A good mattress can make a world of difference for busy people who struggle to get a good night's sleep. Old, worn-out mattresses won't provide enough support, especially for sensitive joints like shoulders and hips.
A good mattress can make a world of difference for busy people who struggle to get a good night's sleep. Old, worn-out mattresses won't provide enough support, especially for sensitive joints like shoulders and hips.
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Choosing the right mattress for you requires a careful examination of your budget, firmness preferences, sleep habits, and desired size. Even small differences in mattress firmness can make a big difference, especially if you sleep on your side. To get the perfect mattress, take your time and research all the options within your budget and size restrictions.
There are four common sizes of mattresses available:
Other sizes are available for cribs, recreational vehicles, and other specialized uses.
The right size for you depends on how tall you are. Individuals over 6' 2" may prefer a California king bed. Individuals over 5' 10" may need a full XL or twin XL to sleep comfortably.
The minimum width for you will depend on how active of a sleeper you are. If you frequently roll around, you and your partner may want to get a queen or king mattress to give both of you a more peaceful sleep.
Keep in mind that the size of your bedroom may dictate how large your bed can be. Rooms smaller than 12' by 12' will have a hard time fitting a queen or king bed and other furniture.
Typically, higher coil counts are better for innerspring mattresses because they provide more support. Coil counts range between 400 and 900 or more, and many mattresses have at least 700.
However, some mattresses that claim higher coil counts use lower-quality coils, which means you lose out on many of the comfort and support benefits of an innerspring mattress.
Most mattresses are between 6" and 9", but some high-end mattresses are up to 18" thick. Many of the thicker mattresses combine a mattress and box spring or other additional support layers.
Though thick mattresses may be capable of providing better support, they can also be more difficult for older adults, children, or pets to climb onto. They also may be incompatible with standard bedding.
As the science of sleep and mattress design has become better understood, manufacturers have begun using multiple layers of padding, foam, or air to provide support. Many innerspring mattresses, for example, have just a thin layer of soft padding on top, followed by slightly thicker padding, and then the springs.
This combination of layers allows the body to sleep on a soft and comfortable surface without sinking in too much. A surface that is too soft will cause the body to bend into an unnatural shape during the night, resulting in aches and pains the next day.
A good mattress includes 3 or more soft and firm layers to support individual sleepers while also keeping them from feeling their partner's movements too much. However, more layers do not make a better mattress. Each layer must be made of the correct materials for the job and assembled for durability and comfort.
Not all mattresses are designed to work with separate box springs. Typically, mattresses under 12" will need box springs underneath. Thicker mattresses are designed to be used without box springs. However, it also depends on your bed frame. Slatted and platform bed frames may be unable to support the weight of a thicker mattress, so if possible, buy your mattress and frame at the same time to find your perfect sleep solution.
As a general rule, the right mattress firmness depends on your sleeping position. Soft mattresses are best for people who sleep on their sides because shoulders and hips need to be able to sink into the foam slightly.
Since sinking into a soft mattress can feel suffocating while on your stomach, firm mattresses are best for people who sleep on their stomachs. Medium mattresses usually work for people who sleep on their backs and still need some spine support.
Many mattresses have built-in high-quality foam or gel tops. Cheaper mattresses may not have thick padding and may eventually require the addition of a mattress topper to be comfortable.
Even high-quality innerspring mattresses can be used with a mattress topper to extend their lifespan. Typically, the inner springs last much longer than padding on the surface, so a replaceable mattress topper can help it last a few more years.
However, a mattress topper may not be enough to redeem a cheap or worn-out mattress. The bottom layers of a mattress are just as important as the top, so if the bottom was cheap, to begin with, then another layer on top won't help.
Gel mattress padding may help keep you cooler. For optimal coolness, get a gel-topped spring mattress. The open air around the springs can also help keep you cool.
Kids and teens usually only need twin or twin XL mattresses. Toddlers and very small children can use crib-sized mattresses.
Teens and kids don't need high-end adjustable air mattresses, as young adults' joints rarely need careful cushioning to prevent soreness in the morning. However, they may benefit from having memory foam mattresses to sleep better at night, especially if they are side sleepers.
Medium to firm memory foam mattresses are best for people with sleep apnea. It is often recommended that people with sleep apnea sleep on their sides to open up the airways and reduce symptoms. A memory foam mattress is the most comfortable and supportive option for side sleepers.
Memory foam and natural latex mattresses are both hypoallergenic and don't have space for dust to accumulate as innerspring mattresses do. Use foam pillows and a hypoallergenic mattress cover to reduce dust sources further.
Latex mattresses generally do not trigger latex allergies as long as the mattress is covered. Individuals with severe latex allergies should consult with a doctor before buying a latex mattress.
Most mattresses have warranties between 10 and 25 years. However, some of these warranties are crafted to cover manufacturer defects, not regular wear and tear.
Realistically, mattresses should be replaced every 5-10 years. If the mattress is sagging or the coils can be felt through the padding, then it's time to replace it. Also consider a replacement if you begin waking up with more aches and pains, or if the bed is noisier than before.
You can prolong the life of your mattress with a mattress topper and by regularly flipping your mattress to ensure even use.
Vinyl Mattresses
Cotton Mattresses
Cashmere Mattresses
King Mattresses
Leather Mattresses
Round Shower Curtain Rod
Masculine Comforter Set
Toile Quilt Set
Single Curtain Panel
Floral Patchwork Quilts
Unique Daybed Bedding & Covers
Ceramic Shower Soap Dish
French Linen Curtains
Double Swag Shower Curtain
Bright Colored Bedding Sets
Bathtub Non Slip Appliques
Bathroom Window Shower Curtains
Feminine Bedding Sets
Kitchen Soap Dispenser Caddy
Plaid Curtains And Drapes
Nautical Themed Quilts
Tie Back Shower Curtains
Modern Shower Curtain
Shower Curtain Rod Brackets
Perfume Vanity Tray Sets
Extra Long Shower Curtain
Designer Bath Rugs And Mats
Luxury Animal Print Bedding
Wooden Towel Racks
Beach Theme Bedding Sets
Modern Curtain Holdbacks
Wood Towel Rack
Striped Bedding Sets
Crocheted Bed Skirts
Luxury Fabric Shower Curtain
Leopard Print Bedding King Size
Shag Bath Rug
Shabby Chic Shower Curtains
Exotic Comforter Sets
Cottage Victorian Shower Curtain
Shower Stall Curtain
Stall Size Shower Curtains
Novelty Bed Sheets
Beach Comforter Sets King Size
Bright Colored Bed Sheets
Lodge Rustic Shower Curtain
Beach Themed Duvet Covers
Designer Shower Curtain Rings