The Difference Between a Pillowtop Mattress & a Firm Mattress
A good mattress can make the difference between a restful night's sleep and one that leaves you with aches and pains the next morning. The firmness of a mattress determines the level of support it offers; the topper contributes to the softness of the mattress. You can choose a firm mattress and cover it with a pillowtop for added comfort. Does this Spark an idea?
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Firmness Levels
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Mattresses firmness choices include extra firm, firm, medium, plush and ultra plush. Most extra firm, firm and medium mattresses use coils, also called pocket springs, that support you as you sleep. Generally, the higher the number of coils, the more firm the mattress feels. The gauge of the coil also affects the firmness. The higher the gauge, the firmer the mattress.
Softer spring mattress often utilize smaller gauge or fewer coils. Most high quality mattresses use smaller gauge coils rather than fewer coils. Manufacturers use latex or memory foam to construct many plush and ultra plush mattresses and most do not contain coils.
Adding a Pillowtop
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"Pillowtop" mattresses describe an added feature to mattress construction. You can get a mattress with or without a pillowtop. If you want softness and good support, choose a firmer mattress with an added pillowtop. You can buy a mattress with a pillowtop attached or you can get a separate pad that attaches to your existing mattress.
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Types of Pillowtoppers
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Pillowtops come in a variety of materials, with inexpensive ones comprised mainly of memory foam or latex. These toppers help take the pressure off of tender joints and pressure points by adding a layer of softness, can help regulate body temperature and tend to stimulate fewer allergies, but can be hard to clean. Feather and down toppers clean easier, but they can flatten over time and trigger allergies. Wool toppers help retain body warmth, but tend to flatten over time too.
How to Choose a Mattress and Topper
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The best way to choose a mattress and topper is to visit a mattress store and lay on the bed for a few minutes. Heavier people and stomach and back sleepers may prefer a more firm mattress, while side sleepers and people with arthritis or other joint disorders may prefer a softer mattress. Your doctor might be able to offer advice if you suffer from bone or joint disorders. Additionally, it is often easier to add a layer of softness to a too-firm mattress than to add support to a too-soft mattress.
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References
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