What's Really Important When Looking For a Mattress

It is important to replace your mattress every 8 to 10 years to prevent back pain and other bodily strains. If a bed has lost its shape, aged, or if your body has significantly changed in the last few years, it is probably time to get a new mattress. Getting a new mattress can be a difficult task. There are lots of things to consider when looking for a new mattress.

Consider Level of Firmness

There are many different mattress forms to consider when buying a mattress. For those who enjoy or need a softer mattress they should purchase soft or medium-soft mattresses. For those who need a firmer mattress, firm or medium-firm is more appropriate. There is also medium for people who need a balanced mattress.

Consider the Materials

Most mattresses are composed of innersprings. Innersprings are the most common types of mattresses. Innerspring mattresses contain a spring zone and a comfort layer. The innersprings provide the mattress’s support, while the comfort layers cushion your body. Mattresses can also be composed of core support, including foam, memory foam or latex mattresses. Foam mattresses come in many grades and types. Although foam mattresses tend to be cheaper, they are not recommended for everyday use, unless they are of a very high quality. Memory foam (viscoelastic) mattresses conform to the exact shape of the body lying on top of it. Its elastic-like properties often work to relieve pressure on joints, muscles and the spine. Latex (natural rubber) mattresses, while being high quality, durable and long lasting, can be very expensive. Latex mattresses are recommended for people who suffer dust allergies, as latex is more resistant to mould and dust-mites.

Test Out Mattresses

You can theorise about the right mattress all you want, but you won’t know for sure unless you test out a number of mattresses. To test if a mattress is too firm, lie on your back and slide your hand under the gap of your back near your tailbone. If your hand slides underneath too easily, or your hips or shoulders feel awkward, the mattress is too firm. To test if a mattress is too soft try rolling over. If this proves awkward or difficult, the mattress is too soft. Another test is to lie on your side. Ideally, your spine should be straight. If the mattress is too soft your spine will curve downwards, and if it is too firm it will curve upwards. Make sure you test a range of mattress materials and see which one is best suited to your body.

If you are considering purchasing a new mattress, it is important to review a large variety of brands, materials and builds of mattresses. With five locations across Melbourne, Chiropedic Mattress Factory Direct can help you find the best mattress to fit your needs.

By Grace Patterson