If you are trying to determine where to buy a mattress in the USA, understanding your options can help simplify the buying process and avoid wasted time or money. Mattress shoppers in the United States can buy from a wide variety of sellers, such as local mattress stores, national chains, furniture stores, warehouse clubs, department stores, manufacturer showrooms, and online mattress companies. Your ideal place to shop will vary according to budget, mattress type, location, and your preference for testing a bed before purchase.
A mattress is also not quite like most other household purchases. Comfort is personal, and the lowest price does not always mean the best value. A useful retailer comparison should include the mattress itself, as well as return policies, sleep trials, warranties, delivery charges, financing options, and old mattress removal.
This guide covers where mattresses are commonly sold across the United States and the factors you should consider before selecting a store.
Where to Buy a Mattress in the United States
Across the United States, mattresses are available from many different types of sellers. While certain stores are dedicated mainly to mattresses and sleep products, others sell mattresses alongside a larger selection of furniture and household goods.
Among the most common mattress retailers are:
- Independent local mattress stores
- National and regional mattress chains
- Furniture stores
- Warehouse clubs
- Major department stores
- Large big-box stores
- Mattress manufacturer stores and branded showrooms
- Online mattress companies
- Large online marketplaces
- Factory-direct mattress sellers
The benefits and limitations differ among these shopping options. If you want to physically test multiple mattresses before deciding, a mattress showroom may be the better choice. If you already know what type of mattress and firmness you prefer, buying online may offer greater convenience.
Local Mattress Stores
Independent mattress stores can be found in cities, suburbs, and smaller communities across the United States. Some of these businesses have only one showroom, while others operate several stores within a state or metropolitan area.
Local mattress retailers often carry products from several manufacturers. Inventory varies by retailer, but a local store may sell innerspring, memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses, along with adjustable bases, foundations, pillows, mattress protectors, and other sleep products.
A benefit of buying from a local mattress store is that employees may be knowledgeable about the mattresses in the showroom. In many local showrooms, you can compare different mattress types and comfort levels without visiting multiple stores.
Local retailers may also compete with larger chains by offering services such as local delivery, mattress setup, old mattress removal, flexible pricing, or package deals that combine a mattress with a foundation or adjustable bed.
When comparing independent stores, check the retailer's return policy and comfort exchange rules before paying. These policies may vary considerably from store to store.
Buying From National and Regional Mattress Chains
U.S. shoppers can also buy from national and regional chains focused on mattresses. Companies such as Mattress Firm operate stores in many markets, while other chains serve specific states or regions.
Mattress chains typically devote most of their inventory to mattresses, beds, and related sleep products. Inside a typical specialty mattress showroom, shoppers may find several major manufacturers together with adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and other bedding accessories.
One benefit of a specialty mattress chain is the ability to test multiple beds at the same location. Some retailers also provide online inventory information that lets you research models before visiting a store.
Major mattress chains often promote sales around well-known U.S. shopping periods such as Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. Even during a sale, compare the final price instead of assuming an advertised discount is automatically the best deal.
Mattress Departments at Furniture Stores
Mattress departments are common at furniture stores throughout the United States. Stores such as Ashley, Rooms To Go, and numerous regional furniture chains sell mattresses alongside bedroom furniture, sofas, dining sets, and other home furnishings.
If you are furnishing a complete bedroom, a furniture store can be convenient because you may be able to purchase the bed and matching furniture in one place.
One possible drawback is that selection can vary considerably by store. Shoppers looking for more mattress-specific help may find more options at a specialty mattress retailer than at a general furniture store.
A furniture store can still be a strong option when price shopping for a mattress, especially if you also need bedroom furniture or want several large items delivered at once.
Buying Mattresses From Warehouse Clubs
Membership warehouse clubs are another popular place to buy mattresses in the USA. Retailers such as copyright and Sam's Club sell mattresses from a variety of manufacturers through their websites and stores.
Warehouse clubs can offer competitive pricing, but the in-store mattress selection may be smaller than what you would find at a dedicated mattress showroom. You may find some beds on display, but other mattress models may remain packaged or be primarily available online.
This option works well for shoppers who already understand the differences between memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses and do not need to test a large number of beds.
Before buying, check membership requirements, delivery options, return procedures, and old mattress removal availability.
Buying Mattresses From Department Stores and Big-Box Retailers
Another place to shop for a mattress is through department stores and major big-box retailers. Depending on where you live, mattresses may be available through retailers such as Macy's, Walmart, Target, and other major chains.
The number and type of mattresses available are not consistent across every location. Some stores have mattress displays where customers can test beds, while others focus primarily on boxed mattresses that can be ordered online or picked up from a store.
