Knowing where to buy a mattress in the USA can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. Across the United States, shoppers can choose among many different mattress retailers, including local mattress stores, national chains, furniture stores, warehouse clubs, department stores, manufacturer showrooms, and online mattress companies. Your ideal place to shop will vary according to what you want to spend, what kind of mattress you need, where you live, and whether you want to try it first.
A mattress is also different from many other household purchases. A low price can be attractive, but the least expensive mattress is not necessarily the best choice. 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.
This guide covers the main mattress-buying options in the USA and the factors you should consider before selecting a store.
Where Can You Buy a Mattress in the United States?
Across the United States, mattresses are available from several categories of retailers. While certain stores are dedicated mainly to mattresses and sleep products, others sell mattresses alongside a larger selection of furniture and household goods.
Common places to buy mattresses in the United States include:
- Locally owned mattress retailers
- National and regional mattress chains
- Furniture stores
- Warehouse clubs
- Department store retailers
- General big-box retailers
- Manufacturer-owned mattress stores and showrooms
- Internet-based mattress brands
- Internet marketplaces
- Factory-direct mattress retailers
Each option has different strengths and limitations. Shoppers who want to lie on several beds before choosing one may prefer a mattress showroom. Online shopping may be more convenient for buyers who already know their preferred mattress type and firmness.
Local Mattress Stores
You can find local independent mattress stores in communities of many sizes throughout the United States. An independent mattress retailer might run one local showroom or maintain multiple locations across a state or metro region.
Many local mattress stores carry several mattress brands. A local mattress showroom may offer several types of mattresses, 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 employees may be knowledgeable about the mattresses in the showroom. A single showroom visit may let you compare multiple mattress constructions and firmness choices.
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.
National and Regional Mattress Retailers
U.S. shoppers can also buy from specialty mattress chains operating across national or regional markets. For example, Mattress Firm operates stores across many markets, while other mattress chains focus on particular states or regions.
Mattress chains typically devote most of their inventory to mattresses and other sleep-focused products. Inside a typical specialty mattress showroom, shoppers may find several major manufacturers together with adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and other bedding accessories.
If you want to compare many mattresses without visiting several retailers, a specialty chain can be convenient. You may also be able to research available mattresses on the retailer's website before heading to the store.
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. However, shoppers should compare the final purchase price rather than assuming every advertised sale represents the lowest available price.
Furniture Stores That Sell Mattresses
Many furniture stores in the United States have separate areas for mattresses and sleep products. Stores such as Ashley, Rooms To Go, and numerous regional furniture chains sell mattresses alongside bedroom furniture, sofas, dining sets, and other home furnishings.
If you are furnishing a complete bedroom, a furniture store can be convenient because the mattress, bed frame, headboard, dresser, and nightstands may all be available from one retailer.
Mattress choice at furniture stores is often dependent on the specific showroom. Compared with a general furniture showroom, a specialty mattress store may provide a larger selection of models and more mattress-specific guidance.
Furniture stores are still worth considering when comparing prices, especially if you are looking for a complete bedroom package or need delivery of several large household items at the same time.
Buying Mattresses From Warehouse Clubs
Membership warehouse clubs are another popular place to buy mattresses in the USA. For example, copyright and Sam's Club offer mattresses from several brands through both physical stores and their websites.
A warehouse club may be appealing for value-focused shoppers, but it may not display as many mattresses as a dedicated mattress retailer. 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.
Buying Mattresses From Department Stores and Big-Box Retailers
Department stores and big-box retailers also sell mattresses throughout the United States. Stores including Macy's, Walmart, Target, and other large retail chains may offer mattresses, although availability differs by market.
Selection varies considerably. At certain stores you can test mattresses on display, while other retailers focus more on boxed mattresses available for shipping or pickup.
For shoppers seeking lower-priced mattresses or convenient bed-in-a-box options, big-box stores can be useful, especially for guest rooms, children's rooms, or dorm rooms.
When comparing mattresses, look at the exact model rather than relying only on the brand name. Mattresses from the same manufacturer can vary greatly in materials, coil systems, foam layers, height, and firmness.
Mattress Brand Stores and Manufacturer Showrooms
Some mattress brands have their own stores and showrooms. Other brands have authorized dealers where shoppers can test specific product lines.
