• To determine durability, carefully inspect the mattress: The seams should be straight and the quilting should be tight and uniform. There should be no broken threads and the mattress should have sturdy handles for turning. Each innerspring coil should be turned at least five times; tighter coiled will make the mattress more supportive and long-lasting.
Most commercially manufactured mattresses contain flame-retardant chemicals, mold and mildew inhibitors, and stain guards to protect the exterior. Some mattresses may also contain formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. These substances will "off gas," or give off fumes, over time. If you are sensitive to these agents, consider a specialty-mattress maker who uses chemical-free materials.
If you happen to have a vintage bed that will not accommodate a standard-size mattress, check with an antique dealer who sells beds. He or she may be able to recommend a custom manufacturer.
Warranties are usually activated automatically from the day you purchase your new mattress. Often consumers will need only their original store receipt and the law label from the mattress to prove their warranty, but be sure to check with your retailer when you purchase your mattress.
 | Excerpted from Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook by Martha Stewart. Copyright 2006 by Martha Stewart. Excerpted with permission by Clarkson Potter. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced without permission in writing from the publisher. |
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2 Comments
If you plan on buying a quality mattress don't buy SERTA.... paid $ 1700.00 for a mattress & box spring 2 yrs. ago... it's now sagging & lumpy... have been trying to get service from SERTA for 2 month now and they could care less.. plus they charge a service fee just to come and de the inspection... the mattress looks new but the quality of construction leaves a lot to be desired
Very good article, however many of the topics only apply to North American mattresses. There are many European made mattresses in Canada and the US now that offer all natural fibres and use no chemicals and petroleum products. These mattresses are longer lasting and stay cleaner and healthier inside, than anything North American mattress manufacturers produce. I know most in detail, but one of the best was just introduced into North America a few weeks ago. The product is Vi-Spring. It has a life time warranty and each model has a variety of spring tensions for proper support regardless of the users body structure and likings. I bought natural and I will never go back to the North American products.