This Is the Best Time of Year to Buy a Mattress If You're Looking to Save

Shopping for a new mattress isn’t something most of us do often, which makes it easy to feel overwhelmed. Between memory foam, hybrids, cooling technology, and endless firmness levels, it can be hard to know where to start. But before you even think about what you should buy, one big question can save you a ton of money: When should you buy?

To get the inside scoop on when is the best time to buy a mattress, we spoke with store manager Zachary B. from Mattress Firm, one of the largest mattress retailers in the country. Here, we'll break down the best times of year to shop, what kinds of sales to expect, and how to know when your current mattress has reached the end of the road.

How Long Should a Mattress Last?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to mattress lifespan, but most high-quality models are built to last. Buying a sturdy bed frame and using a mattress protector can help extend the life of your mattress by preventing sagging or damage from spills and accidents.

“Mattress lifespan depends on the brand,” Mattress Firm's Zachary B. shares, “but with a solid foundation and a quality mattress protector, you can expect to get at least a good 10 years out of it.”

How to Know It’s Time for a New Mattress

How can you tell when it’s time for a replacement? There are several clear signs that your current mattress is nearing the end of its life. "If your mattress has hills and valleys, or you feel like you’re stuck in a bucket every night, it’s time to start thinking about a new one," says Zachary.

Pay attention to your body cues as well. If you’re frequently waking up with back pain or struggling to find a comfortable position, your mattress probably isn’t offering the support your body needs.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Mattress?

Mattresses are a significant investment, so catching the right sale can make all the difference. Depending on when you shop, you could save hundreds of dollars and score free upgrades or extras, such as adjustable bases or cooling pillows.

If you can plan ahead and want to choose from the best models and add-ons, aim for late spring through early fall. With Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day all stacked up in the warmer months, summer is hands-down the best time to buy a mattress. "Everyone thinks Black Friday is the best time to buy a mattress, but honestly, summer is where you’ll find the best deals," says Zachary. "Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day—that whole stretch is full of major sales."

The Reason Behind the Savings

Retailers tend to offer deep discounts during these warmer months as people are more often moving, redecorating, and considering home improvements. For mattress stores, it’s the perfect time to get people in the door, and they sweeten the deal with some of the year’s best promotions.

Mattresses made with gel foam, moisture-wicking covers, and breathable layers are especially popular in summer, and stores know it. "We start marking down beds with cooling features, which is exactly what people are looking for when it’s hot out," says Zachary. Occasionally, you may also find bundled deals with cooling pillows or breathable mattress protectors for additional savings.

Additional Times to Consider Shopping

If you're in need of a new mattress now, you don't necessarily have to wait to score some savings. While summer steals the spotlight, it’s not the only time of year to find a deal.

Retailers still offer notable discounts around President’s Day in February, and Black Friday is famous for its deep price cuts across categories, and that includes mattresses. “President’s Day and Black Friday are great, too,” according to Zachary. See? No need to sacrifice your sleep for savings.