Experts agree that good sleep is the best way to improve and maintain our health. While a mattress plays a major role in how well we sleep, many people ignore its importance and continue to use a mattress that doesn’t provide sufficient support and comfort.
Although a new mattress may be an expensive investment, it can help you sleep better. You want to ensure that you make the right choice as with any major purchase.
We break down key information one-by-one to help you understand how to choose the right mattress for you. This guide will help you find the best mattress for your needs. It will also give you the information to ensure that you get great night’s sleep every night.
Which position are you most comfortable sleeping in?
Side
You usually wake up on your side and sleep.
Back
You usually wake up on your back, sleeping normally
Stomach
Your stomach lies flat when you sleep
What is your weight?
Below 130 lbs
If your weight is within this range, even a soft mattress may feel firm.
Between 130 and 230 lbs
When choosing a mattress, weight will not be a major factor
More than 230lbs
We will recommend firmer mattresses to you if you need more support.
How much do you have to spend?
I have a very tight budget
I would like to find the perfect mattress for under $500
I am able to spend a reasonable amount
I would like to find a mattress for $1,500 or less
Money is not an object
I would happily pay any amount to get my perfect mattress
Different types of mattresses
You may have noticed the overwhelming number of choices when you first start looking for a mattress. It’s a good idea to look at different types of mattresses to help you get started.
Nearly all mattresses can be identified by one of the five types: foam, innersprings, hybrids, latex, airbed, or latex. The most popular mattress type is the innerspring. They have been the staple of homes across the country for centuries. However, in recent years, there have been other types of mattresses that have gained popularity.
They are now more accessible because they offer a more dynamic performance. With the rise of the online mattress market, they have become cheaper and more accessible.
These basics can help you to make an informed decision when searching for the right mattress.
- Foam: These mattresses use only foam and have no coils. These mattresses provide excellent contouring and pressure relief. They also offer motion isolation and motion isolation. Memory foam is the most popular of all the foams used in these mattresses.
- Innerspring An innerspring mattress is made up of a coil-based support system with few layers. Innersprings are not as supportive as coils, but they can provide some pressure relief. They have a bouncier sleeping surface and are less motion-isolating. These are popular with budget-minded shoppers because they have a lower price.
- The two main elements of hybrids are an innerspring support core, and a substantial foam comfort system. There are two types of comfort layers: latex or foam, with sometimes a micro-coil layer. These mattresses offer a combination of bounce and contouring, with low heat retention. They can be comfortable for any type of sleeper depending on how they were made.
- Latex: A mattress that has all layers made of latex rubber is called an all-latex, true-latex, or true-latex. We will simply refer to it as a latex mattress for simplicity’s sake. These mattresses offer exceptional bounce and durability, with moderate contouring. They are popular among eco-conscious buyers because they are made from natural latex.
- Mattress: An air chamber is used as the support core for airbeds. The mattress is equipped with an air pump that can be controlled via a smartphone or remote. This allows for the addition or removal of air at the touch of a button. It gives sleepers maximum flexibility in terms firmness. Airbeds are loved by couples because they can be adjusted to different levels of firmness.
Firmness
Comfort is subjective. It’s important to find the right mattress for you.
Firmness refers to how firm or soft a bed feels. We use a 1-10 firmness scale to compare the options. Although it is not scientifically accurate, it can help you understand how a mattress feels and for whom it might be most suitable.
The chart shows who is most comfortable with a certain firmness level. However, comfort is subjective. Some people prefer a firmer or softer mattress, while others may feel more comfortable with a firmer or softer mattress.
There are several ways to determine the right firmness level for you.
- To narrow down your range, consider your weight and sleep position.
- Consider whether you have ever wished for a firmer or more comfortable mattress, either at home or in a hotel. The most popular hotel mattresses are Medium-to-Medium Firm. These have the greatest overall appeal.
- As a research mission, visit a local mattress shop and test out some beds. To really assess the comfort of a mattress, make sure you stay at least 10 minutes on it.
How to choose a mattress for back pain
Although there are many possible causes of back pains, an unsupportive mattress should not be overlooked. For people with back problems, good support can prevent pain from developing. If you have back problems, a mattress that is supportive may provide comfort and cushioning.
The nature of your back pain and other preferences should be considered when choosing the right mattress. Some back pain can be short-term or sudden. This is acute pain. Sometimes, the pain lasts for a longer time. This is called chronic pain. Acute back problems, such as an injury, can become chronic .
Temporary relief may be all that is needed for acute back pain. You may need to adjust your sleeping position or use extra pillows to temporarily relieve pain. If you have chronic back pain, it may be necessary to take more drastic steps like choosing a mattress that is thicker or soft. The right level of comfort and pressure relief is important to ensure that the spine remains properly aligned during sleep.
