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.
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, foam mattress or hybrid 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 & memory 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.
Hybrid mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are the best of both worlds, using both innerspring core support and foam comfort. They provide a cool, comfortable night’s sleep by combining sturdiness and pressure relief.
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.
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. And if you want to find your perfect mattress quickly take our comfort guide quiz by simply answering questions about your sleeping habits and preferences, and we'll recommend the best mattress, pillow, and duvet for your needs!
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.
Need more help choosing your mattress?
Let us help you choose the best mattress, pillow and quilt for your needs. Explore our comfort guide to get recommendations on what will best suit your sleep style and start to get comfortable today!
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.
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 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.
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.
Mattress toppers
Increase the comfort of your bed while also helping improve its longevity by adding a memory foam mattress topper. Designed to fit perfectly on top of your mattress.
Bedding
The secret to a good night's sleep? Comfortable and cute bedding that is just your style and made with quality and sustainability in mind. Snuggle up with your favorite designs and materials to keep your cozy level just right, night after night.
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. Sometimes the mattress has a noticeable smell when you open the packaging. The smell isn't harmful or toxic and disappears over time. Airing and vacuuming the mattress helps to eliminate the smell faster.
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. Complement it with a mattress protector that can be removed and machine washed. And if possible, turn the mattress occasionally to wear it evenly. Simple tips that will keep your mattress fresh for longer.
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.
Frequently asked mattress questions
How do I get rid of a mattress?
To properly dispose of a mattress you should research the correct local protocol where you live. Most places will require you to purchase a specific mattress trash bag in order to be picked up by your local trash disposal service.
How often should I replace my mattress?
Your mattress should be replaced after about six to eight years. But if your mattress continues to provide the support and great sleep you need after that, it is up to you when to replace it.