to other types of beds.

    • Hybrid mattress

    One of the newest mattress types is the hybrid mattress, which combines the outstanding qualities of memory foam and spring mattresses to create a durable and comfortable sleeping surface with excellent support.

    Hybrid mattresses work well for a wide range of sleepers, in particular for back sleepers and combination sleepers due to the added support they provide. The foam material alleviates pressure from sensitive body parts like the hips and shoulders by dispersing your weight evenly over the surface. At the same time, the coils enhance bounce, airflow and good edge support to make getting on and off the mattress easier.

    The mattress also employs the stand-alone pocketed coil technology where the sleeper receives less motion transfer at night, resulting in a more comfortable rest for anyone who sleeps on it. And because these mattresses come in a foam finish, you are less likely to develop allergies from mattress material. In terms of cost, hybrid mattresses are known to be one of the most expensive options despite having a relatively shorter average lifespan of 6 years.


    What size mattress do you need?

    Just as conducive to getting a good night's rest is having all the space you need in order to get comfortable.

    Bed sizes accommodate the needs of all sleeping situations. This wide spectrum of options offer sleeping proportions for a young child right up to larger-sized couples and families. Most mattresses are available in five common sizes. They are the single, super single, double, queen and king sizes. Some mattresses are also available in a long single and a super king size.

    Finding the right mattress size generally comes down to several factors including your height and overall physique, whether you sleep alone or with a partner, and how you sleep – do you tend to spread-eagle or curl into a foetus?Also, take into consideration how much room space you have for your new mattress, especially if you are looking to get something larger. So, it is important that you measure the size of your room before you go shopping for a new mattress.

    Ideally, you not only want a mattress that fits your bedroom and space, but also one that works for your needs and your lifestyle.

    Different Sizes of Mattress

    Measuring 92 cm wide by 188 cm long, a single bed mattress is the smallest standard bed that you can get. While it boasts a relatively small frame, a single mattress is quite versatile and can be ideal for children or single adults. It is also suitable for individuals with limited space such as those in studio apartments.

    The standard size of a super single mattress is 107 cm x 203 cm, meaning it is both wider and longer than a traditional single bed.
    The super single is perhaps the most popular mattress size for most apartments. It is a great option for bigger adults or teenagers who require a little extra room but are hindered by space constraints.
    • Double mattress
    A double mattress is 138 cm wide and 188 cm long. This is a common bed size for couples with smaller homes or for guest rooms.
    A double mattress is versatile and practical. While it will usually accommodate two adults, it is also ideal for singletons or children who can afford to have the extra space to spread out.

    At 153 cm wide and 203 cm long, the queen mattress is the most sought-after mattress size on the market. A queen bed fits perfect in any master bedroom and offers plenty of space for couples or individuals who like some extra room to stretch or move around in bed.

    The king mattress has a width of 193 cm and a length of 203 cm. This makes it the widest mattress size on the market hence owning a king requires a spacious master bedroom. The bed is large enough to accommodate couples who prefer to share the bed with their young children.
    The size of a king bed works out to placing two identical twin beds side by side. This gives you the option of having two separate twin mattresses fitted onto a king bed frame, perfect for couples who do not share a preference in the same mattress type or require the same support.
    • Long single
    A long single mattress, also referred to as a king single, is a slightly longer version of a single mattress at 92 cm wide and 203 cm long.
    At 15 cm longer than a single, a long single bed is a good solution for taller teenagers and individual adults residing in smaller spaces such as a studio apartment or shared room.
    • Super king mattress
    The longest mattress on the market, the super king is a whopping 183 cm wide and 213 cm long.
    It is generously proportioned to suit taller individuals, in particular those over 180 cm tall. Of course, people of average height might also benefit from a super king mattress depending on how many people and children are sharing the bed.

    How to select a proper bed frame?

    Buying a new bed frame is an equally important part of the bed shopping process.

