The Chronicle

Don’t be duped by the mattress mafia

- With Tracey Hordern

THE infamous mafia creed of going to war, “going to the mattresses,” is somewhat apt when it comes to buying a mattress. Mattresses are one of the biggest investment­s you can make for your home.

But in truth there is so much spin when it comes to buying mattresses that it’s possibly one of the biggest retail cons there is. It can be almost impossible to follow the jargon, but there’s one thing you need to know – the price tag can have little to do with the quality.

According to Choice magazine, a $1000 mattress can be just as comfortabl­e as a $3000 mattress. So how do you purchase a mattress without being fleeced by the mattress mafia?

Firstly, start with a budget. Realistica­lly, know that you can purchase a quality mattress between $1000 and $1500. Well-known quality brands are available at these prices from national retailers.

Secondly, have some idea of what material and structure could work best for you. Essentiall­y, there are Bonnell springs that are traditiona­l open springs of coil that provide support. Pocket springs offer more support than open coil, as each spring is cocooned in its own fabric.

Memory foam mattresses provide additional comfort and mould with your body to support joints, but this choice can create excess heat, as a friend of mine discovered.

Ultimately, try before you buy. Visit a showroom with your sleeping partner and lie down on the mattresses. It should become apparent what works and what doesn’t. Let comfort be your guide.

 ?? PHOTO: FOCUS ON FURNITURE ?? The Portsea Premium Mattress by SleepMaker.
PHOTO: FOCUS ON FURNITURE The Portsea Premium Mattress by SleepMaker.

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