Worst Time to Buy a Mattress

Over the years, I've purchased several mattresses for myself and my family members. Buying mattresses during different times of the year helped me learn the best and worst time to buy a mattress.

By saying the "worst" time to buy a mattress, I'm mainly comparing mattress price points, quality, and availability while also considering other personal factors. There are three main goals when buying a mattress. One is to buy the right mattress for your needs. Two is buying a mattress within your budget. Three is buying a durable mattress that won't wear out fast and cause back pain. The worst time to buy a mattress is when you don't achieve one or all three of the mentioned goals, among others, which may cost you sooner or later. In this guide, we shall discuss the worst time to purchase a mattress and hopefully help you get the mattress of your dreams.

Let's get right into it!

What's the worst time to buy a mattress?

There are several cases where buying a mattress won't work in your favor. Here are some to avoid.

When You Have a Very Low Budget 

While some budget mattresses start around the $200 price point, most high-quality options usually cost above $600 during ordinary days that aren't holidays, with no offers or discounts. For most individuals, this is quite a lot of money to consider using in one go. And if you're on a budget, this can make you go for the cheapest option, which can be bad for numerous reasons. 

For starters, you may end up with a low-quality bed that's uncomfortable and unsupportive, which can cause sleep problems, joint pain, or even back pain. Plus, low-quality beds usually deteriorate faster, which means you may have to repair or replace your bed sooner than expected. This can make you spend even more money in the long run. That said, rather than shop for a new mattress when you have a very low budget, you can save up for a while and invest in a quality mattress that meets your unique preferences. 

When Your Mattress Is Fully Damaged

A damaged mattress can cause pain and discomfort, making it quite hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can affect your sleep quality significantly, as you may end up tossing and turning in bed or feeling too hot due to poor body temperature regulation. Poor sleep quality can, in turn, pose health risks, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and allergies. 

That's why you should never wait too long before replacing an old mattress. It's ideal to start shopping and budgeting for a new mattress once the old one starts showing minimal signs of damage, or at least after 10 years, depending on the quality and type of your mattress. That way, you won't be pressured to get a replacement for your damaged mattress to improve your sleep quality. You'll also have enough time to shop keenly for a mattress that suits your unique needs and preferences. 

When Relocating

There are several reasons why buying a mattress when relocating isn't a good idea. For starters, you may have to wait for weeks for your bed to be delivered, depending on the shipping options of your mattress company. This means you may be forced to use an air mattress or sleep in a hotel until your bed arrives, which could add to your moving expenses. 

If you're relocating to a new country or state, you may have to pay extra charges, which could be costly. What's more, you may have to return the mattress if it gets damaged during shipping or if you're unsatisfied with your product. In addition to being time-consuming, this could be stressful, especially if your company or mattress store has poor customer service. 

To save yourself from all these inconveniences, it's better to buy a new mattress on arrival at the new place. You can also move in with your existing mattress if it's still in perfect condition. 

During Periods of Economic Uncertainties or Instability

Generally, buying a new mattress is a big purchase that can impact your finances significantly. If you buy a mattress during periods of economic uncertainties or instability, you may not find the best deal for your budget, as prices and product availability may fluctuate due to several reasons, including inflation, increased demand, and supply chain disruptions. You also risk ending up stuck with an uncomfortable mattress as some mattress brands may have stricter return policies or shorter return periods during economic crises. 

Plus, some brands may go out of business or minimize their customer service or warranty periods during such periods. Your best bet is to wait until the situation stabilizes before investing in a new mattress. You may also want to consider looking for discounts and mattress sales that may help you get a better value for your purchase. 

When You're Buying Only Based on Fear of Missing Out

Hunting for a new mattress due to FOMO (fear of missing out) isn't a good idea, as it can lead to impulsive and regrettable decisions. Basically, FOMO is the feeling that others are experiencing better things or living a better life than yours. This is usually influenced by social media, where you see hype on a mattress and immediately go for it without confirming whether or not it's the right model for you. Note that nowadays, on social media, influencers hype products so much, but most are getting paid to do so, so it doesn't necessarily mean the mattress will work for everyone.

