Sleep on It : Discount mattress warehouse makes a confusing decision a whole lot easier.

When it comes to buying mattresses, even the sharpest bargain hunter can get confused. Comparison shopping has been made nearly impossible by the mattress industry’s giving each line so many different names. One major manufacturer has 400 names for one mattress, one for every retailer. So what to do? Shop by the manufacturer first, check out the features--firmness, pillow top, etc.--then go to a major discounter, preferably one who has been in business a long time.

Twenty-seven years ago Richard Pratt, just back from Vietnam and a business major at CSUN, opened his mattress warehouse. It was the first of its kind and was an instant success, paying his way through college.

By maintaining his relationships with manufacturers in the years since then, Pratt has stayed at the top of the list to be notified when there’s a surplus. The folks at Spring Air are some of the first to call; thus, Richard Pratt Mattress Warehouse has a good supply of Spring Air products at what probably are the lowest prices in town. But you’ll find mattresses from Restonic, Diamond and Aireloom as well.

“There are so many mattress places in L.A. now that all I do is buy factory excesses, returns, floor models and discontinued sets,” said Pratt. Most are 50% off the retail prices.

One of the best deals in the house is the top-of-the-line Spring Air pillow top that retails at an average of $2,500. Right now there are a few in stock for $895. You’ll find a lot of one-of-a-kinds here. It’s strictly hit and miss; but when you hit, as you can see, you hit a big one. Twin sets start at $99, and all mattresses come with the original 10- or 20-year factory warrantee. Frames and delivery are free.

Richard Pratt Mattress Warehouse, 18717 Parthenia St., Northridge. (818) 349-8118. Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. All major credit cards.

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WEEKEND SUPER SALE: It’s a Pre-Holiday Sale at H & M Appliances on new or reconditioned major appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washers/dryers, dishwashers). Just in stock is a shipment of 318 new pieces from Maytag, Frigidaire, Amana and Jenn-Air that will go on sale Friday with tags that reflect a markdown of 30% to 60% off retail prices. H & M Appliances, 18510 Sherman Way, Reseda. (818) 705-2240.