Evaluating Extended Warranties for Mattresses Our 3 Top Picks

Why Mattress Warranties Matter

Should you buy an extended warranty for a mattress? When considering a mattress, peace of mind is essential. Here’s a quick answer:

• If your mattress already comes with a robust standard warranty, an extended warranty might not be necessary.
• If you’re buying an expensive mattress with a shorter warranty period, an extended warranty could provide valuable protection.
• Overall, it’s crucial to weigh the cost of the extended warranty against the potential benefits and your specific needs.

Investing in a mattress is an investment in your health and well-being. Given the amount of time we spend asleep, any protection plan that ensures the longevity and comfort of our mattress deserves a closer look. However, do extended warranties offer genuine value, or could that money be better kept in the bank?

As you explore your options, remember one key consideration: the details of the standard warranty that already comes with your mattress. Many manufacturers already supply a substantial warranty, sometimes even covering the typical lifespan of the mattress.

I’m Ben Trapskin, the creator of Yawnder. With years of experience dealing with sleep products and mattresses, I’m here to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive deeper to understand more about extended warranties for mattresses.

What is a Mattress Warranty?

A mattress warranty is a promise from the manufacturer to repair or replace your mattress if it has certain defects within a specified time frame. Think of it as a safety net that protects your investment from unexpected issues.

Types of Mattress Warranties

Understanding the different types of mattress warranties can help you make an informed decision. Here are the main types:

Full Replacement Warranty

A full replacement warranty means the manufacturer will replace your defective mattress with a new one at no cost. This type of warranty usually covers defects in materials or workmanship, such as broken coils or split seams.

Prorated Warranty

A prorated warranty covers the cost of repairs or replacement but decreases in value over time. Initially, the manufacturer may cover the entire cost, but as the years go by, you might have to pay a portion.

Limited Warranty

A limited warranty only covers specific parts or issues, such as broken coils or foam deterioration. It offers less protection compared to full replacement or prorated warranties. Always check the exact terms and conditions to know what’s included.

Extended Warranty

An extended warranty provides additional protection beyond the standard warranty period. It’s often available for an extra cost and can offer peace of mind for a longer duration.

Manufacturer Warranty vs. Product Protection Plans

While a manufacturer warranty covers defects due to poor workmanship or materials, a product protection plan covers accidental damage like spills and stains.

Manufacturer Warranty

• Covers defects like sagging, cracks, and broken coils.
• Usually does not cover normal wear and tear or accidental damage.
• Most warranties last about 10 years, but some can be as long as 20 years or more.

Product Protection Plans

• Covers accidental damage like spills, stains, and rips.
• Typically lasts 5 to 10 years.
• Requires service contract licenses and regulatory filings, making it more complex to manage.

Should You Buy An Extended Warranty for a Mattress?

Benefits of an Extended Warranty

Extra Protection

An extended warranty provides additional coverage beyond the standard warranty period. This can be particularly valuable if you find a good mattress with a shorter standard warranty, like five years. Structural issues, like sagging or broken coils, often appear after several years of use. An extended warranty can cover these problems when they arise.

Peace of Mind

Accidents happen. Living with children or pets increases the risk of spills, stains, and other damage. An extended warranty can provide peace of mind by covering these unexpected incidents.

Long-Term Savings

Repairing or replacing a defective mattress can be costly. An extended warranty might save you money in the long run by covering repairs that would otherwise be expensive. For instance, the cost of repairing a sagging mattress could approach the price of a new one. With an extended warranty, these repairs might be covered at no additional cost.

Drawbacks of an Extended Warranty

Additional Cost

Extended warranties come at an extra cost, which can be a significant percentage of the mattress price. Financial advisor Ray Martin suggests paying less than 10% of the product’s price for a protection plan. For example, if a mattress costs $899, the warranty should cost less than $89.90.

Limited Coverage

Not all extended warranties offer comprehensive coverage. Often, they have exclusions and limitations. Always read the fine print to understand what is and isn’t covered.

Fine Print Exclusions

Extended warranties often come with detailed terms and conditions that can be tricky to steer. For example, many warranties have specific definitions of what constitutes a defect. If your mattress becomes too soft, the warranty might not cover it if the softness doesn’t meet their technical criteria. This means you could pay for a warranty that doesn’t cover the issues you’re most likely to face.

In summary, while an extended warranty offers extra protection and peace of mind, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the additional cost and potential limitations. Evaluate the standard warranty coverage and decide if the extra investment aligns with your needs and budget.

What Does a Mattress Warranty Typically Cover?

What is Not Covered by a Mattress Warranty?

When purchasing a mattress, it’s crucial to understand what the warranty covers and what it doesn’t. Knowing these details can help you make an informed decision about whether an extended warranty is worth it.

What a Mattress Warranty Covers

1. Sagging

Significant sagging is a common issue. If your mattress sags excessively within the first few years, it’s usually covered. For example, if the indentation exceeds a certain depth (often 1.5 inches), the warranty should apply.

