A good mattress is the key to quality sleep, which, in turn, is important for maintaining overall health. So, choosing the right mattress is crucial. The ideal mattress should not only be comfortable, but it should also relieve pressure on the neck and back while sleeping and even help the body regulate temperature. Rushing the process and picking the first mattress one finds without any research can negatively affect their sleep quality and cycle.

1. Choosing the wrong size
This is among the most common mattress-buying mistakes. A mattress that is too small may not accommodate more than one person with ease. A mattress that is too big for the bed frame or the room will mess with the aesthetics. Those who share a bed should go with a queen or king-sized mattress to ensure both sleepers get enough room to move without disturbing the other person.

2. Mistaking firmness for support
A mattress should offer the right support and alignment to help one avoid straining their neck and back. An extremely firm mattress may not be the best option for back support. A medium-firm mattress might do the trick, depending on the materials used. Looking up the materials used to make each layer of the mattress can help one understand what to expect. Most mattresses have 3 or more layers, which determine the kind of support, comfort, and buffering one will get.

3. Not checking the return policy
If looking up a mattress online, one will not be able to test it before making a purchase. One would have to rely on the product information and customer reviews to pick the right option. However, choosing a mattress with a good return policy can minimize the risk of being stuck with an unsuitable product. So, one should go through the return and shipping policies before buying the mattress. The policy should allow one enough time to ask for a refund or exchange if the mattress does not work for them. 

4. Going for the cheapest option
Cheap is not necessarily better when it comes to mattresses. Cheaper options might not have multiple layers that would offer the right support while sleeping, possibly worsening existing back and posture issues. Such mattresses may also not last long and may need to be replaced much sooner than premium mattresses would have. That does not necessarily mean buying the most expensive is the only way to find the best comfort and support. So, one should prioritize quality over price and find a mattress that offers the right value for money.

5. Buying a mattress without a sleep trial
One should choose a mattress that comes with a long trial period so that one has enough time to determine whether it is the right mattress for them. Many mattresses offer a 100-night trial period, within which the mattress can be replaced or returned. Choosing a mattress that has a strict return policy without a trial period is a key mistake to avoid. Trial periods allow one to check the comfort and support the mattress offers and its effect on sleep quality. A trial period of at least 3 weeks is a must to make an informed decision. During this period, one should ensure the mattress is well-protected from damages to ensure the seller will accept the return.