Your Guide to Smart Mattress Shopping

If you're waking up sore, tossing and turning all night, or feel like your mattress has seen better days, it might be time for an upgrade. But before you head to the store or start scrolling online, here's something most people don't realize: timing matters—a lot.

Buying a mattress isn't just about comfort, it's also about strategy. If you're looking to get the best value without compromising quality, there are certain times of year when you'll find better deals, deeper discounts, and more options.

So, what's the best month to buy a mattress?

The Short Answer: May is the Magic Month

If you're aiming for the best blend of price, quality, and selection, May is hands-down the top month to shop for a new mattress.

Why May? It's all about timing with the retail cycle. New mattress models usually hit the market in June, so retailers are eager to clear out older inventory in May to make space. That means markdowns, promotions, and clearance events that can save you hundreds of dollars.

Think of it like buying a car at the end of the model year—it's the same great product, just at a much better price.

Other Great Times to Shop

If May doesn't work for you, don't worry—there are still other great times during the year when you can snag a great deal on a mattress:

  1. Holiday Weekends

Retailers love a good sale, and long weekends are prime time. Look for deals around:

  • Presidents' Day (February)
  • Memorial Day (May)
  • Fourth of July
  • Labor Day (September)
  • Black Friday & Cyber Monday (November)

During these weekends, you'll often find not only discounts on mattresses but also bundles—free pillows, sheets, or even adjustable bases thrown in.

  1. End-of-Year Sales (December)

As the year winds down, retailers are motivated to meet their annual sales goals. This can lead to surprise discounts and closeout prices—especially for in-store stock that needs to move quickly.

A Quick Note on Online vs. In-Store

Online mattress companies (like Casper, Nectar, and Purple) often run year-round promotions, but even they tend to ramp up discounts around May and major holidays. Signing up for their email lists or using price tracking tools can help you catch the best deals when they drop.

If you're shopping in-store, you might also have more wiggle room to negotiate, especially during slow shopping months or right before new inventory arrives.

Final Thoughts

Buying a mattress is a big decision—it affects your sleep, your health, and your wallet. While comfort should always be your top priority, there's no harm in being smart about when you buy.

So, if your back's been begging for a better mattress, mark your calendar. May is the sweet spot, but Presidents' Day, Labor Day, and year-end deals are close seconds. With the right timing, you can get a great mattress and a great deal.

Sleep better, save smarter—that's a win-win.