    When it comes to getting a good night’s rest, people often focus on the mattress itself. What they do not realise is that your bed base can influence how your mattress feels and performs over time. The bed frame you choose certainly affects your sleep quality. An inadequate frame can keep you up at night from the creaking and squeaking alongside the occasional sliding of the mattress that come with any movement you make in bed. This spells the need for a quality frame that is not only devoid of any potential noise pollution but is also sturdy enough to physically support the weight of your mattress. To this end, you want a sturdy bed frame that is able to withstand the heftier and thicker mattresses of today without sagging. This frame will ideally last you in the long run without the need to be replaced every few years or worse, months.

    Wooden and Metal Bed frames

    When it comes to selecting a bed frame that is comfortable with a sturdy foundation, wooden and metal bed frames are often at the forefront due to their stability, durability and the general comfort they provide whether you are looking for a single-sized, a super single-size, queen size or king size bed frame.

    Read on to find out what to look out for when purchasing a bed frame.

  • Sturdiness

  • Sturdiness can be determined in numerous ways. In this instance, it is what holds up the bed.
    A metal bed frame is expected to be sturdier as it is able to fit a physically larger mattress. This theoretically makes a standard-sized metal bed frame less susceptible to damage than many wooden bed frames when it comes to supporting mattresses on the larger side.
    Nevertheless, wooden frames are known to demonstrate greater sturdiness due to the thicker and heavier nature of wood compared to metal. They also have sturdier stability systems built-in in the form of slats, which offers extra comfort and robustness for the frame.
    Metal bed frames are very rarely built in this way and hence may not be as good at withstanding the weight of a heavier mattress.

  • Durability

  • If durability is your main concern, then a metal bed frame is probably your preferred option. The unparalleled strength and power of steel has been known for millennia, and provides outstanding durability when paired with metal slats to bridge each side of the bed frame. While metal frames of the past did not have a centre support to support heavier individuals or multiple sleepers, the newly reinforced models have since addressed this issue. For this reason, newer metal frames are also less prone to damage and can maintain their appearance over time. Compared to wooden bed frames which are susceptible to scratches and stains, metal retains its pristine condition many years down the line. However, metal frames do rust easily and need regular cleaning, which can be a chore. This makes wood the more low-maintenance option of the two if you want something that requires minimal care.

  • Comfort

  • Comfort is arguably the most important aspect when it comes to your choice for a brand-new bed. There is nothing worse than heading to bed after a long, hard day at work only to toss and turn from the sheer discomfort of the bed.
    In general, metal bed frames tend to be less comfortable than wooden ones. Their build quality can be flimsy especially when constructed using low quality steel, leading to situations whereby the mattress is not properly secured to the bed frame.

    With metal beds, because your mattress sits on the slats, it can be troublesome and difficult to adjust, which deters you from adjusting the tension to provide wider or reduced support.

    Wooden slats, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility than metal alternatives, as wood moulds into your preferred sleeping position for greater flexibility. This keeps you comfortable enough at night to receive the requisite eight hours of sleep. 

  • Sound

  • Any noises that your bed makes has a longstanding impact on your comfort and results in a poor night’s sleep. A bed that creaks and disturbs your rest can be a nightmare, especially if you are a light sleeper. In this situation, metal beds are more likely to cause a ruckus during the night. This occurs as a result of movement between the joints caused by metal-on-metal friction, and is usually unavoidable with an all-metal build regardless of the bed frame design.

    Wooden bed frames are the preferred option for a more soundproof sleep. Due to the rigid nature of the material, the bed structure is less likely to separate, thus producing less noise. In general, beds that are low in quality and built to a lesser standard are by extension less rigid and hence more prone to squeaking and creaking regardless of their material.

  • Appearance

  • Given that the bed is the centrepiece of the bedroom, there is also a need to consider the style of bed frame that is perfect for you. Ideally, you want something that oozes grace and elegance, catching the eye of anyone that sees it.

