Mattress Buying Guide: Finding Your Ideal Sleep Support

A good mattress isn’t just about comfort—it’s the foundation of healthy, restful sleep. With the average person spending around one-third of their life in bed, your mattress plays a critical role in how you feel both during the night and throughout the day.

But shopping for one can be confusing. Between memory foam, hybrids, latex, and firmness ratings, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. The key is knowing what works best for your body, sleep habits, and space.

Let’s break it all down so you can shop with confidence and wake up feeling your best.

What Type of Mattress Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all mattress. Each type offers different benefits depending on how you sleep and what you prioritize.

Innerspring mattresses are the most traditional option. They use a coil system for support and tend to be bouncier and more breathable. If you like a firmer feel or sleep hot, an innerspring may be a good fit.

Memory foam mattresses mold to your body. They’re ideal for people who need pressure relief—especially side sleepers. Foam also absorbs motion well, making it a strong option for couples.

Hybrid mattresses combine coils and foam. You get the bounce and support of springs plus the contouring comfort of foam. Hybrids are popular because they offer the best of both worlds for most sleepers.

Latex mattresses are known for their durability and natural materials. They’re bouncy, breathable, and hypoallergenic—great for eco-conscious shoppers or those with allergies.

To explore these options in person, browse the full mattress collection at Furniture City.

Firmness Levels: Soft, Medium, or Firm?

Mattress firmness is a matter of personal comfort, but your sleep position is a helpful guide.

Side sleepers often do best with softer mattresses that cushion the shoulders and hips. Without that contouring, pressure points can lead to discomfort over time.

Back sleepers usually need a medium-firm mattress. This keeps the spine aligned while still providing enough softness to relieve tension in the lower back.

Stomach sleepers need the most support. A firm mattress keeps the hips from sinking in, which helps prevent back pain.

Your body weight also plays a role. Heavier sleepers tend to need firmer mattresses to avoid sinking too deep, while lighter individuals often prefer softer models.

If you and your partner have different preferences, a hybrid can be a great compromise—especially if motion transfer is a concern.

Choosing the Right Mattress Size

Once you've found the right feel, size is the next consideration.

A twin or full-size mattress may be enough for a child, teen, or single adult in a compact room. For couples, a queen is typically the minimum for comfortable sleeping space.

If you prefer more room to stretch out—or share your bed with pets or kids—a king or California king mattress offers additional width or length depending on your needs.

Think about your room size, how much personal space you like while sleeping, and whether your mattress needs to fit in through narrow hallways or staircases.

Don’t Forget the Bed Frame

The mattress is only part of the equation. A solid foundation helps your mattress perform better and last longer.

A platform bed with slats offers strong, even support without needing a box spring. It also gives a sleek, modern look.

For those who want customizable comfort, adjustable bases are great for reducing snoring, easing back pressure, or improving circulation.

Pair your mattress with one of Furniture City’s bedroom furniture collections to complete the setup with style and function.

Signs It’s Time for a New Mattress

You don’t have to wait for visible sagging to know your mattress is done. Here are some common signs:

• You wake up sore or stiff.
  

• You sleep better on hotel beds than your own.
  

• Your mattress feels uneven or has indentations.
  

• It's been more than 7–10 years since your last mattress.

A good mattress should support your body, ease pressure, and help you fall—and stay—asleep. If that’s not happening, it may be time to upgrade.

Rotating your mattress every few months can extend its life, but nothing replaces the comfort of a well-fitted new one.

What About Cooling or Specialty Features?

Sleep hot? Many modern mattresses feature cooling gel foam, breathable covers, or moisture-wicking materials. These features help regulate body temperature through the night.

Others offer zoned support for targeted pressure relief, or edge reinforcement so you can sit or sleep near the edges without feeling like you’ll slide off.

These features are especially helpful for couples, heavier individuals, or anyone with back pain or circulation concerns.

Find Your Perfect Mattress at Furniture City

At Furniture City, we know sleep isn’t just about rest—it’s about restoring your body and preparing you for whatever tomorrow brings.

Our selection of memory foam, hybrid, innerspring, and latex mattresses is curated to support every sleep need and style. Whether you're a side sleeper who needs contouring or a back sleeper who wants firmer support, we have you covered.

And with sizes from twin to California king, plus matching bed frames, you’ll find everything you need to build your ideal sleep setup in one place.

Visit Furniture City online or in-store to test different types, get expert help, and find a mattress that works for you—not just tonight, but for years to come.