There’s no doubt that a good mattress can help you get better sleep. However, many of us stick it out with our old mattress despite how uncomfortable it may be to sleep on. And when it is time to replace it with a new one, we’re overwhelmed with choices –not to mention the hefty price tags.
Looking for the ideal mattress doesn’t have to be difficult. In this article, we’ll share with you insights from sleep experts that will change the way you look at mattresses. Hopefully, after reading this, you can make changes to your current sleeping situation and help you to shop for the right mattress to replace your existing one.
1. Mattresses Need To Be Changed
Just like any furniture in your house, mattresses experience wear and tear. After all, it is here where we spend a third of our lives, so it’s bound to get worn after years of use.
Most mattress manufacturers will have warranties of up to 8 to 10 years. However, a mattress that’s been used for more than 8 years is not optimal for sleep anymore. Sleep experts say that mattresses need to be replaced every five to seven years. Those who did experience better sleep and fewer body pains.
2. Take Advantage of Trials
Lying down on the mattress at the store is not really the best way to find out if it’s a good fit. You only spend a few minutes in it and your measure of comfort isn’t as accurate since you’re wearing casual clothes.
Sleep experts recommend doing a trial at home. Often, manufacturers will offer at-home trials where you get to test out the mattress for a few days and see if it’s comfortable for you.
Alternatively, you can check-in at a hotel for the night. Most of them will advertise what mattresses they use. Test it out and keep on looking until you find one that best matches your needs. It’s definitely much cheaper than investing in a new mattress.
3. Different Mattress for Different Sleeping Styles
A mattress for better sleep will depend on your sleeping style. There are different kinds to choose from like memory foam, water-filled, or innerspring. To get the best kind, first determine what your ideal sleeping position is. Are you a side, stomach, or back sleeper?
If you sleep on your back, sleep experts recommend a mattress with a firm surface to help keep y0ur spine aligned. For stomach sleepers, mattresses that are a combination of cushy and firm are best. Meanwhile, side sleepers can get comfort from mattresses that absorb pressure.
Then there are sleeping preferences. Do you occasionally toss and turn in the middle of the night causing disturbance to the person beside you? What about temperature? Do you get easily bothered by warm or cold temperatures? Do you suffer from lower back pain?
You should be considering these factors as well when shopping for a mattress. Sleep experts agree that the slightest features can make a big difference in your sleep.
4. Support Pillows Help
In addition to a mattress, you should also be getting pillows that support your sleeping habits. When you have both a good mattress and a good pillow, you’ll be having periods of sleep that leave you feeling well-rested the next morning.
Again, the right pillow depends on your sleeping style. It should feel comfortable to rest your head on and should support your neck and shoulders. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials so you should take as much time picking one that suits you.
The standard-size cotton pillow works fine for most people but those with special sleeping needs may benefit best with special shape pillows or ones that are naturally hypoallergenic.
Changing your mattress anytime soon? We hope these tips help in your next shopping trip. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
