Choose the Best Mattress: 8 Questions to Ask Before You Buy

A good night’s sleep starts with the right mattress. And the best mattress for you is not just about the price, it’s about comfort, support, and how well it fits your lifestyle. 

Do you need a queen-size mattress for you and your partner? A firm bed for back support? Or a cozy memory foam mattress that adapts to your body? There are so many options! Where to start? This guide answers 8 key questions to help you choose the mattress for your body type, bedroom, and budget. 

In this article

1. 01

   What Are My Sleep Needs?

2. 02

   When to Replace My Mattress?

3. 03

   How Much Should I Budget?

4. 04

   What Size Mattress Should I Choose?

5. 05

   Firm vs. Soft: Which Is Better?

6. 06

   What Mattress Type Fits My Sleeping Habits?

7. 07

   Why Choose a Mattress-in-a-Box?

8. 08

   Which Mattress Works with an Adjustable Electric Bed?

01 What Are My Sleep Needs?

Think about what matters most: relief from back or joint pain, a surface that matches your sleeping position, or extra cooling if you get hot at night. If you share a bed, consider the impact of motion transfer on your sleep. And above all, decide whether you prefer a softer feel or the solid support of a firm surface.

02 When to Replace My Mattress?

Most mattresses last around 10 years, but sagging, pain, or poor sleep may signal it’s time for a replacement.

Ways to extend mattress lifespan:

Rotate It Every Few Months

It is recommended to flip your mattress every 3 to 6 months to keep it even and supportive night after night.

Keep Your Mattress and Boxspring on a Frame 

A mattress needs airflow to stay fresh and cool. Placing it directly on the floor can trap moisture and lead to mould. A proper frame or foundation keeps it ventilated and extends its lifespan.

Use a Mattress Protector

A mattress protector keeps your bed fresh and clean by blocking stains, dust, and allergens. Choose a waterproof model for extra peace of mind against spills or accidents. This simple upgrade helps your mattress stay comfortable and last longer.

Enhance Comfort with a Topper

A topper improves overall comfort, eases back pain, and creates a barrier against dust mites. Latex toppers add firmness, while memory foam toppers provide a softer feel.

Keep It Clean with a Quick Vacuum

Vacuuming the surface of your mattress twice a year helps remove dust, dead skin cells, and allergens, keeping it fresh and clean.

Remove Stains Promptly

Treating stains promptly makes them easier to remove. Use an enzyme-based fabric cleaner, such as the Comerco cleaning kit. If you don’t have it, spray vinegar, sprinkle baking soda, cover the area with a towel for one to two hours, and then vacuum.

03 How Much Should I Budget?

The price of a mattress depends on several factors, including its size, technology, material quality, comfort level, and durability. Always test the mattress in-store before buying, or check whether a trial period is available. At RD Furniture, we offer a 90-night ComfoRD warranty to ensure your mattress meets your needs perfectly.

A mid-range or high-end mattress is often the smarter long-term investment. It lasts longer and delivers consistent comfort year after year. 
 
Here’s a general price range to help you estimate the budget for replacing your mattress:

Entry-Level

Average Price (Queen): Under $599

Mid-Range

Average Price (Queen): Between $600 and $1,300

High-End

Average Price (Queen): $1,300 and Up

PRO TIP

The mattress you really want is slightly above your budget? Don’t worry! Our team is ready to show you simple payment options, our 90-night ComfoRD warranty, and convenient financing plans. 

04 What Size Mattress Should I Choose?

Start by measuring your bedroom to determine whether a queen, king, twin, or double mattress is right for you. Make sure to leave about 24” (60 cm) of clearance around the bed so you can move comfortably on both sides. Since a twin mattress only accommodates one person, you can place it against a wall to save space in smaller rooms.

Twin Mattresses

Dimensions: 39” x 74” (90 cm x 190 cm)
A twin mattress is often the go-to choice for kids and is the standard size for most bunk beds. It’s also a practical option for smaller bedrooms or a guest room. 

Twin XL Mattresses

Dimensions: 39” x 80” (90 cm x 203 cm)
A standard twin mattress measures 74” in length, while the XL version gives you 6 extra inches. Combine two twin XL beds to create a king-size bed. This setup is especially popular for adjustable electric beds with two independent heads, since each sleeper can control their own incline.

Double Mattresses

Dimensions: 54” x 74” (137 cm x 190 cm)
If your teenager wants more room to stretch out, a full-size mattress is the best option. It also works well for single adults or couples who don’t mind sharing a snug bed. 

Queen Mattresses

Dimensions: 60” x 78” (152 cm x 198 cm)
The queen-size mattress is the most popular because it offers the perfect balance between personal space and bedroom fit. Spacious enough for couples yet compact enough for most rooms, it’s a versatile choice for almost every sleeper type. 

King Mattresses

Dimensions: 78” x 80” (90 cm x 190 cm)
A king-size mattress delivers maximum space for ultimate comfort. Perfect for couples, families, or even pets who love to cuddle. This size ensures everyone has room to stretch out all night long.

05 Firm vs. Soft: Which Is Better?

The level of firmness is one of the most important factors when choosing a mattress. To determine whether you need a soft, firm, or medium-firm model, consider your sleeping position, body weight, and how well your spine remains aligned—whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach.

