Mattresses are large soft cushioned pads that are usually placed on top of beds. The aim of a mattress is to provide support to your neck and back while you sleep. Everyone likes a good sound sleep and want a sense of maximum comfort. This is the reason why mattresses are made up of materials such as latex, memory foam, gel, spring coils, and so on. Buying a comfortable mattress is of paramount importance considering that a person sleeps 1/3rd of his life. A crappy mattress can affect your sleep patterns, cause back pains and make your muscles stiff. Buying mattresses that are soft beyond a point can also cause health issues such as pain in joints and spine. There are many places where one can buy a mattress.

1. Online: The easiest way of buying is perhaps buying online. One can compare different brands and sizes and whatnot. Buying mattresses online is as good as buying it from a physical store. Almost all the brands have made available their website to place orders. This mode of buying also enables you to compare different prices with a simple click. The downfall of buying online is that you have to rely on your experience.
2. Bix box retailers: Such stores are a relief as one can go there and buy a range of different commodities. You can buy a bottle of mustard sauce, toilet paper, and a mattress in the same place. Prices are similar to what you will find online. However, you may not get the aid of any salesman as the staff at such stores have little knowledge about mattresses.
3. Department stores: This is no different than big box retailers. The only difference is that you will have a salesman to guide you. You will get a variety of matttresses but the prices will be slightly higher.
4. Furniture stores: Such stores have different sections among which you would find a section exclusively dedicated to mattresses. Buying from a furniture store is logical as a mattress comes under furniture.
5. Mattress specialty stores: Such stores are exclusively dedicated to mattresses. The staff has a wide knowledge of mattresses and can guide you throughout the entire buying process. The prices, however, would be high.

The place from where you buy a mattress may not be as important as the selection of a mattress. So you should stress more on choosing the right size, material etc.