Mattress Buying Guide

A great night’s sleep starts with the right mattress. With so many materials, firmness levels and mattress sizes in Australia, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide covers the essentials of how to choose a mattress, from size and support to comfort and care—so you can feel more confident when you shop.

Explore Myer’s range of mattresses and find the right fit for your sleep style, space and routine.

• Best for: Back sleepers, stomach sleepers and people who prefer a stable feel
• Feels like: Supportive, even and less cushioned
• Benefits: Spinal alignment, airflow and reduced motion transfer

A firm mattress offers a stable sleep surface with very little give. It works well for stomach and back sleepers who need their spine to stay in a neutral position through the night. If you tend to sleep hot, firm mattresses also allow for better airflow than softer options.

• Best for: Combination sleepers and those who want a balance of comfort and support
• Feels like: Balanced support with a little cushioning on top
• Benefits: Some pressure relief and a good all-round feel

A medium mattress—sometimes called cushion firm—sits between firm and plush. It suits sleepers who want some give without sacrificing support, making it a popular choice for couples with different sleep preferences or anyone who moves between positions through the night.

• Best for: Side sleepers and those with pressure point sensitivity
• Feels like: Soft and cushioning with a gentle cradle
• Benefits: Pressure relief around hips and shoulders

A plush mattress has a softer feel that allows your hips and shoulders to sink in slightly, while keeping your spine aligned. An Ultra Plush takes that a step further, often with memory foam layers for superior pressure relief and minimal motion transfer so you and your partner can sleep undisturbed.

• Best for: Changing the feel and extending the life of your existing mattress
• Feels like: An added layer of cushioning or support
• Benefits: Extends mattress life, adjusts comfort level and supports pressure relief

A topper can change the feel of your bed without replacing your whole mattress. It’s a practical option if your mattress is still in good condition but could use a little more softness or support. Toppers can also extend the life of your mattress by reducing everyday wear.

The best type of mattress for you depends on how you sleep, your bedroom setup and what helps you feel comfortable at night.

• Bedroom size: Start by checking how different mattress sizes will fit your room while leaving enough space around the bed.
• Sleeping position: Choose soft cushioning for side sleepers and firmer support for back and stomach sleepers.
• Temperature regulation: If you sleep warm, look for breathable materials that help air move through the mattress.
• Motion isolation: For couples, motion isolation can help reduce disturbance when one person rolls over or gets up.
• Pressure relief: Cushioning can help ease pressure around the shoulders, hips and back, especially for side sleepers.
• Trial periods and warranties: Check the trial period, returns policy and warranty for peace of mind.

Your sleeping position can help narrow down the feel and support you need from your mattress. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, so think about how you naturally sleep most nights.

• Side sleepers: Side sleepers often need the soft cushioning around the shoulders and hips that a plush or ultra plush mattress can provide.
• Back sleepers: Back sleepers usually need a balance of comfort and spinal support from a medium or firm mattress.
• Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers often benefit from a firmer mattress to help keep the body evenly aligned through the night.
• Combination sleepers: Combination sleepers change positions throughout the night. A medium mattress can offer a good balance of cushioning and support.

A little care can help keep your mattress feeling fresh and comfortable for longer. Always check the care instructions for your specific mattress before cleaning, but here are some general tips:

• Use a mattress protector: A mattress protector can guard against spills and body oils and is easier to wash than the mattress.
• Rotate regularly: Rotate your mattress as recommended by the manufacturer to help even out wear.
• Air it out: Let your mattress breathe when you change your sheets to reduce trapped moisture.
• Clean spills quickly: Blot spills with a clean, dry cloth and avoid soaking the mattress. Always follow the care label.
• Vacuum the surface: Use the upholstery attachment to remove dust and lint.

If your mattress feels saggy, lumpy or less supportive than it used to, it might be time for a replacement. Waking up sore, sleeping poorly or noticing more partner disturbance can also be signs it’s time for a new mattress.

So, how long should a mattress last, exactly? It depends on the material, quality and how well it’s cared for. As a general guide, many mattresses last around 7 to 10 years, but you may need to replace yours sooner if it no longer feels comfortable or supportive.

It can take a few weeks for your body to adjust to a new mattress, especially if the firmness is different from your old one. Give yourself time to settle in and follow the care instructions during the first few weeks.

Both options can work, depending on how you like to shop. Buying in store lets you test the feel before you choose, while shopping online can make it easier to compare sizes, materials and prices at your own pace.

The right budget depends on the size, material, brand and features you’re looking for. Rather than choosing on price alone, look for a mattress that suits your sleep style and offers the support, comfort and quality you need.

The right mattress can help you feel more comfortable and supported during the night. Choosing one that suits your sleeping position, preferred firmness and body support needs may help you wake up feeling more rested.