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. American shoppers have more choices than ever, including local mattress stores, national chains, furniture stores, warehouse clubs, department stores, manufacturer showrooms, and online mattress companies. Which retailer works best for you will depend on several factors, including price range, preferred construction, location, and whether you value an in-person mattress test.
A mattress is also a more personal purchase than many other household items. Because comfort varies from person to person, the cheapest mattress is not always the best value. A useful retailer comparison should include mattress construction and firmness, as well as return policies, sleep trials, warranties, delivery charges, financing options, and old mattress removal.
Below, you will find an overview of the primary places to buy a mattress in the United States along with important considerations for choosing best mattress retailers the right store.
Where to Buy a Mattress in the United States
U.S. consumers can purchase mattresses through a variety of retailers nationwide. Some specialize almost entirely in mattresses and sleep products, while others sell mattresses as part of a larger furniture or home goods selection.
Common places to buy mattresses in the United States include:
- Locally owned mattress retailers
- Regional and national mattress store chains
- Home furniture stores
- Warehouse retailers
- Major department stores
- Large big-box stores
- Manufacturer-owned mattress stores and showrooms
- Direct-to-consumer online mattress companies
- Large online marketplaces
- Factory-direct mattress sellers
Every type of mattress retailer comes with specific advantages and potential drawbacks. If you want to physically test multiple mattresses before deciding, a mattress showroom may be the better choice. If you already know the mattress construction and feel you want, buying online may offer greater convenience.
Buying From Local Mattress Stores
Independent mattress stores can be found in cities, suburbs, and smaller communities across the United States. These businesses may operate a single showroom or several locations within one state or metropolitan area.
Many local mattress stores carry several mattress brands. 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.
Shopping locally can provide access to salespeople who know the available mattress lines. A single showroom visit may let you compare multiple mattress constructions and firmness choices.
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. Return and exchange terms are not the same at every mattress store.
National and Regional Mattress Store Chains
Specialty mattress chains are another major option for shoppers in the United States. Some companies, including Mattress Firm, have locations in many U.S. markets, while other chains operate within certain states or specific regions.
Mattress chains typically devote most of their inventory to mattresses, beds, and related sleep products. Many chain showrooms carry several recognized mattress brands, as well as adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and bedding accessories.
If you want to try multiple beds in one place, a specialty chain can be convenient. Some retailers also provide online inventory information that lets you research models before visiting a store.
Major mattress chains often promote sales around Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and other holiday weekends. However, shoppers should compare the final purchase price rather than assuming every advertised sale represents the lowest available price.
Furniture Stores That Sell Mattresses
Many furniture stores in the United States have separate areas for mattresses and sleep products. Stores such as Ashley, Rooms To Go, and numerous regional furniture chains sell mattresses alongside bedroom furniture, sofas, dining sets, and other home furnishings.
Furniture stores can be convenient when furnishing an entire bedroom because you may be able to purchase a mattress, bed frame, headboard, dresser, and nightstands from one retailer.
One possible drawback is that mattress inventory may differ from one furniture store location to another. Shoppers looking for the widest mattress selection or highly focused product guidance may find more options at a specialty mattress retailer than at a general furniture store.
Furniture stores are still worth considering when comparing prices, especially if you are looking for a complete bedroom package or need delivery of several large household items at the same time.
Warehouse Clubs
Many Americans also purchase mattresses through large warehouse retailers. 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. Depending on the retailer, some mattresses may be available to view in the warehouse, while others are packaged or sold mainly online.
If you already understand the major mattress categories and are comfortable buying without testing numerous beds, a warehouse club may be a practical choice.
When comparing warehouse clubs, factor in the cost and convenience of membership and delivery, as well as return procedures and local mattress removal services.
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 can vary substantially. Some retailers maintain showroom displays for mattress testing, while others mainly sell boxed mattresses for online ordering or store pickup.
Big-box retailers can be useful when shopping for lower-priced mattresses, guest-room beds, children's mattresses, dorm-room mattresses, or convenient bed-in-a-box products.
