How to Choose a Bed Mattress
We spend one-third of our lives sleeping. The mattress you sleep on should be comfortable and durable. Give your mattress-buying decision plenty of consideration to make sure you get the one that is right for you. When shopping for a mattress, try out different types, such as innerspring or memory foam, so that you will have a good idea of how each will feel when you sleep on it. In addition, ask plenty of questions about the construction of each mattress so you can determine if it is a quality product. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Educate yourself on the different types of mattresses available such as memory foam, latex, innerspring or air beds. Memory foam mattresses allow you to "melt" into the mattress, because the foam conforms to your body. They are helpful for people who want to reduce pressure on their joints or who sleep with partners who frequently change positions. Latex mattresses are similar to memory foam, but are less conforming and make it easier for you to change positions. Innerspring mattresses use coil springs for support and are available with different types of upholstery and padding to make the mattress softer or firmer. Air mattresses contain chambers of air that allow you to adjust the mattress to your desired level of comfort. They are helpful for co-sleepers who need different types of mattresses.
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Lie down on the center of the mattress and roll outward if you are testing an innerspring mattress. Take note of the way the springs feel. If the springs give uneven amounts of support (stiffer in some spots and sagging in others), or make creaking noises, the mattress is probably not well constructed. Look for an innerspring mattress that provides even support, with no noise, as you roll from the center outward.
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Arrange your body in the position you normally sleep on every mattress you test. Spend 10 to 15 minutes resting on the mattress while paying attention to how your back reacts. If the muscles in your back tighten, the mattress is likely either too soft or firm. If your back muscles feel relaxed, the mattress is likely a good fit for you.
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Take turns with your partner changing positions on the bed or getting in and out of bed to see how much the mattress moves. This is best done with your backs to each other so you can focus on the movement and not looking at what your partner is doing. If you or your partner are light sleepers, and awake with movement, you may want to consider a mattress that doesn't move such as a latex foam or memory foam mattress.
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Ask questions about the each mattress's durability as well as the length of the warranty and what it covers. Keep in mind that different mattress brands have different mattresses of varying levels of quality. Brand isn't necessarily indicative of quality. For example, innerspring mattresses that contain hand-tufting (stitching) have more quality. Edge coils provide added support on the edges of the mattress to prevent breakdown or sagging.
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Discuss size with your partner, or consider it if you sleep alone. According to BestBedGuide.com, it is difficult to adjust to a smaller size bed than the one you have been sleeping on in the past. For comfort, a mattress should be at least 6 inches longer than the tallest person using the bed. Ensure that the bed is large enough to accommodate children or pets that may sleep in the bed with you as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Dress comfortably on the day you go mattress shopping so your clothing won't bind you when you lie down and cause discomfort.
Make sure and bring your spouse or partner with you when mattress shopping, so he can have input into the mattress-buying decision.
Spring mattresses can offer more support to larger people.
Memory foam mattresses can reduce pressure points and reduce pain.
Latex mattresses are firm and supportive and can be good for people who suffer from back pain.
Never buy a mattress without trying it out.
Ask the seller if there is a return policy for the mattress if you are not happy with it. This shouldn't be a deal-breaker, but an added bonus.
References
- Photo Credit sleeping woman #6 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com
