Finding where to buy a mattress in the USA is easier when you understand the available shopping options, which can reduce shopping frustration. 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. The best place to shop depends on factors such as your budget, mattress preference, location, and desire to try 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.
Below, you will find an overview of common U.S. mattress retailers along with important considerations for choosing the right store.
Where Can You Buy a Mattress in the United States?
Across the United States, mattresses are available from many different types of sellers. Some specialize almost entirely in mattresses and sleep products, while others sell mattresses as part of a larger furniture or home goods selection.
Among the most common mattress retailers are:
- Independent local mattress stores
- Large national and regional mattress retailers
- Furniture retailers
- Warehouse retailers
- Major department stores
- General big-box retailers
- Manufacturer-owned mattress stores and showrooms
- Internet-based mattress brands
- Large online marketplaces
- Factory-direct mattress retailers
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.
Buying From Local Mattress Stores
Independent mattress stores can be found in cities, suburbs, and smaller communities across the United States. An independent mattress retailer might run a single store or maintain multiple locations across a state or metro region.
Local mattress retailers often carry products from several manufacturers. A local mattress showroom may offer a broad selection of mattress constructions, including traditional innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, latex mattresses, and hybrids, plus adjustable bases, foundations, pillows, mattress protectors, and other sleep products.
A benefit of buying from a local mattress store is that sales staff may have detailed familiarity with the beds they carry. A single showroom visit may let you compare several types of mattresses and firmness levels.
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. Policies can vary greatly from one business to another.
Buying From National and Regional Mattress Chains
Another common place to shop is a specialty mattress chain. Companies such as Mattress Firm operate stores in many markets, while other chains serve specific states or regions.
These stores focus heavily on mattresses and related sleep products. Many chain showrooms carry multiple well-known manufacturers, as well as adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and bedding accessories.
If you want to compare many mattresses without visiting several retailers, a specialty chain can be convenient. Certain chains also show mattress availability on their websites, allowing you to research models before going to a showroom.
Store chains frequently advertise promotions around major U.S. shopping periods, including Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and other holiday weekends. Even during a sale, compare the final price instead of assuming an advertised discount is automatically the best deal.
Buying a Mattress From a Furniture Store
Mattress departments are common at furniture stores throughout the United States. Retailers such as Ashley, Rooms To Go, and many regional furniture chains offer mattresses together with other major 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 selection can vary considerably by store. Compared with a general furniture showroom, a specialty mattress store may provide a larger selection of models and more mattress-specific guidance.
A furniture store can still be a strong option when comparing mattress prices, 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 online and in their warehouse locations.
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 displayed in-store, while others are packaged or sold mainly online.
Warehouse clubs can work especially well for shoppers who already know the differences among memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses and do not need to test many models.
When comparing warehouse clubs, factor in membership requirements and delivery arrangements, as well as return procedures and local mattress removal services.
Mattresses at Department Stores and Big-Box Stores
Mattresses are also available from department stores and major general retailers. Stores including Macy's, Walmart, Target, and other large retail chains may offer mattresses, although availability differs by market.
Selection varies considerably. Some retailers maintain showroom displays for mattress testing, while others mainly sell boxed mattresses for online ordering or store pickup.
A big-box retailer may be a practical choice for an affordable mattress, a guest-room mattress, a child's mattress, a dorm-room mattress, or a convenient bed-in-a-box product.
Do not base your comparison on the mattress brand alone, check the exact model and specifications before buying. Mattresses from the same manufacturer can vary greatly in construction, thickness, and comfort characteristics.
Manufacturer Showrooms and Brand Stores
Some mattress brands have manufacturer-operated retail locations. For brands without their own stores, authorized dealers may provide access to specific mattress collections.
Well-known mattress brands available in the United States include Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Serta, Beautyrest, Purple, Casper, among many others.
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 several mattresses from one manufacturer without sorting through competing brands.
The main limitation is that you will have fewer opportunities to compare different brands directly.
Buying a Mattress Online
Buying mattresses online is now a major part of the U.S. mattress industry. 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 a delivery service that brings the mattress to the desired room.
Shopping online gives you access to many mattress brands without driving to multiple showrooms. Online shopping can also make it easier to research mattress construction, prices, and retailer policies.
The biggest drawback is that most online purchases are made without lying on the bed first. For that reason, the sleep trial and return policy become especially important.
Review the Sleep Trial Before You Buy
A sleep trial gives you a period of time to use a mattress at home before deciding whether to keep it. Sleep trial periods are different among mattress companies.
Before you purchase, review all applicable trial terms. A retailer may require you to complete an adjustment period before becoming eligible for a return. Other retailers may apply fees for returns, collection, transportation, or administration.
A lengthy advertised sleep trial does not necessarily mean there are no return-related costs. Pay closer attention to the complete return policy than to the headline trial length.
Mattress Types You Will Find at U.S. Retailers
Knowing the main mattress categories can make shopping easier. Most mattress stores organize their inventory around several common construction types.
Innerspring Mattress Construction
An innerspring mattress is built around a coil support system with cushioning materials above it. These mattresses range from basic spring beds to more advanced models with substantial cushioning and pocketed coils.
Mattresses Made With Memory Foam
Memory foam beds rely on layers of foam rather than a conventional spring system. These mattresses are often chosen for their conforming feel and ability to isolate movement between sleepers.
Mattresses With Hybrid Construction
A hybrid mattress combines a coil support system with substantial foam or latex comfort layers. Hybrids are common in American mattress showrooms because they combine characteristics of both foam and innerspring beds.
