When it comes to a good night’s sleep, the mattress you choose makes all the difference. But with so many materials, brands, and buzzwords out there, how do you find the right one for you?

We sat down with two of Harrisonburg’s most trusted sleep professionals: Sandon Knicely, owner of Sleep On It Harrisonburg, and Jeff Obenschain, a veteran of the mattress with 32 years of experience. Together, they’ve helped thousands of valley residents sleep better and they’re sharing their best advice here.

? Step 1: Know Your Sleep Style

“Most people don’t realize their sleep position plays a huge role in the kind of mattress they need,” says Jeff.

  • Side sleepers often need a softer feel with pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
  • Back sleepers typically need balanced support—usually a medium-firm surface.
  • Stomach sleepers may need a firmer feel to prevent the spine from sagging.

Identifying your sleep position is the first step in narrowing your options

?️ Step 2: Understand Mattress Types

“There’s no one-size-fits-all mattress,” says Sandon. “The goal is to match your needs to the right technology.” Here’s a quick breakdown of the three most common types:

  • Memory Foam: Molds to your body, great for motion separation and pressure relief.
  • Latex Foam: Properly aligns to the spine and is hypoallergenic.
  • Innerspring: Uses coils for firm support and airflow.
  • Hybrid: Combines coils and foam for a balance of comfort and durability.
  • Air: Adjustable firmness on each side.

At Sleep On It, you can test all three styles in one showroom, featuring top brands like Kingsdown, Sealy, Beautyrest, Serta, iComfort, Avocado, Puffy, TempurPedic, and King Koil.

? Step 3: Ask About Warranty & Comfort Guarantees

A quality mattress should last around 8–10 years—and good ones are backed by strong warranties. Look for:

  • 10+ year warranties.
  • In-home sleep trials, Sleep On It offers comfort exchange policies on many products).
  • Local service so you’re not dealing with a 1-800 number if something goes wrong.

“Our team makes sure you’re not just getting a mattress—you’re getting peace of mind,” Jeff explains.

? Why Shop Local?

There’s a reason Sleep On It has been voted Best Mattress Store in the Valley 5 Years in a Row. They are knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate. When you shop local:

  • You get personalized service from real people like Sandon and Jeff
  • You support the local economy and local jobs
  • You enjoy perks like free delivery, free setup, and mattress removal with many purchases.

Plus, Sleep On It gives back. Through their Dreams 4 All program, they’ve donated over 100 mattresses to local nonprofits and families in need.

✅ Your Mattress Shopping Checklist

Before you walk into a store (or start browsing online), here’s a quick list of what to consider:

  • In what position do I sleep?
  • Do I sleep hot or cold?
  • Do I share my bed with a partner or pet?
  • Do I prefer soft, medium, or firm?
  • Am I replacing an old mattress due to pain or discomfort?
  • What’s my budget?
  • Do I want delivery and setup included?

But always remember that the most important factor when choosing a mattress is COMFORT.

Ready to Sleep Better?

Visit Sleep On It Harrisonburg at 182 Neff Avenue, Suite S1, Monday through Saturday, or give them a call at (540) 432-9316. You can also visit sleeponit.com. Whether you’re upgrading your guest room or investing in better sleep for yourself, their team is here to help—no pressure, no gimmicks.

Have questions? Drop by and talk to Jeff or Sandon—the Valley’s true sleep experts.

Remember, what you are really buying is a good night’s sleep. And when you Sleep Better, you Live Better.