How to Sell Mattresses

Allie Coutts
April 10, 2025
5 min read

How to Sell Mattresses: A Complete Guide for New and Experienced Sellers

Selling mattresses might not sound like the flashiest business—but it’s a surprisingly profitable and stable one, especially as more consumers prioritize sleep quality and shop online. Whether you're starting a side hustle, launching a retail store, or becoming an independent seller, learning how to sell mattresses effectively can unlock serious income potential.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from understanding the market to marketing strategies, sales platforms, and customer service tips.

Why Selling Mattresses Is a Smart Move

The global mattress market is booming. In 2022 alone, it was valued at over $50 billion and is projected to grow steadily through the next decade. What’s driving the demand?

  • Increased awareness of sleep health
  • More people upgrading to premium sleep products
  • The rise of online mattress shopping
  • A growing trend of remote and flexible income opportunities

With low overhead and high margins (especially in resale or liquidation), mattresses offer a unique mix of profitability and accessibility.

Step 1: Know Your Market and Choose Your Niche

Not all mattresses are created equal—or meant for the same audience. Start by identifying your market and choosing your product focus:

Common mattress types:

  • Memory foam: Popular for comfort and affordability
  • Hybrid: Combines coils with foam for durability and support
  • Innerspring: Traditional, often firmer and more affordable
  • Latex: Natural and breathable, often eco-conscious
  • Adjustable beds: Niche market but growing rapidly

Niche down by identifying your audience. Are you targeting:

  • College students on a budget?
  • Luxury buyers?
  • Parents upgrading kids' bedrooms?
  • Health-conscious or eco-friendly consumers?

Knowing your buyer helps you source the right inventory and craft targeted messaging.

Step 2: Choose How You’ll Sell (Online, In-Person, or Both)

There are several ways to get into the mattress business. Your choice depends on your budget, goals, and preferred work style.

1. Start an e-commerce store

Platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce make it easy to set up an online storefront. You’ll need a fulfillment plan (dropshipping or warehousing), a domain name, and a marketing strategy.

2. Sell on online marketplaces

Use platforms like:

These options offer instant access to buyers and minimal startup costs.

3. Open a retail space or pop-up

If you prefer face-to-face selling and have capital to invest, a physical space can work well—especially in high-traffic areas or cities underserved by major mattress retailers.

Step 3: Source Quality Inventory

Good inventory is essential to gaining trust and driving repeat business. Here are a few ways to source mattresses:

Always verify the condition, warranty status, and legality of resale in your state (some states regulate the resale of used or returned mattresses).

Step 4: Build a Strong Online Presence

Today’s buyers research before they buy—especially for something as personal as a mattress. Here’s how to build trust and visibility:

Create a website or landing page:

Include high-quality images, product specs, pricing, reviews, and a FAQ section. Use platforms like Squarespace or Wix if you need something quick and affordable.

Optimize for SEO:

Use keywords like:

  • “How to sell mattresses”
  • “Best mattress deals in [your city]”
  • “Affordable hybrid mattresses near me”

Create blog content, FAQs, and product guides using tools like Ubersuggest or Ahrefs.

Claim and optimize local listings:

Set up a free Google Business Profile so buyers can find you in local search. Add photos, business hours, reviews, and pickup or delivery options.

Step 5: Master Mattress Marketing

Even the best mattress won’t sell itself. Here are some proven strategies to drive sales:

1. Social media marketing

Post behind-the-scenes content, customer reviews, tips for better sleep, and product demos on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

2. Paid ads

Use targeted Facebook or Google Ads to reach buyers in your area with mattress-related keywords.

3. Email and SMS follow-ups

Use platforms like Klaviyo or Mailchimp to nurture leads and upsell bundle deals (like pillows or bed frames).

4. Local promotions

Partner with real estate agents, college housing coordinators, or apartment complexes. Run local giveaways or “free delivery weekend” campaigns to drive buzz.

Step 6: Deliver a Great Customer Experience

Mattresses are high-consideration purchases. Trust and service matter.

Tips for a better customer experience:

  • Offer flexible delivery and old mattress removal if possible
  • Communicate pickup and delivery times clearly
  • Provide product education (e.g., foam vs. hybrid)
  • Send thank-you notes or discount codes for referrals
  • Collect and showcase real reviews and testimonials

Use tools like Canva or Visme to create professional-looking brochures or social graphics to support your sales.

Step 7: Track Your Profits and Scale

Once you’re consistently selling, it’s time to track and optimize.

Use software like:

Look for scale opportunities:

  • Add new products (pillows, bed frames, adjustable bases)
  • Train part-time help for pickups or deliveries
  • Expand to nearby cities or zip codes

Growth often comes from improving your efficiency and reinvesting profits wisely.

Conclusion: Mattress Selling Is More Than Just a Side Hustle

Whether you’re flipping returns, running an online storefront, or opening a local showroom, learning how to sell mattresses can lead to a flexible and rewarding business. The sleep industry is only growing, and with the right tools and mindset, there's room for anyone to thrive.

Take the time to learn your market, treat customers well, and optimize your operations—and the rest will follow.

Written By

Allie Coutts

Content Specialist

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