For shoppers seeking lower-priced mattresses or convenient bed-in-a-box options, big-box stores can be useful, especially for guest rooms, children's rooms, or dorm rooms.
When comparing mattresses, compare specific models instead of assuming every mattress from one brand is similar. Mattresses from the same manufacturer can vary greatly in construction, thickness, and comfort characteristics.
Mattress Brand Stores and Manufacturer Showrooms
Certain mattress manufacturers sell directly through their own retail locations. Other manufacturers sell through retail partners where shoppers can test specific mattresses.
U.S. mattress shoppers may encounter major brands such as Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Serta, Beautyrest, Purple, Casper, along with numerous other manufacturers.
A manufacturer showroom may make sense when you have already narrowed your choices to one brand. This can let you focus on one brand's product range without evaluating unrelated mattresses.
The main limitation is that a single-brand showroom cannot provide the same side-by-side comparison of competing manufacturers.
Where to Buy a Mattress Online
Online retailers have become a significant sales channel in the U.S. mattress market. Consumers can buy directly from many mattress brands online and have beds delivered across a large portion of the United States.
Many mattresses are compressed and shipped in a box, while larger, heavier, or more complex models may arrive at full size. Certain companies also offer room-of-choice or white-glove delivery services.
Online shopping provides access to a large number of mattress brands without visiting several stores. Online shopping can also make it easier to compare specifications, pricing, policies, and construction details side by side.
The biggest drawback is that you normally cannot test the mattress in person before placing an order. Because of this, the sleep trial and return policy are key parts of the purchase decision.
Understand the Sleep Trial Before Ordering
With a sleep trial, you have time to use the mattress before deciding whether to keep it. Trial lengths vary by company.
Make sure you review the full terms before buying. Some retailers require customers to keep a mattress for a minimum adjustment period before requesting a return. Other retailers may apply pickup, transportation, restocking, or processing fees.
Do not equate a large number of trial nights with a no-cost return policy. Pay closer attention to the written return conditions than to the headline trial length.
Mattress Types You Will Find at U.S. Retailers
Knowing the main mattress categories can make shopping easier. Mattress stores typically organize products by common construction categories.
Traditional Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring beds combine a spring support core with upper cushioning layers. Innerspring construction can be found in basic mattresses as well as higher-end models featuring thick cushioning and individually wrapped coils.
Mattresses Made With Memory Foam
Rather than using a traditional spring support system, memory foam mattresses are built with foam layers. Memory foam is known for contouring to the body and limiting motion transfer between partners.
Hybrid Mattress Construction
Hybrid mattresses are built with a coil support core plus significant foam or latex comfort layers. Hybrid mattresses are common in U.S. showrooms because they blend features of foam and innerspring construction.
Latex Mattress Construction
Latex beds may contain natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend of the two. Compared with some memory foam mattresses, latex beds often feel more responsive and less deeply contouring.
Adjustable Air-Chamber Mattresses
With some premium air mattresses, sleepers can adjust the firmness of separate sides of the bed. These should not be confused with temporary inflatable air mattresses used for guests or camping.
What to Look for in a Mattress Retailer
Choosing a mattress store should involve more than simply finding the closest retailer or biggest sale. Evaluate the complete purchase process before deciding where to buy.
Important factors include:
- Product selection: A good selection should let you compare different mattress types and firmness levels.
- Transparent pricing: Find out what the listed price includes and whether delivery or setup adds extra charges.
- Returns: Make sure you understand what happens if you want to return the mattress.
- At-home trial: Check how long you can test the mattress and whether fees apply to returns.
- Warranty: Check what the mattress warranty covers and which defects are excluded.
- Delivery: Ask whether the mattress will simply be shipped or placed in your bedroom.
- Old mattress removal: Ask whether your existing mattress can be hauled away.
- Financing: Evaluate the full cost of financing, not just the monthly payment.
Before completing the sale, confirm that you are purchasing the exact mattress model you tried. Retailer-specific model names or product lines can complicate side-by-side mattress comparisons.
What Does a Mattress Cost in the USA?
In the United States, mattress prices can range from budget-friendly prices in the hundreds to several thousand dollars for premium beds.
The cost of a mattress is influenced by size, materials, construction, brand, thickness, features, and where it is sold. Within the same mattress collection, a queen typically costs more than a twin and less than a king.
Lower-priced foam and innerspring mattresses are often available from several value-oriented mattress retailers. Mid-priced mattresses may include hybrid construction, denser foam, enhanced coils, and more substantial comfort layers. Premium beds may include specialty foams, latex, advanced support systems, cooling materials, handcrafted construction, or adjustable features.
Rather than focusing only on the purchase price, consider how the mattress fits your needs over time and what protections come with the purchase.
Should You Test a Mattress Before Buying?