If you buy a mattress based on FOMO, you may end up with a product that's not suitable for your unique needs or budget simply because you see influencers raving about it. Rather than buying a mattress because you fall for the marketing and social media hype, it's always wise to conduct your research, evaluation, and judgment before investing in a mattress. Consider factors like your health conditions, sleeping position, and budget before making a purchase decision. Also, always be contented and grateful for the things you have, and don't let FOMO influence your self-esteem or happiness. 

During Peak Season

Generally, mattress prices tend to be high during the peak season, so you may spend more than you need to. And since the demand is often high during this season, you may have fewer choices as some models may be out of stock. Keep in mind that most mattress retailers often use aggressive advertising during peak season. Some even use paid and fake reviews just to boost their ratings. Therefore, you may be influenced by these false reviews and market hype and end up paying for a mattress that doesn't suit your needs. 

To avoid being misled by these tactics, consider mattress shopping only when ready and not guided by the ever-changing seasons. In addition to doing your research, consider testing the mattress in person or taking advantage of risk-free sleep trial periods and return policies. 

When You Don't Know the Policies of Your Mattress Company

Sometimes, when you buy a mattress, you may find out that it has some defects or it's unfit for your body weight and sleep position. This may prompt you to return or exchange it for a new model. However, different online retailers and brick and mortar stores have different return, exchange, and warranty policies. Some may have break-in periods, while others may allow you to return the mattress anytime. Some mattresses may come with generous and flexible warranties, while others may have strict ones. 

That's why it's vital to know a company's policies before deciding to work with them. Aside from reading their terms and conditions and comparing them with other brands, check their reputation and customer reviews to see how they handle mattress complaints and returns. 

Seasonal Factors that Affect the Market

In business, seasonal factors often have a significant impact on the levels of revenue a company generates. Depending on the industry, there will always be seasons of the year that are frustratingly lean and others where money is rolling in. 

The mattress industry is a particularly perfect example of seasonal factors in action. For instance, there's often a huge spike in the mattress business during the festive and holiday seasons, such as during Labor Day, where discounts, promotions, and sales are offered. On the other hand, some holidays may discourage people from buying non-essentials, minimizing the demand for sleep products. 

Economic Factors that Affect the Mattress Market 

Generally, economic factors are external and internal variables that can have a significant effect on a company's profitability and efficiency. These factors help companies know when to invest and take their money out of a particular sector. They include:

• Consumer income and spending
• Trade policies and tariffs
• Inflation 
• Competition and innovation

Household spending also affects the mattress market. For instance, higher disposable income will allow you to buy high-end and comfortable beds, while lower income may only limit your choices to cheaper alternatives. 

When is the Best Time to Replace an Old Mattress?

While a mattress should basically last for about 8 to 10 years, several factors influence the lifespan and durability of a mattress. For instance, a mattress made with high-quality materials will hold out for much longer before degrading compared to a model made with poor-quality materials. 

Recognizing the signs of a bad mattress will help you avoid the side effects of sleeping on an old and unreliable mattress. They include:

• Sagging and permanent body indentations
• Excessive heat
• Poor support 
• Allergen buildup 
• Aches and pains

Remember, many individuals become accustomed to the feel and firmness of old mattresses and may not realize they need a new one. If you're experiencing any of the signs mentioned above or your bed is over 7 years old, it might be time to replace it to ensure proper spinal alignment, body support, and a good night's sleep. 

Best Days to Purchase a Mattress

If you're hunting for a new mattress, getting the best price on a quality product boils down to timing. To get the best possible price, you want to ensure that you know when products are likely to go on sale or when major sales events take place. 

Here are some of the major sales to put on your calendar this year so you can get the cheapest prices and the biggest savings on mattresses. 

