Q When buying a new mattress, why is it so urgent that the box spring be replaced? I can't see why it's necessary. What are some suggestions when looking for a new mattress?
A A new box isn't necessary if the old one doesn't have rips, warps, creaks, or "give," according to Consumer Reports Magazine.
On the other hand, the Better Sleep Council, a nonprofit organization supported by the mattress industry, warns that pairing a new mattress with a foundation it wasn't designed to work with will impede comfort and reduce the useful life of your new mattress.
On the sales room floor you may be told that the mattress and box spring are designed to work together. Indeed, the material cover on the new mattress and older box spring won't match, and, depending on the mattress you are buying, it might be inadequately supported by the old box spring. You might also hear that you must include a box spring to protect the mattress warranty. But be sure you read just what the warranty covers.
Educate yourself before mattress shopping:
Decide on type: innerspring, foam, air, adjustable or water bed.
Test your choice. There's no one "best" mattress. People have different notions of comfort. Go to a showroom and look them over. Plan to spend some time testing them: five minutes lying on your back, five on each side, and five minutes on your front if you're a belly sleeper. Do this with your bed partner, if you have one. Don't be embarrassed; this is important and expected by sales staff.
Ask about a return policy. Some dealers let you test them at home for 30 to 90 days.