A very merry mattress shopping guide

The holiday season is in full swing, bringing with it the joy of festivities – and sometimes, the burden of shopping. In fact, recent research from Snap Finance found that 57% of shoppers find holiday shopping stressful. But here’s some good news: Shopping for a new mattress this season doesn’t have to be!

To help you navigate the mattress shopping process, we’ve created this simple, straightforward guide to buying a new mattress. Whether you’re in search of a soft mattress or you need firm support, this guide covers everything from mattress types to shopping tips, and even financing options.

Consider your sleeping experience

Before diving into the world of mattress shopping, it's essential to understand your sleeping experience. Consider your sleeping position and how it affects your comfort and support needs. Are you a side sleeper who needs a soft mattress to cushion your shoulders and hips, or do you require a firm mattress as a back or stomach sleeper for extra support?

Knowing your preferred sleeping position helps narrow down the mattress types that will best enhance your rest. Side sleepers often benefit from memory foam mattresses, which contour to the body, relieving pressure points. On the other hand, back sleepers might lean towards a hybrid or innerspring mattress that offers a balanced firmness level for spine support.

Know your mattress types

The mattress world can feel overwhelming, with each choice offering its own unique benefits. Here’s a breakdown of some popular mattress types to help you navigate the options.

• Memory foam mattress: Known for excellent pressure relief and conforming to the body, memory foam mattresses are a top choice for side sleepers and those who like a soft sleeping experience. However, they may retain heat, so look for cooling gel options if you’re prone to overheating.
• Innerspring mattress: The traditional choice for firmness and support, innerspring mattresses feature coil systems that offer a responsive and bouncy feel. This mattress type is ideal if you prefer a firm sleeping surface or if you frequently change sleeping positions.
• Hybrid mattress: If you’re torn between memory foam and innerspring, consider a hybrid mattress. This type combines the contouring qualities of foam with the support of coils, making it suitable for a range of sleeping positions.
• Latex mattress: These mattresses adapt to your body’s curves slightly less than memory foam but offer a lighter feel and added bounce. Made from a natural substance, they are breathable and hypoallergenic.

Evaluate firmness levels and comfort

Finding the right firmness level is key to a good night’s sleep. While everyone’s preferences are different, here’s a basic guideline.

• Soft: Ideal for side sleepers or those who want a “sinking in” sensation, a soft mattress offers plush comfort that contours to the body.
• Medium-firm: Considered a universal option, medium-firm mattresses are comfortable for most sleeping positions, providing the balance of contouring and support.
• Firm: If you sleep on your back or stomach, a firmer mattress offers the support you need to keep your spine aligned and prevent lower back pain.

Keep in mind that firmness level is a personal preference and can vary by brand. Trying out mattresses in-store or choosing a mattress with a trial period is an excellent way to gauge which level of firmness best matches your sleeping style.

Choosing the right mattress size

Finding the perfect mattress size is essential for ensuring both comfort and space efficiency in your bedroom. Mattress sizes range from compact twin beds to luxurious king-sized options, and the best choice will depend on your sleeping habits, room size, and whether you share the bed. Here’s a quick rundown of the standard mattress sizes.

• Twin (38” x 75”)

Ideal for children’s rooms, dorms, or small guest spaces. A twin mattress offers ample space for a single sleeper but may feel too short for adults over 6 feet tall.

• Twin XL (38” x 80”)

A bit longer than the standard twin, this size works well for taller individuals who still need a compact bed and is often found in college dorms.

• Full (54” x 75”)

Also known as a “double” mattress, a full-size mattress provides extra width compared to a twin, making it ideal for solo sleepers who want more room. However, it may be a tight fit for couples.

• Queen (60” x 80”)

A popular choice for couples and individual sleepers who like extra space. Queen beds fit well in most bedrooms and provide a balance of comfort and versatility.

• King (76” x 80”)

Perfect for couples who want maximum space or those who share their bed with kids or pets. A king mattress requires a spacious bedroom to avoid overcrowding.

• California king (72” x 84”)

Slightly narrower and longer than a standard king, the California king is ideal for taller sleepers who need extra legroom.

Tips for choosing the right size:

• Consider your room size

Measure your room to ensure there’s enough space around the bed for easy movement and furniture.

• Think about sleeping preferences

If you’re sharing the bed, a queen or larger may provide more comfort, especially for restless sleepers.

• Account for future needs

If you plan on keeping the mattress for years, think about possible changes like sharing the bed with a partner or a growing family.

Don’t forget the bed frame

While a new mattress can be a game-changer, the bed frame also plays a significant role in the overall sleeping experience. Many people overlook their bed frame when mattress shopping, but the right frame can provide added support and stability. Some mattress types, such as memory foam, benefit from a solid platform bed frame, which keeps the mattress from sagging over time. An adjustable bed frame may also be worth considering if you want added comfort for reading or watching TV in bed.

Look for the best mattress offers

Holiday sales often bring great mattress offers, making this a prime time to buy a new mattress. Many mattress retailers offer significant discounts on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, while others extend these savings throughout the holiday season. Financing options that let you spread out the cost, such as Snap’s lease-to-own financing, can also make getting a quality mattress more manageable, even if you don’t have perfect credit.1 After all, sleep is an investment in your health and well-being.

Give yourself the gift of good sleep

As you navigate the flurry of holiday shopping, choosing the right mattress is a gift that keeps on giving. And with so many options and holiday deals available, now is the perfect time to find a mattress that aligns with your needs. Let this guide be your companion on your mattress shopping journey, ensuring you’ll enjoy visions of sugarplums and better sleep this season and beyond.

Want more shopping tips? Check out these additional resources from Snap to help you enjoy a stress-free shopping experience:

• Shop smarter, not harder: Tips to make the most of your Labor Day shopping
• Upgrade your big game experience with the right TV and soundbar
• Be your own Santa: Shop 2023’s top tech and electronic trends

About Snap Finance

Snap Finance harnesses the power of data to empower consumers of all credit types to get what they need. Launched in 2012, Snap’s technology brings together more than a decade of data, machine learning, and nontraditional risk variables to create a proprietary decisioning platform that looks at each customer through a more holistic, human lens. Snap’s flexible lease-to-own and loan solutions are changing the face and pace of consumer retail finance.

For more information, visit snapfinance.com.

Snap-branded product offering includes retail installment contracts and lease-to-own financing. Talk with your local Snap sales representative for more details on which product qualifies at your store location. For more detailed information, please visit snapfinance.com/legal/financing-options. 

¹While no credit history is required, Snap obtains information from consumer reporting agencies in connection with lease-to-own applications, and your score with those agencies may be affected. Not all applicants are approved.