Finding the perfect mattress can be a rather stressful experience and the array of options may cloud our judgement and cause us to choose price over quality.
We spend approximately a third of our lives sleeping, therefore it makes perfect sense that we should be focusing on finding the ideal supportive base for our backs, as well as a mattress that can offer exquisite comfort.
Whilst a cheaper mattress may seem like the easier option, the consensus usually is that spending less will almost certainly not ensure that you will get a good night’s sleep.
Cheap mattresses will usually need replacing more frequently — at least every two years — whereas spending a bit extra will mean a longer-lasting mattress that could last up to ten years and offering better support.
From memory foam, pocket springs, combination and many more, there are several types of mattresses to choose from, which may make the process difficult and confusing.
To save you time, we have assembled a simple guide to help you choose the perfect mattress that will ensure you have a great night’s sleep.
What type of sleeper are you?
Do you tend to sleep on your back, side, stomach or in a combination of those? The way we sleep is a personal preference and we should search for a mattress that fits our sleeping style.
With each position comes a different requirement that needs to be met, otherwise a future of back problems and sleeping issues will find its way to our lives.
Those who sleep on their side typically rotate several times throughout the night, meaning that sleepers who go through this constant change need a mattress with a soft to medium level of firmness would be the ideal option.
Back sleepers need a mattress that is both firm and supportive — if it is too soft, pressure points will be created on the back, leading to potential aches and prolonged problems. Ideally, a medium-firm mattress will offer the extra support that is needed for the lower back, whilst still offering comfort.
If you are sleeping on your stomach then your best option would be to get a firmer mattress, one that can offer the necessary support as your torso will be applying the most pressure on the mattress — when sleeping on your front, remember that you need to be as flat as possible otherwise your spine will be out of alignment and it will cause you pain and discomfort.
Types to consider
Whether it’s a single mattress that you need or a kingsize, you can quickly find the right mattress for you once you have determined how you sleep.
Memory foam mattresses have mouldable materials that are hypo-allergenic and responds to body weight and temperature, meaning that it will mould to the shape of your body and relieve any pressure points.
Whilst memory foam can get rather warm at times, it is ultimately ideal for those who suffer or need support for their back, as it maintains posture and aligns your spine horizontally when you’re sleeping on your side. If you are instead searching for a mattress that is cooling and has a nice bounce to it, then latest foam is the one for you.
Spring mattresses are perhaps one of the most popular types as they provide shape and structure, whilst ultimately maintaining a light feel. You can choose from open spring mattresses, although they offer less support and will need regular replacement, or a pocket spring foundation, which are more luxurious as it’s made from individual, small springs protected by their own pocket of fabric.
This effectively allows for the springs to move independently whilst providing more support for your body — this type of mattress is heavy and can aggravate allergies as they are filled with natural materials such as lambswool.
If you were hoping for a combination of these aforementioned materials then why not invest in a hybrid mattress? It has a pocket-sprung base along with a memory foam top layer, thereby offering a more balanced sleeping experience as it provides both comfort and support.
Once you have chosen your mattress and it is delivered, then ensure that you leave it to air for at least four hours before you dress it up — in an ideal world you should air it on a weekly basis and turning it regularly too.
If you are wondering where you can find your perfect mattress, then why not have a quick browse on Resident, as you can look through an array of mattresses that offer high standards of quality, style and value — no expenses spared.