Soft Mattresses

Firmness doesn’t always mean better support. A soft mattress can still provide solid support while giving you a gentle feel. Lighter sleepers (under 130 lbs)—or anyone with hip and shoulder pain—often find this the most comfortable option. It’s also a favourite among side sleepers who love that gentle, cozy feel.

Medium-Firm Mattresses

A favourite among many sleepers, the medium-firm mattress usually combines a plush top layer with a supportive base. Hybrid models (spring + memory foam or latex) are common in this category. A medium-firm bed gives you that “hugged” feeling while still keeping proper support. It works well for most people, including those dealing with circulation issues or numbness.

Firm Mattresses

Firm mattresses are often made with high-resilience foam or springs. They’re ideal for heavier sleepers who need extra support. One of their biggest advantages is maintaining proper spine alignment, making them a smart choice for stomach sleepers. 

06 What Mattress Type Fits My Sleeping Habits?

A mattress is a significant investment that directly impacts your well-being, mood, and overall health. That’s why it’s worth understanding the different types, what they’re made of, and what sets them apart—so you can make the right choice.

Mattresses with Standard Springs

Made with interconnected coils, these mattresses offer a stable and uniform surface. The higher the coil count (around 800 for a queen size), the better to body support. Standard coils allow more airflow, keeping you cooler at night. Additionally, this type of mattress is the most budget-friendly option available on the market.

Pocket Coil Mattresses

Each coil is individually wrapped in fabric, allowing every part of the mattress to respond independently to pressure for improved posture support and optimal spinal alignment. The structure also promotes airflow, helping you stay dry and cool. A pocket coil mattress is an excellent balance of comfort, support, and price.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses combine the best of several technologies: springs, memory foam, high-resilience foam, and sometimes even latex. The blend delivers balanced comfort—firm enough for proper support yet soft enough to relieve pressure points. Versatile and adaptable, hybrid mattresses are well-suited for a wide range of sleepers and work perfectly with adjustable electric beds. 

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses provide a cushioned, contouring feel that adapts to the body's shape, reducing pressure on joints. While early models used a single type of foam, today’s versions often layer different densities and technologies to enhance comfort and support.

Standard Pillow-Top Mattresses

A standard pillow-top is the layer of padding stitched to the surface of a mattress. Whether spring or foam, most mattresses now include this feature to provide a plush, relaxing surface. Even extra-firm models can use it to add a touch of softness on top of a solid base of support.

Eurotop Mattresses

This style adds an extra, separate layer of cushioning on top of the mattress core. A Eurotop enhances overall support but is especially valued for its added comfort. It’s a great choice for sleepers who require firm support and also struggle with joint issues, such as arthritis.

Mattresses-in-a-Box

These are foam mattresses, sometimes with pocket springs, that are compressed, rolled, and packed into a box. In recent years, they have gained popularity due to their practicality and surprisingly high level of comfort.

07 Why Choose a Mattress-in-a-Box?

Benefits of Choosing a Mattress-in-a-Box

Mattresses-in-a-box stand out for their convenience—you can fit one in the trunk of a car. Setup is quick, too! Just unbox it, let it expand, and it’s ready in no time. Technology has made it possible for mattresses-in-a-box to feel every bit as supportive and comfortable as their traditional counterparts, giving you the restful sleep you deserve.

How to Set Up a Mattress-in-a-Box

Step 1. Open the box and remove the mattress.

Step 2. Take off the first layer of plastic, then place the mattress on the bed.

Step 3. Use scissors and carefully cut the protective plastic, avoiding contact with the mattress cover.

Step 4. Watch it unfold and regain its full shape. Allow 24 to 72 hours for complete expansion.

Step 5. That’s it—time to enjoy your first night’s sleep!

The LOOP Mattress-in-a-Box

The Loop mattress combines convenience with a good cause. Easy to transport and designed for restful sleep, it also supports the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation. Part of every sale is donated, which explains the magenta accent. A purchase that feels good for you and for the community.

08 Which Mattress Works with an Adjustable Bed?

An adjustable bed base is a motorized frame that allows you to control the head or leg positioning with a remote. Some even offer a zero gravity position to ease pressure on your back and improve circulation.

Most foam and hybrid mattresses are compatible with this type of base. For split-head adjustable beds, we recommend mattresses with separate heads, allowing each sleeper to adjust their side independently. To ensure you select the right mattress for your current bed frame, refer to our guide on bed frames and boxsprings.

Foam Types

PRO TIP: Which Mattress Brand Is Best?

At RD Furniture, our mattress experts possess strong expertise and take the time to offer you collections that provide the best value for your money. Much of our selection comes from a well-known Canadian manufacturer named Dreamstar. Choosing one of their models means investing in quality and comfort while proudly supporting the local economy.

Wondering if your new mattress needs a boxspring? Spring mattresses get extra comfort and a longer lifespan when paired with a boxspring. Memory foam and hybrid models, however, work perfectly on a solid base or slatted frame. Want to be sure you’re making the right choice? Explore our complete guide to bed bases and boxsprings.

Ready to choose your new mattress?

Explore our full selection of mattresses and find the model that suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget!