Mattress Buying Guide from NFM
If you’re ready to invest in a new mattress but aren’t quite sure where to start, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know.
We’ll explore different mattress types, explain mattress size dimensions, and help you understand the differences between a box spring vs platform bed.
You’ll also learn when to replace a mattress and how to find the perfect fit, whether you’re searching for the best mattress for back pain, the ideal option for side sleepers, or simply expert advice to guide your decision.
Not sure yet? Then read more about best mattresses for different sleeping habits, health concerns and body types
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When to Replace a Mattress
Knowing when to replace a mattress is key to maintaining good sleep health. Consider replacing your mattress if:
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You’ve used it for over 8 years.
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It sags or has visible wear.
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You wake up with aches, pains, or stiffness.
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You wake frequently at night and struggle to get back to sleep.
If you relate to any of these signs, it’s time to learn how to shop for a mattress that offers better support and comfort.
How To Choose A New Mattress
What mattress should I buy? It depends on four main factors:
How you sleep is a crucial factor behind understanding what kind of mattress is right for you. Not every mattress is right for everyone. Below are common sleeper types and the mattress recommendations that best fit their needs:
Side sleepers
Side sleepers benefit from softer to medium-firm mattresses that relieve pressure on shoulders and hips. Our picks for the best mattress for side sleepers balance contouring with support.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers need support for their lower backs. Choose a firmer mattress that will ensure proper spine alignment.
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers need support for their torsos. Choose a firm to extra-firm mattress that will keep the torso from sinking in.
Tossers and Turners
If you toss and turn while sleeping, it is best to avoid a very firm mattress. Consider a spring mattress that will contain motion so that you can sleep undisturbed.
Heavier sleepers often find firmer mattresses to be the most supportive choice, since these beds provide the stability and reinforcement needed to prevent sinking too deeply into the surface. Innerspring mattresses, with their durable coil systems, are a classic option for this group. Hybrid models, which combine springs with layers of memory foam or latex, also offer excellent support while adding just the right amount of cushioning. On the other hand, petite sleepers may benefit from softer mattress types. A softer surface helps cradle lighter body weights more effectively, allowing shoulders, hips, and joints to gently sink into the mattress for improved comfort and pressure relief. Memory foam and plush pillow-top models are especially popular among smaller frames for their ability to contour closely to the body.
Chronic back pains
If you suffer from chronic back pains, choose a mattress that is medically approved or has specialized orthopaedic qualities to provide the relief and support that you require. You could also choose an adjustable base that reduces the strain on your back by making it easier for you to get in and out of bed.
Mild back pains
Choose a foam or pocket spring mattress with basic 3-zoned support features.
Hot sleeper
If you are a hot sleeper and you sweat while sleeping, choose a mattress with an in-built cooling technology.
Allergies
If you suffer from allergies, your ideal mattress would be made of foam as the core structure of foam mattresses helps keep dust mites and mold away. Choose between memory foam or Gel foam mattresses to reduce the risk of allergens and dust mites.
Your Ideal Mattress Type and Size
When choosing your mattress size, think about how many people will be sleeping on it and the size of the room where it will be placed. Be sure to measure your doorways and hallways to ensure the mattress can be brought inside without difficulty. For exact measurements, refer to our mattress size guide and compare with your available space. At Nebraska Furniture Mart, you can choose between these mattress sizes:
| Sizes |
Dimensions (inches) |
| Crib |
28” X 52” |
| Twin |
39” X 75” |
| Full |
54” X 75” |
| Queen |
60” X 80” |
| King |
76” X 80” |
| California King |
72” X 84” |
Mattress Types Explained
The materials that are used to construct your mattress determine the support it offers you while you sleep. Each mattress is made up of different layers of insulation and upholstery. It is up to you to choose whether you want a smooth, soft, or textured feel.
Here are the different types of mattresses you can choose from at NFM:
Innerspring or open coil mattresses use a steel-coil support system that gives your mattress that extra bounce and gives you the ease of changing positions while sleeping.
In a pocket spring mattress, each individual spring works independently, offering support that responds differently to varying pressure and movement. A pocket spring mattress ensures that movement on one side does not travel to the other.
Choose a
spring mattress
if:
- You want a bouncy mattress with strong support.
