We spend approximately one-third of our lives asleep. That means we’re spending a third of our lives on a mattress. Consequently, the type of mattress we purchase deserves some thought.
When considering a mattress, there are three things to keep in mind other than price: firmness, size, and type. If any of these are overlooked, a frustrating night of sleep likely awaits, not to mention an achy body or bad mood in the morning.
So, how do you choose the right mattress?
Firmness
A bed that’s too soft can lead to muscle stiffness and back pain, whereas a bed that’s too hard can put pressure on our shoulders and hips.
Size
Did you know that the average sleeper moves up to 30 times a night? Now, imagine two people in a bed that’s too small. Kicking and bumping into each other 60 times isn’t exactly restful.
People generally decide on mattress’ size based on budget and the dimensions of the bedroom. However, it’s especially important to consider size if more than one person will sleep in the bed. Being cramped causes us to sleep in awkward positions which, in turn, creates stiffness and pain. Be sure to select a size that allows everyone to sleep comfortably and move freely.
Type
There are four primary types of mattresses: innerspring, memory foam, latex, and gel. Just as we find one type of pillow or sheet more to our liking, mattress preference is similar. You may like the way memory foam molds to the body or prefer the pillow top on an innerspring. Comfort is subjective and it is important to find what works best for you.
There is nothing that has a greater impact on how we feel during the day, than how we slept the previous night. Choosing the right mattress is the first step in achieving a satisfying night’s rest. Do your research, test the merchandise, and then select the option that’s right for you.