Choosing Tips

Can I compare my old bedding to bedding available today?
No, the design and manufacturing of bedding has changed dramatically -- even over the last 10 years!

* Innerspring technology has improved.
* New upholstery materials are being used every day.
* Comfort choices have been expanded to give consumers a greater selection.
* Today's box springs are stronger and offer more durability.

How can I tell if I need a new mattress?
Trust your body! If you're waking up to little aches and pains (some that might last all day), it's generally a good indicator that your body isn't getting the proper rest and support that it needs throughout the night.

How do I compare today's bedding?
Compare by the "comfort feel and support" of the bedding. Find one that you like, then see what levels of comfort and support you can get for the same amount of money in another store. Don't forget to compare store services and delivery as well! We encourage you to compare brands also. There is a reason Stearns & Foster is the industry leader in luxury mattresses and #1 in customer satisfaction -- we take great pride in not only how the inside of the bed is made, but also the tailoring and attention to detail on the outside.

* Shop reputable stores that offer you the services you expect as well as competitive pricing.
* Shop stores that offer you a complete product selection.
* Value is when you like what you get for what you've paid. (Low quality bedding at cheap prices is not value.)

How do I know a mattress is made of all new materials?
Be sure to check the label! All Stearns & Foster mattresses are made of the finest quality, new materials. They are never reconditioned or recovered. Mattresses returned to retail stores by dissatisfied customers are sent back to the manufacturers. In many states it is illegal for mattresses to be resold by the retailer.

How do I make sure I get adequate support in my new bed?
A good mattress and box spring will gently support your body at all points and keep your spine in the same shape as a person with good standing posture. Key mattress features to look for are thick, tempered coils for durability and steel slats in the box spring for strength.

How do I shop for a mattress?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you can easily remove for lying down. Take your time! You can't judge support and comfort by sitting on an edge or lying down for just a few seconds. Lie on the bed the way that you sleep, and if you sleep with a partner, take them with you to decide if you'll be fighting for space. Don't be shy! Shop at a store that you know and trust--and read as much information as is available about the bed. Remember, buy the best bed that you can afford--you can always find "bargain bedding," but it's no bargain if you can't get a good night's sleep!

How long should my bedding last?
The Better Sleep Council advises consumers to buy the highest quality bedding they can afford, then replace old bedding every 8-10 years.

How much should I spend on a new sleep set?
You spend more time on your bed than on any other piece of furniture in your home, and the best assurance of good performance is to buy the highest quality sleep set you can afford! Also, keep in mind that most of us spend as much as one-third of our time in bed. So a good night’s sleep is one of the best investments you can make.

I am interested in a Queen or King size bed, but the access to my bedroom is limited. How can I get a large bed through tight quarters?
King size box spring comes in two pieces for easier access through narrow halls. Stearns & Foster also offers a Split Queen box spring that comes in two pieces. Ask your local retailer to order these special sizes.

Should I be concerned about bedding height?
It depends on the design of your bed frame and your personal preference! For consumers who don't want the extra height that comes with today's bedding, Stearns & Foster offers a "Low Profile Box Spring," cutting the height of the box spring by up to 3 full inches! A low-rise bed frame can also reduce the overall height of your mattress surface. In addition, most stores also offer "low profile frames," which also reduce overall height.

Should I replace my box spring when purchasing a new mattress?
Yes! A good boxspring is as important as a good mattress! It acts much like a large shock absorber, taking a lot of the nightly wear and tear. And it contributes to your comfort and support. Don't put a new mattress on an old box spring. When you select the mattress, purchase its companion box spring -- the two are designed to work best together.

What kind of support/frame is necessary for bedding today?
Use a sturdy bed frame! If your mattress is a queen or king set, make sure that your frame has the extra center support needed to prevent bowing and sagging. Stearns & Foster's recommendation for frame usage is displayed below.

Examples of proper bed frames for Queen and King size bedding:

What should I do with my old bedding?
Most bedding retail stores include disposal of old bedding as a value-added store service -- ask about this type of service before you purchase!

Where can I buy a sofa bed?
Although we no longer manufacture sofa beds, you may contact our licensees for this product. You can contact Klaussner (1-800-828-9534) or Ellis Home Furnishings (336-889-9067) for their Customer Service.

Where can I buy replacement parts (including replacement mattresses) for my sofa bed?
Although we no longer manufacture sofa beds, you may contact our licensees for this product. You can contact Klaussner (1-800-828-9534) or Ellis Home Furnishings (336-889-9067) for their Customer Service.

Why are some of today's beds so thick? My sheets don't fit!
Today's mattresses are manufactured with much more padding upholstery and comfort layers than in days gone by! Many consumers prefer the plush and ultra-plush comfort that these thick mattresses provide. You can find deep-pocketed sheets in almost any retail store today.

Why are there so many different quilting designs?
The quilting design on a Stearns & Foster mattress cover helps determine the firmness or plushness of the sleep surface. If a quilting design is small and close, the bed will tend to feel firmer; if the design is large and spread out, the bed will usually feel more plush.

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