When it comes to buying a mattress, there are many factors to consider. Not all mattresses are created equal, and how you sleep will determine which type of bed will work best for you. The key factor in choosing is your comfort preference-soft or firm, plush or shallow? And make sure to consider factors such as durability, affordability, and cleanliness when making a decision.
Comfort Above All
The first thing to consider is your personal comfort preference. A mattress that feels right will help you get the best night’s sleep possible. Generally speaking, people who prefer a slightly firmer surface should go with a medium-firm bed, while those who prefer a softer surface should opt for a medium-soft mattress.
You can also ask yourself how many people plan to sleep on the mattress, as that will impact your comfort preference since two people can feel differently about a bed’s firmness.
If you have a preference, keep in mind that mattresses are often labeled with a range of firmness levels, so there is usually more than one option that will fit your needs. If you’re not sure which mattress would be the best, you can read mattress comparisons, for example, and get an idea.
Many mattresses are labeled with a “point” system, where certain beds are designed especially for couples, back pain sufferers, heavy people, etc.
Some shoppers use a scale from zero to ten to rate their comfort preference, with zero being extremely soft and ten being very firm. Most sleep experts agree that the average person prefers a mattress in the four-to-six range, but keep in mind that you should never compromise on your comfort.
Price Is A Factor, But Don’t Overlook Quality
When it comes to mattress shopping, price is almost always a factor. Finding a mattress that won’t break the bank may mean browsing online for a good price, but don’t compromise on quality to save money.
While researching your options, you should also keep in mind that durability is a factor as well. A high price won’t mean anything if the mattress doesn’t last more than a couple of years. Although there’s no industry standard for mattress warranties, most manufacturers provide at least a 10-year warranty.
If the company offers less than that, it might be worth looking for another option.
And when you’re comparing prices on different mattresses, just remember to compare apples with apples. A mattress may seem like it’s being offered at a great price because of an introductory sale or a special offer, but look closely, and you’ll see that the cost is actually higher than a competitor’s prices.
Also keep in mind that buying a mattress isn’t always a solo purchase-you may have to buy sheets, pillows, or other accessories, which can drive up the price.
Orthopedic Or Not?
If you have a medical condition, an orthopedic mattress will provide the additional support needed to help you get better rest. The label usually signifies a firmer mattress, which is recommended by doctors and chiropractors to help alleviate pain associated with common conditions such as arthritis and back pain.
However, not all people with these conditions need an orthopedic mattress. Only about 20 percent of the population needs this type, so simply choosing one because it’s labeled “orthopedic” isn’t always the best idea. If you’re unsure whether or not your condition would benefit from an orthopedic mattress, you can always consult a doctor to find out.
Other medical conditions that could affect the choice of the mattress include chronic pain, the inability to get comfortable in bed, or frequent wakefulness.
Picking A Mattress That Works For Two
When it comes to sleeping with a partner, you should generally choose a mattress that is neither too firm nor too soft. Although some sleep experts believe that two people can share a bed with different comfort preferences, this simply isn’t the case for most couples.
If you have different comfort preferences, one person is likely to be left feeling uncomfortable or even find it difficult to sleep properly.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a mattress that would fit your partner comfortably, with your preferred firmness level. For example, if you sleep on a firm mattress and your partner prefers a softer one, find something that would be comfortable for both of you.
Consider The Materials
Many people don’t think about what mattress materials they need, but it’s an important part of your purchase. Latex mattresses are soft yet durable and allow air to pass through it so you won’t overheat at night. Memory foam conforms to your body weight and creates a sense of “weightlessness”.
Although prices vary greatly, memory foam mattresses typically cost more than other types.
Natural materials such as cotton and wool can also add comfort and durability to your mattress, so keep your preferences in mind when making a decision. There are hypoallergenic materials available if you’re concerned about allergies.
Size Also Matters
A twin mattress is great for kids or college students, but it will be too small for many adults. Standard full sizes are usually more than enough room for most couples. If you need extra space because you move around often in your sleep, opt for a queen or king-size bed for maximum comfort.
The width of your mattress is another factor to think about. A twin is 39 inches wide, a full is 54 inches, a queen is 60 inches, and a king comes in at 76 inches. If you share your bed with a partner or pets, it’s important to have enough room for everyone.
Smaller bedrooms can be difficult to fit everything into, but with a mattress that can fit in most standard-size door frames, you’ll have less trouble.
Cleaning Your Mattress
Believe it or not, you should clean your bedding every six months to ensure that the materials used are free of dust mites. Dust mites can cause allergic reactions and other problems, so keeping them out of your mattress is critical for good health.
You should always allow your mattress to completely dry before putting it on your bed, and purchasing a mattress protector is highly recommended. Waterproof pads can also contain accidents, keeping stains from setting into the mattress.
A good mattress is an important part of getting a good night’s sleep. When choosing a new mattress, there are several factors to consider, such as your comfort preference and the materials used.
You should also think about how big of a bed you need and whether you want a waterproof pad. Finally, don’t forget to clean your mattress every six months to keep it free of allergens.