    Wooden bed frames are available in a range of shapes and designs, from an elegant four-poster that sits right at home in a French provincial-style interior to a contemporary sleigh bed that inculcates modernity and comfort into the bedroom. Based on your preference, you can also opt to have the wooden frame custom-tailored with the help of different types of wood and stains for a distinct style that matches the thematic design of your bedroom compared with a pre-constructed bed frame.

    Metal frames may not offer the same custom-tailor function as wooden bed frames but they are also available in a broad spectrum of colours for you to choose from. Muted tones like black and white are great for that upscale contemporary look. A monochromatic metal frame provides a perfect contrast to converted warehouse apartments and modern Scandinavian-design living spaces.

    Conversely, uplifting colours work best for a children’s bedroom. A brightly-coloured metal bed frame can make a bold statement and imbues the room with a childlike debonair.

    Fabric bedframes, faux leather and genuine leather bed frames are some of the exceptional varieties to choose from if you plan to establish a contemporary and minimalist look to your bedroom space.


    What style of bed frame to choose?

    Finding the right bed frame goes beyond the build and construct.

    As the supporting framework of a mattress, there are so many other factors to consider when it comes to choosing the style of bed frame that is perfect for you, from the colour and design to your desire for storage space. There is also the question of whether a box spring is necessary? What about a headboard and footboard? Shall you go for a double-decker or a loft bed? Will a sleigh bed look too extravagant? What is a mid-century bed and will it fit into a contemporary interior?

    Different Styles of Bed frame - Storage Bed, Bunk Bed, Daybed, Metal bed

    If sifting through all the different types of bed frames and their variety of styles has you feeling overwhelmed, here is a list of the most common bed frame designs along with their respective pros and cons.

    • Platform bed frame

    When it comes to the different types of beds, the platform bed is one of the most sought-after frame styles. A platform bed can be characterised by an elevated base that spans the perimeter of the frame with the middle section featuring rows of wooden slates or lattice panels meant to provide a mattress with ample support.

    The platform is designed to offer adequate and flexible support for a mattress to make climbing in and out of bed easier without the need for a box spring to help raise the height of the mattress for convenience purposes. For this reason, the cost of purchasing a platform bed is generally more affordable since you do not need to spend extra for a box spring to go with the frame.

    Platform bed frames are also one of the best frame styles if you have a small apartment. Some platform beds come with a built-in storage solution, helping you save more space. Their sleek design occupies minimal floor space, which helps the place appear less cluttered. That said, the bed can be positioned quite closely to the ground which makes getting on and off of the bed a chore. For those who experience back or knee problems, think about whether this is something you can cope with on the daily.

    • Storage bed frame
    Designed to offer extra storage without taking up additional floor space in the bedroom, the storage bed is the most functional of the bed frame styles.
    Storage beds are especially suited for contemporary and chic style rooms typically found in city apartments where storage is often scarce. The bed frame features drawers or non-conspicuous storage located underneath or around the mattress itself. Some models also have storages that are situated directly below the entire sleeping surface and can be accessed by lifting up the hinged frame.
     
    In terms of material, most storage beds are constructed with an elegant hardwood to give them an alluring yet sturdy and solid finish. 
    However, storage bed frames can sometimes be weighed down by all the miscellaneous pieces and structures that form the storage compartment. Add to that the fact that they are mainly built into one large piece, often making the bed quite difficult to move.
    Equally hefty is the price tag on these beds due to their practicality. They tend to be more expensive than other bed frame styles. If you opt to buy a storage bed frame, choose one that already includes a mattress in a package. This reduces the hassle of delivery and setup while helping you lowers the expenses. 
    • Sleigh bed frame
    With a high headboard and curved or scrolled foot, the sleigh bed is designed to resemble the vehicle it is named after.
    While sleigh bed frames used to be constructed from heavy wood, modern designs feature a combination of wood, iron, steel and aluminium materials with more subtle curves of the head and footboards compared to its predecessor.
    A unique blend of modern and traditional, sleigh beds work wonders in interiors that feature distinctive elements like exposed ceiling beams or decorative mouldings. They serve as an eye-catching statement piece that is sure to take centre stage in your bedroom. A con is that this style of bed frame can be heavy, especially traditional sleigh beds where high-quality solid woods is the main construction material. Newer upholstered versions are made of lighter alternatives but can still be cumbersome to move around. They also tend to be quite pricey, given their design and build.
    • Canopy bed frame

    Occasionally referred to as a four-poster, canopy beds have been increasingly popular in recent years due to the sleeker and contemporary designs gleaned in their newer models.

