Having a good mattress is crucial both for getting a great night’s sleep and for the heath of your back and neck. You should choose a mattress that offers you the right amount of support for your body, level of comfort for your sleeping posture, and room for sleeping. All mattresses will eventually wear out, so it is recommended that you replace your mattress every 8 to 10 years.
- Know what your personal preferences are. With mattresses available in just about every size, type, and budget, choosing the type that best suits you can be a challenge. This decision is very subjective since everyone experiences sleep differently. Ask yourself the following set of questions before shopping for a new mattress:
- Do you prefer a firm mattress, where your body doesn’t sink when you lie down? If this is the case, you can shop for a memory foam mattress, which has little spring but moulds to the shape of your body. Another option is to choose a latex mattress, where latex foam is used both in the core and comfort layer.
- Do you prefer a softer mattress that has a bounce to it? In this case, a traditional spring mattress that uses interconnected durable coils should work best. The springs are available in different levels of tension. Spring mattresses are typically covered with a quilted layer. Unlike foam or latex, these mattresses don’t mold to the shape of your body.
- Do you want a mattress with a bouncy core and foam layer on top that gives the molding effect? Hybrid versions are available to suit your specific needs. If you want to be able to change the firmness of your mattress, consider one that is air-filled. These have two chambers, one on each side, and a remote control that allows you to adjust the amount of air in the chambers.
- What size mattress will you need to be comfortable? Do you sleep alone or with a partner? When choosing a mattress, it is generally best to have some extra room rather than too little. Get something that allows you room to sprawl out comfortably when sleeping.
- Do you have back or neck pain? Latex and memory foam are best if you have any physical ailments since they mold to the shape of your body for support.
- Do you sleep on your back, stomach, or side? If you sleep on your back, any mattress type can work well for you, as long as you feel comfortable. If you sleep on your stomach, a firm traditional spring or hybrid mattress should work to best support you, since a memory foam mattress might leave you feeling constrained. If you are a side sleeper, you need a mattress with plenty of tension relief, so avoid a product that is firm. A spring mattress with a soft top should work best.
- Does the manufacturer offer a warranty? Getting a new mattress is an investment and you want to be protected. A warranty will at least cover any manufacturing defects. You will want to know the length of time that the warranty is valid, what the prorated and non-prorated terms are, and how it covers issues like sagging. Most mattress warranties include a sagging depth; if the mattress sags below the listed dept, then the manufacturer replaces the product for you.
Don’t underestimate the importance of sleeping on the highest quality mattress that best suits your specific needs and preferences. Most mattresses should be turned and rotated regularly to prolong their life and ensure even wear and tear. If you are having trouble falling asleep because you can’t get comfortable or wake up with pain in your back or neck, it might be time to purchase a new mattress.