How to pick the perfect mattress?

This is the million dollar question! There are many choices and new technologies when it comes to buying a mattress and let’s not forget we all have very individual “tastes” of how it should be.

Unfortunately, low quality and uncomfortable mattresses have been linked to sleep discomfort, pain and restlessness. Of course, mattresses can’t only hinder your sleep quality, they can also massively improve it.  Good quality bedding systems have been directly connected with decreasing pain, decreasing discomfort and improved awareness, especially in woman and children.

Remember, that the average person spends around one third of their entire lifetime sleeping. So it is important and definitely worthwhile to invest your time and money in order to find the right mattress for you and your family.

When it comes to buying the perfect mattress, we can see there are many different and mixed messages in the market. It is only natural to have all this controversy, as we mentioned in the beginning of this blog, the mattress itself and how to perceive it is very subjective and intimate. Meaning, when you want to purchase your perfect mattress, the most important point and criteria for you may be your own personal comfort. Make sure to use the following checklist for finding your perfect mattress:

1. Try it before you buy it. Some mattress manufacturers will allow you a test-sleep period, a so called “try before you buy”. This is great as it allows you and your family to be comfortable and decide for yourself that that the mattress is right for you. You will need time to “fall in love” with your mattress. Allow time and see you get along.

2. Make comfort your ultimate goal. As we mentioned, purchasing a mattress is about finding what is right for you. If you are comfortable and you feel you can sleep comfortably on the mattress you choose, you will automatically have a better quality sleep. If you purchase a mattress make sure it is made out of natural materials, allowing you to reduce any potential allergies.

3. Have a mattress that adjusts to your spine. You may have difficulty finding out about this one, but you can simply lie on the mattress in your normal sleeping position and ask your family or friend to observe your spine and whether it remains neutral, without curving. If your spine does curve in any given direction, then keep searching for a mattress that helps maintain your natural spine alignment. The mattress should be able to contour around your body, especially when you sleep it is essential that you have good spinal support to reduce possible stress or pressure points.

4. Never buy a used mattress. That’s a fact! Hygienically as well as mattress structure wise, it is important that you are sure the mattress is right for you. You wouldn’t use another person’s toothbrush either, would you? 

5. Disregard brands. A higher price doesn’t necessarily mean a better quality mattress. Look into the mattress spring and core. Try to understand what the mattress offers. Layers of comfort, made out of memory foam are recommended as they wrap around your body as it individually requires. Do you want to feel like you are lying on a cloud? Come on, who wouldn’t want that feeling!

6. Beware of allergies. If you are suffering from allergies, ensure that the mattress contains materials that are safe and hypoallergenic. An ideal combination is a mix of polyurethane foam and natural raw materials, that help to naturally regulate your sleep temperature and comfort, while at the same time reducing any potential allergic reactions.

7. Replacing a mattress & pillows?
There is no written rule about when to replace your mattress, but most mattresses have a lifespan of around seven years. Some experts say this timeframe is shorter especially if you're over the age of 40, because your body may need a better foundation for sleep.
The best way to tell if your mattress has seen better days is to evaluate your comfort and sleep quality. Check for worn or sagging spots in the middle or at the edges of the mattress. If you wake up tired or stiff, or if you find hotel beds extra cozy, consider changing your mattress. Also our bodies change over time, so give that consideration too.
Give your pillows the same inspection once-over for lumps and sags. When you sleep, your pillow should support your head and neck, allowing them to stay in a neutral position while you sleep. Many doctors recommend replacing pillows every one to two years.
In the meantime, keep your mattress and pillows clean & hygenic. Wash your mattress cover in hot water. You can also dust the mattress itself with baking soda to draw out moisture and vacuum it up a day later, or wash with a product such as upholstery cleaner. Most pillows are washable, or can be run through the dryer on a high temperature to kill dust mites and other possible bacteria.