It is possible that the best mattress will depend on how much back pain a person has.
Lower back pain
Lower back pain is caused by the five lower vertebrae (L1-5 in the lumbar region). This is the most common form of lower back pain, and it is why Americans visit their doctor. The back area is susceptible to twisting and bending that could cause damage to the spine.
Bad sleeping habits can lead to lower back pain. Side sleepers can experience this if their hips and shoulders are not supported. This can throw the entire spine out of balance. It can also happen for stomach and back sleepers if the mattress is too soft or firm. This puts pressure on the natural curve of the lumbar spine.
Side sleepers should choose medium soft to medium firm mattresses that are able to cushion their impact points. For stomach and back sleepers, Medium Firm to Firm mattresses for a Crushed velvet bed, https://www.hugoandsons.co.uk/beds/crushed-velvet-beds/, with minimal conforming should be considered.
Pain in the Middle and Upper Back
Upper and middle back pain is far less common. These areas have a more stable anatomy, which reduces the chance of strains or sprains due to twisting movements. These areas may be the site of more serious conditions and should be examined by a doctor.
Poor posture can cause undue tension in your middle and upper back. This type of pain can be reduced by using a pressure-relieving mattress. A quality pillow with enough loft can ensure adequate support for the neck and upper spine.
Sleeping Positions
Which position do you find yourself in when you fall asleep, normally as you tuck into your pillow? What position are you in when you get up from a good night’s sleep?
These questions will give you key insights to help you choose the right mattress. Your sleeping position will determine which parts of your body need the most support to maintain your spinal alignment. A mattress that is designed to fit your sleeping position will improve comfort and reduce aches and pains.
Back Sleepers
The most pressure is placed on the lower back by back sleepers. A mattress that is too soft can cause the torso to sink deeper than the lower back and upper body. This can lead to strain. A mattress that is too firm will not allow for the slight curve in your lower back. Back sleepers prefer a medium-firm to firm mattress with moderate to light contouring.
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers are more likely to experience pressure points at the areas where the body is wider, such as the hips and shoulders. These pressure points can become out of alignment with the rest of your spine if you have a soft mattress. They will feel the pressure at these points and may experience misalignment if they are placed on a too-firm mattress. Side sleepers prefer medium-firm to medium-soft mattresses.
Stomach Pillows
Stomach sleepers, which are similar to back sleepers, put the most pressure on their lumbar spines. They prefer a firm mattress that doesn’t make them feel too suffocating while they lie face down on it.
Combination sleepers
Combination sleepers often find themselves in multiple positions throughout the night. They should pick a mattress that is most comfortable for them. Medium Firm is the best choice for all sleeping positions if there is no primary position. This group of sleepers should look for a mattress that is responsive and allows for easy movement.
Different Body Types
The best mattress will provide comfort and support for your spine, as well as other important features, depending on how you sleep.
People under 130 lbs have a flatter profile and don’t sink into the mattress as much. A softer mattress is often better for contouring. This is especially true if the person sleeps on their backs or has pressure points. The fit of innerspring mattresses is not ideal, so hybrid or foam beds are a better choice.
Our recommendations for mattress firmness can be followed by anyone between 130 and 220 pounds. This is based on the sleeping position. All solid mattresses, including latex, foam, hybrid, or hybrid mattresses, can be chosen based on their particular features and designs.
Anyone over 230 lbs will sink deeper into a mattress, particularly near heavy parts of the body. This can lead to spinal alignment issues. To avoid this risk, these sleepers often have better results with mattresses that are slightly firmer.
It is more comfortable to use a responsive mattress. This can be beneficial for people who weigh over 230 lbs as it makes it easier to move around. The most responsive options are latex and hybrid.
Sleepers of all weights need to be durable. However, people who are over 230 lbs can cause more damage to the mattress’s top layers. People with higher body weight opt for thicker mattresses that use high-density materials.
The right mattress will not only be chosen based on your weight. Side sleepers and those with wider shoulders or hips might need a mattress that is softer and has more contouring. To ensure they are able to stretch out comfortably, people over six feet should carefully consider the mattress dimensions.
Pricing
A mattress is the furniture piece that will get the most use. A mattress can also be an expensive investment, so pricing is an important consideration when purchasing a mattress.
It is a good idea to consider your bedroom budget before you shop. This includes buying a new mattress as well as any accessories such new pillows and bedding.
