Ultimate Mattress Buying Guide
Everything You Need to Know

Unbiased, expert information on every stage of mattress shopping - from what to look for before you buy to how to care for your new mattress after delivery.

We created this guide to give you clear, honest information on every aspect of mattress shopping. Whether you are buying your first mattress or replacing one you have had for years, the topics below cover construction types, firmness, specifications, accessories, and everything in between. Browse each section in order or jump directly to the topic that interests you most.

1 Pre-Purchase Checklist 2 Mattress Fundamentals 3 Comparison Tips 4 Advanced Specifications 5 Accessories & Essentials 6 After-Purchase Advice

1. Pre-Purchase Checklist

Before you start shopping, it helps to know where you stand. The table below covers the most common questions customers have before buying a mattress, along with a quick tip for each. Click any topic to read the full article on our blog.

Question / Topic Why It Matters Quick Tip
Is your bed 8-10 years old? Foams lose resiliency, coils fatigue, and allergens build up over time. Replace every decade - or sooner if you see visible sagging.
Need a quick comfort fix? Toppers mask but do not restore lost support. Great short-term solution - budget for a new mattress long-term.
Budget vs. value The cheapest mattresses skimp on padding and durability. Mid-range or higher is a better nightly investment.
Choosing the right size Room size and partner needs determine long-term comfort. Buy the largest size your room allows.
Store vs. online Feel is subjective - specs alone cannot tell you about comfort. Try in-store first or insist on a risk-free sleep trial.
How to compare models Retailers rename the same beds to block price shopping. Match coil count, foam density, and thickness - not fabric colour.
Spotting a real sale "70% OFF" may be inflated MSRP marketing. Focus on final price and internal specs, not the original sticker.
Which mattress suits me? No single mattress fits everyone. Test multiple types and firmness levels before choosing.

2. Mattress Fundamentals

2.1 Main Construction Types

There are four primary mattress construction types, and each has strengths suited to different sleepers. The table below gives you a quick comparison. Click the type name to read a detailed breakdown on our blog, or browse our shop by mattress type category to see models in each style.

Type Best For Key Benefits Watch-Outs
Pocket-Coil / Innerspring · Shop All positions Breathable, multiple firmness options, strong edge support More motion transfer than all-foam
Memory Foam · Shop Pressure-point relief Deep contouring, excellent motion isolation Warmer sleep feel
Latex · Shop Eco-minded and combo sleepers Responsive bounce, hypoallergenic, very durable Higher price point
Hybrid Couples, hot sleepers Coil airflow combined with foam or latex comfort Heavier; price varies with materials

2.2 Firmness and Sleep Position

The right firmness depends almost entirely on how you sleep. Here is a quick guide to matching your primary sleep position to the firmness level that will keep your spine aligned and your pressure points relieved. You can also browse mattresses by comfort level to see what is available in each firmness range.

1

Side Sleepers

Medium-plush to medium. Look for euro-top, pillow-top, or memory foam that cushions the shoulders and hips without letting the spine dip. See our top picks →
2

Back Sleepers

Medium-firm to firm. Hybrids and firm tight-tops provide the lumbar support back sleepers need while keeping the spine in a neutral position. See our top picks →
3

Stomach Sleepers

Firm to extra-firm. A solid surface prevents the lower back from swaying and keeps the spine aligned for stomach sleepers. See our top picks →

2.3 How to Try a Mattress In-Store

A showroom visit is the single best way to gauge how a mattress actually feels. Here are three steps to get the most out of your in-store test.

1
Lie in your usual sleep position for at least 10 minutes. A quick sit-down is not enough - your body needs time to register the support and pressure distribution.
2
Ask a friend or use your phone camera to check that your spine is in a neutral, straight alignment. Your hips and shoulders should sink in just enough to keep the spine level.
3
Roll to the edge of the mattress and sit on the side. A quality mattress should have solid perimeter support that does not collapse when you sit or sleep near the edge.

"No single mattress fits everyone. The best mattress for you is the one that keeps your spine aligned, relieves your pressure points, and feels comfortable after 10 minutes - not 10 seconds."

- National Mattress Sleep Experts

3. Intermediate Comparison Tips

Once you understand the basics, comparing mattresses comes down to a few key specifications. Retailers sometimes use confusing numbers and jargon to make comparisons difficult - the table below cuts through that and tells you what actually matters.

What to Compare Good Benchmark Pro Insight
Coil count Approximately 800 pocket coils (Queen) "2,000 coil" counts often double-stack micro-coils - the support gains are minimal compared to quality single-layer coils.
Coil gauge 13-15 gauge Lower gauge number means thicker, firmer wire. Always consider count and gauge together for a complete picture.
Foam density Poly ≥ 1.8 lb/ft³ · Memory ≥ 4 lb/ft³ Higher density resists sagging over time and is especially important for heavier sleepers.
Origin and certifications Made-in-Canada, CertiPUR-US, OEKO-TEX Ensures low VOCs, no harmful chemicals, and consistent quality control throughout production.