    A traditional canopy frame is marked by a towering post located at each of the four corners of the bed. An ornate or decorative fabric is typically hung across the overlying space in the middle of the four posts to create a canopy-like structure that covers the entire sleeping surface.
    Canopy beds boast a cocooning design that brings an instant cosiness to a room. But this also means that dust can build up at the top so regular cleaning is required. In general, canopy bed frames fit into both classic and contemporary décor. Their dreamlike appearance can work magic in a lofty interior where copious space and tall ceilings abound, if not a majestic master bedroom with access to an abundance of natural light.
    Their size and build can however pose an obstacle to assembling and moving the piece in and out of your bedroom.
    • Daybed bed frame
    Nothing says multifunctional like a daybed. A daybed combines a bed and a sofa into one. It can be used for almost anything from sleeping to reclining to lounging and even as an additional seating solution. Wood, metal or a blend of both materials are commonly used to build a daybed frame. The furniture shape resembles a cross between chaise lounge, couch and a bed.
    The pull-out bed frame is a style of sleeper sofa that allows the seating surface to be folded into the furniture piece for use as a couch or pulled out and turned into a bed. The furniture boasts a dual purpose that makes it the perfect addition to a small living space where any extra seating you might require has to come from existing pieces.
    Does your work office double as a guest bedroom? A daybed would be a perfect addition to the space, pulling double duty as a couch for sitting on by day and a bed for sleeping by night. Unfortunately, there are few sizing options when it comes to daybeds as most are only available in twin-sizes. Moreover, they can be quite bulky compared to a standard twin bed, so you want to take this into account when deciding on where you want the piece to go.
    • Bunk bed frame
    If you are looking for a space-saving solution to add an extra bed in the house, bunk beds are the way to go. They are a perfect option for kids sharing a room or if only to have a spare bed lying around for when you have overnight guests.
    Bunk beds are available in various configurations from an L-shaped frame to a loft-style bunk with a desk underneath to something with stairs instead of the usual ladder to a double-size bunk bed and even a smaller-scale model. This type of bed frame offers wonderful extra sleeping options for guests. Going for a double bed on the bottom bunk can even offer even more space and flexibility. But despite their flexibility, these beds are not the easiest to get in and out of, especially when it comes to top bunks where you have to climb up and down a ladder. As such, they may not be ideal for younger kids. Meanwhile, those on the bottom bunk will need to be conscious about knocking their heads onto the top bunk. The trick is to opt for a style and design that allows those in that age group to use more easily. Bunk beds equipped with wider ladder rungs and side rails are generally safer to climb up and down so you want to consider these models if you have younger children.
    • Cast iron bed frame
    Thanks to its solid metal build and ability to withstand significant weight, no other bed frame can lay claim to having the same longevity as a wrought-iron bed.
    Cast iron beds are known to be highly durable, mainly because metal does not buckle or fade over time. Because of this, they also require less care and maintenance often expected of wood and upholstered bed frames. They are not as heavy as other solid wood and platform beds either.
    While cast iron beds are available in a range of shapes, they tend to have a marked appearance that may not necessarily fit into your bedroom design scheme if you ever decide to revamp the place in the future. Moreover, the price points for cast iron bed frames vary widely depending on the furniture build. Those of high-quality construction with exceptional joinery can end up costing a bomb.
    • Mid-century modern bed frame
    A mid-century modern bedroom is naturally complemented by a mid-century-inspired bed frame. Narrow legs, subtle forms and a light reddish-brown polished wood finish are common hallmarks of this style.The streamlined design of mid-century beds gives them a neat and orderly appearance which makes them a good design choice for contemporary and minimalist homes, where you want a bed frame that harmonises with the style of your space rather than overpowering it.
    While they generally feature very basic, classic forms without extra ornamentation, this style of bed can work well in almost any interior design scheme, making it a very versatile piece. Their lack of elaborate details also means the bed frame is relatively easy to clean and maintain. However, some may find the plain, solid wooden frame of mid-century beds to lack the soft, cosy appeal of upholstered bed frames. The polished wood material used in their construction can also cost a pretty penny compared to other materials. Moreover, the current popularity of mid-century designs has also driven up prices for this style of bed frame.

