Select Comfort Beds: Pros And Cons Of Sleep Number Mattresses And Distinctive Details

The Select Comfort bed is well known thanks to the company's aggressive Sleep Number advertising campaign which promotes the bed as a unique solution for couples who prefer different levels of mattress firmness. With 478 retail locations, a 24-hour sales line and a fully operational website, Select Comfort has quickly become the world's biggest seller of customizable air beds.

For a high-level overview of the pros and cons associated with a Select Comfort bed, keep reading.

Pros and Selling Points of the Sleep Number System

The main selling feature for the Select Comfort mattress line is that it allows each individual sleeper to control the firmness level on their own side of the bed. So, instead of compromising on your bed's softness, you can each have a bed that works for your body.

This unique feature is operated and controlled using a discreet set of remote controls which are tucked behind the bed and can be programmed with specific settings.

Other features include a 30-night trial period, 20-year limited warranty (but, it doesn't include many parts), digital controls and high-quality fabric materials.

Cons of the Sleep Number System

The biggest drawback to the Select Comfort Bed is the "trench" effect created when both sides are inflated to a moderate to full firmness setting. Once the dual air chambers are inflated, a dip is created in the middle of the bed. Many sleepers find themselves rolling into this dip or fighting against it. So, if your spouse and you both prefer a firmer bed, you may be better off simply searching for a quality, traditional mattress that you both like.

The second major con against the Select Comfort bed is the mold problem that has recently developed into a large-scale, class-action lawsuit. Basically, because the Select Comfort Sleep Number system sucks air inside the mattress, it also sucks in atmospheric moisture, allergens and mold spores. These spores then take root inside the mattress, spreading and becoming a major health hazard.

The other negative - that really isn't bad per se - is that the firmness control displays degrees of firmness ranging from a level of 0 to 100, implying there are 100 individual levels. However, those levels all work in increments of 5 (e.g. 5, 10, 15, etc.), so there are really only 20 (actually 21) total firmless levels. Granted, this is much better than merely one, but it's far fewer than implied.

Cost of the Sleep Number Mattress

Select Comfort makes six different Sleep Number beds, beginning with the Sleep Number 3000 and going up to the Sleep Number 9000, the brand's luxury model.

Prices for the Select Comfort Bed will range from approximately $450 for a basic, twin-sized Sleep Number 3000 all the way to $4700 for a Sleep Number 9000 King Size with all the included accessories.

Where You Can Buy a Sleep Number Air Bed

To buy a Select Comfort bed, visit their website for immediate purchasing and financing, or you can go to one of their over 470 retail stores across North America. Should you choose one of their mattresses for the 30-night test, note that payment of all return delivery charges will be yours if you decide not to keep it.

For information on dreamy mattress options, see mattressbedtips.com, a popular site about beds that offer a great night of sleep, such as Tempurpedic beds, the Simmons mattresses, and many more!