It’s easy to nod along when a salesperson explains things. But once you get home, you realise you forgot to ask the questions that actually matter.
A mattress is a long-term investment. It’s worth slowing down and getting clear answers before you hand over your card.
Key Takeaways
- Ask the right questions to ask when buying a mattress to better understand what suits your sleep style, space, and comfort preferences.
- Inquire about size, type, firmness, materials, warranties, and sleep trials to make a confident, informed choice.
- Whether you shop in-store or online, being prepared with follow-up questions can help you avoid guesswork and get better value for your money.
In this article, we’re giving you the questions to ask when buying a mattress, plus what to listen for in the answers.
Whether you’re shopping in-store or chatting online, we’ll show you how to spot a mattress that fits your needs, not just the sales pitch.
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What Questions to Ask When Buying a Mattress?
You don’t need to know everything about mattresses. You just need to ask the right things.
Let’s start at the top.
In this episode of Mattressology, we’re diving into the 11 questions you should ask your salesperson when mattress shopping.
We already covered what to ask yourself in a different video, but this time, it’s all about talking to the store or the salesperson. Mattress shopping can be a bit overwhelming, so having a plan makes the process smoother. These questions aren’t in any particular order, but they’ll help you figure out why some mattresses cost more and what really matters to you.
1. What materials are used in the mattress?
If you’re looking for something natural, and one of your top picks isn’t made with natural materials, that’s an easy way to eliminate it. Also, if you’re a hot sleeper and the mattress contains memory foam, that could be a red flag. Even gel memory foams can sleep warm. Understanding what’s inside helps you choose better and stay cool at night.
2. What’s the foam density?
Most mattresses contain foam, and the density tells you a lot about quality. Two mattresses might feel the same, but one with 2 lb foam will last much longer than one with 1 lb. Ideally, go for at least 1.8 lb density in polyurethane foam for better durability. Latex foam is different, but density still matters.
3. What kind of support layer is used?
Is the support layer foam, latex, or coils? This is the base of the mattress and has a big impact on airflow, responsiveness, and support. Some mattresses may say “latex,” but use foam as the base. It’s important to ask so you know what you’re actually getting.
4. What fire retardant is used?
Every mattress has to pass fire safety standards. Some do it naturally with wool, while others use fiberglass or chemicals. Fiberglass, in particular, can be messy and irritating. If avoiding chemicals is important to you, definitely ask what’s used to meet fire regulations.
5. What’s the warranty?
Ask how long it lasts. 5, 10, 20 years? Who handles the warranty if something goes wrong? Also look at the fine print. Some warranties are pro-rated, meaning coverage drops after a certain number of years. Even a small stain could void it. Understanding the warranty can save you a lot of frustration later.
6. What guarantees do you offer if I don’t like it?
One of the biggest concerns when buying a mattress is, “What if I hate it?” Some stores offer 90- or 100-night trials. Others? Once you’ve got it, it’s yours. Check if there are return windows, restocking fees, or satisfaction guarantees—before you commit.
7. Where is the mattress made?
Some brands say “Made in the USA” but actually manufacture overseas. If this matters to you, check the label or ask directly.
8. Is the mattress compatible with an adjustable base?
Even if you’re not buying one now, you might want an adjustable base later. Not all mattresses bend well or are designed for that kind of movement. Good to know before buying.
9. Are there finance options?
Many people don’t realise financing is available. If the mattress you love is a bit over budget, ask about instalments. Whether it’s 12, 24, or 36 months—there are usually flexible ways to pay.
10. How does it perform for motion separation?
If you’re a light sleeper or share the bed, this matters. Some mattresses isolate movement better than others. Even if you’re buying solo now, it’s worth asking. You can even test it in-store with a partner or staff member.
11. How does the mattress handle temperature regulation?
Will you sleep hot? Materials make a huge difference here. Natural fabrics like wool and latex tend to breathe better than synthetic foams. Also, don’t get fooled by words like “cooling gel” or “breeze”—these can just be marketing. Ask what actually makes the mattress cool.
That’s the full list. It’s a lot to remember, but having these questions ready can make your mattress shopping easier and more informed.
If you’re still early in your search, check out our free Mattress Shopping Guide. And if you’ve got more questions, reach out or drop by one of our stores!
1. What Size Mattress Do I Need?
This is one of the first things to settle when buying a new bed. A salesperson can’t guess the right size for you, because it depends on more than just preference.
Here’s what to consider:
- Room size
- Who’s sleeping on it
- Your height and build
Couples often find that upgrading from a double to a queen or king means fewer midnight elbow jabs. Solo sleepers might be fine with a single or double, but more width can help if you toss and turn.
