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 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 can have a topper. This is a separate layer which adds comfort. It can be replaced without having to replace the entire mattress.
Many mattresses sold today are shipped compressed and rolled into a box. When you open them, they quickly inflate. 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.
Many types of mattresses are available, and choosing the right one for you depends on your body type, 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. Consider the materials used in a mattress’ construction and its 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.
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 are considering polyfoam mattresses, look for a hybrid model with individually wrapped coils. This will 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 you choose should have a comfortable feel and support your back and neck. A mattress should also be durable enough to last 10 years or more. You can also choose a mattress with good motion isolation to avoid being disturbed by your partner’s movements.
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.
When shopping for a new mattress online, be sure to check out the return policy. Also, find out if the company charges any 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 things to consider: the size of the room and bed you will be using, your budget, your medical conditions and allergies, your sleeping partner, the material used, and the size and shape of the mattress.
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 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.