Here are some common questions about Mattresses-in-a-Box:

The longevity of a mattress-in-a-box depends largely on the quality of the materials used in the manufacturing process, not necessarily how the factory decides to ship it. As one can imagine, there is usually huge quality difference between a $200 mattress and a $2000 mattress, regardless of how it is packaged or shipped. Generally, however, the expected lifespan of a mattress that comes in a box is about the same as a mattress that doesn’t come in a box. Many factories have been compressing and boxing mattresses for decades as it saves space in shipping so factories can ship more efficiently and environmentally friendly.

This is where Wayside Furniture & Mattress is different than most bed-in-a-box online retailers: you can test the mattress in-store before you purchase! With your average online retailers, the decision must be made based on descriptions and pictures. We invite you to stop by our showroom at 1367 Canton Road, Akron OH 44312 to "try before you buy" so you can feel confident with your mattress selection beforehand!

A bed-in-a-box mattress is only different from a traditional mattress because of the way it ships. (Traditionally, mattresses were not compressed or rolled up into a box like a "sleeping bag".) The materials used in traditionally-shipped mattresses are the same as bed-in-a-box mattresses: steel springs, different types of polyurethane foams (memory foam, gel foam) and natural materials such as latex, cotton, and wool. Some mattresses are fashioned from a single type of foam, while others are hybrids that feature a combination of foam types and supportive inner springs.  

Generally speaking, you can sleep on your bed-in-a-box mattress about an hour after opening it. They start to take the shape of your traditional mattress rather quickly, however, they usually take 2-3 days to fully expand and eliminate most of the wrinkles in the fabric. Most bed-in-a-box mattresses have instructions (or links to instructions) to guide you.

Similar to a new car or new carpeting, it is not uncommon for your new mattress to omit a scent. This odor typically dissipates within a few days and is considered normal and safe.

The simple answer: freight efficiency.

Freight is an incredibly expensive part of doing business, especially with large physical goods. As such, many industries--not just the mattress industry--have discovered practices to ship product more efficiently. For instance, most end tables sold in the U.S. are now flat packed and ready to assemble.  Same with many dining chairs. Smaller products mean more units can fit on a truck or trailer, which means more volume can be shipped over fewer trips. Fewer trips bring freight charges down, which means lower costs for businesses and consumers. Fewers trips also has a healthier impact on the environment. Finally, compressed product in smaller boxes makes them easier to handle and maneuver in personal vehicles and inside the home. Freight efficiency has many benefits!