Further questions to ask:
- “Can you show me the actual width and length in the showroom?”
- “Would this size fit in a bedroom that’s [insert size]?”
- “Is there a difference in feel or price between a queen and king?”
- “What if I want to upgrade my base or frame later? Will this size still work?”
You can also check our guide on common Australia mattress and bed sizes to compare dimensions before you decide. We recommend 10-15cm longer than the tallest person.
2. Is Bed-in-a-Box a Good Option?
A bed-in-a-box (sometimes called mattress-in-a-box) can be a smart choice if you want convenience without sacrificing comfort.
The mattress comes compressed, making it easy to carry through doorways, lifts, and staircases. Once you cut it open, it expands to full size within a day or two, ready for sleep.
Further questions to ask:
- “How long before I can sleep on it after unboxing?”
- “If I return it during the trial, who handles the pickup and are there any fees?”
- “Do you have an opened box I can test in the showroom?”
3. Which Mattress Type Is Best for Me?
Mattresses usually fall into three main categories: latex, memory foam, and innerspring. There’s also the hybrid mattress, which combines two or more of these materials to balance comfort and support.
Here’s how they compare:
| Mattress Type | Features | Best For |
| Latex | Naturally breathable, responsive feel, durable, eco-friendly options | Hot sleepers, eco-conscious buyers, people who like a bouncier surface |
| Memory Foam | Contours to your body, reduces partner disturbance, usually more affordable | Side sleepers, couples, budget-conscious buyers |
| Innerspring | Bouncier feel, stronger edge support, good airflow | Back or stomach sleepers, those who prefer a firmer surface |
| Hybrid | Mix of foam pressure relief and spring support, better airflow than foam alone | Hot sleepers, people who want both comfort and support |
The best type depends on how you sleep and what matters most to you. Foam options give pressure relief, innersprings bring firm support, latex stays cool and responsive, and hybrids aim to give a bit of everything.
Check our mattress buying guide if you’re still weighing up your options.
Further questions to ask:
- “Which type do you recommend for my sleeping position?”
- “Do you have examples of different mattress types I can try side by side?”
- “Are there any differences in heat retention between these mattress types?”
4. Should It Be Soft or Firm?
Firmness is one of the biggest factors in how a mattress feels, and it’s not as simple as “soft is cosy, firm is supportive.” The right choice depends on your body weight, sleeping position, and personal comfort.
- Side sleepers often do better with a medium to softer feel, since it cushions pressure points around the shoulders and hips.
- Back sleepers usually need something medium-firm, which keeps the spine aligned without feeling too hard.
- Stomach sleepers often benefit from firmer support, since a soft mattress can let the hips sink too far.
Keep in mind that mattress firmness can feel different depending on your size. A heavier person will sink in more, so the same mattress may feel softer compared to how it feels for someone lighter.
If you’re unsure, try lying in your usual sleeping position for at least 10 minutes to get a real sense of comfort.
Further questions to ask:
- “Can I try the mattress in my usual sleeping position?”
- “How does this model feel for people of different body weights?”
- “Do you have options that can be adjusted for firmness over time?”
5. What’s Inside the Mattress?
The internal mattress layers affect everything from support and breathability to pressure relief and durability.
Memory foam, latex, pocket springs, and transition foams all behave differently. If you have allergies, or prefer a mattress with fewer synthetic elements, ask about certified foams and fabric treatments.
Further questions to ask:
- “What materials are used in each layer of this mattress?”
- “Are the foams or fabrics certified or treated in any way?”
- “How does this construction affect support and heat retention?”
You can explore our Ecosa mattress layers guide for a closer look at how each material works across our Ecosa mattress range.
6. How Long Will This Mattress Last?
Mattresses aren’t built to last forever, but some hold up better than others. On average, you can expect a good-quality mattress to last around 7 to 10 years. That range depends on the materials used, how well it’s made, and how you care for it over time.
Ask about the expected lifespan for the specific model, and whether the warranty reflects that. If the warranty is short, or only covers deep sagging, it could be a sign that the mattress won’t hold up as well.
Further questions to ask:
- “What’s the average lifespan of this mattress with regular use?”
- “Does the warranty cover normal wear or only major sagging?”
- “What can I do to help this mattress last longer?”
7. What Mattress Would Help With Body Pain?
If you wake up with a sore back, stiff neck, or aching shoulders, your mattress could be part of the problem.
Start by explaining where you usually feel discomfort. This helps the salesperson recommend something that matches your needs. For example, zoned support can help with lower back pain, while contouring materials like memory foam or latex may reduce pressure on your shoulders and hips.
