One common item is nearly impossible to adequately research though. Buying a new bed can be a major expenditure but it's not a cut and dry purchase experience.First, manufacturers do not specify the exact information about the models offered. Unlike many products, there's not an easily identifiable tag with an exact model and year code. So it's next to impossible to comparison shop between stores selling the same brand. Second, although one may see an occasional, cutaway drawing, it's really hard to know what's inside a mattress. It's even more difficult to know how the materials relate to comfort or how long they will last. A twenty-second rest on the demonstration model really doesn't allow true comparison. For example, is the $800 bed really going to be that much better than a $450 one? Lastly, most stores try to hide the actual price by offering free delivery or boasting a liberal return policy. This makes it very difficult to know how much one's paying for the bed and how much of the price involves the built-in overhead and extras.
I guess all of this really doesn't matter as the card's already been swiped and delivery is scheduled for next week. The bed being replaced was cheap and is now nine years old. I will sleep better tonight just knowing a new Serta Pillowtop is on the way.