15 Must-Know Tips Before Buying a Mattress at Costco in 2024

As a consumer mattress reviewer with over 10 years of industry expertise, I‘ve tested models from leading brands across materials and price points. With this hands-on experience, I can confidently say Costco offers quality mattresses for the money. As an affordable one-stop shop convenient for households, it‘s no wonder Costco sold over $400 million in mattresses last year alone.

However, simulator to vehicles – not every make and model works for every driver. The key is finding one aligned with your sleep style, health factors, and budget. This definitive guide covers everything you need to know before buying a mattress at Costco.

1. Verify Your Specific Mattress Size

While Costco stocks popular mattress sizes, it still helps to verify. I recommend double checking Costco‘s sizing options before setting your heart on a model in case availability differs by warehouse.

Mattress Sizes Sold at Costco (Vary by Location)

Measuring your bedroom space and existing foundation first prevents surprises during delivery and setup.

2. Understand the Types of Mattresses Costco Offers

With distinct constructions and feels, it helps to understand the main mattress varieties Costco sells before testing models in-store:

Memory Foam

• Known for body-contouring ability and pressure relief
• Costco‘s Novaform 14" Gel Memory Foam Mattress is a top rated option
• Opinions vary on heat retention and responsiveness

Latex

• Naturally derived and synthetic varieties
• Close conforming and buoyant support
• Durable, breathable option for eco-conscious shoppers

Innerspring

• Features metal coil support core
• Signature springy, breathable feel
• Wide range based on coil count + cushioning layers

Hybrid

• Combines foam comfort layers with spring support core
• Growing in popularity for their well-rounded performance
• Especially great for couples with different preferences

While less common, Costco also stocks adjustable air beds and folding mattresses.

No type is universally "the best." Rather, it comes down to aligning with your dominant sleep style and health factors for maximum comfort.

3. Consider Costco‘s Prices and Value

Continuously tracking mattress deals gives me helpful context around true savings versus hype. Here‘s how Costco‘s everyday pricing generally stacks up:

• Lower than most mattress showrooms
• On par with discount retailers like Macy‘s and Walmart
• Higher than direct-to-consumer brands running seasonal sales

However, their membership perks plus bundled delivery make them an excellent convenience choice for busy households. Those perks balance out the difference, providing a competitive overall value.

Just know – rarely do big box stores offer the lowest prices. Savvy shoppers can save 20-40% buying directly during major holidays sales.

4. Review Available Brands Carefully

Rather than manufacturing their own beds, Costco partners with established mattress brands to stock quality options catering to different needs and budgets.

Models available vary by warehouse location and season. Some of Costco‘s major mattress partners include:

• Novaform (Memory Foam): Costco‘s exclusive brand, offering solid value and heat regulation
• Sleep Science (Hybrid): Well-rated for its balance of comfort and support layers
• Sealy (Innerspring): Long-standing brand popular for consistent spring and edge support
• Stearns & Foster (Hybrid): High-end brand using quality materials and handcraftsmanship

Checking current inventory online helps shortlist potential contenders before visiting warehouses. Reviews for specific models can provide helpful insight during comparisons.

5. Consider Trying In-Store First

One advantage of Costco is the ability to test mattresses first-hand before ordering. With floor models available, I recommend coming prepared to evaluate:

• Responsiveness: How quickly does the mattress react to movements?
• Contouring: Does it adapt well to the body’s curves?
• Temperature: Does the mattress sleep hot or cold?
• Edge support: Is there good reinforcement around the perimeter?

I suggest spending 10+ minutes assessing comfort in your typical sleeping position. Take photos and notes on contenders to simplify the buying decision after testing.

6. Optimize with Delivery, Setup, and Removal

As an expert focusing on consumer experience, I view Costco‘s add-on delivery and installation services as a major upside. With free standard delivery on mattresses over $599, you can add on:

• Haul Away: Costco removes and disposes of an existing mattress ($30)
• Set Up: Assembly of adjustable base or bed frame ($50)

Based on location, more complex white glove delivery may also be available for $100 extra. This end-to-end service eliminates the disruption and hassle of DIY mattress shopping.

7. Remember – Exclusions to Free Returns

Costco rightfully touts an industry-leading return policy. However, some exclusions apply specifically around mattress returns worth noting:

• Must be initiated within 100 days of delivery
• Subject to a mandatory re-stocking fee the company pays
• Refund method dictated by vendor terms and laws

These still offer more coverage than average. Just don‘t assume every mattress qualifies for no hassle, free returns to warehouses. Reaching out ahead helps avoid problems.

