Mattress buying guide: How to choose the perfect mattress
What mattress is best for me? Great question! Sleeping better starts with learning how to choose a mattress, exploring your options and then finding an affordable mattress that’s perfect for you. So get ready to learn about the types of mattresses that will match your sleep needs and your budget with this comprehensive mattress buying guide.
Step 1 - Getting started
Here are some facts to help you make a decision about buying a new IKEA mattress.
Materials and sustainability
Over half of IKEA products currently use renewable materials, and our goal is for all materials to be renewable or recycled by 2030, including mattresses.
10-year guarantee
Many mattresses are covered by a 10-year guarantee. For more information, please read the mattress guarantee.
Love it or exchange it
If you’re not in love with your new mattress, you can return it within 90 days and exchange it for a new one!
Step 2 - Types of mattresses to choose from
Before diving into sleep positions, let’s first consider the type of mattress you should buy: spring mattress or foam mattress. Learn more about the advantages and details of each below.
Spring mattresses
Spring mattresses use coils to distribute your weight, providing optimal support for the body and eliminating excessive stress. They’re also cooler and drier to the touch than foam mattresses.
Foam mattresses
Soft, resilient, and made without coils, foam mattresses spread your body weight more evenly than spring mattresses and promote better blood circulation. Available in standard foam and memory foam.
Mattress Firmness
Finding the best mattress firmness for you – whether super firm or super plush or somewhere in between – is essential so your mattress comfortably supports the specific curves of your body and the way you sleep.
Medium firm mattresses
Medium firm mattresses provide similar body alignment and sturdiness but are slightly softer than traditional firm mattresses and more easily adapt to your body contours.
Firm mattresses
A firm mattress will help your back and body stay aligned throughout the night and will provide more sturdiness and support than other mattress types.
Extra firm mattresses
Extra firm mattresses create a firm, level surface which is excellent for spinal support. These mattresses do not compress when you lay down. This feature benefits people who experience upper back, shoulder, or neck discomfort while sleeping.
Step 3 - What's my sleeping position?
Your sleeping position – whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper or stomach sleeper – plays a huge factor in the type of mattress you should choose. Explore the different sleeping styles below.
Side sleeper
A medium firm or plush mattress is best if you prefer to sleep on your side most of the time because it will keep your spine straight, muscles relaxed and shape itself around your shoulders and hips.
Back sleeper
For back sleepers, we recommend choosing a firm mattress as it prevents the neck and lower back from sinking too deeply, helps maintain spine straightness and provides optimal support in the lumbar region.
Stomach sleeper
For stomach sleepers, extra support is needed around the neck and the base of the spine, so a firm mattress is best since it supports your spine's natural s-curve and prevents neck and back pain.
Step 4 - What size mattress do I need?
Several factors will determine what size mattress is best for you, including whether you are sleeping alone or with someone else, the size of your room and the size of your body.
Sleeping alone or with a partner
If you are sleeping alone you could likely sleep in a twin or any larger size bed depending on other factors like your height, weight and room size. If you are sleeping with a partner, a queen or king size bed is recommended.
Height and weight
Depending on your body size (and, if you’re not sleeping alone, the body size of your partner), you should choose a mattress accordingly. You want to be sure you are comfortable in your preferred sleep position and that your feet aren’t hanging off the end of the bed!
Broad hips, broad shoulders
Those with wide hips and wide shoulders should strongly consider a larger bed with more space to move and be comfortable, such as a queen or king sized bed.
Mattress size
Finding the right mattress size and thickness is very important for a great night’s sleep, so be sure to confirm the size of our twin/single, full/double, queen and king size mattresses to make sure they are right for you.
How much space do you have in your bedroom?
Before making a decision on your mattress type and size, it is highly recommended that you take out a tape measure to determine the size of bed that works best in your room.
Twin/Single
80cm x 200cm ; 90cm x 200cm
Full/Double
140cm x 200cm
Queen
160cm x 200 cm
King
180cm x 200 cm
Step 5 - Complete your mattress with accessories
Now that you are ready to purchase the perfect mattress for you, take your sleep experience to the next level with a mattress protector, pillows, duvets and more great sleep essentials.
Bed bases
There are several different types of bed bases and frames that you can choose from to create a sleeping scenario that’s right for you.
Bed slats
A bed slat setup is a minimal bed base that uses wooden slats as support and that can be adjusted for firmness.
Mattress base
A mattress base is great if you want to raise the height of your bed, make it look a bit more elegant and would like to provide additional support for your mattress.
Bed frame
Explore bed frames that provide support for your mattress and that also include a headboard so you can comfortably sit up in bed.
Mattress protectors
A removable mattress protector will help your mattress last longer and stay clean by protecting it from stains, dirt and dust mites.
Pillows
Find a pillow that matches your sleep style, whether you need one that is high, low or ergonomic, and optimal for back or side sleeping.
Duvets
Find a variety of duvets that will help you maintain your desired temperature, comfort-level and make your bedroom more stylish.
Materials used in high-quality mattresses
Yes, the materials used to make your mattress matter! Bad materials could mean a bad night’s sleep. For example, if you have allergies you should look for a hypoallergenic mattress that resists dust mites, pet dander, mold, mildew and other allergy triggers. Our mattresses are made with high-quality, sustainable materials that can help you get a better night’s sleep.
Mattress care tips
Before using
Before using your mattress you will want to take it out of its packaging and allow it some time to breathe and air out; and if it’s a foam mattress, it is suggested to allow it time to expand to its full shape.
Cleaning & maintenance
Regularly cleaning your mattress is suggested so that it will last as long as possible. You should regularly vacuum your mattress and clean it with other recommended cleaners depending on the type of mattress you have.
Storage & transportation
In order to store and transport your mattress, you will need to purchase a heavy duty mattress bag. This will protect it from being damaged by the move and will help to keep it clean.
Try mattresses in a store near you
Want to try one of our mattresses for yourself? Visit your local IKEA store and spend some time exploring your bedroom options with the help of a knowledgeable IKEA co-worker.