    Should you buy a mattress in-store or online?

    Mattress Shopping - Online vs In-Store

    Now that we have gone through all the different types of mattresses and bed frames available, the next step is to explore the pros and cons of shopping for a mattress online versus in a physical store.

    In this section, we will explore which option has the quickest delivery, the best value for money, the highest quality beds and the most flexible return policies. That way, you can better understand which method is the right one for you.

    • Convenience
    Retail shopping often encompasses a level of pressure and the rush to purchase something, notwithstanding the lack of prior knowledge on certain products, all of which can collectively contribute to buyer's regret.

    Online shopping, on the other hand, offers the convenience of browsing any time of the day, in the comfort of your own home. There is no need for you to spend all day travelling from one store to another for the sake of checking out what each place has to offer when websites are available for access, just about anywhere.

    Another benefit to online shopping is that your mattress will arrive right at your doorstep. With mattresses that come compressed in a box, all you have to do is remove it from the packaging, position it on your bed frame before leaving it to decompress on its own. That said, buying online is not without its drawbacks. For one, the option of helping to set up the new mattress and remove the old one may not be offered by the seller.

    In some cases, you may need to personally arrange for a waste management company to haul away the old mattress at a significant fee. This is where buying from retail stores provides you with the assurance that they have  own professional movers who will not only deliver the mattress to your house but also place it on the bed frame for you and take away any old mattresses at the same time. While this sometimes comes at an extra cost, it ultimately saves you the time and effort of having to engage someone for the task as well as being cheaper on average. This is a huge benefit to buying in store, especially for those who lack the physical capability to lift heavy items.

    • Affordability
    One of the main reasons why people choose to shop for a mattress online is due to the relative affordability associated with it.
    Because online retailers do not need to spend on hiring sales staff or pay to rent expensive retail and office spaces, they end up saving money on pricey overhead costs. For this reason, online retailers can afford to offer better rates for their sales products. Another reason for this is due to the competitive nature of the online market. In order to maintain a level playing field, businesses often feel obligated to present shoppers with discounts, deals or coupons that can save them a significant amount of money. At the same time, brick-and-mortar stores need to mark-up the prices of their products before they can turn a profit after covering the overhead and any relevant advertising costs involved.
    Unlike online merchants, the price of a mattress advertised in-store sometimes also excludes the cost for delivery and other hidden expenditures. Since online merchants need to ship their products anyway, the fees are usually included in the item price. This makes purchasing a mattress in-store more costly wherein online, the listed price is usually the price you pay.
    • Quality
    Value is an important asset to look out for when you shop for a mattress.
    Mattresses sold online oftentimes boast superior specifications and build which makes them a more durable and long-lasting product compared to those bought in-store. With online shopping, it can be much easier to conduct your own research and compare and contrast the quality of a mattress via the construction specifications available on the company's website. This includes the mattress firmness, foam density and innerspring type. Likewise, with pricier items, online comparison shopping between brands can give you an idea of what you are essentially paying extra for and if the value is worth the cost. A mattress with a price tag of $4000 may not necessarily be better than a mattress that costs $2000. It could just mean that the company has a larger advertising budget to promote their brand recognition. That way, you get a comprehensive material breakdown of a mattress you have your sights on, which gives you a good idea on its quality and whether it is worth the price tag.
    While the quality of in-store mattresses can be as high, most retailers usually only recommend top-of-the-line models to customers instead of their full range of mattresses. This is to make price matching and quality comparison between stores more difficult for shoppers. The purpose of this is so that stores can charge unassuming customers more. So, for those who are happy to do some online homework of their own, comparing material types, firmness level and customer reviews between mattresses can go a long way in getting the best mattress for your buck.
    • Selection
    It is not uncommon for physical mattress stores to be restricted by showroom size. And due to the space constraints, businesses are usually only able to showcase a few of the mattress models available on the market.
    Unlike brick-and-mortar stores, however, an online merchant is not bounded by floor space or location. The only limitations in the range of products you have access to depends on how many websites you visit. Otherwise, you are certain to have a much wider spectrum of mattresses to select from online. But do note that sometimes having numerous options to choose from can pose a dilemma in your decision-making. So, start by prioritising your mattress criteria and narrow down the available offerings from there.
    This could be based on the price, material, firmness or construction of a mattress.
    Online stores should also have customer reviews for individual products and comparison sites that may be useful in helping you whittle down your best options.
    • Customer service

