Buying a mattress - should I buy in-store or online?

When buying a new mattress, is it best to go retail store or online?

It’s one of the most common questions that we get these days so let’s discuss this important decision and see what option is best for you.

Buying a mattress in-store

Buying a new mattress from a retail store is the ‘traditional’ method of bed shopping. You can walk straight into a bedding store, decide on a mattress that you like, and make your purchase in the store.

It’s the retail process that most of us are familiar with and it is still a common style of bed shopping today. This method allows you to try the mattress out before you buy, and involves face-to-face service from a salesperson.

Pros

You can try out the mattress ‘in store’ so you know exactly what you’re buying.
You get personal, face-to-face service and advice from a bedding salesperson.
The ability to try out a wide range of mattresses, including high end, premium quality mattresses.

Cons

Once you buy, you (generally) won’t be able to return it for a refund or exchange.
Retail mattresses are typically more expensive than online options due to large overhead costs.
Shopping in retail stores can be time consuming and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by choice.

If you’re considering a retail store mattress, you’ll be pleased to know that Bedbuyer recently announced ‘Australia’s Top 10 Mattresses’ in 2024. This list contains a number of mattresses that can be viewed in-store.

Buying a mattress online

Buying a mattress online is a relatively new phenomenon which has proven to be very popular in Australia.

This method involves the shopper purchasing a new mattress online, which then gets delivered to your door.

Many (but not all) mattresses that you buy online fall into the mattress in a box category. The box method makes it more practical to transport and easier to manoeuvre around the house. This method is simple, convenient, and there are some great value options in the mattress in a box market.

Pros

An easy online purchasing process with free and fast delivery to your door.
Good value, affordable mattress options – many are under $1,200 (queen size).
Most have a free trial period (e.g. 100 nights) which means you can return the mattress for a refund if you are not satisfied.

Cons

You can’t try out the mattress before you buy.
No face-to-face customer service or advice.
Most products are made overseas.

If you’re leaning towards a mattress in a box, Bedbuyer recently announced ‘Australia’s Top 12 Mattress in a Box’ in 2024.

Hear from some everyday Aussies :

We hope this article gives you an insight into the two different options and helps you with the topic: Buying a mattress – should I buy in-store or online?

If you have purchased a new mattress recently, we would love to hear what you decided on and what your experience was.

Of course even with the information above, you still may need some help. Our bedding experts are always here to help so please don’t hesitate to contact us.