You can make a mattress decision lying down

Is it time for a new mattress? Do you wake up tired or achy, or does your mattress look saggy or lumpy? Or maybe you sleep better at hotels? Consumer Reports offers these shopping tips:

Lie down. If possible, lie on any mattress you're considering. Wear loose clothes and shoes you can slip off. Make yourself comfortable. Salespeople should expect you to take your time. Spend at least 5 or 10 minutes on each side and on your back (your stomach, too). Shopping online or at a warehouse club? Tryouts aren't usually an option, so checking return policies before you buy is extra important.

Check return policies. Make sure the store offers a full refund or credit toward another mattress. Return periods, often called “comfort guarantees,” range from a couple of weeks to 120 days. Some retailers, including Macy's and Sears, charge a 15 percent restocking fee. Costco and some online sellers provide free pickup if you want a refund or exchange, but otherwise, you'll have to pay for it — or cart the mattress to the store. And you'll be responsible for any damage.

Try to haggle. Many businesses, such as warehouse clubs, have fixed prices and won't budge. But for retailers that do negotiate — particularly specialty chains — huge markups allow them to lower prices by 50 percent or more during frequent sales. Any time of year, insist on a sale price you've seen, and don't be afraid to walk out if you feel you're getting a raw deal.

Don't be bullied into buying a box spring. For an innerspring mattress, the box spring (also called a “foundation”) is a wood frame enclosing stiff wire and covered with fabric. For foam or adjustable-air mattresses, it's a box several inches high. If you're switching to a foam or adjustableair bed from an innerspring, you'll need a boxy foundation that lacks springs and wire. Otherwise, if your box spring is still structurally sound, consider keeping it and saving money. One caveat: Some brands require you to buy their box spring to receive full warranty coverage.

Understand the warranty. It can range from 10 to 25 years and covers only manufacturing defects, such as sagging and loose or broken coil wires. Coverage is frequently prorated, meaning it decreases over time.

Pay attention on delivery day. Never accept delivery without inspecting the mattress for stains and other damage. Also be sure the mattress has a label that states “all-new material” before you send the driver on his way.