The main advantage of buying a bed online is better value, although it doesn’t stop there. Since it is still a relatively young medium, consumers may not fully realize the benefits. Past myths regarding concerns of buying a mattress online have recently been disproven, and many consumers are now enjoying the comfort of a mattress they purchased online. If you have doubts or are simply researching alternatives, the following information may help you decide whether to buy a bed online.
Benefits of Buying a Bed Online
Regardless of where you are planning to purchase a bed, most consumers who have access to the internet will research their purchase online.
Find reviews and learn the pros and cons of a mattress.
Online you can and reviews from customers who have already purchased the mattress stating what they did or did not like about it. Independent third-party sites offer great comparisons of mattress styles, brands and even particular models based upon a verified collection of reviews. It is important to note that unless reviews on a retailer’s website are verified by a third-party like PowerReviews, they may not be legitimate. In general any line will not receive 100% glowing reviews, someone, somewhere will not be completely satisfied as mattresses are highly individual products. Industry averages for satisfaction tend to range around 70% with anything over 80% being particularly high. Also bear in mind that only people who are very satisfied or very dissatisfied tend to leave reviews, the average consumer isn’t as likely to take the time to do so.
It’s easier to compare online.
Comparison shopping, when buying a mattress online, is actually easier than when shopping in the showroom. This is due in part to the fact that well-known brands manufacture the same beds under different names for their customers to discourage comparative shopping. This can be extremely frustrating when attempting to compare the details and prices of different models. Online however, all the details about a bed are usually presented clearly (if they aren’t look elsewhere), so comparing different brands and models can be easier.
It will save you money.
Low prices on quality products equals greater value to the consumer. This value is easier to attain online, as the companies do not have the overhead costs associated with a brick and mortar showroom. Another advantage of buying a bed online is the ability to shop a wider selection of brands, as many are online only difficult to find locally. Online retailers are able to offer a wider range of sizes, custom options, and unique materials. Frequent online sales are another way to find better value online, and many consumers are also exempt from sales tax when shopping online.
There’s less pressure.
Another good post on this topic of buying a bed online comes from BestMattress-Brands.org, which rates the ability to shop without sales pressure as the #2 reason to shop internet retailers, only behind convenience. People who don’t like sales pressure will definitely see the advantage of buying a bed online, as they are able to shop and research without being goaded by the salesperson. Traditional showrooms often provide commissions or pay incentives to their sales people who are able to sell the most beds, push a particular brand, or tally the highest profits etc. Online chat and phone support is primarily there to provide information and answer questions the consumer may have about different lines of their mattresses. Additionally, it is as easy as closing the chat box if you would begin to feel hounded to make a purchase. Less pressure means you are less likely to make a poor decision you’ll regret.
It’s more convenient.
Other advantages of buying a bed online include the ability to shop at your own convenience. The internet is open 24/7 and can be accessed from the comfort of your own home, without having to drive all over town and fight traffic. Return policies including 90-day free trial periods are often found when shopping online for a new mattress. Compare this to a local company who may charge restocking fees, pickup and or delivery costs as well as other charges, if they let you return at all. Reputable companies make their warranty and return policy available for consumers to read online so they can be sure of what they are getting.
Buying a bed online helps ensure comfort.
Probably one of the most compelling reasons not to worry about buying a mattress online is shown in a RTI sleep study of 128 people who thought they had chosen the best mattress for their needs in a showroom. In another survey from blog BestMattress-Reviews.org, people actually were more satisfied with mattresses bought online than in stores. Latex mattress results proved to be the most shocking, with nearly a 20% spread between what the consumer thought they liked after lying on it and their satisfaction with one they had not tried. This is a good reason to deeply consider the length of the trial period before purchasing a new mattress online, which is often quite generous. You should not have to suffer with a bed that provides less than you deserve because you were not able to test it long enough. Buying a bed online is better, and these are just some of the reasons why.
This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional.