How to Choose a Mattress - The quest to get a good night’s sleep is on, and looking for mattresses are a big part of coming out victorious in that endeavour. However, buying a mattress isn’t easy, especially when you consider the vast number of mattress brands available. There are just so many types of mattresses on the market. These include foam mattresses, latex mattresses, and even a self-inflating mattress. The wide assortment from which to pick can make choosing a mattress a bit tricky. The question now is how to choose a mattress?
Factors to Consider When Mattress Buying
How will you know when it’s the right time to purchase a new mattress? Typically, mattresses that have reached eight years or older indicate that it’s time to go shopping for a new one. That’s typically the lifespan of a mattress. If a mattress was well maintained, it might still be functional after more than a decade of use. However, your body type may have changed, or you may have developed certain medical conditions that affect the quality of your sleep. These conditions can include anything from oedema, sleep apnea or general body pain. Whether it be adding a comfort layer of padding to your mattress top or ensuring you get a mattress that will work on an adjustable frame, mattress shopping takes some effort.
The mattress world has changed a lot in the last 10 years. In fact, a mattress guide is almost a necessity. Here are the factors you should consider.
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Type of Mattress Can Make a Huge Difference
In order to understand what matters and what doesn’t, first, let's explore the different kinds of mattresses on the market. Here are a few that are among those that are quite popular.
Memory Foam Mattress
TOP CHOICE Memory foam is currently a popular material for mattresses. Memory foam is a polyurethane textile that is sensitive to pressure and contours to a person’s shape. This moulding is not the same as sagging, as memory foam returns to the original position when the person gets up. Many hybrids use memory foam or regular foam in the construction of these mattresses. Many people who suffer from body pain find memory foam comfortable.
Latex Mattress
Latex mattresses are made entirely from latex foam and can bring a special kind of relaxation. When compared with other mattress types, latex mattresses offer cooling, better responsiveness, as well as good bounce. This is a perfect choice for those who want a foam mattress that is known for its firmness, responsive, and cooling properties. However, those with body pain may find a latex mattress a bit too firm.
Pillow-top Mattress
Pillow-top mattresses usually have a layer of soft material sewn or stuffed at the top of the mattress to provide additional cushioning and comfort to the sleeper. If you are looking for a soft top with the firmness of your choice, a pillow-top mattress may be just the thing you need to get a good night’s sleep. Some pillow-tops are added to memory foam or hybrid mattresses. Pillow-top mattresses or pillow-top mattress protectors may add a layer of comfort to those who experience body pain.
Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses are a combination of pocket coils, polyurethane foams, and other foam materials. This infusion of materials can form the perfect mattress for many sleepers. A good example of this is a combination of different latex in memory foam mattresses which come with that cooling, bouncing and some of the more responsive functions. For instance, for those that want a firm mattress but still prefer a little “give,” the choice of a hybrid may be the best. These are often quite expensive.
Innerspring mattress
Innerspring mattresses have come a long way. For a long time, innerspring mattresses ruled the market. Traditional innerspring mattresses are made from layers of spring coils. But, it’s important to note that there are now individually wrapped coil-spring mattresses on the market. The latter offers comfort and support while you sleep while reducing the likelihood of sagging quickly. If you plan on buying an innerspring mattress, know what kind you are purchasing — a traditional innerspring or an individually wrapped coil mattress (pocketed coil mattress, pocket coil innerspring). When looking at a pocket coil bed, consider the coil count of the mattress. It should also be noted that if you own an adjustable bed frame or plan on purchasing one in the future, traditional innerspring mattresses are not suggested for use.
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What Does Matter When Buying a Mattress?
When using this mattress guide on how to choose a mattress consider your sleeping position. Proper alignment is crucial for good sleeping that results in the body restoring itself naturally.
Stomach sleepers. If you tend to sleep on your stomach, memory foam may not be a good choice since it tends to sink. This can make you feel like you are being smothered when you are sleeping and cause unnecessary back pain due to poor spine alignment. Instead, consider choosing a firmer mattress for additional support. An air-filled mattress, latex or pocketed coil may be a good choice here. Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress that has only a “little give” for a more comfortable sleep. Although stomach sleeping is believed to help with sleep apnea and snoring, overall it is hard on the body. It might be best to try to change your sleep position.)
Restless sleepers
Hybrid mattresses, mixed with memory foam, pocketed coils, foam, or latex suit those who tend to be restless sleepers due to their ability to isolate motion. Remember, tossing and turning at night may be due to the heat that you are generating so you may want to consider a mattress that has cooling abilities as well.
Back sleepers
For those who love sleeping on their back, you will need to look for mattresses that will support proper body spinal alignment. A variety of mattresses will help you to support your body during sleep. Foam, memory foam, pocketed coil, and hybrid work well for back sleepers.
Side sleepers
If you want to get a great night’s sleep and you tend to sleep on your side, you will have to look for a mattress that can contour to your shape and support your body weight too. Latex, foam or pocket coil innerspring can provide pressure relief. Consider a mattress that offers pressure relief points particularly around the shoulder and hips. For side sleepers, too much firmness can cause pain on bony areas.
Mattress Size and Room Size
It is important that you measure the available space in your bedroom to determine the size of the bed that you will get. Don’t force yourself to purchase a bed that doesn’t fit well with the space available. There are many different sizes available.
