Buying a new mattress? If so, you may not yet be familiar with how many options there are. One of the main choices to make is whether to get a mattress in a box or a traditional mattress. Because they differ slightly, it can be a tough decision.
We’re here to help make the choice easier! Keep reading to learn the differences between these two mattress types and which one will best suit your needs.
Traditional Mattress
A tried-and-true classic, the traditional mattress is a go-to for many people. Let’s break it down:
Traditional Mattress Material
Because traditional mattresses don’t need to be put into a box, they are designed in a wide range of materials, such as foam, pocket coil and more. A wider material range = more choice! Specific preferences can almost always be met since you have more options to choose from.
Purchasing & Delivery
Most traditional mattresses can be viewed in store, which is a big selling feature for many. This makes it easy to physically see and test out a variety of models.
Once purchased, they are delivered (often with a plastic covering for cleanliness) via a delivery truck and carried into your home. Delivery is popular because the heavy lifting is done for you, allowing for quicker enjoyment of your new mattress.
Keep in mind that if you reside in an apartment or condo, the delivery may take longer due to navigating elevators, stairwells and hallways. If picking up the mattress yourself, you will need a roomy vehicle for transportation and possible assistance getting it into your home.
Both are good options, however, personally picking up your new purchase may prove more challenging for those with limited mobility or lack of assistance.
Using a Traditional Mattress
Arguably the biggest positive of a traditional mattress is how it can be used immediately once placed in your home. Just take off the plastic covering, lay it onto your bedframe, and you’re ready for relaxation!
The Mattress in a Box
This style of mattress is a relative newcomer to the mattress market but has quickly gained popularity due to its convenience and, depending on the brand and model, cost-effectiveness. Let’s break it down:
Mattress in a Box Materials
These mattresses need to be rolled up, condensed, and fit into a box, so most manufacturers opt to make them out of foam or hybrid materials. If you prefer a traditional pocket coil or innerspring, you may have a more difficult time finding that in a mattress in a box.
Purchasing & Delivery
The ability to test a mattress in a box before buying it depends on the brand and retailer. Some offer display models in-store, while others do not.
Most are displayed online-only and are supplemented with tons of information to help you make an informed decision. With online shopping becoming the norm, this option is appealing for a variety of buyers such as those who don’t have the time or desire to shop in-store.
The best part of a mattress in a box is how convenient it is to bring home. Once delivered, the compact size of the box makes it a breeze to move through doorways and hallways – a huge plus, especially for those who live in apartments, condos or dorm rooms. This removes the hassle of awkwardly navigating your mattress through narrow areas.
Plus, picking up a mattress in a box from your retailer is incredibly easy. They will fit in most vehicles for simple and quick transport to your home – you may not even need another person there to help you with it!
Using a Mattress in a Box
After your mattress in a box is removed from its packaging, it will need to be rolled onto your boxspring or bedframe and given time to expand. Each manufacturer will have different recommendations as to how long your new mattress should sit before use – be sure to follow any guidelines for optimal results.
Because of the recommended wait time before laying on your new mattress, this may be a downside to those who would prefer to get right to relaxing.
If you don’t need your mattress right away, its compact size will allow you to keep the box sealed and stored in your home until it’s needed.
Which to Choose & Where to Buy
Each mattress type has its own unique set of pros and cons, and when it comes down to it, purchasing a mattress is a personal decision. We hope this breakdown helps guide you to a choice that provides a wonderful snooze night after night.
The great news for both mattress types is that they are readily available and, in most cases, can be returned or exchanged without hassle. If you find your mattress isn’t the right fit for you, most retailers and brands have exceptional return policies that make it easy to return or exchange.
The Brick proudly offers both traditional mattresses and mattresses in a box from an array of quality brands. With many locations across Canada and a website available to shop online 24/7, you can find your perfect mattress with ease. To streamline your decision, take advantage of our handy Mattress Selector tool!
Our mattress experts are here to help – contact us today to start your mattress shopping journey.
