How to Choose a Sleep Mattress
Mattresses wear out quickly, particularly when they are rotated and flipped frequently. Mattresses can also deteriorate faster if they are folded excessively or have heavy objects placed on them.
All-foam mattresses tend to have a softer feel that some people enjoy because they can cradle the body. This type of mattress works best for side sleepers.
What is a mattress?
A mattress is the soft, cushioned surface you lie on while sleeping. It is usually paired up with a bedframe 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. When you open them, they quickly inflate. Some may have a strong odor from the chemicals used to make 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. Back and neck pain can be treated more effectively with models that are medium-firm or a little firmer. These models keep your spine in 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 is another type of foam that is commonly used in mattresses. It comes in different densities. CertiPUR certification is a good indicator that the foam in a mattress is free from formaldehyde and heavy metals. 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
You should choose a mattress that will give you a good night of sleep. 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 choose a mattress with good motion isolation to avoid being disturbed by your partner’s movements.
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. In addition, you should make sure the mattress is made in the United States and doesn’t contain fiberglass, a synthetic flame retardant that has been linked to health problems.
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.
When shopping for a mattress, it’s important to read reviews and compare prices. Take reviews with a pinch of salt, and make sure you understand the context.
Since sleep comfort is subjective, it’s best to test mattresses in person before making a purchase. Some brands offer hassle-free returns and sleep trials, but make sure you read the fine print so that you understand the conditions and fees involved with returning a bed. Also, make sure the mattress you buy meets flammability standards. Make sure that the company you are purchasing from offers reliable shipping and delivery services. They should also be able to set up your new mattress and remove your old one.