You might feel the springs creak as you turn, or worse, they can poke into your skin and prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.
It could feel too firm, too soft or too bouncy and keep you awake at night. It might even sag when you get in bed, which is a sign that your mattress is past its prime (or springs).
It is possible to feel stiff and tired when you wake up in the morning. It is possible to feel stiff and tired in the morning, as well as back, neck and joint pain.
Your sleep will suffer if you don’t have a high-quality mattress. You might be experiencing any of these symptoms, and it is probably time to get a brand new mattress. Despite the daunting prospect of buying a mattress, you might not be able to wait.
Although it might seem easy to pick up a second-hand mattress from Craigslist, or accept a gift from a friend or relative, you will sleep better on a mattress made just for you.
Although you will need to take time to consider all factors, our guide can help simplify the process. Continue reading to learn more about what you should consider when buying a mattress.
Are you ready to shop? Perhaps you have some specific characteristics in mind for your mattress for a Crushed velvet bed by Hugo & Sons. Do not rush to the nearest retailer or search engine. Consider these personal characteristics when you start your search.
Position for sleeping
The best mattress for you will depend on your preferred position. Poor sleep quality and pain can be caused by a mattress that isn’t supportive of your preferred position.
Back sleepers
Softer mattresses won’t be able to support your spine properly if you lie on your back. Hybrid mattresses, which combine foam and coils, can provide better sleep.
Side sleepers
Side sleeping places pressure on your hips and shoulders. You’ll need a soft mattress to cushion your body and relieve pressure. Side sleepers often find memory foam or pillows-top mattresses to be the best choice for providing support and comfort.
Stomach sleepers
Healthcare providers recommend stomach-sleepers switching to a position that provides better health benefits. Michael J. According to A. Longo DC, a chiropractor at Renaissance Chiropractic Center, stomach sleeping can cause stress on the spine. This can cause neck and back pain over time.
However, if you are unable to get a good night of sleep by sleeping on your stomach you will want to ensure that you have the right mattress.
A good mattress for stomach-sleepers must support the spine. You might feel stiff and pain if your mattress is too soft to sink into. The best mattress is either a firm hybrid, or a foam one.
Combination sleepers
People who shift positions during the night are called combination sleepers. You should ensure that you are able to lie down comfortably on your mattress no matter how you position it. A medium-firm mattress could provide the perfect balance of support and comfort.
Memory foam mattresses might be better for side sleepers. The body contouring benefits can make it difficult for side sleepers to move around and leave them feeling stuck.
latex, and other foams that react well to movement are alternatives to consider. Hybrids are more responsive because they combine innerspring support and foam comfort layers.
Types of Body
Your body type will also impact the support your mattress provides. Longo explains that every body is different, and this can affect the amount of pressure on your spine when you go to bed.
A medium-firm mattress will be more comfortable for those who are lighter than 130 pounds or less. While it’s okay to prefer a firmer mattress, if your preference is for pressure relief or side sleeping, a softer mattress will be more appropriate.
For people weighing over 230 pounds, a firmer mattress will be needed to provide enough support. Hybrids combine the support of innerspring coils and the comfort of foam to provide long-lasting durability. If you are looking for foam beds, make sure to choose mattresses that are at least 12 inches tall. Mattresses shorter than 12 inches might not provide enough support.
You should also consider the size of your mattress. Full mattresses don’t last as long as twin mattresses. People over 6 feet may find it difficult to get comfortable on a smaller mattress than a queen. It is difficult for most people to sleep with their feet on the edge of a bed.
If your frame is larger than average and you are having trouble getting comfortable enough to sleep, you may want to consider upgrading your bed.
Pain
Longo says that if you wake up frequently with lower back and neck pain your mattress might be losing its ability to support your spine and maintain a neutral position. Your pain will only get worse if you continue to sleep on a mattress that isn’t supportive enough.
Traditional healthcare providers encourage those suffering from persistent backache to rest on firm mattresses. However, researchTrustedSource suggests that medium-firm mattresses are more effective in relieving pain and improving sleep quality.
A medium-firm foam mattress might be a good choice for you if you have pain in your joints, muscles, and other pressure points like your hips or shoulders. A 2015 study that included 40 older adults with musculoskeletal pain found that medium-firm foam mattresses could help to relieve the pain and speed up the time it takes to fall asleep.
Price
Prices for new mattresses can vary depending on many factors.
- Materials. Higher quality construction materials (including natural and organic fibers) will cost you more.
