You spend about one-third of your life in bed, and the quality of sleep that you get each night can have a large impact on your overall health. Many factors can affect that sleep, such as stress, noise and even technology. Another big factor that can cause you to toss and turn is the mattress you are sleeping on each night. Mattresses last from five to seven years and once they are worn, they are unable to offer the support your body needs to sleep well and wake up without pain.
photo credit: flickr/martinak15
If you’re due for a new mattress, be picky when choosing your next one. Use this guide to select a mattress that will improve the quality of your sleep, not lessen it.
Firmness level
A rock-hard mattress will cause you to wake up sore the next morning, but so will a mattress that is too soft. You want to sleep on a mattress that is both firm and soft so that it molds to your body just right. Overall, pick a mattress firmness that will provide support and still keep you comfortable at night.
Mattress type
The mattress type you choose might depend on your comfort preferences and/or budget. Here are three different types of mattresses and the benefits of each.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are very common and often less expensive than alternative options. Keep in mind when looking at innerspring mattresses that a higher number of coil springs means a firmer and more supportive mattress. It’s best not to purchase an innerspring mattress with a low number of coil springs, even if it’s cheap.
Pocket spring
Pocket-spring mattresses are a type of innerspring mattress, but their design is unique in that each spring is divided and put into its own pocket. This improves your comfort level and also prevents the movement of one person from disturbing his or her partner.
Foam
Foam mattresses are becoming very popular and it’s easy to understand why. The foam conforms to your body’s unique shape in order to reduce pressure and prevent pain. It also absorbs movement and adds more plush cushioning.
If you do choose an innerspring or pocket-spring mattress, keep in mind that you can add a foam topper for additional comfort.
Mattress size
The mattress size you choose will largely depend on your room’s size, as well as your personal preference. Keep in mind that it is better to buy a bed that is too big than one that is too small, as you don’t want to feel constricted at night. Here are the most common mattress sizes for you to consider.
Twin: 38″ x 75″
Full: 54″ x 75″
Queen: 60″ x 80″
King: 76″ x 80″
Not all mattresses offer the same level of quality, and sometimes the right mattress for you depends largely on your sleeping preferences and support needs. Before choosing a mattress, consider the firmness level, type and size that you would find most comfortable.