Mattress Care

Mattress Buying with EASE

Here's how to buy a new mattress with E-A-S-E.

Evaluate your sleep set and determine if it's time to buy a new bed.

With most household products, it's fairly obvious when a replacement is needed. If it no longer works or shows signs of wear and tear that impairs its ability, you know its time for a new one. However, it's not as obvious when the time comes to replace your sleep set. Similar to your favorite old chair or pair of shoes, your mattress still can feel comfortable long after it's lost the ability to provide the proper comfort and support. To function fully and feel your best, restful sleep is essential. It's important for you to evaluate your sleep set on a regular basis.

Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to buy the best possible sleep set.

If it's been years since you last purchased a mattress, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find a wide variety of new choices. Just as computer and electronic technology continues to evolve, there are new developments in sleep sets every year.

One of the most recent trends is the pillow top mattress, which offers an extra layer of soft cushioning that looks like a comforter attached to the mattress surface. In addition, there is a wide selection of luxury materials now used in mattress construction, from natural fibers such as cotton and wool to foams that mold to the body. Mattress makers also are going to new heights when it comes to top quality mattresses. After adding extra comfort layers, some mattresses now can be 14, 15 or 16 inches thick.

Shop to find the right mattress to suit your individual needs.

When comparing brand name sleep sets, remember that a bargain mattress and foundation are no bargain when it comes to a good night's sleep. The Better Sleep Council recommends that you "shop for the best value, not the lowest price." And when you divide the cost of a quality mattress over its 10-year life, a good night's sleep probably costs only pennies per night. A quality sleep set is a sound investment, so buy the best mattress you can afford.

Ensure that you get the most out of your new mattress with these mattress quality care tips.

• Rotate it. Unless your mattress care instructions indicate otherwise, you may want to periodically rotate your mattress from end to end and top to bottom.
• Use a protective pad. A good quality, washable mattress pad, and perhaps one for the foundation, too, is a must to keep your sleep set fresh and free from stains.
• Give it good support. Be sure to use a sturdy, high quality bed frame. If it's a queen or king size set, make sure your frame has the strong center support to prevent bowing or breakage.
• Don't dry clean. The chemicals in dry cleaning agents and spot removers may be harmful to the fabric or underlying materials. Vacuuming is the only recommended cleaning method. But if you're determined to tackle a stain, use mild soap with cold water and apply lightly. Do not ever soak a mattress or foundation.
• It's not a trampoline. Don't let the kids jump on your sleep set. Their roughhousing could do damage to the interior construction.
• No boards, please. Never put a board between the mattress and foundation. It may enhance the sense of support for a while, but it will only hasten the decline of your sleep set. When any bed in your home reaches the "board stage," get rid of it.
• Out with the old. Now that you've treated yourself to a new sleep set, arrange for removal and disposal of your old bed. Don't give it to the kids, relatives, guests or neighbors. If it wasn't good enough for you, it isn't good enough for anyone else. Throw it out!