Mattress Buying Guide: Firmness, Sizes, and When to Replace Your Mattress

You spend a big part of your life in bed, so your mattress deserves some thought.

With so many types, firmness levels, and sizes, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide breaks down the basics so you can shop with confidence, online or at our showrooms in Hempstead and Valley Stream.

Understanding Mattress Firmness

Firmness describes how a mattress feels when you lie on it. It is personal, and the right choice often depends on how you sleep.

Sleep position matters

• Side sleepers: Often prefer soft to medium.
• Back sleepers: Often prefer medium to firm.
• Stomach sleepers: Often prefer firm.
• Combination sleepers: Often prefer medium, with a responsive feel that makes it easier to move.

Tip: These are general guidelines, not rules. Lie down on a few mattresses in your usual sleep position for several minutes each. That is the best way to know.

Types of Mattresses

• Memory foam: Contours to your body and can reduce motion transfer between partners.
• Innerspring: Coils for a bouncier, traditional feel.
• Hybrid: Coils plus foam layers for a mix of support and cushioning.
• Mattress in a box: Arrives compressed and expands once unpacked, easier to get up narrow stairways.

For a deeper look, see our Mattress Guide.

Choosing the Right Mattress Size

Size tips for Long Island homes

• Measure your bedroom before upgrading.
• Leave room to walk around the bed and open dressers and closet doors.
• Measure stairways and doorways, which can be tight in older Nassau County homes.
• Exact dimensions vary by model, so check the product details.

When Should You Replace Your Mattress?

There is no single date on the calendar, but your body and your mattress usually give clear signals.

Signs it's time

• You wake up stiff, sore, or tired more often than not.
• You see visible sagging, lumps, or body impressions.
• You hear creaking or feel coils.
• You sleep better in a hotel or on a guest bed.
• You feel your partner's every move during the night.
• Your needs have changed, such as a new sleep position or a new partner.

Don't Forget the Foundation

A mattress needs proper support underneath. Check what type of foundation your mattress calls for.

• Want to raise your head or feet for reading or TV? See our adjustable beds.
• Complete the refresh with a new headboard or bedroom set.

Tips for Shopping In Person

• Wear comfortable clothes so you can lie down easily.
• Spend several minutes on each mattress in your normal sleep position.
• Bring your partner so you can test together.
• Ask about care, delivery, and warranty and product care.

Delivery and Financing Made Simple

Getting your new mattress home is easy.

• FREE White Glove delivery with assembly on orders of $499+ within 10 miles of either showroom (see our delivery area).
• Pay over time with Synchrony, Affirm, or lease-to-own. Explore our financing options. Approval and terms vary.

Visit A&M Discount Furniture and Mattress

For 30 years, A&M has helped Long Island families furnish their homes, with more than 80,000 customers served. Visit our Hempstead showroom at 120 Fulton Ave or our Valley Stream showroom at 300 Sunrise Hwy.

• Mon–Sat: 10AM–8PM
• Sun: 10AM–7PM

Come lie down on a few options, or browse our full mattress collection online. A better night's sleep could be closer than you think.