Choosing the Best Mattress and Its Effects on Your Sleeping Habits
You may not realize it but buying a mattress is very important. Sure, you already have one on your bed but is it the right type? Does it induce hours of sleep or do you simply toss and turn all night long?
These days, there are more and more people who work all day and party hard, complaining about backaches in the process. Not having a comfy mattress to sleep on at night can only make the pain worse.
A mattress cannot just prevent back pains, but it can also stimulate restful sleep. Sleeping on hard and uncomfortable surfaces can cut a substantial amount of hours in many people’s sleep. They may go to bed on time, each night, but they remain half-awake, trying to find the most comfortable sleeping position.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Mattress
While many factors like comfort, support, cost, and durability do matter; buying a mattress that suits the way you sleep should be foremost. Here are some tips –
Measure your current mattress size: First, ask yourself, are you happy with it? Your body can adapt over time as it conforms to occupy a certain amount of allowable space, but is your current mattress size just right for you?
If you feel restless or cramped at night then, chances are, you have not bought the correct mattress size.
Consider your body size: People who are taller or heavier generally require heavier and wider mattresses in order to feel truly comfortable at night. To optimize the feeling of comfort, consider purchasing a mattress that is four to six inches longer than your actual height.
Review your sleeping habits: Do you frequently change positions every night? If you sleep with someone on your bed, how does he behave as he sleeps? When either of you regularly tosses and turns, then this could be an indication that you are not using the correct form of mattress.
Measure your available space: Do not buy furniture out of whim. Take the time to measure the doorways, hallways, stairs and space to find out if you can even get the mattress in. Measure the size of your bedroom so that you can adjust your mattress size accordingly.
Mattress Types – Which One Matches You?
Innerspring mattress: This is the most common type of mattress used by a lot of people. It has steel coils and layers of upholstery for cushioning and insulation. The firmer types are best for back pains.
Organic or green mattress: This is made from organic components. When buying this type of mattress, make sure that you visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture website for acceptable green products.
Ortho mattress: Orthopedic mattresses are designed to support back, joints, muscles and bones. These are traditionally made of coil springs.
Talk to your doctor about buying an ortho mattress that specifically addresses your ailments or needs.
Air bed: This is not the same as inflatable mattresses. An air bed is manufactured to replicate the look of innerspring mattress and box spring combination. It has air-filled chambers that can provide support to the whole body.
Pillow top mattress: This mattress type has an extra layer of cushion fastened on the surface. It is made from luxury materials such as cotton, wool, gels, and foams – materials that can conform to the natural mold of the human body.
Gel mattress: This is one of the newest forms of mattresses. It is highly flexible and can be used with other mattress materials.
Memory foam mattress: This is made of dense foam layers which adapt to the contour of the body. It can effectively reduce pain and pressure points.
Latex or solid foam mattress: This is made from synthetic or natural rubber. It is bouncy yet firm and is even more supportive than memory foam. It is good for people who constantly complain of back pains.
This is a breathable mattress that keeps you warm during the winter season and cools during summer. It is resistant to mildew, bacteria, dust mites and mold.