10 Most Common Questions about Queen-size Mattresses

As the average adult spends about a third – approximately 26 years – of their life sleeping, a quality mattress is one of the best investments one can make. Poor sleep can have many negative impacts on the body; it is known to affect mood, memory, attention span, and cognitive function and has been linked to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. A consistent lack of sleep can result in numerous chronic health issues, too, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity, kidney disease, and heart disease. 

Investing in a well-made mattress can drastically improve sleep quality and quality of life. Like other big-ticket purchases, mattress shopping is not for the faint of heart. Mattress options vary widely, from different sizes and materials used to manufacture to special features like temperature control. As such, there are dozens of important questions to keep in mind while shopping for a new mattress. As queen-size mattresses are the most purchased mattresses, we’ll focus on the most important questions to ask when shopping for a queen-size mattress upgrade. Read on to see the list of the 10 most common questions asked about queen-size mattresses.

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1. How does a queen-size mattress compare to other mattress sizes?

There are plenty of mattress sizes to choose from, so it’s imperative to have an idea of the average dimensions of each mattress size to compare adequately. The six standard mattress sizes, from smallest to largest, are Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King. 

The twin and twin XL sizes are both made to comfortably fit one person at 38 inches wide, but the twin XL gives an extra 5 inches at 80 inches long compared to the regular twin size of 75 inches. Next comes the full and queen sizes, both of which can fit two people, albeit the full size is a tight fit for two at 54 inches wide by 74 inches long. The queen-size gives an extra 6 inches in width and length compared to a full-size mattress, as they are typically 60 inches wide by 80 inches long. King and California King are much larger, measuring 76 inches wide by 80 inches long and 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, respectively.

2. Is a queen-size mattress the right size for my needs?

The queen-size mattress is the most popular size in the United States, and for good reason. It fits most bedrooms well and is a comfortable option for most couples or taller single sleepers. While a queen-size mattress can comfortably fit two average-sized adults, there will not be much extra space for a furry friend or a small child. Those with larger body types or active sleepers may want to consider upgrading to a king-size mattress to ensure comfort for themselves and their sleeping partner. 

3. What can I expect to pay for a queen-size mattress?

The price of a queen-size mattress depends on multiple factors, such as the materials used to make it, the manner of manufacture, the layers used to make it, and any extra features the mattress might include. As such, the cost of a queen-size mattress can greatly vary. On average, a decent queen-size mattress will cost between $850 and $1,500. While lower-quality mattresses can be found for less than $300 for those on a budget, a well-made mattress is worth the investment. Keep an eye out for sales – most furniture and mattress stores have annual sales around President’s Day, Labor Day, and Memorial Day, which can greatly discount the cost of a high-quality mattress.

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4. Does it matter what my new mattress is made from?

If you have sensitivities to certain fabrics or materials, be sure to keep that in mind while shopping for your new queen-size mattress. Most companies now offer certifications on their mattresses, such as the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, which certifies that the mattress has been tested and is free from harmful substances, such as heavy metals, toxic dyes, or carcinogenic substances. Some certifications focus on durability, while others certify that the mattress has been tested for anti-bacterial and anti-fungal action. While shopping for your new queen-size mattress, be aware of which certifications the mattress has attained, and what materials were used to manufacture the mattress, as some materials have been shown to be harmful to human health. 

5. Which type of queen-size mattress is best for my sleep style?

Certain sleep positions need different levels of firmness and support in their mattress based on the pressure that different sleep positions put on one’s body. Generally, those who sleep on their sides get the best support from a mattress that has a low level of firmness, while stomach sleepers benefit from a much firmer mattress. Back sleepers fall somewhere in the middle, needing a medium level of firmness for an adequate night of rest. If you wake up regularly with neck, shoulder, or back pain, you may want to consider a queen-size mattress that contains a foam layer. Foam layering can help provide comfortable support while alleviating some pressure certain sleep positions put on the body.

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6. How long can I expect my mattress to last?

The lifespan of a queen-size mattress heavily depends on the material the mattress is made of and how well the mattress has been cared for. Hybrid mattresses, a type of mattress that combines an innerspring support core with a foam comfort layer, typically have the shortest lifespan, lasting anywhere from 6 to 10 years. Innerspring mattresses will need to be replaced about every 8 years, while foam or memory foam mattresses can last 10 to 15 years. If you’re looking for a queen-size mattress with the longest lifespan, you’ll likely want to check out a latex mattress, which can last 20 to 25 years when taken care of. Mattresses with springs, such as the innerspring and hybrid types, are not good choices if you’ve got kids or pets that might like to bounce on beds – lots of bouncing can drastically decrease the lifespan of these mattresses.

7. Will the climate I live in affect the integrity of my mattress?

Surprisingly enough, the lifespan (and comfort level) of some mattresses can be greatly affected by the climate you’re living in. Hybrid and innerspring mattresses contain metal springs, which tend to rust quickly in humid climates due to the consistent presence of moisture seeping through the mattress. If you’ve got your heart set on a hybrid or innerspring mattress but live in a humid climate, look for mattresses with titanium springs or springs with anti-rust coating. While foam and memory foam mattresses are extremely comfortable, they retain heat easily, so they might not be the best choice in a hot climate, especially if you’re a hot sleeper.

8. Are there specific features in a queen-size mattress that I am willing to pay more for?

Mattress technology has come a long way from the invention of the innerspring mattress in 1871. Nowadays, you can find a queen-sized mattress with plenty of extra features, such as zoned support, temperature control, memory foam, and even sensors that can track sleep! These special features may increase the price of your new mattress, but depending on your preferences and needs, the benefits far outweigh the extra cost.

9. What kind of warranty or return policy do I need?

Before purchasing your new queen-size mattress, know the warranty and trial information. While all mattresses have warranties under the Federal Trade Commission, the length of the warranty differs by brand. Some offer 10-year- or 25-year warranties, while others promise lifetime coverage. Trials and returns typically have a much shorter window, from 30 days to a whole year, depending on the brand and store you purchase from. 

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10. How will I get my new queen-size mattress to its final destination?

Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, be sure to have a plan to get your queen-size mattress to its new home. Shopping online almost always guarantees delivery, but not necessarily inside your home unless you are willing to pay extra. If you’re shopping in-store and prefer to cut additional costs, like delivery, plan ahead by ensuring your vehicle has enough space to cart your new mattress home. Be sure to bring an extra set of hands – a queen-size mattress is too big for one person to move alone!

Final Thoughts:

The effect that good sleep has on quality of life cannot be overstated and should be prioritized. Investing in a quality mattress that suits your individual sleep preferences is one of the best ways to ensure you get the best quality of sleep possible. Set yourself up for success by answering these 10 questions before purchasing your next queen-size mattress. 

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