- Construction location. Mattress manufacturers that outsource production to foreign countries may charge a lower price, but they must still comply with United States safety standards.
- Type. There are three types of mattress: innerspring, hybrid, and foam. Although it might be difficult to find an innerspring mattress, they are the most affordable option. Hybrids are more expensive than foam mattresses, but you will pay less for latex foam. Hybrids are generally more expensive because they contain coils and foam. However, many buyers find their durability to be worth it.
- Brand. Some well-known brands or luxury brands might have a higher price.
- Quality queen mattresses can be found for less than $1,000. Quality does not always come at a high price, but the average price for queen mattresses is $600-$1,100. Luxurious queen-sized mattresses can be as high as $1,500.
You are looking for something a bit cheaper ? There are still decent options available for around $300-$600. These mattresses don’t have frills. You might consider paying a little more if you need additional features such as temperature regulation, pillow tops or flippability.
While you may not need a luxurious mattress, you won’t be able to sleep well on a poor-quality mattress. It’s possible to need a new mattress in a matter of years. A good mattress should last for around 10 years.
How much money do you want to spend on a new mattress? Know your basic characteristics such as your body type and preferred sleeping position. After you have done that, you can begin to think about the specific features of a mattress — and there are many.
Type of mattress
You can start narrowing down your search by choosing a type of mattress. There are many options available:
Innerspring
You may have slept on an innerspring mattress as a child. The innerspring mattress was once a popular, affordable option. These days it is more difficult to find an innerspring mattress.
True innerspring mattresses contain steel springs in either one continuous coil or individually wrapped in fabric. To prevent the coils from popping out, a thin layer of padding is placed above them.
Newer “innerspring” mattresses are equipped with enough comfort layers to elevate them to the “hybrid” category. These mattresses are often more firm than foam beds and feel bouncier.
Because they are all connected, continuous coil systems can’t prevent motion transfer between people. If you are sharing a bed with someone, you will want to choose a mattress that has individually wrapped coils.
Foam
You may have heard of memory Foam. But foam Mattresses also come in other types.
Polyurethane foam is often used as the base layer of foam mattresses. This foam gives mattresses a firmer feel than cheaper ones.
Memory foam is more dense and breathable than open-cell foam. It might be more comfortable to your body’s pressure and feel cooler.
Memory foam contours to the body to relieve pressure and pain. It is known to trap heat and make many people uncomfortable.
Many mattress companies make their own foam blends by adding gel or perforations that improve airflow and regulate the mattress temperature.
Latex foam
Avoid latex mattresses if you have an allergy to latex. However, they may be more comfortable than memory foam for some sleepers.
Latex beds are a good option for people who like to sleep hot and change their sleeping positions often. Latex beds are known for providing the comfort of foam, but without making it feel cramped.
Organic memory foam mattresses are not available if you want a foam bed but want to buy organic. Latex mattresses can be made from plant-based materials and are often natural or organic.
Latex foam can also be more durable than memory foam which slightly increases its cost.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattress have a coil spring base underneath layers of latex and foam. This provides a combination of comfort and firm support that many people love.
Hybrids are not the best choice for those who require very soft mattresses, but they are suitable for all types of sleeping positions and body types. Hybrid mattresses are more comfortable than mattresses made of only foam because they allow for more airflow.
Hybrid mattresses are also more durable than foam mattresses because they have spring coils. They are also more expensive.
Airbed
You can bring an inflatable bed along with you to camp. But you can also buy a more durable version for your regular use. For added comfort, airbeds for nightly use usually have foam or padding on the top.
For people with changing support requirements, air mattresses that allow you to adjust the firmness might be a good choice. You can adjust the firmness of your mattress each night to improve spinal alignment and reduce pain. Make sure you choose a high-quality mattress with a long warranty.
Waterbed
A waterbed is a mattress that contains water and rests within a wooden or foam frame. These beds are able to heat or cool water to your preference, and feel more comfortable than traditional mattresses. They don’t provide as much support.
A lot of researchTrusted source has shown that waterbeds might have greater benefits for lower back pain than hard mattresses, but not as much as a foam mattress.
Waterbeds require frequent maintenance and patching as they can quickly leak.
Firmness
The mattress firmness refers to how the mattress feels under your skin. The range of firmness is usually between 1 and 10, with 10 being the most firm.
Medium-firm mattresses, which are usually between 5 and 7, provide the best balance of support and comfort for most people. A small 2010 researchTrusted Source suggested that a medium-firm mattress might help with pain relief and better sleep quality.