You can also read our tips on choosing a mattress for back pain to better understand what to look for.
Further questions to ask:
- “Which mattresses here are better for back or joint pain?”
- “Does this model have zoned support or contouring features?”
- “Can I lie on it in my usual sleep position to test how it feels?”
Note: If the pain continues or gets worse, it’s worth checking in with a health professional to rule out any underlying issues.
8. Is There a Sleep Trial or Return Policy?
Trying a mattress for five minutes in a store isn’t the same as sleeping on it for a full night. That’s why sleep trials matter.
Ask how long the trial lasts and what the return process involves. Some brands offer full refunds. Others may charge pickup or restocking fees.
Further questions to ask:
- “How long is the trial, and what’s the process if it doesn’t work out?”
- “Are there any fees or conditions for returning it?”
- “Does the mattress need to be kept in perfect condition to qualify?”
Ecosa offers a100-night sleep trial, so you have plenty of time to see if it’s the right fit for you.
9. What About Warranty and Support?
Sleep trials let you test the comfort, but it’s the warranty and support that show how much a brand stands behind its product.
Ask how long the warranty lasts and what it actually covers. Some only protect against major sagging, while others include things like foam breakdown or stitching faults. But beyond the paperwork, support matters too.
Further questions to ask:
- “How long is the warranty, and what does it cover?”
- “Is customer support handled locally or overseas?”
- “What’s the process like if I ever need to make a claim?”
You can also take a look at the Ecosa warranty coverage to see exactly what’s included across our product range.
10. When Is the Best Time to Buy a Mattress?
If you’re hoping to get the best deal, timing matters. In both Australia and New Zealand, major mattress sales usually line up with public holidays, end-of-season clearances, and online shopping events.
In Australia, popular sale periods include:
- Boxing Day and New Year’s sales in December and January
- End of Financial Year (EOFY) in June
- Click Frenzy and Black Friday in November
In New Zealand, watch for:
- Boxing Day and New Year’s sales in December and January
- End of Financial Year (EOFY) in March
- Cyber Monday and Black Friday in November
That said, prices can change throughout the year. Many mattress brands, including us, also run offers outside those big events. If you’re not in a rush, sign up to email lists or follow brands on social media to hear about early deals.
Further questions to ask:
- “Do you have any sales coming up?”
- “Are there value bundles if I get a bed base or pillows too?”
- “Is this the best current offer, or are prices expected to change soon?”
11. Do I Need to Worry About Off-Gassing?
Off-gassing happens when certain materials release faint chemical odours after being unpacked. It’s more common in foam mattresses and usually fades within a few days, especially if the room is well-ventilated.
If you’re sensitive to smells or have respiratory concerns, ask what the mattress is made from and whether it’s been certified for low emissions. Certifications like CertiPUR-US® or OEKO-TEX® can give you peace of mind that the materials meet safety standards.
Further questions to ask:
- “Does this mattress have a strong smell when it’s first opened?”
- “How long does the off-gassing typically last?”
- “Are the foams and fabrics certified for low emissions?”
12. What Are the Finance Options?
Mattresses can be a big purchase, but many retailers now offer flexible payment options to make things easier. If you’re not paying upfront, ask about buy now, pay later services like Afterpay, as well as any interest-free plans.
It’s also worth checking the fine print. Some plans have setup fees or penalties for missed payments.
Further questions to ask:
- “What payment plans do you offer?”
- “Is it interest-free or are there extra fees?”
- “Can I use this payment option during sales or bundle deals?”
Buying In-Store vs Online
Choosing to buy your mattress in-store or online often comes down to personal preference.
| In-Store | Online |
| ✅ Try the mattress before buying | ✅ More models and deals available |
| ✅ Ask questions directly to staff | ✅ Often comes with a longer sleep trial |
| ✅ Same-day pickup or faster delivery | ✅ Delivered straight to your door |
| ❌ Limited to what’s in stock | ❌ Can’t feel the mattress before purchase |
| ❌ May feel pressured by sales staff | ❌ Delivery can take a few days |
| ❌ Takes more time and travel | ❌ Returns may require coordination |
If you’re unsure, many shoppers start their research online, then visit a store to try short-listed options. Either way, asking the right questions can help you buy with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the right questions to ask when buying a mattress makes shopping feel more straightforward and helps you find something that truly fits how you sleep, live, and move.
At Ecosa, we’re all about making mattress shopping easier, both on our website and in our stores. Explore our mattresses, test one out in person, or chat with our team online. Either way, we’re here to help you sleep better.