When comparing mattresses, look at the exact model rather than relying only on the brand name. Mattresses from the same manufacturer can vary greatly in materials, coil systems, foam layers, height, and firmness.
Mattress Brand Stores and Manufacturer Showrooms
Some mattress manufacturers operate their own stores or branded showrooms. 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 branded store can be useful if you have already narrowed your search to one manufacturer. At a branded store, you may be able to test different models and firmness choices from the same company without sorting through competing brands.
The limitation is obvious: a single-brand showroom does not provide the same direct comparison between competing manufacturers that a multi-brand mattress store can offer.
Buying a Mattress Online
Buying mattresses online is now a common option for American consumers. Many companies sell mattresses directly to consumers and ship them to homes throughout much of the country.
Many mattresses are packaged as bed-in-a-box products, while larger, heavier, or more complex models may arrive at full size. Depending on the brand, you may be able to choose white-glove delivery, room-of-choice delivery, or another upgraded service.
One advantage of online mattress shopping is that you can compare numerous brands without visiting several physical stores. Online shopping can also make it easier to compare specifications, pricing, policies, and construction details side by side.
Unlike showroom shopping, buying online generally means choosing a mattress before physically testing it. For that reason, the sleep trial and return policy become especially important.
Check 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. A retailer may require you to keep and use the mattress for a minimum period before becoming eligible for 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. The written return terms are more important than the headline number of trial nights.
Mattress Types You Will Find at U.S. Retailers
Understanding common mattress categories can simplify the buying process. Mattress stores typically organize products by the type of materials and support system used.
Traditional Innerspring Mattresses
An innerspring mattress is built around a coil support system with cushioning materials above it. Innerspring construction can be found in basic mattresses as well as higher-end models featuring thick cushioning and individually wrapped coils.
Memory Foam Beds
Rather than using a traditional spring support system, memory foam mattresses are constructed primarily from layers of foam. These mattresses are often chosen for body contouring and reduced motion transfer.
Hybrid Mattress Construction
A typical hybrid combines an innerspring-style support system with foam or latex comfort materials. Hybrids are common in American mattress showrooms because they combine characteristics of both foam and innerspring beds.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses use natural latex, synthetic latex, or a combination of materials. Latex generally provides a more responsive feel than the deep contouring found in some memory foam mattresses.
Mattresses With Adjustable Air Support
Certain premium mattress systems contain adjustable air chambers that can change firmness on each side. These products are not the same as portable air beds intended for short-term use.
Choosing the Right Mattress Store
Choosing a mattress store should involve more than distance or the size of an advertised discount. Evaluate the complete purchase process before deciding where to buy.
Consider the following factors when evaluating a mattress store:
- Mattress selection: Choose a retailer with a useful range of mattress constructions and comfort levels.
- Transparent pricing: Ask what is included in the advertised price and whether delivery or setup costs extra.
- Return policy: Understand whether the retailer offers refunds, exchanges, store credit, or comfort exchanges.
- At-home trial: Find out how many nights the trial lasts and whether a return costs anything.
- Warranty coverage: Read the manufacturer's warranty and the list of covered defects.
- Mattress 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: If financing is offered, compare interest rates, promotional terms, and the total amount you will repay.
Make sure the mattress model you tested is the same model shown on the sales paperwork. Mattress names and product lines can sometimes differ between retailers, which can make direct price comparison harder.
How Much Does a Mattress Cost in the USA?
U.S. shoppers can find mattresses costing a few hundred dollars at the lower end and several thousand dollars for high-end models or adjustable sleep systems.
The cost of a mattress is influenced by several factors, including mattress size, build quality, materials, brand, height, features, and retailer. A queen mattress usually costs more than a twin but less than a king within the same product line.
Shoppers on a tighter budget may find entry-level mattresses through online retailers, discount stores, warehouse clubs, and local mattress outlets. Mid-priced mattresses may include hybrid construction, denser foam, enhanced coils, and more substantial comfort layers. Higher-end mattresses may use more costly materials and advanced comfort or support features.
