Choose the Right Mattress for a Better Night’s Sleep
As the science of sleep gains more and more traction in the research communities, the non-scientists among us are also taking notice. Sleep is an integral part of our physical and mental health, yet almost half of American adults say that they aren’t getting enough of it.
Could the answer be as simple as the mattress that we use?
Many experts agree that our mattress choice is an important factor in sleep quality, but there’s no one mattress that is a quick fix. Each individual is different, and his or her mattress needs are unique. Luckily mattresses have changed dramatically in recent years, and we as consumers are no longer limited to a one size fits all choice when in the market for a new bed.
If you’re considering choosing a new mattress to improve the quality of your sleep, learn more about the process with these helpful tips.
How to Begin
Shopping for a new mattress is an important undertaking, and you should do your research carefully before you begin. Can you recall a hotel or the home of a friend or family member where you experienced a comfortable and restful night’s sleep? If so, do some homework to determine the type of mattress that it was.
Determine your budget before you start. Mattresses can be quite expensive so you’ll want to know exactly what your options are and what you can afford. Also, it’s wise to do online research but you’ll need to physically visit the mattress stores to be certain that the mattress you purchase is the one that’s right for you.
Which Mattress Type Is Right for You?
In the past people had few choices when it came to mattresses. There were the traditional spring mattresses and that was about it, unless you lived during the waterbed craze of the 1970s and 1980s. Thankfully, the mattresses of today have been designed with more comfort in mind, which is a win for all of us who are craving a better night’s sleep.
Spring coil mattresses are still the most popular type of mattress sold in the United States. Many of these mattresses are sold with a plush, pillow top that can increase the overall comfort of the bed. Don’t let the salesperson tell you that more springs means more comfort; experts say that anything above the standard 390 coils is not likely to make much difference in the sleep experience.
Memory foam mattresses or mattress toppers are very popular, and they can provide exceptional comfort. The material conforms to the body which creates a uniquely individualized sleep experience. The memory foam also absorbs movement, which is perfect for couples.
Air mattresses are also extremely popular, but they are not the camping-style air mattresses that you might be thinking of. Also referred to as adjustable beds, these mattresses feature air-filled spaces instead of coils and the amount of air can be adjusted at any time. These types of mattresses are wonderful for people with back issues, and for couples that prefer different levels of firmness in a mattress. Some of these beds can be prohibitively expensive, but affordable models with all the same features are available.
The Sleep Test
Once you’ve decided on the type of mattress that you’d like, it’s time to visit the retailer and perform the sleep test.
Mattress buyer’s guides always advise that you wear loose, comfortable clothing on your shopping trip so you’ll feel more relaxed when trying the beds.
Take off your shoes and lie down on each mattress for at least fifteen minutes. Try a few different positions that you might find yourself in while you sleep, and allow your body to relax. This exercise will allow you to determine if the mattress is right for you. Make sure to bring your bed partner along for the sleep test, especially if you’re trying an adjustable air bed. You’ll need to make sure that the bed is right for the both of you.
A better night’s sleep could be as close as your nearest mattress or furniture store, but proper research is necessary before you buy. Establish your budget, decide which type of mattress sounds appealing, then go and test them out. Before you know it you and your partner could be experiencing the best sleep of your lives.