With so many different mattresses on the market, choosing a new one can seem like a difficult task, but it doesn’t have to be if you keep a few factors in mind to help – and it all starts with what type of sleeper you are. You may benefit from a traditional mattress with springs for firm support or something more modern like a hybrid model. Read on for your guide to choosing your new mattress.
Types of sleepers
Before you can choose a mattress, there is one key factor that you must consider – which position do you sleep in? There are a few main types of sleepers such as a side sleeper, someone that is most comfortable sleeping on either side. Stomach sleepers, which are those of us that prefer to lie on our fronts, back sleepers, which prefer to sleep facing the ceiling and combination sleepers, that are comfortable in most positions.
Considering the type of sleeper you are is the main factor that can help you to choose your mattress. It can determine the amount of support you need, if you need pressure relief on certain points of the body, and if you need help with spine alignment so you can wake up pain-free. Below, we’ll look at some of the best mattresses on the market, and which type of sleeper can benefit.
Support
If you wake up with back pain or stiff joints, you will likely benefit from a mattress with extra support, no matter what position you sleep in. If you sleep on your back or stomach, you’re going to need to choose a mattress that has additional support, so that your whole body is aligned as it should be. Sleeping on a mattress that does not offer this, is one of the most common causes of back pain. An innerspring mattress could be the solution.
The most traditional style of mattress, the innerspring system helps to support and align the body, so that every part is touching the mattress, alleviating strain on the back and lumbar regions. An innerspring mattress allows for air to flow through it, keeping you cool if you’re a warm sleeper. It is bouncy to the touch and the more springs, the more support you’re likely to feel.
Comfort
All mattresses are designed to keep you comfortable. If you’re a side sleeper, you’re going to need to find a mattress that provides the most comfort and relief to your shoulders and hips – which take the brunt of the pressure during the night. A foam mattress is perfect for this, it can provide cushioning where you need it most.
Back and stomach sleepers that enjoy a foam feel could choose a hybrid mattress for additional comfort that will still provide support, with a foam top for an added plush feel. If you sleep hot, the foam may not be the best option for you, as it traps heat, however, more modern models incorporate gel within the foam to prevent this.
Couples
If you sleep with a partner, you’ll have to consider this when choosing your new mattress. For example, if you choose an innerspring mattress for support, you should be aware that the motion isolation will not be great, meaning you’ll feel every movement if your partner is a restless sleeper. Choosing a memory foam, or hybrid mattress means that you can benefit from effective motion isolation, so you can both sleep soundly throughout the night, no matter if either of you moves. If you’re struggling to find a mattress you both agree on, a medium-firm model is likely to suit both, as it is not too soft, but not too firm.
Hybrid mattresses
A hybrid mattress can give you the best of both worlds. If you and your partner are struggling to find a mattress to suit your needs, a hybrid mattress could be the solution. These mattresses are usually made up of springs and foam but can sometimes include other materials like latex. They offer a good combination of support and pressure relief, as well as a cooler surface temperature if you sleep hot, and contain motion-absorbing layers so you won’t be disturbed during the night.
Size
When choosing a new mattress, you’re going to need to choose the correct size. Here are a few of the most popular to help you find the perfect mattress for your bedroom:
- Full: A full mattress can fit into a smaller space and can be great if you sleep alone or don’t quite have the space for a queen. They are also more affordable than a standard queen mattress.
- Queen: A Queen mattress is a smaller-sized mattress that can fit rooms that are smaller but can still give two people the room they need to sleep without disturbing each other.
- King: A King-sized mattress offers the most room and is a popular choice for couples that have pets and children.
- California King: This bed is longer than your average king – it is most suited to taller people, but it is worth noting that it is not as wide as a king.