One might think a mattress is the last thing you would consider buying online, but new materials and consumer insights have spawned the growth of a number of online companies in recent years. For example, newer, lighter and compactable memory-foam mattresses help reduce the cost of warehousing and shipping, making deliveries typically free. The same can be said for returns, which are often covered under a no-cost, no-hassle policy that gives consumers a generous at-home trial period. Such policies also help allay concerns about buying a mattress “sight unseen”, and put these upstart companies on a competitive footing with old-style retailers. After all, these companies realize it makes more sense to test a mattress under normal, home conditions, than to feel you need to make an on-the spot decision by trying out a showroom mattress while dressed in street clothes.