U.S. mattress shoppers may encounter major brands such as Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Serta, Beautyrest, Purple, Casper, along with numerous other manufacturers.
If you already prefer a particular manufacturer, shopping at its branded store can simplify your search. This can let you compare several models and firmness levels from the same manufacturer without evaluating unrelated mattresses.
The main limitation is that you will have fewer opportunities to compare different brands directly.
Buying a Mattress Online
Online mattress shopping has become a major part of the U.S. mattress market. Consumers can buy directly from many mattress brands online and have beds delivered across a large portion of the United States.
Depending on the mattress, delivery may involve boxed shipping or a full-size mattress delivered without compression. Some mattress companies also provide room-of-choice delivery or white-glove service.
Shopping online gives you access to a wide selection of mattresses from home. Websites allow shoppers to review product details and buying terms before deciding.
The biggest drawback is that you normally cannot test the mattress in person before placing an order. For that reason, the sleep trial and return policy become especially important.
Check the Sleep Trial Before Ordering
A sleep trial allows you to sleep on the bed for a specified time before deciding whether it is right for you. Trial lengths vary by company.
Make sure you understand the complete policy before ordering. Some retailers require customers to keep a mattress for a minimum adjustment period before requesting a return. Other retailers may apply pickup, transportation, restocking, or processing fees.
A lengthy advertised sleep trial does not necessarily mean returns are completely free. Pay closer attention to the complete return policy than to the headline trial length.
Common Mattress Types Sold in the United States
Mattress shopping becomes easier when you understand the basic mattress categories. Most mattress stores organize their inventory around several common construction types.
Innerspring Mattress Construction
An innerspring mattress is built around springs that provide support beneath comfort layers. Innerspring construction can be found in basic mattresses as well as higher-end models featuring thick cushioning and individually wrapped coils.
Memory Foam Beds
Rather than using a traditional spring support system, memory foam mattresses are built with foam layers. They are known for contouring around the body and reducing motion transfer between sleeping partners.
Mattresses With Hybrid Construction
A hybrid mattress combines a coil support system with substantial foam or latex comfort layers. Many American mattress retailers carry hybrids, which combine coil support with foam-based comfort.
Latex Mattresses
A latex mattress can be made with different forms of natural and synthetic latex. Compared with some memory foam mattresses, latex beds often feel springier and less enveloping.
Mattresses With Adjustable Air Support
With some premium air mattresses, sleepers can change support levels using adjustable air chambers. These products are different from temporary inflatable air mattresses used for guests or camping.
How to Choose a Mattress Store
Choosing a mattress store should involve more than simply finding the closest retailer or biggest sale. Compare the complete buying experience before making your decision.
Consider the following factors when evaluating a mattress store:
- Product selection: A good selection should let you compare different mattress types and firmness levels.
- Transparent pricing: Ask what is included in the advertised price and whether delivery or setup costs extra.
- Return policy: Check whether returns are handled through refunds, exchanges, store credit, or comfort exchanges.
- At-home trial: Review how long the mattress can be tested and what return charges may apply.
- Warranty: Read the manufacturer's warranty and the list of covered defects.
- Delivery: Find out whether the mattress is shipped, delivered to your door, or installed in your bedroom.
- Old mattress removal: Ask whether your existing mattress can be hauled away.
- Financing: If financing is offered, compare interest rates, promotional terms, and the total amount you will repay.
Before completing the sale, confirm that you are purchasing the exact mattress model you tried. Because mattress names and product lines can vary among retailers, direct price comparisons are sometimes difficult.
What Does a Mattress Cost in the USA?
U.S. shoppers can find mattresses costing a few hundred dollars at the lower end and several thousand dollars for high-end models or adjustable sleep systems.
The cost of a mattress is influenced by several factors, including mattress size, build quality, materials, brand, height, features, and retailer. A queen mattress usually costs more than a twin but less than a king within the same product line.
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 a broader variety of materials and construction features. Higher-end mattresses may use more costly materials and advanced comfort or support 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 return protections.
Is It Worth Testing a Mattress in a Store?