- You suffer from backaches.
- You are looking for a durable mattress that offers you optimum comfort.
True to their name,
foam mattresses
are known for body contouring, high support, and pressure relief, and offer a wide range of comfort levels.
Foam mattresses are made of either memory foam or gel foam—both offering many of the same benefits. Newer memory foam designs often include cooling features.
Choose a foam mattress if:
- You want a soft or plush mattress that also offers adequate support.
- You want a mattress that molds to your body and rebounds when you get up.
- You prefer a mattress that is responsive to temperature.
Shop Nebraska Furniture Mart’s foam mattresses.
Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring support with foam comfort layers to deliver both bounce and contouring.
Choose a hybrid mattress if:
- You want support, comfort, cooling, and bounce from your mattress.
Shop Nebraska Furniture Mart’s hybrid mattresses.
Pillow top mattresses typically use innerspring support and add a plush, sewn-on top layer for extra cushioning.
Choose a
pillow top mattress
if:
- You want a softer, more cushiony feel.
Try Out Mattresses Before You Buy
A mattress is an item many people like to test in person before they are ready to buy. If want to see and feel the differences in comfort levels and types, visit our stores and view the top-rated mattresses in the category you prefer. We have over 90 floor models available for you to try out live. NFM’s factory trained mattress specialists will be happy to provide tips of how to make your mattress testing experience the most effective.
Get directions to the nearest store and store hours.
Find Your Store
Mattress Foundations and Bases Explained
The right foundation or base can improve your mattress comfort, support, and longevity. Some mattresses pair better with specific bases, so it’s important to choose the one that works best for your mattress type and your comfort needs.
Adjustable Bases
Adjustable bases allow you to elevate your feet, incline your back, and customize your sleep position. They’re especially helpful for reading, watching TV, or addressing specific health concerns such as snoring, chronic lower back pain, or mobility issues. Adjustable bases work well with memory foam, innerspring, and airbeds, but they’re usually paired best with memory foam mattresses.
Choose an adjustable base if:
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You want to read or watch television comfortably while lying in bed.
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You have specific requirements or medical conditions. For example: older sleepers, snorers, people suffering from chronic lower back pain, etc.
Box Springs
A box spring is a bed base with a sturdy wooden frame containing springs or metal rods. It raises the height of the mattress, absorbs shock, and reduces wear over time. Box springs are ideal for innerspring mattresses and can make it easier to get in and out of bed.
Choose a box spring or foundation if:
Delivery and Setup: How to Get Your New Mattress Home
Whether you buy mattress online or in-store, Nebraska Furniture Mart offers professional delivery to 47 states (excluding Alaska, Hawaii, and California). Our team will set up your new mattress, bed frame, and center support so you can enjoy it right away without lifting a finger.
Moving a Mattress Yourself
If you prefer to transport your mattress on your own, keep these tips in mind:
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Check your vehicle size: Make sure your car or truck can fit your mattress based on its mattress dimensions. Determine whether it can fit inside or will need to be secured on top.
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Bring help: Mattresses can be heavy and awkward to maneuver. Have someone assist you with carrying, lifting, and loading.
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Use a mattress bag: A specially-sized mattress bag will help protect your mattress from dust, dirt, and mites during transport. It can also be used for storage later.
Our Delivery Service
For the easiest and safest option, let us deliver your mattress directly from store to bed. Our familiar white and green trucks visit thousands of cities and towns in a six-state region. If you’re outside this area, common carriers or UPS will handle your delivery. We’ll always choose the fastest and most convenient method.
Delivery Information
- A delivery charge applies at the time of purchase.
- Free delivery is occasionally offered during select promotions—watch for these deals.
- Beds and frames will be assembled for you, including center support installation. Mattresses and box springs will be placed on the frame.
- An NFM Card may be required for purchases in certain areas.
Mattress Set Up
Beds and bed frames will be put together for you, including center support. Mattresses and box springs will also be placed on the frame.
To learn more about our delivery options, visit shipping and delivery
From understanding mattress size dimensions to comparing mattress types and foundations, you now have the tools to make the right choice for your sleep. Shop Nebraska Furniture Mart online or visit us in-store to test comfort levels, get expert recommendations, and enjoy convenient delivery and setup—so you can start sleeping better sooner.
