How to Choose a Sleep Mattress
Mattresses can wear down quickly, especially when they are frequently flipped and rotated. Excessive folding and heavy objects placed on the mattress can also lead to accelerated deterioration.
All-foam mattresses tend to have a softer feel that some people enjoy because they can cradle the body. This type of mattress is often best for side sleepers.
What is a Mattress?
A mattress is the soft, cushioned surface you lie on while sleeping. It is usually paired with a bed frame and sheets. A mattress may have a topper, which is a separate layer that adds comfort and can be replaced without replacing the whole mattress.
Many mattresses are shipped rolled and compressed in a box. They quickly expand when you open them. Some mattresses may have a strong smell due to the chemicals used in making them flame-retardant. Even natural and organic mattresses and those that are CertiPUR-US certified may have an odor when you first unwrap them.
There are many types of mattresses available. The right one for you will depend on your body type and sleep position, weight, and health conditions. For example, back and neck pain is more effectively treated with medium-firm or firmer models that keep your spine in a neutral position. You should also consider the materials used to make a mattress and its construction location.
Types of mattresses
If you prefer a natural, eco-friendly mattress option that also provides excellent support and great contouring, consider latex mattresses. Latex is made from the sap of rubber trees and offers a resilient, slightly responsive feel without the hugging sensation that memory foam delivers. It’s also a popular choice for people who are allergic to memory foam or are looking to reduce the risk of future allergies.
Look for a mattress with either Dunlop or Talalay latex. Both have the same benefits, but Talalay latex is a more consistent material.
Polyurethane foam is another common type of mattress material and can come in a range of densities. Look for a mattress with CertiPUR US certification, which indicates that the foam is free of formaldehyde, heavy metals and ozone depleters. If you’re considering polyfoam, choose a hybrid model that uses individually wrapped coils to improve motion isolation. This is a good choice for people who sleep with a partner or tend to move around in their sleep.
Selecting a mattress
It’s important to find a mattress that provides you with a good night’s rest. The mattress that you choose should be comfortable and support your neck and back. A mattress should be durable enough to last at least 10 years. You can also look for a mattress that offers good motion isolation so you won’t be disturbed when your partner moves or gets up.
You should consider your sleeping position as well as the size of your mattress and the materials used in it. You should also be aware of any issues or complaints about a specific mattress you’re considering.
If you’re shopping for a mattress online, make sure to check the return policy and whether the company charges shipping or handling fees. You should also make sure that the mattress was made in the United States, and does not contain fiberglass, which is a synthetic flame retardant linked to health issues.
Buying a mattress
Mattresses are a big investment, and picking the right one can be tricky. There are many factors to consider, including the size of your room and bed, medical ailments and allergies, who will be sleeping with you, the material with which it is made, and your budget.
It’s important to compare prices and read reviews when shopping for a new mattress. However, be sure to take reviews with a grain of salt and understand the context in which they were written.
It’s best to test mattresses before purchasing them, as sleep comfort is subjective. Some brands offer sleep trials and hassle-free return policies, but be sure to check the fine print to ensure that they are clear about the conditions of the trial and any fees associated with returning a mattress. Also, make sure the mattress you buy meets flammability standards. Lastly, make sure the company you’re purchasing from provides reliable shipping and delivery services that will set up your mattress for you and haul away your old one.