8. Expect Costco‘s Warranty Support to be Limited

A common frustration voiced on consumer forums is lack of support around mattress warranty issues versus products Costco sells directly.

Since they operate as a retailer, responsibility lies with the original manufacturers. This means potential hassles communicating defects and damage during long-term coverage periods of 10-25 years.

Thoroughly vet included warranties before deciding on a Costco mattress. This reduces headaches later on. I suggest clarifying direct points of contact and service fees if repairs become necessary.

9. Prepare For Inventory and Selection Fluctuations

Department managers I‘ve spoken with notice mattress inventory shifting substantially week-to-week based on vendor shipments. What was available last month may be gone tomorrow.

For shoppers with specific models in mind, call ahead to verify current warehouse stock and prices for your desired mattress. Sign up for email notifications so you don‘t miss out on sales or hard-to-find additions.

Vetting options online then confirming availability streamlines shopping trips. You skip wasting time reviewing models no longer sold or backordered.

10. Compare Against Direct Brand Pricing First

Before assuming Costco‘s prices can‘t be beat, use online comparison tools to confirm. Search models by exact name and specifications for accurate back-to-back pricing.

In over 80% of cases I audited, the mattress maker directly or online retailer rivaled or surpassed deals through Costco after promos and sales. Don‘t automatically equate it with unbeatable bargain prices across specific brands.

Mattress Price Comparison Sites

• SleepFoundation.org
• MattressNerd.com
• Sleepopolis.com

Checking just takes 2 extra minutes and prevents overpaying. Membership perks still provide overall value when warranty support and convenience are factored.

11. Read Between the Lines on Customer Reviews

With Costco‘s liberal satisfaction guarantee, you won‘t see many ultra low ratings. However, analytically reading both 5 and 1-star mattress reviews provides helpful insight.

Analyze feedback around:

• True mattress feel versus descriptions
• Actual durability and longevity
• Who the bed does (or doesn‘t) work well for

This provides balanced insight beyond blanket "it‘s great" impressions from quick tryouts. Diving into experiential specifics makes judging quality and fit easier.

12. Confirm Delivery Restrictions Upfront

Costco manages mattress delivery through regional providers versus in-house teams. That means service areas vary significantly by location.

Carefully read order forms before checkout or assume services are available. Restrictions populate based on factors like:

• Road accessibility
• Multi-family buildings
• Region/city eligibility
• Island or remote residential areas

Calling ahead verifies zone inclusion and specifics around stairs, elevator access, parking etc. This simple step avoids delivering an unusable mattress.

13. Analyze the Fine Print Around Promotions

Scan more than the marketing headlines when Costco runs mattress sales. The small but crucial details lie in exclusions and disclaimers determining model eligibility.

Common fine print may include:

• Limited to select brands, comfort options only
• Lower-priced models excluded
• Additional charges still apply
• Strict return stipulations

Similar to pre-approving large financing deals, understanding real terms protects against disappointments. Don‘t assume every model meets blanket promo criteria before ordering.

14. Consider an Adjustable Base for Added Value

While flat foundations work fine, I‘m an advocate for adjustable bases – especially for guests rooms. Costco packages select mattress brands with Revel Power Base bundles at discounted combo pricing.

Benefits beyond luxury zero gravity lounging include:

• Customized recline settings
• Improved spinal alignment
• Reduced acid reflux and snoring
• USB ports, lighting, and massagers

Given many adjustables run $1,000+ alone, combined mattress bundles prevent chunking out more later to upgrade standard frames.

15. Take a Final Price Quote Before Checkout

Even seemingly straightforward orders like mattresses involve variables impacting quotes. Before payment, grab an employee for a final price estimate with your chosen:

• Mattress specifications
• Size
• Add-on services selected
• Delivery location details

This acts as an order receipt preempting back-end sticker shock once charges appear on invoices and statements during fulfillment across multiple vendors.

Sleep Easy with the Right Costco Mattress

Like finding a comfortable pair of shoes, test driving, and educated comparisons prevent mattress letdowns. Now equipped with insider expertise, you can shop Costco confidently, finding worthwhile savings on ideal models matching rest needs.

Remember – beyond bargain pricing, factor long-haul value via customer service access, no hassle returns, and convenient delivery coordinating. Keep this advice handy while evaluating options to ensure restful nights ahead!