Single
This bed is best for children or one adult. The size works well in small spaces. Measurement: 91 x 190 cm / 36" x 75" / 3' x 6'3"
Small Double
This bed offers a bit more roll over room. This is especially good for the sleeper may have a pet. A little more extra space makes all the difference. Measurement: 122 x 190 cm / 48" x 75" / 4' x 6'3"
Double
This bed works well in modestly-sized bedrooms as well as studio flats. A single sleeper has plenty of space to move around. Measurement: 137 x 190 cm / 54" x 75" / 4'6" x 6'3
King
The queen size mattress is popular among both single sleepers and those with a partner (or pet). Your bedroom should be at least 10 by 10 feet to fit this bed. Measurement: 183 x 198 cm / 71" x 78" / 6' x 6'6"
Super King
This mattress will not allow space for you to walk around if your room is average size. Your bedroom should be at least 13 x 13 feet to comfortably accommodate this mattress while still leaving plenty of space for your other furniture. Measurement: 152 x 198 cm / 60" x 78" / 5' x 6'6"
Smart Mattress Shopping
How to choose a mattress can be challenging at times. Just imagine looking at all the memory foam mattresses, spring mattresses, natural latex mattresses, or even hybrid mattresses that are on the market. If you wish to get your hands on a high-quality mattress, consider these tips.
Online shopping
Online shopping offers convenience, options, and possibly a chance to try the bed out for a few months for free. Shopping for a mattress online may be more useful to you. Finding good deals is easy. Also, check out reviews to see what others have to say.
Budget
Before you start shopping for a mattress, make sure that you already have a budget in mind. This way, you will be able to narrow down your choices to what is appropriate for the money that you are willing to spend.
Browse
If you are going to visit brick-and-mortar stores, make sure that you browse mattresses and price match online. Keep in mind that you are investing in a mattress that you will have to stick with for a decade or so, which means that you don’t have to rush to judgment. Don’t let salespeople pressure you.
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What Doesn’t Matter When Buying a Mattress?
Mattress shopping has changed a lot in the last decade. Here are some points that should not factor in when buying a mattress.
Testing Bed in Showroom
Salespeople will offer you the chance to you lie down on the mattress to test it out but don’t rely on this one-time testing. It doesn’t work. It will take you at least a few weeks or a month even to completely get the feel of your bed and how it affects your body and quality of sleep. This is one reason you should look for a brand that will be willing to let you test their product for a month or two.
Thread count
Sleep surface weighs less than some other factors when it comes to sleeping. You may want to pay more attention to mattress type (memory foam vs latex) when considering sleeping quality. If you’re worried about mattress wear and tear, you can always use a mattress protector. Make sure you buy linens that feel comfortable on skin contact to help you gain the best sleep possible.
Buzzwords
You’ve probably heard of buzzwords such as “getting the best sleep of your life”, “ultra-soft mattress”, and “sleeping on a cloud”. They all sound great to someone who dreams of sleeping peacefully, but they are just that, words meant to entice you to purchase mattresses from them. These marketing buzz words may not translate to the mattress being sold which is why you shouldn’t base your choices on wording.
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A Quick Word About Adjustable Bed Frames
Adjustable bed frames work well with a variety of mattresses. The only mattress not recommended with an adjustable bed frame is the traditional innerspring mattress. But pocket coil, memory foam, hybrids, foam, or pillow-tops work well. Adjustable frames can work great for a variety of sleeping maladies.
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A final word about mattress shopping in 2019
Mattress shopping takes some time. But, it’s worth it. Sleeping on a sagging mattress not only robs you of a great night’s sleep but can cause unnecessary pain. Of course, you will have to prepare yourself for this task. Do your due diligence. Think about what kind of sleeper you are, and if you have any medical conditions that could affect your sleep. Keep an open mind that the firmness you require in a mattress may have changed. We hope you use this guide to help you choose the best type of mattress for you.
Note that Mattress protectors are available for any of these types of mattresses noted above should you want to add further protection against spills or dust mites. They come in a variety of materials from pillow-top to flat. You also may choose from regular pockets or deep pockets.
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I wish my Nectar was here 10 years ago
I never, ever, thought of mattresses. I just bought whichever felt good at the store and was in the price range and probably bought a new one twice now since leaving my parent’s home in 1997 and my Dad used to remind me that a mattress should be changed every 8 years. My boyfriend mentioned Nectar and I like that they will send a new cover if I need it, plus they have a really long Warranty and I think a few pretty famous people have recommended Nectar. Wow. It really is incredibly comfortable and just feels like a whole different experience. My boyfriend loves the new mattress and doesn’t even snore anymore. I like feeling cradled by the bed when we relax or even more, have fun. It’s great.
This was amazing from start to finish.
This mattress is so comfortable! I really can’t get over it. We bought it when we moved to our new house. It was perfect timing as it came in the exact day that we moved in. My wife was stressed at the idea of shopping for a mattress in person so being able to do everything online made it super easy. Delivery was quick and setup was incredibly easy. We bought a King. It’s a really comfy bed - not too firm, not too soft. I appreciate that it comes with a nice cover. Lastly, company communication has been great.
