If you're considering the purchase of an air bed, Sleep Number by Select Comfort is possibly the best known and most reliable choice for your purchase. The company has 478 retail stores across the continent, 24-hour phone support, a full website and a 20-year limited warranty. Because of these features and their quality levels, Select Comfort is generally recognized as representing the premier national air bed brand.

Keep reading for a helpful review of the Sleep Number mattress features, different models and where you can buy this innovative product.

Features of the Sleep Number Air Bed

The primary feature of the Sleep Number mattress is the ability for individual sleepers to customize the firmness of their own side of the bed. So, if your spouse prefers a soft mattress but you like yours rock hard, you can both have your way.

Basically, the bed works because it has two separate air bladders in the air bed. Sleep Number settings then mean that when a sleeper increases their sleep number, the bed inflates with air and increases in firmness. When a sleeper decreases their sleep number, the bed deflates. A person must, however, be lying on the bed while adjusting the air level so the firmness can take into account your weight and size.

Finally, the cosmetic features on the Sleep Number bed include Belgian Damask quilted fabric tops, plush stitching, pillow top design and quality construction throughout. Typically, the cover is also washable on most models.

Different Air Bed Models

The Sleep Number Bed comes in 6 different models - the Sleep Number 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000 and 9000.

The 9000 model represents the highest quality model of air bed while the Sleep Number 3000 serves as the company's base model. The major differences between the two ends of the product scale are the double-foam pillow top and the fabric used to wrap the two mattresses. The 9000 uses a rayon and cotton boucle blend while the 3000 is covered with a polyester, cotton and micro denier fabric blend.

The Select Comfort Sleep Number beds range in price from $449.99 for a basic model in a Twin size to just over $4600 for a California King Sleep Number 9000 model, which is pretty steep for those who are simply more interested in a basic good night of sleep.

Where to Buy

You can buy a Select Comfort Sleep Number bed online at selectcomfort.com, the company's website. From their site, you can even apply and qualify for term financing, allowing you to pay down the cost of your air mattress over several months or years. Phone orders can also be placed through the website and catalog system by calling 1-888-411-2188.

Finally, customers who want to try out the system for themselves can go to one of 478 Select Comfort retail locations to try out the air bed. Sleep Number stores are across the United States and Canada and they also sell accessories and parts for your Select Comfort air bed system.

You must be cautious in your purchase decision, though. The company warranty permits the return of your bed within 30 days of purchase. However, you will be responsible for the return shipping cost - a not-so-cheap expense for something with a lot of weight and bulk.