Mattress sleep trials explained: what to check before you buy

It's hard to judge a mattress by lying on it for two minutes in a shop. That's why many mattress brands now offer a "sleep trial": you sleep on the mattress at home for weeks or months, and if it doesn't suit you, you can return it. Here's what to check before you rely on one.

How sleep trials work

A sleep trial gives you a set number of nights to try the mattress at home. If you're not happy within that period, you can usually return it for a refund or swap it for another model from the same brand. Trial lengths vary a lot between brands, from a few weeks to a year.

The conditions to look for

• Where you buy matters. The trial usually comes from the seller. A mattress bought from a department store or marketplace may come with that retailer's returns policy rather than the brand's own trial.
• Minimum nights. Some trials ask you to sleep on the mattress for a minimum period before you can return it, because a new mattress can take a while to settle.
• Condition. Returns usually need the mattress to be clean and undamaged. A mattress protector from day one is a good idea.
• Collection and fees. Check whether collection is free, and whether any fee is taken off your refund.
• Sale and clearance items. These sometimes come without a trial at all.
• Trial versus guarantee. A sleep trial is about comfort. A guarantee or warranty covers faults, and usually lasts much longer.

When to buy

Mattress brands discount heavily during big sale events, and prices outside those times can be noticeably higher. If your current mattress will last a few more weeks, it can pay to wait for a sale.

Cheaper changes worth trying first

• New pillows: they cost far less than a mattress and can make a real difference.
• A mattress topper: can change how firm or soft a bed feels.
• A routine that suits you: the NHS website has general guidance on sleeping well.

If poor sleep is affecting your daily life, speak to your GP. This article is general shopping information, not medical advice.

The bottom line

A generous sleep trial takes much of the risk out of buying a mattress online, but only if you know the conditions. Read them before you order, keep the paperwork, and use a protector. See our current mattress and sleep deals.