Buying a new mattress is an important investment, with the quality of our sleep linked closely to our overall health. The development of boxed mattresses has made it easier than ever to shop for a new bed, but when buying a mattress online there are some things to be aware of. As a sleep and mattress editor, a large part of my job is keeping up with the best mattresses of 2024 .

That means testing and sleeping on this year's top-rated hybrid and memory foam beds, as well as tracking their prices. And right now, many of the best deals can be found online. However, price shouldn't be the only determining factor when buying a mattress online.

Sleep trials, comfort, support and pressure relief are all important considerations when finding the perfect bed. With the Black Friday mattress deals in full swing, here are my top tips for how to buy a mattress online and get it right the first time..

. How to buy a mattress online 1. Consider your sleep position Before adding anything to cart, think carefully about the position that you (and anyone who you share a bed with) sleep in.

For example, the best mattresses for side sleepers will provide a plush top layer that weightlessly cradles the shoulders, hips and knees. Meanwhile, mattresses designed for back and stomach sleepers will be firmer, helping to keep the spine in correct alignment with the rest of the body. Most side sleepers of an average build will require a mattress with a medium to medium-firm rating, while back and stomach.