Mattress Buying Guide & Shop Mattresses
Mattress Buying Guide
Your mattress is the single piece of furniture you spend the most time on — roughly a third of your life. A good one supports your spine, regulates your temperature, and lasts seven to ten years. A bad one wrecks your sleep and your back. This guide walks through the four decisions that matter: type, sleeping position, firmness, and size. Then come visit our Dearborn showroom to lie down on the ones that catch your eye — that’s the only test that really counts.
Mattress Types
Three main constructions dominate the market:
Hybrid
Pocketed coil base with layers of memory foam, latex, or specialty foam on top. Combines the support and airflow of an innerspring with the pressure relief and contour of foam. Versatile, suitable for most sleepers. Our hybrid lineup →
Memory Foam
All-foam construction. Contours closely to the body, isolates motion (a partner can move without waking you), and lasts well. Can sleep warm — look for gel-infused or open-cell foam for better airflow. Our memory foam lineup →
Innerspring
Traditional coil construction with a thin comfort layer. Bouncy, breathable, the most affordable option. Less pressure relief than hybrid or memory foam — better for back and stomach sleepers than side sleepers.
Sleeping Position
- Side sleepers need softer mattresses (medium to medium-soft) that contour around the shoulder and hip. Memory foam or plush hybrid is usually the best fit.
- Back sleepers need medium-firm support to keep the lower back from sagging. Hybrid or firm memory foam works well.
- Stomach sleepers need firm support to keep the hips from sinking and curving the spine. Firmer hybrid or innerspring is usually best. Stomach sleeping is also the hardest position on the lower back — if it’s causing pain, try shifting to your side with a pillow between your knees.
- Combination sleepers (most of us) want responsive mattresses that don’t feel like quicksand when changing positions. Hybrid is the typical sweet spot.
Firmness
Mattress firmness is rated on a 1-10 scale:
- Soft (3-4) — side sleepers under ~130 lbs.
- Medium (5-6) — the most popular range. Suits side and combination sleepers.
- Medium-firm (6-7) — back sleepers and heavier-set side sleepers.
- Firm (7-9) — stomach sleepers and heavier sleepers needing extra support.
Firmness is the most subjective decision — this is why coming in to lie down matters. Spend at least 10 minutes on each mattress you’re seriously considering.
Mattress Sizes
- Twin — 38″ × 75″
- Twin XL — 38″ × 80″
- Full — 53″ × 75″
- Queen — 60″ × 80″ (the most popular)
- King — 76″ × 80″
- California King — 72″ × 84″ (narrower but longer than king — good for tall sleepers)
Measure your bedroom and bring the dimensions — we’ll make sure the size fits with at least 24 inches walking space on each side.
Foundations & Adjustable Bases
A mattress is only as good as what’s under it.
- Foundation — a flat platform (often called a box spring even though most modern ones don’t have springs). Required to keep manufacturer warranties valid on most mattresses. Shop foundations →
- Adjustable base — motorized base that lets you raise your head, raise your feet, or both. Great for reading, watching TV, snoring/sleep apnea, acid reflux, and circulation. Modern models include zero-gravity presets, massage, and USB charging. Most work with hybrid and memory foam mattresses but not all innersprings. Shop adjustable bases →
How Long Should a Mattress Last?
Plan on replacing every 7-10 years. Foam and hybrid mattresses tend to last on the higher end of that range; innersprings on the lower end. Sagging, lumps, or waking up sore are signs it’s time.
Mattress Care
- Use a mattress protector from day one — it protects the warranty and keeps the mattress clean.
- Rotate (head-to-foot) every 3-6 months for even wear. Flipping isn’t needed on modern mattresses — they’re one-sided.
- Vacuum the surface twice a year. Spot-clean spills with mild soap and water — never soak.
Shop Mattresses by Category
Mattress FAQs
How often should I replace my mattress?
Every 7-10 years for most types. Signs it’s time: visible sagging, lumps, waking up sore, or sleeping better in hotel beds than your own.
Hybrid vs memory foam — which is better?
Neither is universally better. Hybrid sleeps cooler and is more responsive (less stuck-in-quicksand). Memory foam contours closer and isolates motion better. If you sleep hot or change positions a lot, lean hybrid. If you share the bed with a restless partner or want maximum pressure relief, lean memory foam.
Are adjustable bases worth it?
Yes for many people — especially anyone who reads or watches TV in bed, has acid reflux, snores, or has back/circulation issues. They’re also great for elderly users who need help sitting up. They’re an upgrade, not a necessity.
Do you deliver and set up mattresses?
Yes — free local delivery and setup across Metro Detroit. We’ll bring the mattress up to your bedroom, place it on your foundation or bed frame, and remove all packaging. We do not currently haul away old mattresses. Full delivery details →
Can I try the mattress in the showroom before buying?
Absolutely — this is the most important reason to come in. Lie down on each mattress you’re considering for at least 10 minutes in your normal sleeping position. Bring your partner if you share the bed.
Can I finance a mattress with Acima?
Yes. All mattresses and adjustable bases are eligible for Acima lease-to-own. Apply in minutes →
Lie down before you buy. Visit our Dearborn showroom Mon-Sat 10am-7pm or Sun 11am-6pm to try our hybrid, memory foam, and adjustable mattress options. (313) 436-0509 or shop mattresses online →