INTRODUCTION
Choosing a mattress is an important, but often daunting task. There is a vast selection of mattresses available, but picking the right one is going to affect you significantly for several years. Do you need a memory foam or latex mattress, will an innerspring mattress suffice, or should you perhaps choose a hybrid? It’s not an exaggeration to say that your choice will affect your health and happiness to no small effect. So, here is a guide to making that choice.
EVALUATE YOUR NEEDS
Think about what is relevant to your needs in buying a new mattress. Do you suffer from back, neck or leg pain? Do you share your bed and so need to take someone else’s needs into consideration? Do you need firm support or do you sleep better on a softer surface? Do you have any allergies to consider?
MATTRESS SIZE
Mattresses come in sizes that include twin, full, queen, king and California king. Obviously, the size of your bed frame will determine the size of your mattress. But is your bed big enough? Do you perhaps need to change that to accommodate a larger mattress?
MATTRESS TYPES.
There are four types of mattress.
- Innerspring mattresses use coils beneath a layer of softer material for support and tend to be on the firm side.
- Memory foam mattresses adjust to the contours of your body but offer slightly less support and can be warmer.
- Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic rubber and give a good balance of comfort, cooling and support. They are also durable.
- Hybrid mattresses combine aspects of innerspring, foam and latex design and also balance comfort, cooling and support.
FIRMNESS
The degree of firmness that is right for you will depend on your size, weight and sleeping position. Side sleepers tend to need a softer mattress to cushion their shoulders and hips, while stomach sleepers prefer a firmer mattress to ensure good alignment of their spine. The heavier the person, the firmer their mattress needs to be, to prevent them from sinking down into it.
QUALITY
An innerspring mattress with a high coil count will improve quality and durability. Natural latex and high density foam is what to look for in memory foam or latex mattresses. You will get what you pay for, so check your budget – a higher price at the outset will ensure greater comfort and durability in the long run.
TEST THE MATTRESS
Look for online suppliers offering a trial period so that you can return a mattress that turns out not to suit your needs. Read reviews and check warranties, but be aware of personal subjective comments that reflect the person more than the mattress. Most shopping outlets have mattresses you can try out for comfort.
CONCLUSION
There are a number of factors to consider in choosing a mattress – materials, quality, comfort, size, durability and personal preference. Take the time you need to make the right choice for you.