You may think that buying a new mattress for your bedroom is a fairly straightforward task; surely they can’t all be that different? Whether it’s your first time buying a mattress for your new home, or your current one needs replacing, there are a few important things to consider. You may be surprised at the different factors involved in choosing the right mattress!
Getting a good night sleep is usually down to the quality of your mattress; get it wrong and you’re likely to experience sleepless nights and even achy mornings. Changing your mattress can also help to fix some sleep problems too. So, if you’re on the hunt for a new mattress, consider some of these key terms and tips before you splash your money.
What type of mattress do I need?
The million-dollar question, and one that you might think is quite simple, is what type of mattress do you need? There are 4 main types of mattresses, each with their own features and benefits.
Open spring mattresses, sometimes known as open coil mattresses, contain one long piece of wire made into numerous springs. An open spring mattress will also feature a border rod or wire to help the mattress keep its shape. They are known for being less supportive than other mattresses and are often used in guest bedrooms or for children.
Pocket spring mattresses are made from small springs housed in their own pocket of fabric; each spring moves by itself, which provides more support. Pocket spring mattresses are available in different versions depending on your preference. If you share a bed with someone else, a pocket spring mattress could be great as it can accommodate your different weights and sleeping habits.
Memory foam mattresses are a more modern approach, made from material that responds to your temperature, weight and shape of your body. Advanced memory foam mattresses such as Tempur mattresses are ideal for those who need more support, as the construction can help your posture and keep your spine aligned correctly.
Latex mattresses are filled with breathable latex foam, and are a great choice for people will allergies. They are perfect if you’re looking for a firmer bed.
What size mattress do I need?
There are standard UK sizes for mattresses; this may come in handy when you’re buying new bedding or simply just picking the right size mattress, whether you’re single or sharing your bed!
In the UK you’ll find a variety of choices, including a small single or single and a small double or double. There are also kingsize mattresses and super kingsize. The smallest mattress starts at 75cm x 190cm, while the biggest is 180cm x 200cm.
How firm should my mattress be?
This is one of the biggest factors in determining how well you sleep at night, and it often depends on your sleeping position or weight. Firm mattresses are best for people who sleep on their front or weigh over 15 stone. Firm mattresses also work wonders for back pain, because the mattress will keep you in a stable position.
Medium firmness are great for sleepers who change their position, as the mattress will provide some support while allowing you to move comfortably. There are 2 kinds of medium firmness; medium firm and medium soft.
Soft mattresses are the best choice for people who sleep on their side. When you sleep on your side, you’re naturally relieving pressure on your spine and the priority here is to ensure the mattress moulds to your body’s position through the night.
Looking after your mattress
When you finally decide on your new mattress, you should really let it air for a minimum of 4 hours before putting on any bedding or sleeping in it. Make note to turn your mattress regularly to avoid dips or dents in parts of it; this could cause uneven sleeping.
Replace your mattress every 8-10 years. Many people think this is due to hygiene but it’s more because your mattress will naturally soften over time and therefore won’t offer the same level of support further down the line. However, if you find yourself waking up feeling sore or you sleep much better in a different bed, it might be time for a change quicker than you think!
