Few things are more valuable than a good night’s sleep. While you can’t
avoid thunderstorms or crying babies, choosing a high-quality mattress greatly
increases your chances for sweet dreams, and a productive tomorrow.
When to Replace Your Old Mattress
According to the Better Sleep Council, there are three guidelines, or ABC’s,
to keep in mind when considering a new mattress:
Age: Is your
current mattress eight to 10 years old? If so, it’s probably no longer
providing the comfort and support you need.
Beauty: Does
your current mattress have holes or stains? Does it sag? If so, it’s time
to buy a new one.
Comfort:
Stretch out on your bed to assess its comfort level. Then compare it with
some models at the mattress store. Are you receiving enough support?
In addition, if your mattress squeaks, has hard spots, or needs constant
maintenance, you should search for a replacement. Over time, a bad mattress can
lead to chronic back conditions, in addition to restlessness and fatigue. A
good mattress is an investment in your long-term health.
Bed Shopping
If it’s time to purchase a new bed, you’ll want to shop around for a
mattress that you personally find both comfortable and supportive. Every person
is different; what’s comfortable to one person or may keep a different person
awake. Therefore, if you share a bed, be sure to take your sleep partner along
to test mattresses.
When you get to the store, don’t be shy. Try out a variety of mattress
styles, including models with different levels of firmness. Though you may have
slept on a very firm bed as a child, you may prefer a softer mattress as an
adult, or vice versa.
As you test each bed, try to assume your normal sleeping position to
determine which bed best fits your body and sleeping style. Do you toss and
turn or change positions several times during the night? Replicate those
motions as well, and note how the mattress feels.
In addition, consider asking a salesperson about the construction of your
favorite two or three models. Is the mattress made of foam or springs? What
type of technology—such as Memory Foam or Sleep Number firmness settings—is at
work inside? If you choose an inner-spring mattress, verify that it contains
the proper number of coils: up to 300 for a twin size, more than 300 for a full
size, more than 375 for a queen size, and more than 450 for a king size. Also
inquire about details. Some mattress manufacturers offer warranties and
guarantees on their products, which may increase their value.
Finally, don’t skimp on size. If you sleep solo, choose a mattress that ends
at least six inches from the tips of your toes. Otherwise, if you share a bed,
consider a queen or king size. Anything smaller may result in a cramped—and
less restful—night.