How to Test a Mattress

Find your local mattress store, using the directory on "Mattress and Bed Stores," a website that lists mattress stores by state. See the Resources section for more information.

Go to the mattress store. If you share a mattress with someone, have him or her accompany you to the store so the testing is done together, suggests the Better Sleep Council.

Select a mattress to try out, take off your shoes and lie down on it. Have your partner lie down on the mattress next to you.

Lie on the mattress in your normal sleeping positions and get comfortable. Dr. Wolfgang Shane, a chiropractor, recommends lying on the mattress for at least five minutes on each side of your body, your back and your stomach. Also, according to Dr. Hawks, you may change your sleeping position up to 40 times per night, so don't be afraid to shift around while testing the bed.

Discuss the comfort level of the mattress with your partner. Is the mattress comfortable for you, for your partner and with both of you on it?

Evaluate the firmness of the mattress. A mattress that is too soft --- not enough support and firmness --- can cause backaches, while a mattress that is too hard could cause you to experience uncomfortable, restless sleep.

Choose the next mattress to test based on your experience with the last mattress. For example, if the last mattress was too firm, select a softer mattress to try out. You should test several mattresses until you and your partner find the perfect one. The right mattress should make both your bodies feel comfortable and supported at the same time.