Finding where to buy a mattress in the USA is easier when you understand the available shopping options, which can help you make a more efficient purchase. Across the United States, shoppers can choose among many different mattress retailers, including local mattress stores, national chains, furniture stores, warehouse clubs, department stores, manufacturer showrooms, and online mattress companies. Which retailer works best for you will depend on several factors, including price range, preferred construction, location, and whether you value an in-person mattress test.
A mattress is also different from many other household purchases. Comfort is personal, and the lowest price does not always mean the best value. Before deciding where to buy, compare factors such as mattress construction, firmness, return policies, sleep trials, warranties, delivery charges, financing options, and old mattress removal.
This guide covers where mattresses are commonly sold across the United States and the factors you should consider before selecting a store.
Where Can You Buy a Mattress in the United States?
Mattresses are sold through many different retail channels across the country. Some specialize almost entirely in mattresses and sleep products, while others sell mattresses as part of a larger furniture or home goods selection.
Common places to buy mattresses in the United States include:
- Locally owned mattress retailers
- Large national and regional mattress retailers
- Home furniture stores
- Warehouse clubs
- Major department stores
- General big-box retailers
- Mattress manufacturer stores and branded showrooms
- Online mattress companies
- Internet marketplaces
- Factory-direct mattress retailers
Each option has different strengths and limitations. Shoppers who want to lie on several beds before choosing one may prefer a mattress showroom. If you already know what type of mattress and firmness you prefer, buying online may offer greater convenience.
Buying From Local Mattress Stores
Across the United States, independent mattress retailers operate in urban, suburban, and smaller local markets. Some of these businesses have a single retail location, while others operate several stores within a state or metropolitan area.
Local mattress retailers often carry products from several manufacturers. A local mattress showroom may offer a broad selection of mattress constructions, including traditional innerspring mattresses, memory foam beds, latex mattresses, and hybrids, plus adjustable bases, foundations, pillows, mattress protectors, and other sleep products.
One advantage of shopping locally is access to sales staff who may be familiar with the mattresses they sell. You can usually compare several firmness levels and mattress constructions in one visit.
Local retailers may also compete with larger chains by offering services such as local delivery, mattress setup, old mattress removal, flexible pricing, or package deals that combine a mattress with a foundation or adjustable bed.
When comparing independent stores, check the retailer's return policy and comfort exchange rules before paying. Return and exchange terms are often very different from one business to another.
National and Regional Mattress Store Chains
U.S. shoppers can also buy from national and regional chains focused on mattresses. For example, Mattress Firm operates stores across many markets, while other mattress chains focus on particular states or regions.
Mattress chains typically devote most of their inventory to mattresses, beds, and related sleep products. Inside a typical specialty mattress showroom, shoppers may find multiple mattress brands together with adjustable bases, bed frames, foundations, pillows, and other bedding accessories.
Specialty chains can be useful if you want to compare several mattresses in one location. Certain chains also publish inventory and product information online, allowing you to research models before going to a showroom.
Store chains frequently advertise promotions around major U.S. shopping periods, including Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and other holiday weekends. An advertised sale does not always mean the lowest possible price, so shoppers should compare the final cost before buying.
Mattress Departments at Furniture Stores
Mattress departments are common at American furniture retailers. Stores such as Ashley, Rooms To Go, and numerous regional furniture chains sell mattresses alongside bedroom furniture, sofas, dining sets, and other home furnishings.
Furniture stores can be convenient when furnishing an entire bedroom because you may be able to purchase a mattress, bed frame, headboard, dresser, and nightstands from one retailer.
Mattress choice at furniture stores is not always consistent across locations. A specialty mattress store may offer more models or more detailed mattress-specific assistance than a general furniture showroom.
Even so, furniture retailers can be worth comparing, particularly when you want a complete bedroom package or plan to have multiple large household items delivered together.
Warehouse Clubs
Many Americans also purchase mattresses through membership-based warehouse clubs. Retailers such as copyright and Sam's Club sell mattresses from a variety of manufacturers online and in their warehouse locations.
A warehouse club may be appealing for value-focused shoppers, but it may not display as many mattresses as a dedicated mattress retailer. Depending on the retailer, some mattresses may be available to view in the warehouse, while others are packaged or sold mainly online.
This option works well for shoppers who already understand the differences between memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses and do not need to test a large number of beds.
Before buying, consider the membership rules, delivery process, return policy, and whether haul-away service is offered locally.
Buying Mattresses From Department Stores and Big-Box Retailers
Another place to shop for a mattress is through department stores and major big-box retailers. Stores including Macy's, Walmart, Target, and other large retail chains may offer mattresses, although selection varies by location.
Mattress selection can differ considerably by store. Some retailers allow customers to try beds in-store, while others mainly sell boxed mattresses for online ordering or store pickup.