    If you appreciate the idea of having someone around to offer you professional advice on the go, shopping in-store is perhaps the best choice for you as the salespeople are more likely to possess a high level of expertise that will steer you towards selecting the ideal mattress. However, buying any sorts of products in a store often leads to pressure to buy, given that the salesperson is constantly breathing down your neck. Not everyone wants to be approached every few seconds to ask if you are ready to make a purchase. Moreover, you may feel obligated to give out your personal details such as your phone number or email at the request of the service staff, potentially opening the floodgates to a series of unsolicited mails and text messages.

    These are thankfully scenarios that can be mitigated with online shopping.

    For those who prefer not to be surrounded by salespeople while browsing, you will find the more indirect approach to shopping online a more relaxing experience. In fact, established e-commerce stores often have a phone hotline or live chat option where customers can approach staff for helpful information that will assist them in cross-comparing mattresses based on their specifications and materials. This means you can ask questions about a product online without the presence of hovering salespeople to answer any queries you may have. It even gives you time to process what you have learned without them around to push you for an answer. So, if you would rather make your own purchase decision without a second opinion, online shopping is definitely the way to go otherwise you would probably prefer to interact with salespeople in stores.

    • Trial period

    An apparent shortcoming in the online mattress shopping system is to do with testing out a product before you buy it. What this means is that you are most likely unable to experience what your new bed feels like before it arrives in your bedroom. Thankfully, most online mattress retailers offer a trial period where you get to experience your new mattress before deciding if it meets your preferences and expectations. The duration of these periods depends on the merchant. Given the competitiveness of the online market, businesses often offer lengthy trial periods that surpass the usual 90-day trial, with some even lasting up to an entire year. However, not everyone is willing to make their purchase without prior experience trying out a mattress. Being able to assess the item beforehand is perhaps the biggest advantage of shopping in-store for them.

    Some people enjoy the experience of taking their time to saunter down the aisles and try out as many beds as you like. This allows you to identify the features you want your mattress to have. But do bear in mind that a mattress can feel drastically different when lying on it briefly versus actually sleeping on it for a few nights in a row.

    While this can give you a decent grasp of how comfortable a mattress feels, it is difficult to gauge just how well it suits you until you sleep on it proper. For this reason, the trial periods offered by online retailers may actually lead to more benefits in the long-term.

    • Returns
    To give people peace of mind when they buy, many online merchants offer customers the option of a refund, or an exchange if the customer decides that the mattress is not to their liking. Unfortunately, the process involved in returning a mattress purchased online can be tedious at times. While some stores have a straightforward return policy, others may require you to package and place the mattress in a box before you ship the bed back at a nominal fee.
    Another detail to take note of is the trial period stipulated in the return policy. Even though most online retailers offer above average return periods, you need to look into the return policy to ascertain how much time you have before you purchase the bed. This is to avoid missing the deadline and end up being stuck with a mattress you do not want.
    Physical stores tend to have an uncomplicated return policy in contrast. Most of the time, a moving crew will be assigned by the retailer to pick up your mattress and send it back for you. But do check beforehand the costs involved in the return process as it can be quite pricey.
    In the end, buying online versus in-store is a matter of cost and convenience which you will need to assess based on your priorities.

