Do I have to sleep on the mattress for a minimum period before returning?

Most brands require a 'break-in' period of 14-30 nights before you can initiate a return. This allows your body to adjust to the new mattress and gives the materials time to expand and settle fully. Emma Sleep requires 21 nights, while Simba asks for 30 nights minimum.

What happens to returned mattresses in Ireland?

Reputable brands donate returned mattresses to Irish charities like the Society of St Vincent de Paul, Simon Community, or local homeless shelters. Some companies partner with recycling facilities to ensure mattresses don't end up in landfill. Always ask about the brand's sustainability policy.

Are trial policies different for Northern Ireland vs Republic of Ireland?

Trial policies are usually the same across the island of Ireland, but delivery times and collection logistics may differ. Some UK-based brands may have different return procedures for Republic of Ireland addresses due to customs considerations post-Brexit.

Can I return a mattress bought in-store?

In-store purchases don't have an automatic right to return under Irish consumer law—you're relying on the retailer's goodwill policy. However, if the mattress is faulty or not as described, your statutory rights apply regardless of where you bought it.

What condition must the mattress be in for a return?

Most brands require the mattress to be in 'reasonably good condition' with no permanent stains, tears, or damage. Using a mattress protector from day one is highly recommended—some brands may refuse returns if the mattress shows significant soiling.

Do I need to keep the original packaging?

No, you don't need the original box or packaging for most bed-in-a-box returns. The brand will typically arrange collection and provide any necessary packaging. However, keep your proof of purchase and order confirmation.

What if I bought during a sale—does the trial still apply?

Yes, trial periods and return policies apply equally to sale items. The only exception might be clearance or 'final sale' items, which some retailers exclude from their trial programme. Check the terms before purchasing.

Mattress Trial & Return Policies in Ireland

Buying a mattress online can feel risky—how do you know if it's right without testing it? Thankfully, most online mattress brands now offer risk-free trial periods ranging from 100 to 365 nights. Here's everything Irish shoppers need to know about trials, returns, and your consumer rights.

Why Mattress Trials Matter

A 10-minute lie-down in a showroom tells you very little about how a mattress will feel after weeks of use. Your body needs time to adjust to a new sleep surface, and issues like pressure points or heat retention often only become apparent after extended use.

This is why the bed-in-a-box industry pioneered extended home trials—giving you the chance to sleep on the mattress in your own bedroom, with your own bedding, for months before deciding. It's a fairer test than any showroom can provide.

Adjustment Period

Your body needs 2-4 weeks to fully adjust to a new mattress surface

Free Collection

Most brands collect from Irish addresses at no extra cost

Full Refunds

Reputable brands offer 100% refunds with no restocking fees

Trial Period Comparison: Major Brands

Here's how the most popular mattress brands compare on trial length, return policies, and warranty coverage for Irish customers:

Brand	Trial Period	Returns	Warranty
Emma Sleep	200 nights	Free collection	10 years
DreamCloud	365 nights	Free collection	Lifetime
Simba	200 nights	Free collection	10 years
Casper	100 nights	Free collection	10 years
Eve Sleep	100 nights	Free collection	10 years
Nectar	365 nights	Free collection	Lifetime

* Trial periods and policies current as of January 2026. Always verify directly with the brand before purchasing.

Your Rights Under Irish Consumer Law

Beyond voluntary trial periods, Irish consumers have strong statutory protections under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 and EU distance selling regulations. Here's what you're entitled to:

14-Day Cooling-Off Period

For online purchases, you have 14 days from delivery to cancel for any reason—no explanation needed. This is your statutory right under EU distance selling rules.

Right to Refund for Faulty Goods

If your mattress develops a fault within 30 days (like significant sagging or defects), you're entitled to a full refund. After 30 days, the retailer can offer repair or replacement first.

6-Year Durability Protection

Under Irish law, products must remain fit for purpose for a 'reasonable' time—generally interpreted as up to 6 years for durable goods like mattresses.

Important: In-Store vs Online

The 14-day cooling-off period only applies to distance purchases (online, phone, mail order). If you buy in a physical store, there's no automatic right to return—you're relying on the shop's own policy.

What to Expect When Returning a Mattress

If your mattress trial doesn't work out, here's the typical return process with most online brands:

1
Contact Customer Service
Reach out via email or phone to initiate the return. Have your order number ready.
2
Schedule Collection
Most brands arrange a courier to collect from your Irish address within 5-14 days. You don't need to repackage the mattress.
3
Prepare for Pickup
Strip the bedding and ensure the mattress is accessible. Some couriers may require you to be home.
4
Receive Your Refund
Refunds are typically processed within 5-10 business days of collection, back to your original payment method.

Red Flags to Watch For

Not all trial policies are created equal. Be cautious of brands that:

Charge restocking fees or return shipping costs to Ireland

Have excessively long mandatory break-in periods (over 60 days)

Require you to arrange and pay for your own courier collection

Only offer store credit instead of full monetary refunds

Have unclear or hard-to-find Irish-specific terms and conditions

Tips for a Successful Trial

Use a Mattress Protector

Protect against stains from day one. Some brands may refuse returns for soiled mattresses, and it's good hygiene practice anyway.

Give It Time

Commit to at least 3-4 weeks before deciding. Initial discomfort often resolves as your body adapts to the new surface.

Document Everything

Keep your order confirmation, delivery receipt, and any correspondence. Take photos if you notice defects developing.

Read Irish-Specific Terms

UK mainland policies don't always apply. Check for ROI/NI-specific conditions, especially regarding collection and refund timelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Irish consumers are well-protected when buying mattresses online. Between generous brand trial periods (100-365 nights) and statutory consumer rights (14-day cooling-off, 6-year durability), you can shop with confidence.

Our advice: take advantage of these trials properly. Use a protector, give yourself at least a month to adjust, and don't hesitate to return if the mattress genuinely doesn't work for you—that's exactly what these policies are designed for.