• Black Friday mattress deals (late October through November)
• Cyber Monday mattress sales (Early December)
• Presidents’ Day mattress sales (February)
• Labor Day mattress sales (September)
• Memorial Day mattress sales (May)
• Amazon Prime Day (July)
• Halloween (October)
• St. Patrick's Day (March)

Mattress brands also offer discounts during company anniversaries. You'll also find mattress offers when a company is launching a new product to pair with the mattress.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Mattress

Whether you're buying a mattress for the first time or you want to replace your old model, there are vital considerations you need to take into account before making a purchase decision. They include:

Budget

Note that a mattress is a great investment in your sleep quality, and you'll only get what you pay for. Before you set out to buy a mattress, you need to think about your overall bedroom budget. This includes other accessories that you may need, such as new sheets and pillows. 

Various factors play into mattress pricing. These include:

• Types of construction
• Where the mattress is made
• Materials 
• Brand 
• Where it's sold

Generally, mattresses cost between $600 and $2,500. If you're concerned about spending more money on a new mattress, there are some factors you need to keep in mind. For starters, mattress companies usually offer regular promotions, discounts, and mattress sales, which help shoppers get better mattress deals for the products they need. While purchasing a new mattress can be a huge investment, getting a quality one is totally worth it. A great bed will not only pay off when it comes to your overall health and sleep quality, but with better durability and quality materials, you won't have to spend more money replacing your mattress or repairing it. 

Bodyweight

Weight distribution plays a crucial role in how firm or soft your sleep surface will feel. For instance, a medium mattress is likely to feel more soft to a heavyweight sleeper, but a lightweight sleeper will likely think that the same bed feels a bit firmer than expected. 

Unlike light individuals, heavier sleepers exert more pressure on the surface and, as a result, tend to have a more plush experience. So, if you fall into this category, I'd suggest a medium-firm or firm mattress. You should also look into hybrid mattresses, as they're more supportive than all-foam models. 

Keep in mind that all mattresses have weight limits, so you should always confirm whether a mattress can support your weight before buying it. If this information is not mentioned on the company website, feel free to inquire about it from customer service. 

Sleeping Position

Another vital factor in buying a mattress is finding the right model for your sleeping position. If you're a back sleeper, you want to opt for a mattress that will keep your torso from sinking deep into the surface while still contouring to your body. Your best bet is to opt for a medium firm to firm bed. 

Side sleepers, on the other hand, have sharp pressure points around their hips and shoulders. On an overly soft mattress, these painful points can easily get out of line with the spine, and if they sleep on a mattress that is too firm, they're likely to feel the impact on these body parts and be prone to misalignment. As a result, side sleepers do best with medium-soft to medium-firm mattresses. 

Like back sleepers, stomach sleepers put the most pressure on their lumbar region. That's why they often do best with firm mattresses that keep their spine from sinking more deeply into the surface and causing pain. If you're a combination sleeper, you should choose a mattress depending on the position you spend the most time in. 

Mattress Safety

It's always wise to look for certifications to ensure the mattress you buy is safe for human use. CertiPUR-US certification, for example, specializes in foam mattresses. If your memory foam mattress is CertiPUR-US certified, it means that it's made without harmful substances such as ozone depleters, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). It also means that your mattress has been screened for relevant chemicals, such as fire retardants, that are harmful to human health. 

If you have allergies, you want to look for a hypoallergenic mattress that will help minimize the presence of allergens in your room and relieve allergy symptoms. Here, you want to opt for mattresses made from natural or organic materials like cotton, bamboo, silk, or latex. Other certifications to look for in hypoallergenic mattresses include GOLS, GOTS, and OEKO-TEX Standard 100. 

Tips for Purchasing a Mattress Online

With the emergence of more direct-to-consumer online brands, selecting the best mattress for your needs can be pretty overwhelming. To help you get started, here are some useful tips you can use when shopping online.