Prices for mattresses range from very low-cost models of low quality to high-end designer beds. These are the exceptions. Most mattresses are between $600-$2,000
Although mattresses with more features and a stronger design are often more expensive, this does not mean they are necessarily better. This is good news for those who are on a tight budget. There are many factors that can influence mattress pricing.
- Materials Sometimes, some materials like latex just cost more. A mattress’s price can also rise if it is made from high-end, handcrafted, organic, or other specialty materials.
- Types of Construction: The way a mattress has been constructed can impact its price. Higher-quality mattresses with more layers will generally have a higher price.
- Brand: As with most consumer products, some brands charge more, particularly luxury brands.
- Where it’s made: A mattress made in the USA will likely be more expensive than one made abroad.
- Where it is Sold: While online purchases usually have a lower cost, there are still bargains to be had in mattress shops, especially for smart negotiators.
- There are some things you should keep in mind if you are concerned about the price of a new mattress. There are many great options for mattress prices.
The MSRP (or sticker price) is the second reason we have listed the prices. Customers rarely pay this price, as regular sales and promotions are plentiful. Many brands offer sales on holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, CyberMonday and BlackFriday. Online shopping is a great way to save money.
A great mattress is also worth the investment. A great mattress will improve your health and last for many years.
How to choose a mattress for your child
Children need to get enough sleep. Children need more sleep than adults. Good sleep is essential for all stages of childhood development. A quality mattress and a comfortable bed are key to ensuring that children get the rest they need.
While there is a lot of overlap between choosing a mattress for a child and one for an adult, there are significant differences.
Safety is an important consideration when buying beds for children, particularly infants who are used to sleeping in cribs. It is crucial to ensure that your mattress conforms to safety guidelines.
The bed size is another difference. Children can outgrow beds faster than adults. Therefore, it is important to choose the right size mattress for your child based on their age and expected growth.
A bed that is designed for adults may fit a child’s size better (Twin or TwinXL), depending on their age. Parents may choose a mattress made specifically for children in other instances. There are many mattress brands, types, and models available for adults.
Another point of divergence is the cost of a mattress designed for children. Children’s beds are often smaller and lighter, so they can be less expensive. There are beds that can be made for children with many extra features, and they may cost the same as an adult mattress.
How to choose a crib mattress
There are many important aspects to consider when choosing a crib mattress. safety should be the first priority when purchasing a crib mattress. Safety of crib mattresses is essential.
- Assuring that the crib mattress meets standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. These standards relate to limiting lead exposure.
- Make sure that the crib mattress conforms to the CPSC size guidelines. This means that the crib mattress should measure at least 27.25 by 51.25 inches. It should not exceed six inches in thickness.
- A firm crib mattress can lower the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Keep the mattress free from soft objects such as toys, blankets, pillows, and other items. Avoid placing soft or loose items in an infant’s crib as they can cause SIDS and suffocation.
- Safety aside, there are many other aspects that should be considered when it comes to the usability and convenience of a crib mattress.
- Easy Cleaning: It is almost impossible to clean a crib mattress. This makes it important to have a design that is easy to clean. Some crib mattresses have a waterproof cover, which is generally made from vinyl, or a waterproof backing. These features are often appreciated by parents as they make cleaning much easier.
- Weight – You will likely need to lift your crib mattress for cleaning. This is a common reason why some parents prefer lighter mattresses such as foam.
- Mattress Type – Both innerspring and foam options can be used to make a firm sleeping surface. Crib mattresses can also be made from specialty materials and components, such as those that are eco-conscious.
- Reversible firmness: Each side of the crib mattress has a unique feel. The mattress can be easily flipped over as your child grows older, which will increase the longevity of your purchase.
How to choose a mattress topper
A mattress topper is an option if your budget doesn’t allow for a new mattress. Although it won’t be as long-lasting or effective, this can still be an option if you don’t have the budget for a new mattress.
The topper is placed on top of the bed and covers the sheet. The topper can alter the feel of your mattress. It is best if you are primarily adjusting the firmness. Toppers can be used to give your bed more contouring, motion isolation, and bounce.
Toppers typically measure one to four inches in thickness and are made from one material. Memory foam, latex and down are all possible toppers. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
It’s important to consider many of the same factors that influence your choice of a mattress topper when choosing a mattress.
- Your sleeping position
- Your body shape
- Your preferred firmness
- Choose the material that suits your needs best
- Your budget
These factors should be considered in the context mattress toppers. Also, consider your current mattress as it will affect the feel of your bed. If you have a soft innerspring, it is possible for the topper to transfer motion.
It is important to be realistic when buying a topper. A topper will not last as long as a new mattress and can’t be used to revive a bed that is already old. A topper placed on a bed that’s worn and sagging is just another way for it to quickly start sagging.