Latex Mattresses
Latex beds may contain either natural or synthetic latex, sometimes in combination. They tend to have a responsive feel rather than the deep contouring associated with some memory foam beds.
Adjustable Air-Chamber Mattresses
With some premium air mattresses, sleepers can change support levels using adjustable air chambers. These should not be confused with temporary inflatable air mattresses used for guests or camping.
How to Choose a Mattress Store
The ideal mattress retailer is not necessarily the closest location or the retailer with the largest advertised discount. Evaluate the complete purchase process before deciding where to buy.
Important factors include:
- Mattress selection: A good selection should let you compare different mattress types and firmness levels.
- Clear 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.
- Sleep trial: Review the trial length and any fees connected with returning the mattress.
- 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: Compare interest rates, promotional financing terms, and total repayment cost.
Before completing the sale, confirm that you are purchasing the exact mattress model you tried. Mattress names and product lines can sometimes differ between retailers, which can make direct price comparison harder.
Mattress Prices in the United States
U.S. shoppers can find mattresses costing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the product.
Price depends on mattress size, materials, construction, brand, thickness, features, and retailer. Within the same mattress collection, a queen typically falls between twin and king pricing.
Budget shoppers can find entry-level foam and innerspring mattresses through online retailers, discount stores, warehouse clubs, and local mattress outlets. In the mid-range, shoppers generally see more hybrids, higher-density foams, upgraded coil systems, and thicker comfort layers. Premium beds may include specialty foams, latex, advanced support systems, cooling materials, handcrafted construction, or adjustable features.
Instead of choosing a mattress based only on price, compare how long you expect to use it, how well it supports your sleeping position, and the retailer's nearest mattress store return protections.
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, test the mattress in your normal sleep position rather than simply sitting on it. Side sleepers should evaluate whether the mattress cushions the body's main pressure points. Back sleepers should consider whether the mattress supports the lower back without excessive sinking. Stomach sleepers generally need enough support to keep the midsection from sinking too far.
Couples should test the mattress together when possible. Because partners may differ in body weight, sleeping position, and preferred firmness, the best mattress may need to accommodate both people.
A showroom test is still only a short evaluation. This is one reason a reasonable sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can be valuable.
Choosing the Right Mattress Firmness
Mattress firmness is usually described with terms such as soft, medium, medium-firm, firm, or extra firm. No one firmness level is right for every sleeper.
Body weight, sleeping position, mattress design, and individual comfort preferences can all influence the firmness you prefer. Because there is no single industry-wide firmness standard, two mattresses labeled "medium-firm" can feel different.
Treat firmness labels as a starting point, not an exact standard. You can reduce the chance of choosing an unsuitable firmness by testing mattresses or buying from a retailer with a strong exchange policy.
Mattress Delivery and Setup
Delivery services differ between mattress retailers. Before ordering, ask exactly where the mattress will be delivered.
Typical mattress delivery choices include different service levels depending on the retailer. Certain delivery services also include packaging removal, old mattress haul-away, or foundation removal.
If you live in an apartment, condominium, or building with limited access, check hallway dimensions, elevator rules, loading restrictions, and delivery scheduling before purchasing a large mattress or adjustable base.
Mattress Disposal and Recycling
When buying a replacement mattress, you also need to decide how the old mattress will be removed. Mattress disposal regulations vary among states, counties, and cities.
Some mattress stores provide haul-away service as part of delivery. Other disposal options may include municipal disposal services, recycling facilities, and junk removal providers.
Several states, including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, have established mattress recycling programs. Shoppers should review local mattress disposal rules and possible recycling fees instead of assuming regular trash collection will accept a mattress.
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.
Look at everything included with the purchase. A slightly higher mattress price may still represent better value if it includes delivery, setup, a foundation, old mattress removal, or a better return policy.
Where to Buy a Mattress Near You
If you want to shop in person, searching for mattress stores near me can provide a useful starting point. Major metropolitan areas across the United States generally include local mattress retailers, large chains, furniture stores, and department stores.
Shoppers in major markets such as New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, Boston, and Washington, D.C. may have dozens of mattress 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.
Before traveling between multiple showrooms, a mattress directory can help you find and compare nearby retailers. Use the directory to compare locations, retailer types, mattress brands, and services, then contact the store to confirm that the mattress you want to test is available.
Important Questions to Ask a Mattress Retailer
Before completing your mattress purchase, consider asking the salesperson or online retailer these important questions:
- Do you currently have this mattress available?
- What is the total price including delivery and other fees?
- Can I return or exchange the mattress if it is uncomfortable?
- Do I have to keep the mattress for a minimum period before requesting a comfort exchange?
- What fees, including pickup, transport, or restocking charges, apply to returns?
- Who handles warranty claims, the retailer or manufacturer?
- Does the warranty require a specific foundation or bed frame?
- Will the delivery team set up the new mattress?
- Can my old mattress and foundation be removed?
- How soon can the mattress 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
There is no single best place to buy a mattress 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 large chain can be useful when you want convenient access to a broad selection. Warehouse clubs and big-box stores can be attractive for shoppers focused on value, while online mattress sellers provide convenient delivery and access to brands without nearby physical locations.
The key is to compare more than the mattress price. Compare comfort, mattress construction, firmness, size, sleep trial terms, return policies, warranty coverage, delivery, setup, financing, and old mattress 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. A little research before buying can make it much easier to find a mattress that fits your body, sleeping style, budget, and home.