Should you buy your mattress online or in-store? Pros, cons, and tips
Choosing between buying a mattress online or in-store can be tricky. This blog helps you weigh the pros and cons of each option and explains how Snap Finance fits both. Whether you prefer testing mattresses in person or comparing deals from your couch, you’ll find tips to make the process easier and less stressful.
Takeaways:
Both online and in-store mattress shopping have clear benefits and drawbacks
The right choice depends on your comfort preferences, schedule, and budget
Snap Finance supports both shopping styles through its large partner network
Buying a new mattress is a big decision. You’ll spend years sleeping on it, so comfort, quality, and value all matter. But just as important as what you buy is where you buy it. Many shoppers now face the same question: is it better to buy a mattress online or in-store?
The truth is, both options have their own pros and cons. This guide breaks them down so you can make a confident choice – and shows how Snap Finance fits either way you shop.
Pros of buying a mattress online
Shopping for a mattress online can be surprisingly easy. You don’t have to visit multiple stores or deal with pushy sales pitches. Here’s what makes online buying appealing for many shoppers.
Convenience: Shop from home anytime
Online shopping means you can browse hundreds of options at any hour. You can compare materials, firmness levels, and prices without leaving your couch. There’s no rush or sales pressure – just information at your fingertips.
Wider selection of brands and models
Most online mattress retailers carry a broader range of styles than local stores. You can find memory foam, hybrid, and latex mattresses from big brands and smaller specialty makers. If you want something specific, like cooling technology or organic materials, online shopping often gives you more choices.
Transparent pricing and frequent discounts
Online sellers often display clear prices and offer frequent promotions. With no middleman, you can see exactly what you’re paying for. Many companies also include free shipping or bundle discounts, which can make online shopping feel straightforward and transparent.
Generous trial periods
Because you can’t test a mattress before buying it online, many companies offer trial periods – sometimes 90 to 365 nights – to make sure you love it. If it’s not the right fit, you can usually return or exchange it for another model.
Cons of buying a mattress online
While convenient, buying a mattress online has a few downsides that might matter depending on your preferences.
You can’t test firmness before purchase
Mattress comfort is personal. Even detailed descriptions and reviews can’t replace the experience of lying on a bed in person. You might order a medium-firm mattress that feels too soft or too firm once it arrives.
Returns may be inconvenient
Most online mattress returns are simple but not instant. You might need to wait for a pickup or refund, and sometimes the process involves extra steps or fees. That can be frustrating if you need a mattress replacement right away.
Delivery and setup may cost extra
Although many online sellers offer free shipping, not all include setup or old mattress removal. If you don’t want to handle those details yourself, in-store buying might be more convenient.
Pros of buying a mattress in-store
For shoppers who like a hands-on approach, buying in person offers unique benefits.
You can test firmness and comfort in person
One of the biggest advantages of visiting a store is that you can try out different mattresses side by side. You’ll get a real feel for the firmness, support, and comfort – something you can’t do through a screen.
Immediate customer service and advice
Sales associates can guide you toward the right choice based on how you sleep and what you like. They can also explain warranties, materials, and promotions directly – no waiting for customer support replies.
Same-day pickup or scheduled delivery
When you buy locally, you can often take your mattress home the same day or schedule a quick delivery. That’s especially helpful if you need a new bed right away.
Local retailer support
Buying in-store supports local businesses, and if any issues come up, you can usually contact the same store for help. That local connection gives some shoppers peace of mind.
Cons of buying a mattress in-store
Shopping in person can also have drawbacks, depending on your priorities.
Prices may be higher than online
Physical stores have higher overhead costs, which sometimes leads to higher prices than what you’ll find online. While you can still get great deals during promotions, everyday pricing may be less competitive.
Limited selection
Even large mattress showrooms can’t carry every brand or model available online. If you’re looking for a specific product, you might not find it locally.
Shopping hours are restricted
Unlike websites, physical stores close at night. If you have a busy schedule, it can be harder to find time to visit.
Financing options: Online vs. in-store
Mattresses are a big purchase, and financing can help make the cost easier to handle. Whether you shop online or locally, you’ll usually see some form of payment plan.
Online financing
Many online mattress retailers offer financing at checkout, but these often depend on credit approval. If your credit score isn’t strong, you might not qualify.
In-store financing
Many local mattress stores offer their own financing programs or store credit cards, making it easier for shoppers to pay over time. These programs often include promotional periods with low or no interest if the balance is paid within a set timeframe. Some retailers also partner with third-party financing providers, giving customers more options to qualify based on their credit profile and purchase amount.
The Snap Finance advantage
Snap Finance works with thousands of partner retailers – both online and local – so shoppers can apply and get approved quickly. The process is straightforward – you can apply in minutes and get a decision in seconds. Snap also provides convenient early ownership options, letting you complete your lease sooner if you choose.1
This combination of accessibility and convenience makes Snap Finance a strong choice for people comparing buying a mattress online vs. in-store.
Tips for getting the best deal on your mattress
Wherever you shop, a little research can go a long way toward finding the right mattress at the right price.
Research firmness levels first. Know whether you prefer soft, medium, or firm support before you start browsing.
Compare online and in-store deals. Check prices across both shopping methods – promotions often vary by retailer.
Look for bundle savings. Buying a mattress with a frame or base together can save money.
Shop holiday sales. Events like Memorial Day or Labor Day often include deep mattress discounts.
Consider financing. Spreading out payments with a convenient lease-to-own option can help you get what you need without delay.
Real-life scenario: Combining online research with in-store testing
Many shoppers find the best of both worlds by mixing online and in-store strategies.
For example, imagine Jordan, who’s shopping for a new queen mattress. He starts online, reading reviews and comparing materials and prices. He narrows his options down to two models that fit his comfort level and price range.
Next, Jordan visits a local mattress retailer that carries one of those models. He tries it in person and confirms it’s the right feel. The store offers access to Snap Finance, so he applies, gets approved quickly, and schedules delivery for the weekend.
This approach saves time, reduces guesswork, and gives Jordan confidence in his purchase – proof that you don’t have to choose between online convenience and in-store assurance.
Finding your perfect way to shop
When it comes to buying a mattress, there’s no single right answer. Some people love the convenience of online shopping, while others prefer the comfort of testing beds in person. What matters most is finding the option that fits your needs, lifestyle, and timeline.
Snap Finance helps bridge that gap. With a large network of online and local partners, it gives you the freedom to shop your way – without worrying about whether your credit history limits your choices.2
Explore Snap Finance mattress partners near you or online and upgrade your sleep today.
The advertised service is a lease-to-own agreement provided by Snap RTO LLC. Lease-to-own financing is not available to residents of Minnesota, New Jersey, and Wisconsin.
1The default payment plan is the Maximum-Term Plan, which includes 12- to 18-month renewable terms and is your highest cost option. To exercise an early ownership option, including any early buyout promotions, you must make all regular payments on time and ensure the required amount is paid within the applicable timeframe through the customer portal or by contacting Customer Care at 1-877-557-3769. Early buyout promotions may include a cost of lease above the merchandise price. For details and limitations, including relating to applicable early ownership options, refer to your lease agreement.
2Not all applicants are approved. While no credit history is required, Snap obtains information from consumer reporting agencies in connection with applications, and your score with those agencies may be affected.