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Floor model mattresses can be polarizing for most mattress shoppers – some believe they’re getting the best deal of their lives while others won’t touch one with a 10-foot pole. That’s ok, you do you. But if you’re thinking of buying one, read this first.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely yes.
As long as you know what you are looking for and you do your due diligence.
For larger showrooms that carry different mattress brands, they usually have one on full display for each brand.
Usually (although not always), mattress stores will sell a floor model mattress at a discounted price, sometimes even at 75% less than the original retail price.
Pros
- Big discount (especially if it’s a mattress brand that usually goes for thousands of dollars)
- It’s a mattress brand and type you’ve been looking for and eyeing for ages
- Floor mattresses are usually well-maintained
- Immediate delivery (no waiting around to get your new bed)
Once again, the huge discount is the main thing that draws us in when it comes to buying a floor model – especially if it just so happens to be your dream high-end mattress like TempurPedic or Saatva Classic.
This alone could make you bite the bullet.
Mattress stores worth their salt are also pretty responsible when it comes to cleaning and maintaining their merchandise so you can often find one that’s in near mint condition.
Remember: compared to hotel mattresses (which, admit it, you will happily sleep on), floor models aren’t being used day in and day out by different people so there’s really no reason for you to get the ick.
This is what’s referred to as the ‘used mattress myth’. It’s just that – a myth.
Also, most stores will happily have the mattress professionally cleaned for you before delivery, all you need to do is ask.
Although if you do get the ick then you really shouldn’t even be here. Just sayin’.
Another pro of buying a floor model mattress is that there’s no waiting around for delivery or waiting around for you to get your preferred brand in stock – you get to go home with your purchase straight away.
Cons
- Most display models will have some wear and tear
- Sometimes warranties and returns are no longer applicable
- No trial period
You need to manage your expectations: there WILL be wear and tear.
Not as much as a mattress that’s used daily or a secondhand mattress, mind you, but do expect a floor model mattress to not be as good as one that’s brand spanking new.
Think: slight scuffs, perhaps a frayed thread or two – slight cosmetic imperfections but nothing crazy like a beater you get off of Craigslist or Facebook marketplace (never buy a mattress on Craigslist or Facebook marketplace).
Another con is that warranties and/or returns may not be applicable. This usually depends on the mattress store that you’re buying from and not the brand.
As for trial periods?
That ship has sailed.
Floor model mattresses, unlike brand new mattresses, are not eligible for trial periods because, well, their sole purpose is to be tried out.
The floor model buyer’s secret playbook: how to get the best deal
- Exercise the 15 minute rule – Don’t be afraid to actually try the mattress out. It’s there for a reason. Lay on the bed in the sleeping position you typically sleep in and try it out for at least 15 minutes. Why? Since there’s no trial period, you need to ensure that the mattress will give you the pressure relief and spinal support you need.
- Inspect the mattress carefully – You should absolutely inspect every inch of the mattress for any hidden damage. Remember floor mattress sales are final – no returns, no exchanges.
- Ask for a full cleaning and sanitation – Don’t be shy to ask for one. This is for your own peace of mind.
- Negotiate – You know by now that floor models are valued lower than their actual retail price so don’t be afraid to negotiate. Don’t be afraid to go low, chances are the mattress store is dying to get the mattress off their floor.
Know when to walk away
If the mattress store is only offering up to a $200 discount at the most, walk away. That’s not a serious markdown, that’s a light discount.
Go back after two weeks to see if they’ve further marked the price down and that’s when you negotiate.
If they haven’t changed or they won’t budge on their original offer, know that there are a ton of other stores in your area that will.
Part of shopping smart is knowing when to walk away.
Michelline loves nothing more than a cozy bed, with a stack of books at her side. She loves getting lost when she travels, can bake an entire British afternoon tea from scratch, is obsessed with all things analogue and does calligraphy on the side. She currently suffers from mild insomnia and is more than happy to be your guinea pig, so you won’t have to go through all the trouble of finding out what works best for you.
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