Mattress Guides

Best Time to Buy a Mattress: Secret Sales Dates Revealed

Buying a mattress is one of the most important investments you make for your health and daily comfort. Yet, it’s also one of the most confusing purchases. Mattress prices change often, “limited-time” sales seem endless, and discount labels can be misleading. So, when is the best time to buy a mattress?

The truth is, mattress pricing follows predictable sales cycles. Major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Presidents’ Day, and Black Friday unlock the deepest discounts. This article expains the secret mattress sales dates, and expert tips to help you save hundreds, without compromising on quality or comfort.

Key Takeaways

• The best time to buy a mattress is during major holiday sales like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Presidents’ Day, and Black Friday.
• Mattress prices follow predictable sales cycles, making timing just as important as the brand or model.
• May and January often offer the deepest discounts due to Memorial Day promotions and year-end clearance sales.
• Online mattress shopping usually provides lower prices, longer trial periods, and better convenience than in-store purchases.
• If your mattress is causing pain, sagging, or poor sleep, it’s better to buy sooner rather than wait for a sale.

Signs It’s Time to Buy a New Mattress

Before searching for the best time to buy a mattress, first check whether your current one needs replacing. These warning signs can help you decide whether to wait for a sale or buy immediately.

1. Mattress age: 7–10 years is the limit

Most mattresses perform well for about 7 to 10 years. After that, materials slowly break down and lose support. Memory foam mattresses often last 8–10 years, while innerspring mattresses usually wear out closer to 7 years. Even high-end mattresses don’t last forever.

Read Also: Hybrid vs Innerspring Mattress: Which Is Right for You?

2. Waking up sore or tired

If you wake up with back pain, stiff shoulders, or feel tired despite sleeping enough hours, your mattress may no longer support your body properly. Over time, worn materials fail to keep your spine aligned, leading to discomfort that worsens gradually.

3. Visible sagging or lumps

Deep dents, uneven surfaces, or lumps are clear signs of mattress failure. Indentations deeper than one or two inches that don’t bounce back indicate collapsed materials. Weak edges that compress easily also signal structural breakdown.

4. Increased allergies or asthma symptoms

Old mattresses collect dust mites, pet dander, and mold. These allergens can trigger nighttime allergy symptoms or breathing problems. If symptoms worsen when you sleep, your mattress may be part of the problem.

When Do Mattresses Go on Sale?

Knowing when mattress sales happen can help you save a significant amount of money. Retailers follow seasonal patterns, and certain times of the year consistently offer better deals.

Best time of year to buy a mattress

Throughout the mattress industry, late spring through early fall stands out as the prime shopping season. According to mattress industry experts, the months July through September consistently see the highest sales volume. This summer-to-early-fall stretch offers the most widespread and significant discounts compared to other seasons.

Best month to buy a mattress

May is the top month to buy a mattress because of Memorial Day sales, which often feature some of the deepest discounts of the year. January is another good option, as stores try to clear out last year’s stock. March and April can also bring deals as new models start arriving.

When are the best mattress sales

Holiday weekends reign supreme for mattress discounts. Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day consistently offer deeper price cuts than regular sales periods. Black Friday and Cyber Monday present excellent opportunities, especially for online purchases.

Why holidays offer the biggest discounts

Retailers strategically align major promotions with holidays because consumers have more time to visit stores. These periods create market-wide competition, forcing all brands to offer compelling deals simultaneously. Retailers also leverage these times to clear inventory before new model introductions.

Secret Sales Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

Choosing when to buy a mattress can help you save a lot of money. Mattress prices are usually lowest during holiday sales and major shopping events. Brands also offer discounts when they’re about to release new models, which means older versions go on sale.

Here’s your complete year-round calendar for finding the best time to buy a mattress.

1) Presidents’ Day: February

Falling on the third Monday in February, this federal holiday commemorates all U.S. presidents. Retailers offer significant discounts, making it perfect for purchasing luxury mattresses at mid-range prices.

2) Memorial Day: May

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May (May 26, 2025), kicks off a two-week sales period. Many retailers offer their biggest mattress deals during this time.

3) Fourth of July: Mid-summer

Independence Day sales typically begin in June, offering substantial discounts comparable to other major holidays. Notably, online retailers advertise savings up to 30 to 60% during this period.

4) Labor Day: September

Running from mid-August through mid-September (August 13-September 16), Labor Day sales present another prime opportunity. This period consistently generates high sales volume throughout the mattress industry.

