Quick Answer: Mattress Warranties
Most mattresses in Canada come with a 10-year limited warranty, but the fine print matters. Warranties typically cover manufacturing defects (sagging over 1.5 inches, broken coils, faulty materials) but NOT normal wear, comfort preference changes, or stains. Many warranties are voided if the mattress has any stains, even small ones. Always use a waterproof mattress protector from day one, and keep your receipt and warranty card.
7 min read
What Warranties Typically Cover
Standard mattress warranties in Canada cover manufacturing defects that appear under normal use:
- Sagging or body impressions: Usually must exceed 1.5 inches (some brands require 1 inch) measured without weight on the mattress
- Broken or protruding coils: In innerspring and hybrid mattresses
- Manufacturing defects in stitching, fabric, or foam: Seams splitting, foam crumbling, or material failure that should not occur under normal use
- Foam deterioration: Memory foam or latex breaking down prematurely
Most warranties are "limited" meaning they cover defects but not the full replacement cost after a certain period. A common structure: full replacement for years 1-5, then prorated (you pay an increasing percentage) for years 6-10.
Common Exclusions That Surprise Shoppers
What Warranties Do NOT Cover
Comfort preference: If the mattress feels too firm or too soft, that is not a warranty issue. This is why testing in-store is important.
Normal wear: Gradual softening and minor body impressions under 1.5 inches are considered normal.
Stains: This is the big one. Many manufacturers will void the entire warranty if the mattress has any stains, even a small water spot. This is why a protector is essential.
Using the wrong foundation: Using a non-approved base can void the warranty. Check what support system is required.
Burns
, cuts, or misuse: Physical damage from anything other than normal sleeping.
Comfort changes due to using an electric blanket: Some manufacturers void warranties if heated bedding is used regularly.
How to Protect Your Warranty
- Use a waterproof mattress protector: This is the single most important thing you can do. A good protector costs $30-60 and protects a $500-2000 investment
- Keep your receipt: You need proof of purchase. Take a photo and save it digitally
- Register your warranty: Some brands require online registration within 30-90 days
- Use the recommended foundation: Check the warranty card for approved bases. Most require a solid platform, bunkie board, or specific type of bed frame
- Rotate your mattress: Most manufacturers recommend rotating 180 degrees every 3-6 months (head to foot). This is not the same as flipping, which most modern mattresses should NOT be flipped
The Protector Cannot Be Overstated
In our experience at Mattress Miracle, the number one reason warranty claims are denied in Canada is stains. Even a small water stain gives the manufacturer grounds to reject the claim. A good waterproof protector is breathable (you will not feel it), protects against spills and sweat, and keeps the warranty intact. Buy it when you buy the mattress and put it on before the first night.
Our Honest Warranty Advice
Here is what most mattress stores will not tell you: warranties are primarily about defects, not comfort. A mattress can be uncomfortable without having a warranty-covered defect. The best protection is choosing the right mattress in the first place by testing it in person and understanding your preferences.
Also, a 25-year warranty is not better than a 10-year warranty. No mattress lasts 25 years. Extended warranties are often marketing tools. A mattress should be replaced every 7-10 years
regardless of warranty status.
Warranty Support at Mattress Miracle
When you buy from Mattress Miracle, we handle warranty claims for you. We have been here since 1987, so we will be here when you need us. Big box stores and online retailers often make the warranty process difficult. We walk you through it, inspect the mattress, and advocate on your behalf with the manufacturer. That is the advantage of buying from a family-owned local store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a warranty mean the mattress will last that many years?
No. A 10-year warranty means defects are covered for 10 years. Most mattresses show meaningful wear at 7-8 years. The warranty is not a lifespan guarantee.
Can I return a mattress if I do not like it?
Returns and warranties are different. In-store purchases in Canada generally do not have a legal right-of-return unless the store offers one. Online purchases may have trial periods. Ask about return policies before buying.
My mattress has a 1-inch dip. Is that covered?
Most warranties require 1.5-inch sagging measured without weight. A 1-inch impression is usually classified as normal break-in. While frustrating, it may not qualify for a claim.
Does rotating my mattress really matter?
Yes. Regular rotation (every 3-6 months) distributes wear more evenly, reducing body impressions and extending the useful life of the mattress. It is free and takes two minutes.
Are extended mattress warranties worth it?
Generally, no. Most defects appear within the first few years, which are covered by the standard warranty. Extended warranties are often overpriced for what they cover. Put the money toward a good mattress protector instead.
Sources
- Jacobson BH, Boolani A, Smith DB. Changes in back pain, sleep quality, and perceived stress after introduction of new bedding systems. J Chiropr Med. 2009;8(1):1-8. DOI: 10.1016/j.jcm.2008.09.002
- Radwan A, Fess P, James D, et al. Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain. Sleep Health. 2015;1(4):257-267. DOI: 10.1016/j.sleh.2015.08.001
- Kovacs FM, Abraira V, Peña A, et al. Effect of firmness of mattress on chronic non-specific low-back pain: randomised, double-blind, controlled, multicentre trial. Lancet. 2003;362(9396):1599-1604. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(03)14792-7
Visit Mattress Miracle
Find us at 441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario. Rated 4.9 stars on Google. Family-owned since 1987.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1987. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6 | Thu-Fri 10-7 | Sat 10-5 | Sun 12-4