Read Online Reviews

Reading online consumer reviews can give you a clear picture of the quality, firmness, durability, and overall comfort of different mattresses and brands. While you're at it, consider looking for reviews from previous buyers with similar needs, and pay close attention to any cons they mention. That way, you'll be able to narrow down to a model that suits your preference. 

Learn About Different Mattress Types

It's wise to familiarize yourself with different mattress types and understand their fundamental differences before purchasing one. 

Foam mattresses, for instance, tend to offer above-average body contouring, motion isolation, and pressure relief, making them perfect for couples and side sleepers. Latex mattresses, on the other hand, provide top-notch bounce and durability with light to moderate body contouring. And when designed with organic or natural latex, they're an ideal choice for eco-conscious sleepers. 

Once you know what each type of mattress has to offer, you'll be in a better position to proceed and pick your preferred model. 

Mattress Warranty & Night Trials

One of the main pros of buying a new mattress online is that most companies offer generous sleep trial periods, during which buyers can test the bed and decide whether or not they want to keep it. Remember to read the terms and conditions and understand how long the trial period lasts, how you can initiate a return, and whether your companies or mattress stores will pay for the shipping charges. 

Be sure to check for the warranty, as this should cover your mattress against any structural defects. A good warranty usually extends up to 10 years for repairs or a full replacement. Keep in mind that warranties can be voided, so you should always use your mattress as indicated to preserve your warranty coverage. 

Food and drink spills are the most common things that can void a warranty. Since liquids can damage foam materials, staining your bed with any type of liquid is viable to void its coverage. An easy way of avoiding this is by investing in a waterproof mattress protector. You also risk voiding the warranty if you fail to provide the right support for your bed. So, always check your warranty to confirm which type of support is best suited for its materials and construction. 

Affordable Mattress Option

If you have a tight budget and can't wait for a holiday season for discounts, you can choose to buy from affordable mattress brands. Our recommendation is the Zinus brand. Launched in 2004, Zinus is a direct-to-consumer bedding company well-known for providing a wide selection of high-quality hybrid and memory foam beds at affordable prices. They also manufacture bedroom furniture, such as headboards and bed frames. Their flagship model, the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, comes in four different profiles. It features a unique memory foam layer with green tea extracts and charcoal infusions to absorb excess moisture and prevent odor buildup.

Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress 

Costing about $240 for a queen-size model, the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress is one of the most affordable mattresses in the industry. It comes in a 6-inch profile and three-layer design to offer excellent pressure relief and body support. 

Overall Thoughts

The Zinus’ price tag makes it a high-value bed compared to other memory foam models. Although it's the company's most affordable mattress, we found that it performs at the same comfort and support level as many pricier models. It features a memory foam comfort layer over a dense polyfoam layer. While the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress has a medium firm feel, it conforms evenly to distribute the sleeper's weight and alleviate pressure around the spine. 

Our two-stage review process found the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress boasts a much more balanced feel than most competing foam beds thanks to its higher-than-average mattress firmness level. Back and side sleepers should enjoy the generous cushioning for sore body parts around the joints and hip region without sinking excessively. Lightweight stomach sleepers may also feel comfortable, but individuals who weigh more than 230 pounds will likely need to go for a more supportive mattress. 

If you reside within the contiguous United States, you're eligible for free shipping. Zinus also provides a 100-night sleep trial period to give you time to try out your new mattress and a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

Closing Thoughts 

Since buying a new mattress is a huge investment that directly affects your sleep quality and overall well-being, it's crucial to choose the best time to invest in a model that suits your needs and budget. Otherwise, you risk ending up with an overpriced and overhyped mattress or a model that lacks the qualities you need for a comfortable and restorative sleep. So, the next time you go mattress hunting, plan ahead, do your research, and wait for the perfect time to buy one. You'll not only save money and sleep better, but you'll also enjoy your product for years to come.