Shopping for a new mattress often feels like a daunting task. After all, it’s not every day that you invest in something that directly impacts your comfort, sleep quality, and overall health.
And if you’re like many Canadians, you might also be wondering when the best time of year is to snag the perfect mattress while getting the most value for your money.
Good news—you don’t need to lose sleep over it (pardon the pun)! Whether you’re a new homeowner eager to set up a cozy bedroom, someone struggling with sleep issues, or simply on the hunt for better sleep, this guide will walk you through the best times to shop for your new mattress.
Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some pro shopping tips to help you make the most of your visit to mattress stores.
Timing Is Everything
If you’re flexible about when to buy, timing your purchase right could save you hundreds of dollars. Mattress manufacturers and retailers tend to follow predictable sales cycles, so there are certain months and holidays when discounts are almost guaranteed. Here’s when to mark your calendar.
1. May – The Golden Month for Mattress Deals
Want the inside scoop? May is widely considered the best time of year to buy a mattress. That’s because many brands release new models in June and July, making May the magic time when mattress stores are eager to clear out older inventory to make room for fresh stock.
Don’t think “older inventory” means outdated. These mattresses are still top-notch, often loaded with all the latest in sleep technology—but at a fraction of the price. You’ll likely find discounts of 20–50% if you’re shopping during Memorial Day sales (yes, even in Canada, many retailers adopt this trend).
Tip: Check out both online retailers and brick-and-mortar mattress stores in May for discounts; many offer bonus incentives like free delivery or trial periods.
2. Holiday Sales for Huge Discounts
Canadian holidays are prime opportunities to score mattress deals. Here are the most mattress-friendly holidays to keep in mind:
- Boxing Day (December 26): After the chaos of Christmas, Boxing Day often comes with impressive discounts. This is a great time to buy if you don’t want to wait until spring.
- Black Friday (Last Friday of November): Although traditionally a U.S. shopping phenomenon, Canadian retailers, including mattress stores, now offer enticing Black Friday deals too.
- Cyber Monday (Monday after Black Friday): If you prefer shopping in your pajamas, Cyber Monday is perfect for snagging online-exclusive deals.
- Canada Day (July 1): Summer sales close to Canada Day can offer decent price drops, especially if you’re eyeing mid-year clearance events.
- Labor Day Weekend (Early September): This is another excellent time for discounts, as retailers aim to clear out inventory before the new models hit shelves.
3. End-of-Year Clearance Events
The end of the calendar year can also be a smart time to shop. Many mattress stores offer clearance sales in December to reach revenue goals and empty their warehouse space. While December sales aren’t as splashy as May, you can still find excellent deals if you’re willing to comb through inventory and act fast.
4. Major E-Commerce Events
With the rise of big e-commerce players, annual online sales like Amazon Prime Day (typically in July) are also worth exploring for mattress deals. Some Canadian retailers will even jump on the bandwagon to match those promotions.
How to Spot the Signs That It’s Time to Upgrade
Knowing when to shop is half the battle, but recognizing when you genuinely need a new mattress is equally important. Even the best sales aren’t worth it if your current mattress is still functioning well.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Is your mattress over 7–10 years old?
- Do you wake up with unexplained aches or stiffness?
- Are there visible sags, lumps, or tears in your mattress?
- Have your sleeping patterns changed due to a new partner, weight changes, or health issues?
- Do you regularly wake up feeling tired despite getting enough sleep?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, it’s time to visit some mattress stores and start exploring options for your next big sleep upgrade.
Pro Tips for Mattress Shopping
Once you’ve decided it’s time to buy a new mattress, knowing when to shop is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some practical tips for making your mattress shopping experience as smooth as possible:
- Set a Budget: Mattresses come in a wide price range, so decide ahead of time how much you’re willing to spend. Keep in mind that paying a little extra for quality is usually worth it.
- Test It Out: If you’re shopping in physical mattress stores, don’t be shy—lie down and test the mattresses. Spend 10–15 minutes on each to truly get a feel for comfort and support.
- Ask About Trial Periods: Many retailers offer a trial period, giving you the flexibility to test your mattress at home for several weeks. This is especially useful if you’re buying online.
- Know Your Sleeping Style: Are you a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper? Different mattresses cater to different sleeping positions, so choose one that suits your needs.
- Check the Warranty: A good mattress should come with a warranty ranging from 5 to 10 years. Make sure you understand what’s covered before buying.
- Consider Delivery Options: Many stores now offer free delivery, and some even go the extra mile with white-glove service, which includes set-up and old mattress removal.
Why Shopping for a Mattress Shouldn’t Be a Nightmare
We get it—choosing a mattress can feel like information overload. Terms like memory foam, hybrid, coil springs, and firmness levels may start to blur together. That’s why it’s important to take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts (and back!).
The best part about buying your mattress at the right time? You’ll not only enjoy better sleep, but you’ll also walk away knowing you got it at the best possible price.
Sleep Better, Save More
Whether you’re tackling a major January sale or in the market during May’s golden month, timing your mattress shopping strategically can make a big financial difference. Visit your local mattress stores or explore online for top-notch options.
Remember, a great mattress isn’t just a purchase—it’s an investment in your health, happiness, and energy levels. Sweet dreams are just one good mattress away.