For shoppers seeking lower-priced mattresses or convenient bed-in-a-box options, big-box stores can be useful, especially for guest rooms, children's rooms, or dorm rooms.
Before purchasing, compare the exact mattress model rather than the brand name alone. One manufacturer may produce many mattress lines with different materials, coil systems, foam layers, heights, and firmness levels.
Buying From Manufacturer Showrooms and Brand Stores
Some mattress manufacturers operate their own stores or branded showrooms. Other manufacturers sell through retail partners where shoppers can test specific mattresses.
Examples of widely recognized mattress brands sold in the United States include Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Serta, Beautyrest, Purple, Casper, and many others.
If you already prefer a particular manufacturer, shopping at its branded store can simplify your search. You may be able to compare multiple firmness levels and models from that brand without sorting through unrelated products.
The limitation is obvious: a single-brand showroom does not provide the same direct comparison between competing manufacturers that a multi-brand mattress store can offer.
Buying a Mattress Online
Online mattress shopping has become a major part of the U.S. mattress market. Many mattress companies now sell directly to consumers online and ship to homes across much of the United States.
Some mattresses arrive compressed in a box, while heavier or more complex models may be delivered at full size. Depending on the brand, you may be able to choose white-glove delivery, room-of-choice delivery, or another upgraded service.
Shopping online gives you access to many mattress brands without driving to multiple showrooms. Online shopping can also make it easier to compare specifications, pricing, policies, and construction details side by side.
The major disadvantage is that you usually cannot lie on the mattress before ordering it. For that reason, the sleep trial and return policy become especially important.
Review the Sleep Trial Before You Buy
A sleep trial allows you to sleep on the bed for a specified time before deciding whether it is right for you. Trial lengths vary by company.
Make sure you understand the complete policy before ordering. A retailer may require you to keep and use the mattress for a minimum period before becoming eligible for a return. Other retailers may apply pickup, transportation, restocking, or processing fees.
Do not assume that a long advertised trial automatically means completely free returns. The written return terms are more important than the headline number of trial nights.
Types of Mattresses Available From U.S. Retailers
Understanding the major mattress types can simplify the buying process. Mattress stores typically organize products by common construction categories.
Innerspring Mattress Construction
Innerspring mattresses use a coil support system combined with comfort materials above the springs. Innerspring construction can be found in everything from traditional budget beds to premium designs.
Memory Foam Beds
Memory foam mattresses use foam layers instead of a traditional spring support system. They are known for contouring around the body and reducing motion transfer between sleeping partners.
Hybrid Mattresses
A typical hybrid combines an innerspring-style support system with foam or latex comfort materials. Many American mattress retailers carry hybrids, which bring together elements of innerspring and foam mattresses.
Latex Mattress Construction
Latex beds may contain natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend of the two. They tend to have a responsive feel rather than the deep contouring associated with some memory foam beds.
Adjustable Air Mattresses
With some premium air mattresses, sleepers can adjust the firmness of separate sides of the bed. These should not be confused with temporary inflatable air mattresses used for guests or camping.
How to Choose a Mattress Store
The ideal mattress retailer is not always the nearest store or the one promoting the biggest sale. Before choosing, compare the entire buying experience.
Consider the following factors when evaluating a mattress store:
- Product selection: Choose a retailer with a useful range of mattress constructions and comfort levels.
- Transparent pricing: Find out whether advertised pricing includes delivery, setup, or other services.
- Returns: Check whether returns are handled through refunds, exchanges, store credit, or comfort exchanges.
- Sleep trial: Review how long the mattress can be tested and what return charges may apply.
- Warranty: Check what the mattress warranty covers and which defects are excluded.
- Delivery: Ask where the delivery service ends and whether setup is included.
- Old mattress removal: Check if the retailer provides removal of the mattress you are replacing.
- Payment financing: If financing is offered, compare interest rates, promotional terms, and the total amount you will repay.
It is also useful to check whether the mattress you tested in the showroom is the exact model listed on your receipt. Retailer-specific model names or product lines can complicate side-by-side mattress comparisons.
Mattress Prices in the United States
U.S. shoppers can find mattresses costing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the product.
Mattress pricing varies according to the mattress itself and the retailer selling it. A queen mattress usually costs more than a twin but less than a king within the same product line.
Shoppers on a tighter budget may find entry-level mattresses through online retailers, discount stores, warehouse clubs, and local mattress outlets. Mid-range mattresses offer a broader selection of hybrids, higher-density foams, enhanced coil systems, and thicker comfort layers. Premium beds may include specialty foams, latex, advanced support systems, cooling materials, handcrafted construction, or adjustable features.
Instead of choosing a mattress based only on price, compare how long you expect to use it, how well it supports your sleeping position, and the retailer's return protections.
