How to Choose a Mattress

A bed is only as good as its mattress. The mattress is what comes in contact with your body; therefore, before committing to a mattress that you will spend a third of your life on, do your homework. These tips will help you decide which mattress is best for you.

Things You’ll Need

• Consider your physical condition. Do you have a bad back or blood circulation problems? Some bad back conditions require firm support to keep the spine aligned. Some blood circulation issues require flexible support that contours to the shape of the body. Physical and medical concerns and priorities will help you narrow down your choices for the mattress that’s most suitable to your needs.
• Consider your allergies. Regular mattresses cause allergic reactions for people who are sensitive to lint, cotton, dust or dust mites. Latex and foam mattresses, as well as water mattresses, are recommended for allergy sufferers because they are do not generate lint or dust, therefore, no dust mites. Hypoallergenic mattress covers are also commercially available.
• Choose the best coil spring construction. Most mattress stores will have cross-section samples of their product lines to show the coil spring construction. Ask the storeowner to explain why a mattress with more coils and more rigid construction provides the best comfort.
• Consider latex or foam instead of coils. High-density foam (also called memory foam) and latex mattresses are widely available. They are visco-elastic, which means they conform to the shape of the body while minimizing pressure points from the head, shoulders and hips. Various levels of density are available.
• Consider adjustable mattresses. Air mattresses are equipped with electronic and mechanical devices that adjust the firmness or softness of certain areas of the bed by controlling air chambers. This is ideal for partners who have different mattress firmness requirements for sleeping.
• Consider the various features of the mattress. There are different depths or thickness, assorted outer layers (pillow-top, quilted, cushion) and even organic models.
• Consider the purchase a major investment. Mattress prices depend on the size, quality, construction, durability and manufacturer’s warranty. The better or more innovative mattress will be more expensive. The better mattresses also last longer, which justifies the higher cost.
• Watch for sales and discounts. Time your purchase to avail of holiday or clearance sales or special discounts.
• Try them out. Mattress stores will let you lie on their beds so that you can choose the one that best fits your comfort level. Find time to choose your mattress. Wear comfortable clothes and spend time trying out the beds at the mattress store. Test a bed for at least 15 minutes.

Tips & Warnings