Firmness can be subjective. A mattress that is too firm for one person might feel too soft for another.
Mattress construction and brand can affect the firmness of your mattress. A brand’s 6 might feel different from a brand’s 5. A medium-firm hybrid may feel more difficult than a medium firm foam mattress. It is important to test your mattress before you buy it.
Longo suggests that you choose the most firm mattress possible to ensure quality sleep. Your mattress may not be firm enough if you are waking up, bouncing around or snoring.
It is possible that your body will take some time to adjust to a new mattress. It can take up to 3-4 weeks for your mattress to break in, so be patient.
Support
A foam mattress can provide good support for people with a lower body weight. People with a higher body mass may prefer coils under foam.
The support refers to how deep you can sink into the bed. Some people prefer to be cushioned in their bed while others prefer to be firmly seated on top. Coil systems are generally more stable and will keep you onthe bed, not init.
If you are sleeping alone, you may not be concerned about the edges of the bed. However, good edge support can make a big difference if you have a partner or move around a lot.
You might feel the bed giving way if it has weak edges. If your partner rolls you over on the edge and you feel like you are going to fall to the ground, this can be a problem.
Mattresses with reinforced edges will provide excellent edge support. Customers often have better information about the mattress’ edge support.
Body contouring and pressure relief
Foam mattresses offer the best pressure relief, and the most body contouring.
You want to feel pain relief at pressure points. A mattress that conforms to your body while you sleep is a good choice. This allows your hips to sink slightly and your shoulders to relax.
A memory foam mattress provides the best pressure relief. However, hybrids with foam layers might also be a good choice.
Mattress height
Some budget mattresses can measure as little as 9 inches, but 10 inches is the standard height for a mattress. Mattresses less than 10 inches will not offer the same support and durability.
There are luxury and mid-range mattresses that measure 13 to 14 inches tall. However, being taller doesn’t always mean better. The mattress might feel too firm if you are lighter than you are.
It can be more difficult to get into and out of bed if you have taller mattresses. If you have limited movement or a tall bed frame, this is something you should consider.
For a tall mattress, you may need to buy new sheets. Standard sheets will only fit beds that are 14 inches or more.
Motion isolation
This feature is essential for partners who sleep together. Motion isolation refers the mattress’s ability not to feel your partner’s movements at nights.
Motion isolation is the ability to move around without disturbing your partner.
Foam mattresses are more likely to keep motion away than other types of mattresses. However, if you don’t want an all foam bed, consider a hybrid with individually wrapped coils.
Reduction and cooling of temperatures
Your sleep quality can be affected by the temperature of your bed. You might feel uncomfortable or wake up sweaty if your bed is too hot.
Cooling Mattresses are equipped with special features to keep you cool while you sleep.
- Air cell foam or open-cell foam
- Gel infusions
- Mattress covers made of phase-changing, moisture wicking or stay-cool fabrics
- Customer reviews are a great way to see if the cooling features in a mattress really work.
Off-gassing
In recent years, the mattress in-a-box market has seen a lot of growth. Most mattresses bought online come compressed and wrapped in a box. Your mattress will quickly expand when you open it, and you may notice a strange odor.
The various chemicals that make your mattress flame-resistant emit an unpleasant odor. Although it may be unpleasant, it isn’t necessarily dangerous.
Even though they have the CertiPUR–US certification, mattresses can still retain an unpleasant odor. Some mattresses, even organic or natural ones, can have an odd odor when they are first unwrapped.
Many customer reviews mention off-gassing. You might want to read what others have to say if you are sensitive to smells.
This smell usually disappears after a few days, especially when the mattress is near an open window.
Material that is organic or environmentally friendly
Many mattress brands place a high value on sustainability and using natural, renewable materials. This is often stated on the website and in the product descriptions.
Reputable brands use simple language to explain which parts of their mattresses have organic or natural certifications.
You may find organic mattresses described by some brands as ecofriendly or all natural. However, an organic mattress will have certifications for specific materials or parts of it, such as:
- Global Organic Latex Standard
- Global Organic Textile Standard
- Organic Content Standard 100
- USDA Organic
You can also look for other certifications:
- Rainforest Alliance Certification
- Greenguard Gold Certificate
- Made Safe
Mattresses are often expensive investments. You might hesitate to buy the mattress you have always wanted. You might be hesitant to buy a mattress if it isn’t exactly as described, doesn’t feel comfortable, or doesn’t keep cool.
