Columbus Day is the holiday we celebrate Europeans first landing in the Americas. What this has to do with mattresses and sleep is anyone’s guess. But it is for some a three day weekend, so why not have a mattress sale?

A quick review of the sales events at various mattress retailers reveals a smorgasbord of options.

“Free” Box Springs Sale – Make sure you ask what the price is for just the mattress. There is nothing free in this world.

“Mismatch” Sale – I have never understood how any company, unless it is grossly mismanaged, could end up with a surplus of boxes. Always verify that the mismatched box is the identical quality of the regualr box. Often it is inferior, which could cause problems down the road.

35%, 50%, 75% Off Sale – Off of what price? If it is not the regular day-to-day price, it is meaningless hype to get you excited.

Inventory Clearance Sale – Its a good a reason as any I guess to have a sale.

$199 Queen Set Sale – Dear Lord please do not buy a $199 queen set. I love people too much to have them suffer on a crappy mattress.

If you do go exploring for a new mattress during the Columbus Day weekend, please follow a few simple bits of advice.

1. Shop for sleep, not a mattress. Many salespeople will try and sell you a mattress and NOT fit you for good sleep. Find a sleep expert who will help you get fitted properly.

2. Resist the “bargains” and “deals” and focus on finding the correct support and alignment for YOU first.

3. Visit a store that has a wide selection of the the “S” brands and Tempur-Pedic – these are generally the best quality and value on the market.

4. Once you have selected a brand and selected a model, then visit other stores to compare pricing and services. Make sure you compare EVERYTHING including trial periods, delivery and accessories. (See the How to Buy a Mattress pages for help)

5. Once you have found the best price, use that info, if necessary, to negotiate the best price and service combination. I reputable retailer will only adjust prices in a competitive situation. If the price drops freely and easily, it is likely overpriced already. But if a competitor does have a comparable bed for less, there is justification for matching or beating the price.

6. If you want honesty and respect, give it. Don’t lie to a salesperson and claim you saw the same bed for $500 less when you didn’t. A seasoned pro knows the prices of the competitors better than you.

7. A GOOD salesperson will be worth every penny they earn in commission.

Happy Columbus Day!

May you discover the mattress of your dreams!!