4. Advanced Specifications

For shoppers who want to go deeper into the technical details, here are the specifications that separate a good mattress from a great one. Each topic links to a detailed article on our blog.

Coil Gauge Explained Foam ILD (Firmness Rating) Dunlop vs. Talalay Latex Memory Foam Types Foam Encasement

5. Accessories and Sleep Essentials

Your mattress is the foundation, but the right base, pillow, and protector complete the sleep system. These guides cover the most common accessory questions we hear from customers. You can also browse all accessories in our online store.

Do I Need a New Box Spring? Types of Box Springs Split Box Springs Do I Need a Bed Frame? Frame vs. Box Spring vs. Platform How to Choose a Pillow Different Pillow Types Do I Need a Mattress Protector?

6. After-Purchase Advice

You have found the right mattress and placed your order - now what? These articles cover everything from preparing your bedroom for delivery to understanding your warranty and knowing when to consider an exchange. Need details on shipping? Visit our free express delivery page.

Preparing for Delivery Why Does My New Mattress Feel Firmer? Getting Used to Your Mattress Exchanging or Returning Understanding Warranties
200+
Mattress Models Available
13+
Years Serving Canadians
0
Commission on Any Sale

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of mattress is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers generally do best with a medium-plush to medium firmness mattress that cushions the shoulders and hips. Euro-top, pillow-top, and memory foam mattresses are all excellent options. The key is finding a mattress that allows your shoulders and hips to sink in just enough to keep your spine in a straight, neutral alignment. Our non-commissioned sleep experts can help you test options in-store. Browse our top-rated mattresses for side sleepers to see specific models we recommend.
How often should I replace my mattress?
Most mattresses should be replaced every 8 to 10 years, though higher-quality latex and hybrid models can last longer. Signs that your mattress needs replacing include visible sagging, lumps or ridges you can feel through the surface, waking up with stiffness or pain, and sleeping noticeably better when you are away from home. Read our full article on signs you need a new mattress.
Is it better to buy a mattress in-store or online?
We recommend trying mattresses in-store whenever possible. Comfort is subjective, and specifications alone cannot tell you how a mattress will feel to your body. If you prefer to shop online, make sure the retailer offers a genuine sleep trial so you can test the mattress at home and exchange it if needed. National Mattress offers both options - try in any of our Ontario showrooms or shop online with our 365-Night Sleep Trial.
What is a good coil count for a Queen mattress?
A good benchmark is approximately 800 individually pocketed coils in a Queen size. Be cautious of mattresses advertising very high coil counts like 2,000 or more - these often use double-stacked micro-coils where the support gains are minimal compared to a well-built single-layer coil system. Coil count should always be evaluated alongside coil gauge (wire thickness) for a complete picture. Read our guide on different types of coils.
How do I know what firmness level is right for me?
The right firmness depends primarily on your sleep position. Side sleepers usually prefer medium-plush to medium, back sleepers do well with medium-firm to firm, and stomach sleepers generally need firm to extra-firm support. Body weight also plays a role - heavier sleepers often benefit from firmer surfaces that prevent excessive sinking. The best way to find your ideal firmness is to browse by comfort level online or try multiple mattresses in person with guidance from our sleep experts.
Do I need a box spring with my new mattress?
It depends on your bed frame and the type of mattress you are buying. Traditional innerspring mattresses often benefit from a box spring for shock absorption and height. Many modern mattresses, especially foam and hybrid models, work well on a platform bed, slatted frame, or adjustable base without a box spring. Check your mattress warranty requirements, as some manufacturers require a specific type of foundation. Our guide on box springs covers this in detail.
Why does my new mattress feel firmer than it did in the store?
New mattresses go through a break-in period. The foams and fabrics need time to soften and conform to your body - this typically takes two to four weeks. The mattress you tried in the showroom has already been broken in by hundreds of customers testing it. Give your new mattress at least 15 to 30 nights before deciding it is too firm. Read our article on why new mattresses feel firmer.
Does National Mattress offer a sleep trial?
Yes. Every mattress purchased from National Mattress comes with our 365-Night Sleep Trial. If you are not completely satisfied with your mattress, you can exchange it within the trial period. We also offer a price match guarantee so you can shop with confidence knowing you are getting the best value. Visit our showroom locations to try before you buy, or shop online with free delivery across Ontario.

Need Personalised Advice?

Take our mattress quiz for a tailored recommendation, or visit any National Mattress showroom for hands-on guidance from our non-commissioned sleep experts.

Take the Mattress Quiz Visit a Showroom