Good news: Most mattress brands are sensitive to your concerns and can offer solutions that will give you some peace of mind.
Before you click on the “Complete Order”, please consider the following:
Company policies
You should verify that a company offers the following:
- A trial period. This is so that you can test the mattress and make sure it works. Some companies offer a longer trial period than 100 nights. It may seem that a 30-night trial is sufficient, but it can sometimes be. It may take longer for you to adjust to your new mattress. Some brands even require that you sleep on your mattress for at least 30 night before returning it.
- No shipping charges. Many mattress brands offer free shipping. However, you should double-check your purchase before making any purchases.
- No charges for returns. Some brands will cover the cost of returning your item, while others may charge a processing fee and restocking fee. It is important to understand how returns are handled. You should also check how the return process works. Will you have to arrange for pickup or disposal? If you see a lot of complaints about returns, be cautious.
- A good warranty. Most mattresses come with a warranty. While a 10-year warranty is standard, warranties do not cover all things. It is worth reading the warranty before you buy to ensure that you understand what it covers. The warranty could be void if the mattress is placed on the wrong type of frame or left on the ground.
Transparency and company reputation
Healthline uses the following criteria to assess a company’s transparency and reputation:
- Is the company making unproven claims about the health benefits of the mattress?
- Are they involved in any lawsuits during the last 3 years?
- Are there any recalls of products that have occurred in the last 3 years?
- Are they rated at least a C by the Better Business Bureau?
- Is the mattress compliant with United States Federal Flammability Standards?
We also look at the company’s reputation for business. Do they have clear and easy-to-find information on the materials used in their mattresses? This information is usually found in the FAQ section on the company’s site, if it’s not directly on the product pages.
You may be able to buy the mattress if you like it and the price. It is always a good idea to verify that the mattress meets the flammability requirements.
Customer reviews
You might be familiar with the importance of reading reviews about products. Yes, product reviews can provide valuable information. You’ll also see 1-star reviews from customers who have issues that are not within the company’s control.
A mattress with a lot of positive reviews is generally considered safe. However, you might be able to get a better idea about how the mattress has held up over time by looking at specific reviews.
Customers may mention issues such as sagging, loss in support after a while, cooling features that don’t cool, weak edges or low motion transfer.
To purchase a mattress new, you can visit a local retailer. You can also shop online.
A mattress shopping experience in person is a whole different experience than online. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
In-store
Although you can feel the mattress firmness and softness by lying on it in-store, don’t let that fool you. It’s not possible to compare the comfort of a full night’s sleep with just 5-10 minutes of testing. A mattress with a trial period is a good option.
Ask the salesperson many questions about the mattress, its warranty and how to get it.
- What materials are used for this purpose?
- Are there any unique features in the mattress?
- What type of frame do you need? Do I need a boxspring?
- What is the warranty?
- Do you offer free delivery, setup and removal of old mattresses?
- Do you charge return fees?
Online retailers can often sell the same mattress at a higher price than brick-and-mortar stores. It’s important to do your research before buying a mattress. The same mattress might be available in a different store or online for a lower price.
Keep in mind that mattresses are often called by different names by different stores. Although you may be able negotiate a lower price, not everyone is comfortable with negotiating for a better deal.
Keep looking if the mattress isn’t comfortable. It’s worth it to get good sleep.
Online
Online mattress shopping is a popular choice for many people. Online shopping has one advantage. Online shopping is easy because you don’t need to dig too deep to find the answers to your questions. Often, you’ll find the answer to your questions on the product page.
Numerous websites offer live chats with customer service staff for those who need assistance.
Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea read customer reviews. Many reviews provide detailed, honest information about products or policies. You should look out for:
- It was easy to return and purchase the mattress.
- Was the mattress up to its expectations?
- Is the company able to honor their warranty and sleep trial?
- Is the company offering free returns?
Online shopping can often help you save significant amounts. Many brands offer discounts and sales throughout the year.
If you are worried about how difficult it will be to set up your mattress and don’t have the help of anyone, you can check with the company to see if they offer delivery, setup and removal. This service is not offered by every online company, and some brands charge additional fees.
Are you ready to begin your search for the perfect mattress? This quiz will help you get a head start in your search for the right mattress.
You shouldn’t expect mattresses to last forever. If your mattress quality is declining, or if your current mattress has been in use for more than 8 years, you should consider getting a new one.
It takes time and effort to choose the right mattress, but it is often well worth it.