Is It Worth Testing a Mattress in a Store?
Testing a mattress in a showroom can help narrow your choices, but sitting on a bed for a few seconds is not enough.
For a more useful showroom test, test the mattress in your normal sleep position rather than simply sitting on it. Side sleepers should evaluate pressure relief around the hips and shoulders. If you sleep on your back, consider lower-back support and whether your body sinks too deeply. For stomach sleepers, adequate support can help prevent the center of the body from dropping too deeply into the mattress.
Couples should test the mattress together when possible. Differences in body weight, sleep position, and firmness preference can affect which mattress works best.
Trying a mattress in-store provides useful information but only for a short period. That is why a useful sleep trial or comfort exchange policy can add important protection.
What Mattress Firmness Should You Buy?
Mattress firmness is usually described with terms such as soft, medium, medium-firm, firm, or extra firm. No one firmness level is right for every sleeper.
Your preferred firmness can depend on body weight, sleeping position, mattress construction, and personal comfort. The term "medium-firm" is not standardized, so one manufacturer's medium-firm mattress may feel different from another's.
Treat firmness labels as general guidance rather than precise measurements. Testing mattresses or choosing a retailer with a good exchange policy can reduce the risk of selecting the wrong feel.
Mattress Delivery and Setup
Delivery services differ between mattress retailers. Before ordering, ask exactly where the mattress will be delivered.
Typical mattress delivery choices include different service levels depending on the retailer. Depending on the retailer, the delivery team may provide cleanup and old mattress removal.
Apartment and condominium residents should check hallway dimensions, elevator policies, loading restrictions, and delivery schedules before ordering a large mattress or adjustable base.
Mattress Disposal and Recycling
When buying a replacement mattress, you also need to decide how the old mattress will be removed. The rules for getting rid of a mattress are not uniform across the United States.
A retailer may be able to take your old mattress away at the same time it delivers the replacement. Local waste services, transfer stations, recycling programs, and private junk removal companies may also accept mattresses.
Several states, including California, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, have established mattress recycling programs. Shoppers should check municipal or state requirements instead of assuming regular trash collection will accept a mattress.
A clean, usable mattress may sometimes be accepted by certain donation programs, although standards vary and many organizations will not accept used mattresses.
Best Times of Year to Buy a Mattress
Although mattress promotions appear year-round, major U.S. holiday weekends are common sale periods. Common U.S. mattress sale periods include Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.
However, waiting for a holiday does not guarantee the best american mattress stores deal. Prices and promotions can change year-round, including discounts, package deals, financing incentives, and included accessories.
Compare the complete package. Paying slightly more may make sense when the purchase includes delivery, setup, a foundation, old mattress haul-away, or a more favorable return policy.
Buying a Mattress Near You
If you want to shop in person, searching for mattress stores near me can provide a useful starting point. Most U.S. metropolitan areas have a mix of independent mattress stores, national chains, furniture retailers, and department stores.
Large cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver, Boston, and Washington, D.C. often give consumers access to numerous mattress retailers within the surrounding area. People living in less populated areas may have a smaller local selection, increasing the importance of online sellers and regional retailers.
A mattress directory can help you identify nearby retailers before you start driving from store to store. After comparing store locations, retailer categories, brands, and services, verify directly with the retailer that your preferred models are in stock for testing.
What to Ask Before You Purchase a Mattress
A few questions can help clarify the purchase terms before you pay for a new mattress:
- Is the mattress I want currently in stock?
- What will the complete price be after delivery and other fees?
- Can I return or exchange the mattress if it is uncomfortable?
- Is there a required minimum period before a comfort exchange?
- Will I be charged return, pickup, transportation, or restocking fees?
- If I have a warranty issue, do I contact the store or the manufacturer?
- Must the mattress be used with a particular foundation or bed frame to maintain warranty coverage?
- Does delivery include setup of the new mattress?
- Can the delivery team remove my existing mattress and foundation?
- What is the expected delivery time for this mattress?
Knowing the answers in advance can help you understand exactly what to expect from the purchase.
Finding the Right Place to Buy Your Next Mattress
No mattress retailer is the best choice for every shopper. If you value personal service and the opportunity to test several mattresses, a local mattress store may be a good fit. A large chain can be useful when you want convenient access to a broad selection. Warehouse clubs and big-box retailers may appeal to value-focused shoppers, while online mattress companies provide convenient home delivery and access to brands that may not have local showrooms.
The key is to compare more than the mattress price. Your decision should account for comfort, construction, firmness, size, trial terms, returns, warranty coverage, delivery, setup, financing, and disposal.
Our mattress store directory can help you locate mattress stores across the United States, compare nearby retailers, and narrow your options before you visit a showroom or buy online. Doing some research before purchase can make it easier to choose a mattress suited to your body, sleep style, budget, and home.