A good sleep advisor is more than just a salesperson. It is someone who does everything possible to ensure that you get the bed that is just right for you, without rushing you or trying to talk you into something. Never let yourself be persuaded merely by a good discount offer: good advice coupled with good service is far more valuable. A good salesperson should ask you a number of questions.

Checklist for recognising a good sleep advisor

• Do you want a complete bed, or only a base or mattress?
• What type of (adjustable) bed, base and/or mattress you have at present, and why do you want to buy a new one?
• Do you want a single or double bed, base/bases and/or mattress/mattresses?
• What size bed, base or mattress are you looking for?
• Do you have a preference for a particular brand?
• What kind of budget do you have in mind?
• What style are you looking for (modern, classic, stylish)?

Based on the answers to the above questions, the advisor can make a choice from the entire collection of a number of beds, bases and/or mattresses.

• What is your height and weight (and that of your partner)?
• What is your preferred sleeping position (and that of your partner)?
• Do you prefer a hard or soft bed?
• What kind of pillow do you presently use (preformed, firm, soft)? How high is your pillow?
• Do you have any physical complaints, such a back or neck ache?
• What kind of work do you do (sedentary, standing, physically demanding, etc)?
• Do you suffer any allergies?
• Do you sweat a lot?
• Do you easily feel hot in bed, or not?

Based on the answers to the above questions, the advisor can make a choice for a certain mattress, the firmness of the mattress and the sort of ticking.

For a double bed it is important to decide whether you want one double or two single mattresses. If there is a big difference between your height, weight and posture and that of your partner, it may be advisable to use two different single mattresses in your double bed. A good salesperson will allow you to try out various different mattresses and pillows and will show you a number of options based on your personal preferences.

• Do you like to read and/or watch TV in bed?
• Do you find ease of cleaning (vacuuming) and making the bed important?

Based on the answers to the above questions, the salesperson can decide whether you would benefit from having an adjustable bed.