Whether you just bought a new mattress or are still shopping around, you may be wondering if you can return a new mattress once you've slept on it or taken it out of the box. Of course, the answer to this question depends on where you purchased your new mattress. And while there are some stores that will make you pay a processing or restocking fee, some online mattress retailers who sell a bed-in-a-box have a policy in place to ensure that you're completely satisfied with your purchase. After all, if you're not sleeping well on your new mattress, can you imagine keeping it for eight to ten years? No way! 

Does Your Mattress Have a Sleep Trial? 

Sleep trials have become increasingly more popular because they allow you to sleep on the mattress in the comfort of your own home for a period of time without risk. It's one of the most important things to look for prior to buying a new mattress. While sleep trial periods can vary, Muse Sleep offers a 120-day trial period. Within that time frame, if you're not happy with your selection, you can return it and get a full refund.  

If your mattress does have a sleep trial, mark the end date on your calendar and set a reminder on your phone. If you're nearing the end of your trial and still aren't getting a good night's rest, it's probably time to call it quits. Keep in mind, if you just purchased your mattress, it's recommended that you sleep on it for at least 30 days before returning it so that your body can adjust to the feel of your new bed. 

To initiate the return process, contact the mattress company's customer service and provide proof of purchase in the form of an order number or receipt. You may be asked to provide photos to determine what condition your new mattress is in. If you bought your mattress from a local retailer, they may schedule a date and time to pick up your mattress. If it's an online mattress retailer, they'll likely work with a third-party to facilitate the pick-up (more on that later).  

Do You Want to Exchange Your Mattress? 

If you bought your mattress from a retailer or online store that sells more than one type of mattress or a choice of firmness options, you may have an opportunity to exchange your mattress for something else. An exchange is ideal if you like the overall feel and construction of your current mattress, but it's just too plush or too firm. 

However, to exchange your mattress, you most likely have to be within the sleep-trial period advertised. If you decide to exchange the product, you'll still have to go through the return process to get rid of your old mattress, but it will likely be easier, and no cost to you, to receive a new mattress that will hopefully fit your needs. 

Does Your New Mattress Have a Defect? 

Nearly all mattresses include a limited warranty to protect against manufacturer's defects. The warranty period can range, but it should cover the expected life of your mattress. So, if your warranty is 10 years that means the company that you purchased it from expects your mattress to last at least 10 years. If you want to ensure that you'll be protected should a defect arise, you should always keep a mattress protector on your bed to prevent from voiding the warranty.  

If you do discover a defect, contact customer service immediately. The representative will likely ask you submit photos along with your receipt. If you are the original owner of the mattress, purchased it from an authorized retailer and did discover a defect, you'll typically be given a replacement mattress at no cost to you. (If you're not the original owner of the mattress or purchased it from an unauthorized retailer, in most cases the warranty will be void.) 

What Happens to Your Old Mattress? 

With the rise of online mattress brands, you've probably wondered what does happen to mattresses when they're returned. Well, in most cases, they're donated to charity, if the state allows it. A selection of charities around the nation will accept mattresses that are like new and without stains. Many states have laws in place to ensure that the charity properly sanitizes the mattress before it's donated to someone in need.  

If you return a mattress and the company decides to donate it to charity, they will likely arrange a pickup for you and then refund you once it's been returned.  

In the event that you're unable to find someone to pick up your old mattress, use our guide to determine how to get rid of your old mattress.