We provide industry information that you won't find anywhere else. The facts here will help you determine the best mattress for you.

    • The industry standard for a basic orthopedic mattress is 312 coils. (A higher coil count means a higher quality.)
    • Here are industry standard mattress sizes to keep in mind:
      Size Measure
      Twin 39" x 75"
      Twin Extra Long 39" x 80"
      Full (Double) 54" x 75"
      Full Extra Long 54" x 80"
      Queen 60" x 80"
      King 76" x 80"
      California King 72" x 84"
      California Queen 60" x 84"
    • A top of the line mattress with the best support has more than 600 coils based on a full size mattress made of a heavy gauge wire. You want a high number of coils and a thicker, heavier gauge of steel for firm support and durability.
    • You can tell how thick coils are by observing this rule: The lower the steel gauge number, the thicker the gauge of steel (14 gauge steel is thicker than 15 gauge).
    • Foundations without steel working parts may be less durable than those with. A quality boxspring or foundation (the bedding industry sometimes uses the terms interchangeably) supports the mattress to extend the mattress life. Mattress manufacturers design the boxspring to work in conjunction with the mattress it matches, so it is a good idea to invest in a matching set. It is not just a gimmick; in fact most manufacturers will void the product warranty if the mattress is used on a boxspring that is not the original match.
    • You should replace the mattress and the box spring at the same time. The newer mattresses are heavier and need the correct support in order to provide durability.
    • King sets always have a split two-piece box spring. You can also get a split boxspring for your queen size mattress.
    • Queen and king sets require a frame with a center rail to provide proper support.
    • Support comes from the innerspring unit, and the comfort level comes from the type of padding. You can choose from an extra firm, firm, or plush cushiony feel and still have good firm support to go with it. It depends on your personal comfort preference.
    • Padding in a mattress is as important as the number of coils. The more layers of padding and the higher the quality of the padding, the longer your mattress will keep its shape and firmness.
    • In padding, you should always select richer materials and denser foams for top quality.
    • The quality of the mattress cover, referred to as the ticking, will determine the mattress's resistance to wear and tear, and will also determine how it feels against your skin. The better the quality, the better the feel and the longer it will last.
    • Edge support in the mattress enhances and expands the sleep surface. It also protects the sides of the unit.
    • Do not lift the mattress by its handles if your mattress has cord handles. The mattress handles are designed to help you turn and maneuver the mattress only. Cloth sewn handles can be used to lift the mattress, but always remember to lift carefully, never tug on the handles.
    • "Special features" are not always the best values. Often, mattress retailers will advertise a special brand of foam or an exclusive feature, but it may only be a thin layer of inexpensive foam or cardboard. This gives you no added benefit, but helps the retailer sell mattresses.