5) Black Friday & Cyber Monday: November

Representing the most significant savings period yearly, these November events offer substantial markdowns. Consequently, customers can save up to $925 on premium mattress sets.

6) Prime Day: Amazon’s summer event

Generally occurring in July, this online shopping event features mattress discounts rivaling traditional holiday sales.

7) Back-to-school: August dorm deals

August promotions focus on twin XL mattresses, toppers, and bedding bundles for dormitories.

8) New Year’s clearance: January

Finally, January clearance events help retailers eliminate previous year’s inventory, creating excellent opportunities for discounted purchases.

Best Places to Buy a New Mattress: Online vs. In-Store

When buying a new mattress, one of the biggest decisions is where to buy it. You can either shop online or visit a physical mattress store. Each option has its own pros and cons, so the best choice depends on your budget, comfort level, and shopping preferences.

Buying a Mattress Online

Buying a mattress online is usually cheaper. Online brands don’t have physical stores or large sales teams, so they save money and pass those savings on to customers.

Online shopping is also very easy and convenient. You can shop anytime, compare options, and read real customer reviews without feeling rushed or pressured. Most online mattress companies also offer free shipping within the U.S.

Some people don’t like buying a mattress without trying it first. While online brands may not always have live customer support available, most offer 90 nights or more to try the mattress at home. If you don’t like it, you can usually return it.

Buying a Mattress in a Store

Buying a mattress in a store lets you try different beds in person. You can lie down, check firmness, and get a general feel for comfort. Sales staff can answer questions and help if you’re not sure what kind of mattress you need. Sometimes, you may even be able to negotiate the price.

However, store shopping can be more expensive. Salespeople may feel pushy, and higher store costs mean higher prices. Visiting a store can also be inconvenient if you live far away or only shop on busy weekends.

Smart Shopping Strategies for 2026

Saving money isn’t just about when you buy a mattress. It’s also about how you shop. Use the strategies below to stretch your budget and get the best value in 2026.

1) Compare Online vs. In-Store Prices

Online mattress stores usually cost less than physical shops. They have lower overhead costs, so prices are often cheaper. In-store shopping lets you test the mattress, but lying down for a few minutes is not the same as sleeping on it every night. Negotiating works in both places.

2) Look for Trial Periods and Warranties

Most online mattress brands offer trial periods between 90 and 120 nights. Some even offer up to one year. Many trials require a 30-day break-in period before returns are allowed.

Warranties and trials are different. Trial periods let you return the mattress for any reason. Warranties only cover manufacturing defects. Always read the fine print. Check for return fees and actions that may void the warranty.

3) Track Prices with Alert Tools

Use price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel and Honey. These tools show price history and send alerts when prices drop. This helps you buy at the lowest possible price instead of guessing.

4) Buy Last Year’s Models

Older mattress models often offer the same comfort at a lower price. January is a great time to shop. Retailers clear out last year’s stock and offer deep discounts.

5) Join Loyalty Programs for Extra Savings

Many mattress brands offer loyalty or membership programs. Members often get early access to sales, exclusive discounts ads, free accessories or extended warranties. Signing up is usually free and can unlock extra savings..

FAQs

How long should a mattress last before replacement?

Quality mattresses typically last 8-10 years before needing replacement. Instead of strictly following a timeline, look for warning signs like lumps, indents, or discomfort.

What’s the difference between trial periods and warranties?

Trial periods allow returns for any reason (typically 100 days), whereas warranties only cover manufacturer defects over longer periods. Many companies require a 30-day break-in period before initiating returns.

Is a thicker mattress always better?

No, thickness doesn’t necessarily indicate quality. Poor-quality fillers can sag regardless of height. The average foam mattress is about 11 inches, innersprings average 13 inches.

Read Also: Mattress Thickness Guide: What Thickness Is Best for You?

Do firm mattresses always help with back pain?

This is a myth – support matters more than firmness level. Your spine should feel aligned, not twisted. Studies show medium-firm mattresses often work best for back pain sufferers.

Are gel foam mattresses actually cooling?

Not necessarily. While gel-infused foams might feel cool initially, they eventually warm up from body heat. No foam truly “cools” without active cooling systems.

Conclusion: When Should You Buy a Mattress?

The best time to buy a mattress is during major holiday sales, especially Memorial Day, Labor Day, Presidents’ Day, and Black Friday. These events consistently deliver the largest discounts, best bundles, and clearance pricing. However, if your mattress is harming your sleep or health, don’t wait. With smart timing, price tracking, and strategic shopping, you can buy a high-quality mattress at the lowest possible price without compromise.

Better sleep starts with buying smart.