We agree, it's not an exciting subject, but if you're planning on hitting the mattress sales – and you should have plenty of choice – then it's worth knowing what to look out for now to save you hassle later.
Should your dream choice turn into a nightmare for some reason, your guarantee can come to the rescue. Read on to find out more about why this matters and how to make the most of it.
Save time and find out the1. Guarantees can differ from one mattress to another, even from the same manufacturer
The word guarantee is often used synonymously with warranty, but there are differences between the two and it's important to know what each covers.
2. It’s easy to inadvertently void your mattress guarantee
Some mattress guarantees may only cover issues with specific parts, such as the springs or stitching, and many won't cover problems that are caused by you handling or cleaning the mattress incorrectly.
For example:
Always check the T&Cs of any guarantee or warranty before buying. Many of us are guilty of not bothering to do this, but it's worth the extra five minutes so that you don't inadvertently void your guarantee.
3. Read sleep trial terms and conditions carefully: some are very specific
Sleep trials, favoured by some bed-in-a-box brands, are a useful way to check if a mattress is right for you.
Before opting for a sleep trial, some of which can be as long as 365 nights, it's essential that you read the T&Cs.
Check how you need to return it if you don't like it. Some sleep trials allow you to return it for free with a full refund – and you won't even have to try and get it back into the packaging. Other sleep trials aren't so generous, though, and will only let you exchange or upgrade your mattress. You may even have to pay an arrangement fee.
Most sleep trials have rules about using a mattress protector during the trial and many (quite reasonably) won't accept a soiled mattress back.
Be aware that some guarantees stipulate you need to sleep on a mattress for a minimum number of nights before you can return it, which is so you can get used to it.
4. Testing a mattress in store isn’t the same as sleeping on it
If you prefer shopping at a physical store, it means you can try out a mattress in person.
Spend at least 10 minutes on a mattress – this will give you some impression of what it would be like to sleep on. You can also ask a sales assistant for tailored advice.
Bear in mind, though, that trying out one in store, even for 10 minutes or more, won't tell you the full story of what a mattress will be like in the long term. At best, it's an indication.
If you're not wedded to the idea of testing a mattress in person, there are benefits to buying online.
5. If your mattress isn't what you ordered, you could claim a refund
If something goes wrong with your mattress, don't be fobbed off. The first place to go is the retailer – the company that sold you the product not the manufacturer.
Even if there's an issue outside of the guarantee period, you may still be able to take action.
Don’t panic – mattress sales happen all year round
If you desperately need a new mattress, there are plenty of sales happening throughout the year. You don't need to wait for a bank holiday to get a good deal and you don't need to be pressured into buying a mattress because of a countdown timer or the promise of a large discount.
With sales happening both in store and online, there's plenty of choice. If your heart is set on a specific brand that isn't on sale, then it's worth holding out if you don't need to buy immediately. If you're a bit more flexible, then the mattress sales world is your oyster.
Don't be pressured into buying too quickly in a sale – find out whysource https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/five-things-you-should-know-about-mattress-guarantees-before-hitting-the-sales-as9146H2AWKY