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. If you sleep on your side, notice whether the shoulders and hips experience uncomfortable pressure. If you sleep on your back, consider lower-back support and whether your body sinks too deeply. For stomach sleepers, adequate support can help prevent the center of the body from dropping too deeply into the mattress.
If two people will share the mattress, it is useful for both sleepers to test it together. Differences in body weight, sleep position, and firmness preference can affect which mattress works best.
Trying a mattress in-store provides a limited preview of long-term comfort. This is one reason a reasonable sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can be valuable.
How to Choose Mattress Firmness
Mattress firmness is usually described with terms such as soft, medium, medium-firm, firm, or extra firm. There is no single firmness level that works for everyone.
Your preferred firmness can depend on body weight, sleeping position, mattress construction, and personal comfort. The term "medium-firm" is not standardized, so one manufacturer's medium-firm mattress may feel different from another's.
Firmness descriptions are most useful as rough reference points rather than exact measurements. You can reduce the chance of choosing an unsuitable firmness by trying beds in person and reviewing comfort exchange options.
How Mattress Delivery and Setup Work
Mattress delivery options vary among retailers. Before ordering, ask exactly where the mattress will be delivered.
Mattress retailers may offer several delivery levels ranging from doorstep drop-off to full setup. Depending on the retailer, the delivery team may provide cleanup and old mattress removal.
Apartment and condominium residents should confirm that building access will accommodate the delivery.
How to Dispose of or Recycle an Old Mattress
Replacing a mattress also means deciding what to do with the old one. Mattress disposal regulations depend on local and state rules.
A retailer may be able to take your old mattress away at the same time it delivers the replacement. Local waste services, transfer stations, recycling programs, and private junk removal companies may also accept mattresses.
Several states, including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, have established mattress recycling programs. Requirements and recycling fees can vary, so shoppers should check local rules rather than assuming a mattress can be left with regular household trash.
If the mattress is still clean and usable, local charities or nonprofit organizations may accept it, but donation standards differ and many organizations do not take used mattresses.
Best Times of Year to Buy a Mattress
Although mattress promotions appear year-round, major U.S. holiday weekends are common sale periods. Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and memory foam mattress stores near me Black Friday are often associated with mattress promotions.
Waiting until a holiday sale is not a guarantee of the best value. Throughout the year, mattress sellers may adjust prices, bundles, financing promotions, and free accessory offers.
Look at the complete value of the offer. Paying slightly more may make sense when the purchase includes delivery, setup, a foundation, old mattress haul-away, or a more favorable 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. Most U.S. metropolitan areas have a mix of independent mattress stores, national chains, furniture retailers, and department stores.
In major U.S. markets including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, Boston, and Washington, D.C., shoppers may have dozens of mattress stores and showrooms within driving distance. In smaller cities and rural communities, there may be fewer nearby showrooms, which can make regional retailers and online mattress stores more useful.
A mattress directory can help you identify nearby retailers before you start driving from store to store. Compare locations, store types, mattress brands, and available services, then contact the retailer to confirm that the products you want to test are actually available at that location.
Important Questions to Ask a Mattress Retailer
A few questions can help clarify the purchase terms before you pay for a new mattress:
- Is this mattress currently in stock?
- What is the total price including delivery and other fees?
- Am I allowed to return or exchange the mattress if the comfort is not right?
- Is there a mandatory adjustment period before I can exchange the mattress?
- Are there return, pickup, transportation, or restocking fees?
- Who handles warranty claims, the retailer or manufacturer?
- Are there foundation or bed-frame requirements under the warranty?
- Will the delivery team set up the new mattress?
- Can the delivery team remove my existing mattress and foundation?
- How soon can the mattress be delivered?
Clarifying these details before buying can help prevent misunderstandings after the sale.
Finding the Right Place to Buy Your Next Mattress
No mattress retailer is ideal for everyone. Local mattress retailers can work well for shoppers who prefer face-to-face service and in-store mattress testing. A large chain can be useful when you want convenient access to a broad selection. Warehouse clubs and big-box retailers may appeal to value-focused shoppers, while online mattress companies provide convenient home delivery and access to brands that may not have local showrooms.
The most important point is to look beyond price alone. Your decision should account for the mattress itself and the policies surrounding the purchase.
Use the directory to find mattress stores across the United States, explore retailers near you, and compare your options 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.