An in-store mattress test can be helpful, although you should spend more than a few seconds evaluating it.
For a more useful showroom test, lie down as you would at home and remain there for several minutes. If you sleep on your side, notice whether pressure builds around major contact points such as the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers should consider whether the mattress supports the lower back without excessive sinking. Stomach sleepers often prefer enough support to prevent the midsection from sinking too deeply.
Whenever possible, couples should try the mattress at the same time. The right mattress for a couple can depend on differences in body weight, sleeping position, and firmness preference.
A showroom test is still only a short evaluation. That is why a useful sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can add important protection.
How to Choose Mattress Firmness
Mattress comfort levels are often labeled soft, medium, medium-firm, firm, and extra firm. No one firmness level is ideal for everyone.
The firmness that feels best may depend on several factors related to your body and sleeping habits. Because there is no universal firmness scale used by every manufacturer, two mattresses labeled "medium-firm" can feel different.
Use firmness labels as a starting point rather than an exact measurement. To lower the risk of ending up with the wrong firmness, choose a retailer that provides useful comfort exchange protection.
Mattress Delivery, Installation, and Setup
Delivery services differ between mattress retailers. Before placing your order, find out exactly what the delivery service includes.
Common delivery options include doorstep delivery, delivery inside the home, room-of-choice delivery, mattress setup, and white-glove service. Some retailers will also remove packaging, an old mattress, or an old foundation.
Apartment and condominium residents should check hallway dimensions, elevator policies, loading restrictions, and delivery schedules before ordering a large mattress or adjustable base.
How to Dispose of or Recycle an Old Mattress
When buying a replacement mattress, you also need to decide how the old mattress will be removed. The rules for getting rid of a mattress are different depending on your state and municipality.
Some mattress stores provide old mattress removal when the new bed is delivered. Other disposal options may include local waste services, transfer stations, mattress recycling programs, and private junk removal companies.
Mattress recycling programs have been established in several states, including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Shoppers should check municipal or state requirements instead of assuming regular trash collection will accept a mattress.
A clean, usable mattress may sometimes be accepted by a local charity or nonprofit organization, although standards vary and many organizations will not accept used mattresses.
When to Shop for Mattress Sales
Mattress retailers run promotions throughout the year, but holiday weekends are common times for sales in the United States. Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday are often associated with mattress promotions.
However, waiting for a holiday does not guarantee the best deal. Prices and promotions can change year-round, including discounts, package deals, financing incentives, and included accessories.
Evaluate the full mattress deal, not only the sticker price. Paying slightly more may make sense when the purchase includes services that would otherwise cost extra.
Where to Buy a Mattress Near You
A search for mattress stores near me is often the easiest way to find nearby retailers where you can test mattresses. In most U.S. metro areas, shoppers can choose from several different types of mattress sellers.
In major U.S. markets including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, Boston, and Washington, D.C., shoppers may have dozens of mattress stores and showrooms within driving distance. In smaller cities and rural communities, local mattress selection may be more limited, which can make regional retailers and online mattress stores more useful.
A mattress directory can help you identify nearby retailers before you start driving from store to store. After comparing store locations, retailer categories, brands, and services, verify directly with the retailer that your preferred models are in stock for testing.
What to Ask Before You Purchase a Mattress
A few questions can help clarify the purchase terms before you pay for a new mattress:
- Is this mattress currently in stock?
- What is the total price including delivery and other fees?
- What happens if the mattress is uncomfortable, can I return or exchange it?
- Is there a required minimum period before a comfort exchange?
- What fees, including pickup, transport, or restocking charges, apply to returns?
- Who handles warranty claims, the retailer or manufacturer?
- Are there foundation or bed-frame requirements under the warranty?
- Will the mattress be installed or set up by the delivery team?
- Is old mattress and foundation haul-away available?
- When is the earliest the mattress can be delivered?
Knowing the answers in advance can help you understand exactly what to expect from the purchase.
Finding the Right Place to Buy Your Next Mattress
The best place to buy a mattress varies according to your needs and preferences. Local mattress retailers can work well for shoppers who want personalized help and the ability to try multiple beds. A large chain can be useful when you sealy mattress stores want convenient access to a broad selection. Warehouse clubs and big-box stores can be attractive for price-conscious buyers, while online mattress sellers provide convenient delivery and access to brands without nearby physical locations.
A good mattress comparison should involve more than simply finding the lowest price. Your decision should account for comfort, construction, firmness, size, trial terms, returns, warranty coverage, delivery, setup, financing, and disposal.
Use the directory to identify local mattress stores and reduce the number of retailers you need to investigate before shopping in person or online. Doing some research before purchase can make it easier to choose a mattress suited to your body, sleep style, budget, and home.