Finding and Negotiating for Cheap Mattresses and Mattress Sets

Mattress sets refer to both the mattress and the box springs or support. When choosing a mattress set, consider what features are offered and what the costs will be. Once those things have been determined, an informed decision can be made.

There are four main types of mattress sets available on the market today. The difference is in the materials used to construct them. Spring mattress sets are the most common and are made of metal interlocking springs set up in a grid pattern inside the mattress. The box springs are put underneath the mattress to provide support. The benefit of this type of mattress is cost. There are a variety of price levels to meet any customer’s budget and this type of mattress set is readily available at most stores that sell mattresses. The main drawback is that over time as the springs become worn out and the mattress will sag in spots can cause pressure points.

Another type of mattress set is constructed of foam. The mattress has several layers of foam fused together. The bottom layers are stiff to provide support and the upper layers are softer. The upper layers mold to the body but do not create a pressure point which helps reduce back problems. After getting up from the bed, the foam returns to its original shape. Foam mattress sets are available at specialty department or bedding stores.

Air mattresses are another type of mattress set. The outer portion of the mattress insert is a firm foam that allows the mattress to keep its shape and the inner portion is constructed of two inflatable canvas bags full of air. There is a zip on pillow top and the mattress stays inflated through the use of a pump. A plastic tube attaches to the mattress at the head of the bed and the other in attaches to a pump that is stored beneath the bed. The firmness is controlled through a remote and each side has individual controls which can be adjusted. Air mattress sets are typically only available in specialty stores and are more expensive than spring or foam mattress sets.

Mattresses filled with water have been on the market for years work on the same premise as foam and air to relieve pressure on the back. A sturdy frame surrounds the bed and the mattress fits down into it. Water is pumped into the vinyl skin and the amount of water determines the firmness. A heater can be added to keep the water warm in the cooler months. Due to the nature of the mattress, it is important to prevent punctures which can cause the mattress to leak. Once the mattress is full of water, it is also typically too heavy to move.

Negotiating a Mattress Purchase for the Best Mattress Sets

So how do you find mattresses on sale?    There really is no “end of the season” sales on mattresses as people need beds all year round.     The trick to getting the best price on quality mattress sets is to make your local stores compete against either.  Don’t worry about trying to “price match”  between competitors, as you won’t be able to do a like for like name brand comparison.  Stores purposely rename their mattress sets different names so you can’t go to the neighboring competitor and do an exact comparison.  The sad part is that many of these mattresses are the exact same thing…only with different names.  But they don’t want you to know that.  Ooops, now you do.

Getting the Upper Hand When Picking Out Mattress Sets – Playing Hardball

So how do you get the upper hand? Know the type and style of mattress that you want going in the store.  Pillow top, firm, soft, latex core, etc.  You may have to visit a few stores first to know what you like.  On these trips be determined to not buy anything.  Just “test drive” the mattresses and take notes on the type and styles of mattress sets you like best.  Lay on them for at least 10 minutes.  Don’t be squirrley about it either…just kick off your shoes and lay down.   You’re going to spend thousands of dollars here, so make sure you like the mattress. Also if you have a partner or spouse, make sure they also test it out so you both agree.

Then, on buying day…plan your attack like this.  Visit store 1 and tell them exactly what you want using your nomenclature (that you noted on your test day).  e.g  “I want a semi-firm ultra plush pillow top queen size matress with a latex core”.    Have them show you their best mattresses and give you their best deal including delivery .  Then tell them you are shopping 2 or 3 of their competitors today.  The best price will win and that you are going to buy that day.  Get the persons name so they get credit for the sale if you come back.  If they are jerks about you leaving the store to price shop, tell them they just lost a spot in the competition.  (Then if you’re really  tough like me, ask to speak to their manager and tell him or her what just happened.)   After you’re done , take the first stores  price, and do the same visit at store 2 and 3.   By then you should know which store will give you the best price.  Don’t buy until you’ve visited all 3 stores…no matter what the sales people tell you.    Treat this like a car negotiation and you should do fine.

By the end of your day, you should have narrowed down your choices from all the different  mattress sets and hopefully purchased at the best possible price with delivery and setup.