How to Choose a Sleep Mattress
Mattresses can wear down quickly, especially when they are frequently flipped and rotated. 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 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 sold today are shipped compressed and rolled into 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 organic and natural mattresses, as well as those that are CertiPUR US certified, may have a strong odor upon unwrapping.
Many types of mattresses are available, and choosing the right one for you depends on your body type, 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 derived from the sap of rubber tree and provides a resilient, slightly responsive feeling without the hugging effect that memory foam offers. People who are allergic or want to reduce their risk of future allergies often choose latex.
Choose a mattress that contains either Talalay or Dunlop latex. Both materials have the same benefits but Talalay is a more consistent product.
Polyurethane foam is another common type of mattress material and can come in a range of 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 look for a mattress that offers good motion isolation so you won’t be disturbed when your partner moves or gets up.
When choosing a mattress, you’ll need to consider your sleeping position, the size of your bed and the type of materials in the mattress. You should also look into any complaints or issues with the mattress you are 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
It can be difficult to choose the right mattress, as they are an expensive investment. 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.
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. 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.