2. Broken Coils

Broken coils are another defect covered by most warranties. If you hear squeaking, creaking, or feel coils poking you, the warranty should protect you. This is especially relevant for innerspring and hybrid mattresses.

3. Faulty Stitching

Faulty stitching is considered a manufacturing defect. If the seams start to split or solve, most warranties will cover the repair or replacement.

4. Manufacturing Defects

General manufacturing defects, such as issues with the foam or other materials, are also covered. These defects should be apparent within the first few years of use.

What a Mattress Warranty Does Not Cover

1. Normal Wear and Tear

Normal wear and tear, like minor sagging or impressions, is not covered. Over time, all mattresses will develop some level of indentation, which is considered normal.

2. Spills and Stains

Spills, stains, and other physical flaws caused by the owner are not covered. This includes any damage from liquids, food, or bodily fluids.

3. Owner Negligence

Any damage resulting from owner negligence is excluded. This could include using an improper base, not rotating the mattress, or failing to use a mattress protector.

Understanding these details can help you decide if an extended warranty is worth the extra cost. Always read the fine print to know exactly what’s covered and what’s not.

Next, we’ll look at how to choose the right extended warranty and key factors you should consider.

How to Choose the Right Extended Warranty

When deciding on an extended warranty for your mattress, several factors should guide your choice:

1. Evaluate Coverage

First, examine what the extended warranty covers. Does it include protection against sagging, broken coils, or faulty stitching? Are spills and stains covered? For example, some brands offer comprehensive warranties that cover defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the mattress.

2. Cost Considerations

Compare the cost of the extended warranty to the price of the mattress. A good rule of thumb is that the warranty should not exceed 10% of the mattress cost. For instance, if a mattress costs $895, a reasonable extended warranty should be around $89.50.

3. Claims Process

A smooth claims process is crucial. Some companies boast quick claims processing, resolving most claims swiftly via their customer service. This can save you a lot of hassle.

4. Coverage Details

Check the fine print for any exclusions or limitations. Some warranties might only cover manufacturing defects, while others include accidental spills or stains. Make sure the warranty aligns with your specific needs.

5. Cost vs. Product Price

Ensure the warranty cost is justified by the mattress price. Spending a significant amount on a plan for a less expensive mattress might not be worth it, but it could be for a higher-priced mattress.

6. Ease of Claims

Look for warranties with easy, hands-off claims processes. Clear guidance and multiple warranty options make it easier to file claims if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions about Extended Warranties for Mattresses

Should you get a mattress warranty?

Yes, you should consider getting a mattress warranty. Mattresses are a significant investment, and a warranty can protect you from material defects and manufacturing flaws that might not be evident until after some use. Most standard warranties cover issues like sagging, broken coils, and faulty stitching.

However, keep in mind the limitations of a showroom. You can’t always detect long-term defects just by lying on a mattress for a few minutes. A warranty ensures you’re covered if these issues arise later.

Is it worth buying mattress protection?

Investing in mattress protection can be worth it, especially for health reasons. If you have sensitive skin or chronic allergies, a mattress protector can shield you from allergens and bacteria. It also guards against spills and stains, which are not covered by most warranties.

Consider the peace of mind that comes with knowing your mattress is well-protected. A mattress protector can extend the life of your mattress by preventing damage, making it a smart addition to your purchase.

Is extended warranty worth it?

Determining if an extended warranty is worth it depends on several factors. On one hand, it offers peace of mind and can save you from costly repairs down the line. For example, if your mattress starts sagging or a coil breaks after the standard warranty expires, an extended warranty can cover these repairs or replacements.

On the other hand, extended warranties come with additional costs and often have fine print exclusions. Read the terms carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered. Sometimes, the extra cost might not be justified if the standard warranty already covers the typical lifespan of the mattress.

In summary, weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully. If the extended warranty offers substantial additional protection and fits within your budget, it might be a good investment for your peace of mind.

Conclusion

At Yawnder, we understand that buying a mattress is a significant investment. It’s not just about comfort; it’s also about ensuring that your purchase stands the test of time. Our expert evaluations aim to help you make informed decisions, especially when considering whether to buy an extended warranty for your mattress.

Expert Evaluations: We dive deep into the details of standard and extended warranties offered by various mattress brands. By examining the fine print and understanding the real-world applications, we help you see the true value—or lack thereof—behind these protection plans.

Informed Decisions: Knowledge is power. By arming yourself with the facts about what warranties typically cover and what they exclude, you can make an educated choice. Whether it’s understanding the importance of proper care to avoid voiding your warranty or recognizing that most standard warranties already cover the mattress’s expected lifespan, informed decisions will save you both time and money.

Peace of Mind: At the end of the day, peace of mind is priceless. If an extended warranty aligns with your budget and offers meaningful additional protection, it could be well worth the investment. However, if the standard warranty already covers your needs, you might find greater peace of mind in saving that extra money.

For more detailed reviews and expert advice on mattresses, visit our Mattress Reviews page. We are committed to helping you find the best sleep solutions for your needs.

Thank you for trusting Yawnder to guide you through your mattress-buying journey. Here’s to many nights of restful, worry-free sleep!