How do I choose the right mattress?

Start with your sleep position (side, back, or stomach), then choose a firmness level that supports that position. From there, pick a mattress type, memory foam, hybrid, latex, or innerspring, based on your comfort preferences. Testing in a showroom is the most reliable way to find the right fit.

What mattress type is best for back pain?

Medium-firm hybrid or memory foam mattresses are generally recommended for back pain. They provide spinal alignment support while cushioning pressure points at the hips and shoulders. Look for lumbar support features in mattresses from Tempur-Pedic or Sealy Posturepedic.

How firm should my mattress be?

Side sleepers typically do best with soft to medium firmness. Back sleepers usually prefer medium-firm. Stomach sleepers generally need firm support to prevent lower back strain. Your body weight also plays a role, heavier sleepers usually benefit from firmer mattresses.

How often should I replace my mattress?

Most mattresses last between 7 to 10 years. Signs you need a replacement include visible sagging, waking up with aches, or noticeably reduced comfort compared to when the mattress was new. Higher-quality materials like latex and memory foam tend to last longer.

Is it better to buy a mattress online or in store?

Buying in store lets you test actual feel, firmness, and comfort before committing. Online buying offers convenience but relies on trial periods for returns. LA Mattress combines both, test in our showroom, then purchase with our 120-Night Comfort Trial.

Mattress Buying Guide

Every question,
answered.

How to choose the perfect mattress based on your sleep style, comfort preference, and budget. Written by LA Mattress sleep experts.

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How It Works

How to Choose a Mattress

Follow these five steps to find your perfect mattress in any of our LA showrooms.

Choose Mattress Type

Memory foam, hybrid, innerspring, latex, or organic, each type has different feel, support, and cooling properties.

Choose Firmness Level

From soft to firm, firmness determines how your mattress supports your body based on your sleep position and weight.

Choose the Right Size

Twin, Full, Queen, King, or California King, choose based on your room size and whether you sleep alone or with a partner.

Compare Brands

Test Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns and Foster, Harvest Green, Diamond, and more, all at our LA showrooms.

Test or Order Online

Try mattresses in person at one of our 5 Los Angeles showrooms, or order online with our 120-Night Comfort Trial.

Find Your Match

Mattress Types Explained

Different mattress types suit different sleepers. Here is what you need to know.

Best for pressure relief

Memory Foam

Conforms closely to your body, eliminating pressure points. Excellent motion isolation makes it ideal for couples.

Best for: Side sleepers, couples, pain relief

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Best of both worlds

Comfort Science

Mattress Firmness Guide

Firmness is the single most important factor in mattress comfort. Choose based on how you sleep.

Soft

Scale: 1 - 3 / 10

Maximum cushioning with deep contouring. Relieves pressure on hips and shoulders. Feels like sleeping on a cloud.

Side sleepers · Lightweight sleepers · Pressure relief

Medium

Scale: 4 - 5 / 10

Balanced cushioning and support. The most versatile firmness level, works for most sleep positions and body types.

Combination sleepers · Couples with different preferences

Medium-Firm

Scale: 6 - 7 / 10

Firm support with slight give. Keeps your spine aligned while providing enough cushioning for shoulder and hip comfort.

Back sleepers · Heavier sleepers · Back pain sufferers

Firm

Scale: 8 - 10 / 10

Minimal give, maximum support. Prevents your hips from sinking and keeps your spine in a neutral position all night.

Stomach sleepers · Heavier sleepers · Minimal-sink preference

Personalized Picks

Shop by Sleep Position

Your sleep position determines what firmness and support your body needs most.

Soft - Medium

Side Sleepers

Cushioning at the shoulder and hip. Soft to medium firmness with contouring memory foam or latex works best.

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Medium-Firm

Back Sleepers

Lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of the spine. Medium-firm hybrid or memory foam is ideal.

Shop Back Sleeper Mattresses

Medium-Firm - Firm

Stomach Sleepers

A firm mattress prevents hips from sinking and causing lower back strain. Innerspring or firm hybrid mattresses are best.

Shop Stomach Sleeper Mattresses

Deep Dives

Featured Buying Guides

In-depth articles to help you make the right decision.

Every question,answered.

How to Choose a Mattress

Choose Mattress Type

Choose Firmness Level

Choose the Right Size

Compare Brands

Test or Order Online

Mattress Types Explained

Memory Foam

Hybrid

Innerspring

Latex

Organic

Mattress Firmness Guide

Shop by Sleep Position

Side Sleepers

Back Sleepers

Stomach Sleepers

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Why Buy from LA Mattress?

120-Night Comfort Trial

Showroom Testing

Expert Sleep Advice

Free Local Delivery

0% APR Financing

Manufacturer Warranty

Frequently Asked Questions

Find Your Perfect Mattress

Every question,
answered.