Price should be only one part of the decision, so also evaluate how long you expect to keep the mattress, how it supports your sleep position, and the available return protection.
Should You Try a Mattress Before You Buy It?
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. Side sleepers should pay attention to pressure around the shoulders and hips. If you sleep on your back, consider lower-back support and whether your body sinks too deeply. Stomach sleepers generally need a surface that prevents excessive sinking around the torso.
Whenever possible, couples should test the bed together. Differences in body weight, sleep position, and firmness preference can affect which mattress works best.
A showroom test is still only a short evaluation. Because an in-store test is limited, a good sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can reduce purchase risk.
What Mattress Firmness Should You Buy?
Mattress comfort levels are often labeled using terms that indicate how soft or firm the bed feels. No one firmness level is ideal for everyone.
The firmness that feels best may depend on your body weight, sleep position, mattress construction, and personal preference. Because there is no single industry-wide firmness standard, two mattresses labeled "medium-firm" can feel different.
Firmness descriptions are most useful as rough reference points rather than exact measurements. Testing mattresses or choosing a retailer with a good exchange policy can reduce the risk of selecting the wrong feel.
Mattress Delivery, Installation, and Setup
Different mattress sellers offer different levels of delivery service. Before ordering, ask exactly where the mattress will be delivered.
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 confirm that building access will accommodate the delivery.
Old Mattress Disposal and Recycling
Replacing a mattress also means deciding what to do with the old one. Mattress disposal regulations vary among states, counties, and cities.
A retailer may be able to take your old mattress away at the same time it delivers the replacement. Depending on your location, mattresses may also be accepted by waste collection services, transfer stations, recycling programs, or private junk removal companies.
Several states, including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, have established mattress recycling programs. Because requirements and recycling fees differ by location, do not assume an old mattress can be placed with normal household trash.
If your old mattress remains in usable condition, certain organizations may accept it, but acceptance policies vary and many do not take used mattresses.
Best Times of Year to Buy a Mattress
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. Manufacturers and retailers can change prices, bundles, financing offers, and free accessory promotions throughout the year.
Compare the complete package. Paying slightly more may make sense when the purchase includes delivery, setup, a foundation, old mattress haul-away, or a more favorable return policy.
How to Find Mattress Stores Near You
Searching for mattress stores near me is a good starting point when you want to test beds locally. In most U.S. metro areas, shoppers can choose from independent mattress stores, national chains, furniture retailers, and department stores.
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 a large number of nearby mattress retailers. People living in less populated areas may have a smaller local selection, increasing the importance of online sellers and regional retailers.
Before traveling between multiple showrooms, a mattress directory can help you find and compare nearby retailers. Compare locations, store types, mattress brands, and available services, then contact the retailer to confirm that the products you want to test are actually available at that location.
What to Ask Before You Purchase a Mattress
Before paying for a new bed, ask the salesperson or online retailer a few important questions:
- Is this mattress currently in stock?
- What will the complete price be after delivery and other fees?
- What happens if the mattress is uncomfortable, can I return or exchange it?
- Do I have to keep the mattress for a minimum period before requesting a comfort exchange?
- Will I be charged return, pickup, transportation, or restocking fees?
- If I have a warranty issue, do I contact the store or the manufacturer?
- Are there foundation or bed-frame requirements under the warranty?
- Does delivery include setup of the new mattress?
- Can the delivery team remove my existing mattress and foundation?
- How soon can the mattress be delivered?
Getting these answers before purchase can prevent misunderstandings later.
Where to Buy Your Next Mattress
No mattress retailer is the best choice for every shopper. If you value personal service and the opportunity to test several mattresses, a local mattress store may be a good fit. A national chain can provide broad product selection and convenient locations. Warehouse clubs and big-box retailers may appeal to value-focused shoppers, while online mattress companies provide convenient home delivery and access to brands that may not have local showrooms.
The key is to compare more than the mattress price. Your decision should account for the mattress itself and the policies surrounding the purchase.
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.