     

    What to consider when buying a mattress?

    What to consider when buying a new mattress

    Now that we have weighed the pros and cons of purchasing a mattress online versus in-store, the next step is to figure out which merchant, brand or store you want to go with. To point you in the right direction, here are a few notable considerations that will help you make your purchase decision.

    • Set a budget

    By now, you probably already have a certain type of mattress in mind, are aware of the specifications and materials you would like to have, and perhaps even checked out what others have said about a particular item. With that, it is time to set a budget for your new mattress.

    Whether you are looking for something on the higher-end or seeking a more affordable option, there is bound to be a mattress out there for customers with any budget. The online mattress marketplace in particular offers a huge bank for your buck.

    While it is not uncommon to exceed your budget from pilling on too many extras to your mattress purchase, this scenario is more likely to happen with in-store shoppers. This is as salespeople tend to present customers with enticing upgrades that could cause an affordable mattress to go beyond affordability. To avoid such a scenario, you want to plan your finances ahead of time, taking into consideration any additional fees for delivery, extended warranties, fabric protection and more.
    If you are shopping in-store, also make sure to try and negotiate down the price once you have settled on a model. Even though many businesses have fixed prices they need to stick with, retailers that are open to negotiation often have huge mark-ups which means they can afford to offer discounts of up to 50 percent or even more during sale seasons.
    These are all good ways to ensure you stay within your set budget.
    • Take note of delivery times and cost
    Enquiring about delivery fees and policies should be second nature in your shopping process. This is to avoid being charged large, unforeseen amounts for the delivery and installation of your new mattress. If you are buying a mattress in a box online, delivery is generally free and usually arrives within a week. Some online companies also offer same day delivery although this will depend on your location.
    If you are buying a mattress from a retail store, delivery times come down to stock availability. If your product is in stock, it will most likely be delivered within a week or so. If it needs to be ordered from the manufacturer, your product can take anywhere between four to six weeks or even longer to arrive so be prepared to wait.
    Make sure to properly inspect the entire mattress upon receiving your order for any signs of stains or damage to make sure it is in pristine condition before signing off on the delivery. You also want to retain all the receipts and documents from your purchase as you might need them in the future to file a warranty claim.
    • Study the warranty
    Most mattress purchases are bound to come with some form of warranty, although the terms stated can vary widely and may not cover crucial aspects. So, take some time to read the fine print and enquire about details in the warranty which you are unclear about.
    Mattress warranties generally span between ten to 25 years, with the possibility of being extended over time. Some can even last as briefly as one to two years or for protracted periods of up to a lifetime. Warranties usually only cover manufacturing defects like inadequate foam stuffing or broken coils. They do not include everyday wear and tear, damage caused by accidents or liquid spills, or change of mind about a mattress.
     
    However, many businesses do cover problems caused by regular usage in the agreement. For example, these guarantees sometimes stipulate that customers can request to have the mattress coils calibrated to a comfort setting that matches their personal preferences without extra charge. Just as important to note about a mattress warranty is whether it falls under non-prorated or prorated coverage. The non-prorated period is where owners are able to repair or replace a defective mattress whenever at little to no charge. Whereas with a prorated warranty, owners are required to cover a percentage of the original mattress cost in order to have the mattress repaired or defective model replaced. Prorated fees usually increase with each accumulative year. Warranties of up to ten years tend to be completely non-prorated with longer warranties likely to include both non-prorated and prorated coverage.
     
    At the end of the day, it is your responsibility to find out the exact terms and conditions of a warranty and how far the company is willing to cover the costs of any issues related to your purchase.
  • Understand return policies

  • While all that research you have done is highly likely to lead to a satisfactory purchase, you still want to prioritise a retailer that offers the option of a complete refund or store credits towards another purchase, in the event that the bed falls below your expectations. Find out how long exactly the return period is so that you know how much time you have to make a decision. You are usually given a few weeks to three months to return any purchases before it is no longer valid.
    Be prepared to cover the cost of transporting the mattress back to the store. There may also be a restocking fee which can be about 15 to 20 percent of the purchased item or even higher. That said, it is not uncommon for sellers to offer free pickup service to send the mattress back to the store. Many retailers also do without the restocking fee which means customers can return the product without any extra charge. Such benefits and incentives are often put in place as a way of enticing people to buy.

    In the end, it is entirely up to you to find out exactly what the implications of returning your mattress may be. You want to look into the return policy to understand what it encompasses and how this will affect you, especially if you are not a 100% sure about your purchase be it in terms of the firmness level, material composition or other factors.


    FAQ's

    We hope that this guide will be useful in walking you through the process of buying a good bed and new mattress. To sum things up, here are a few frequently asked questions that you need to know in order to help you better navigate your sofa buying experience.

  • How do you pick the best mattress?
    • The first thing is to determine your preferred sleeping position. Whether you are a back, stomach, side or combination sleeper, the way you sleep can affect what works best for you. The ideal mattress is expected to differ from person to person. What feels perfect for a stomach sleeper is not necessarily going to feel the most comfortable for a back sleeper.

    • Next you want to decide on what kind of features you prefer and require. Do you want a mattress with cooling qualities? Do you suffer from physical ailments and hence need something that provides pressure relief? Do you sleep better on a foam or spring mattress? It is all about being in tune with your distinct needs and preferences in order to narrow down the perfect mattress that manages to fulfil most of them.

  • How do you decide on the mattress firmness?

  • A foam mattress that is of the wrong firmness for you can lead to discomfort or even become the trigger for chronic back pain. As mentioned, every individual has a preferred sleeping style with an equivalent firmness level that suits them. Side sleepers for instance tend to gravitate towards a softer mattress compared to back or stomach sleepers.
    In general, most mattresses also come much firmer in the beginning than what they eventually end up being. It is not unusual to wake up to aches and pains when sleeping on a brand-new memory foam mattress. This is because the mattress has not fully moulded to your body shape. A rule of thumb is to choose a mattress that is a wee bit firmer than what you are used to so that it will gradually soften to your preferred feel.
    A couple of days or weeks is usually how long it takes before you wake up pain-free. But should the pain persist, it is your cue to contact the store about returning or exchanging your mattress.

     

  • How to measure a mattress?

  • First you want to remove all linens, sheets and pillows from your bed. Afterwards, on an empty bed, measure using a measuring tape the length from the top of your mattress to the bottom and then the width from one side of your mattress to the other. Make sure to measure only the widest segments located on the top, bottom and sides of the bed instead of the curved corners, as this will distort the actual measurements of the mattress. These measurements can go a long way in helping you to pick a bed frame, figuring out if a mattress will fit through your door opening or simply for general sizing of your bed for future bed-buying purposes.

  • How long does a mattress last?

  • The longevity of your bed can be attributed to the mattress composition.
    Mattresses made of natural latex tend to provide more than 15 years of support. Memory foam mattresses constructed of high-quality materials provide approximately a decade's worth of good night's sleep.
    Meanwhile, compared to the other types of mattresses, those made of innerspring generally have the shortest life expectancy, at about five to six years.
    The general consensus is that a mattress will need to be replaced between seven to ten years after purchase. However, some mattresses can last beyond that depending on how well you take care of the mattress. For example, latex and foam mattress often have a longer lifespan.

    Looking for a New Mattress? 

    Megafurniture takes the trusted mattress brands closer to every Singaporean home. Select from a vast range of high-quality and affordable bed frames and mattresses. Explore our limited deals and promotions! Visit our online catalog to get the best mattress for you!
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