How to Choose a Mattress That’s Perfect For You
Are you fed up with tossing and turning all night? Waking up with aches and pains that make you tired before you even start the day? So many people put up with a mattress that doesn’t work for them, but that can change. Considering which mattress is best for you can transform those restless nights into a deep and restful sleep.
At Strictly Beds and Bunks, we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep. With years of experience in the industry, we’ve helped countless people find their perfect sleep solution in the form of bunk beds, beds and mattresses.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to choose a mattress that works with your unique sleeping style and preferences, so you can finally wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
Matching Your Mattress to Your Sleeping Position
We all have our favourite sleeping positions, whether it’s curled up on our side, sprawled out on our back, or snuggled up on our stomach. But did you know that your preferred sleeping position plays a big role in determining which mattress is best for you? Let’s find your perfect match:
Side Sleepers:
- • The Diagnosis – If you’re a side sleeper, you need a mattress that cushions your shoulders and hips while keeping your spine aligned. Too firm, and you’ll wake up with pressure points – too soft, and you’ll feel unsupported.
- • The Recommendation – Look for a mattress with good pressure relief, like a medium-firm mattress with a comfort layer of memory foam or latex. This will contour to your body and provide support where you need it most.
Back Sleepers:
- • The Diagnosis – Back sleepers need a mattress that supports their spine’s natural curve. A mattress that’s too soft can cause your back to sag, leading to discomfort and pain.
- • The Recommendation – A medium-firm to firm mattress is generally ideal for back sleepers. It provides enough support to keep your spine aligned while still allowing for some cushioning.
Stomach Sleepers:
- • The Diagnosis – Stomach sleeping can put strain on your neck and back. You need a mattress that keeps your spine in a neutral position.
- • The Recommendation – A firmer mattress is usually best for stomach sleepers. This prevents your hips from sinking too deeply into the mattress, which can lead to back pain.
Combination Sleepers:
- • The Diagnosis – Can’t decide on just one position? You’re a combination sleeper! This means you need a mattress that’s adaptable and supportive in all positions.
- • The Recommendation – A medium-firm mattress with good responsiveness is a great choice for combination sleepers. Pocket sprung mattresses with a comfort layer are often a good option, as they offer support and pressure relief.
Dive Deeper - Exploring Different Mattress Types
Now that you have a better understanding of how your sleeping position influences your mattress choice, let’s take a look at the range of mattress types available to you. Each type has its own unique characteristics, benefits, and ideal sleeper profiles. Understanding these differences will help you to find the perfect mattress for your needs.
1. Memory Foam Mattresses:
You know that feeling of sinking into a really comfy mattress? That’s memory foam! It moulds to your body, so it’s great for taking pressure off your joints. Side sleepers often love it, and it can be a real help if you have any aches and pains.
Another bonus? It really absorbs movement, so if your partner tosses and turns all night, you’re less likely to feel it. The only thing to watch out for is that some memory foam mattresses can trap heat. If you tend to get a bit warm in bed, look out for ones with cooling gels or special technology that lets the air flow through more easily.
2. Pocket Sprung Mattresses:
Ever wondered how some mattresses manage to support you without feeling too firm? Pocket sprung mattresses are the answer! They have these springs that are all individually wrapped, so they can move independently and really respond to your body. This makes them perfect if you’re sharing the bed with someone, as you won’t be disturbed by their movements.
They’re also really breathable and come in loads of different firmness levels, so you can find your perfect match. And if you want the best of both worlds, you can even get them with a comfy layer of memory foam or latex on top.
3. Hybrid Mattresses:
Can’t decide between memory foam and springs? You don’t have to! Hybrid mattresses give you the best of both. You get that lovely sinking feeling of memory foam, but with the support and breathability of pocket springs.
These mattresses are a great all-rounder and can be tailored to suit pretty much anyone. They often have a really luxurious feel, and you can choose different comfort layers and firmness levels to get it just right.
4. Latex Mattresses:
If you’re looking for a mattress that’s naturally comfy and supportive, latex could be the one for you. It has this really nice bounce to it and does a great job of relieving pressure. It’s also comfortably cool to sleep on, thanks to its natural breathability.
And here’s another benefit – latex is naturally hypoallergenic, so it’s perfect if you suffer from allergies. You can find latex mattresses in all sorts of firmness levels, and they’re known for being really durable, so they’ll last you for years to come.
5. Open Coil Mattresses:
Open coil mattresses are the ones you probably remember from childhood! They’re a good budget-friendly option and offer a basic level of support. They’re perfectly fine for a spare room or if you’re just looking for something simple. However, they don’t offer the same level of individual support and motion isolation as some of the newer types of mattresses.
Finding Your Firmness – A Guide to Mattress Comfort
So, you’ve considered your sleeping position, and you know about the different mattress types. Now comes the fun part – deciding how firm you want your mattress to be! This is where personal preference really comes into play, but there are a few things to keep in mind to help you make the right choice.
At one end of the mattress spectrum, you’ve got your super-soft mattresses, where you practically melt in. At the other end are the extra-firm ones, which feel wonderfully supportive. Most people fall somewhere in between.
While it ultimately comes down to what feels best for you, your sleeping position can give you some clues about where you might land on that firmness scale.
Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
- • Side Sleepers – A slightly softer mattress will probably be your best choice. It’ll let your hips and shoulders sink in a bit, keeping your spine nicely aligned. But remember, “soft” doesn’t mean “no support”! You still want a mattress that holds you up and prevents you from sinking too far in.
- • Back Sleepers – medium-firm to firm mattress is usually the best option. It’ll provide enough support to keep your spine in its natural curve, preventing any aches and pains.
- • Stomach Sleepers – You’ll probably want to go for a firmer mattress. This will stop your hips from dipping too low, which can put a strain on your back.
- • Combination Sleepers – A medium-firm mattress is a good all-rounder for combination sleepers. It offers a good balance of comfort and support, no matter which position you end up in.
A word about weight:
Your weight can also influence how firm a mattress feels. Generally speaking, lighter people might find a medium-firm mattress feels quite firm, while heavier people might find it feels softer. It’s all about how much you sink into the mattress.
Ultimately, the best way to find your perfect firmness is to try out a few different mattresses. Don’t be afraid to lie down on them in your usual sleeping position and see how they feel.
Ready to Wake up Rested And Refreshed?
Choosing the right mattress is a crucial step towards a better night’s sleep, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Your bed itself and your overall sleep environment play a big role in how well you rest.
At Strictly Beds and Bunks, we know from experience that everyone needs something slightly different to ensure a good night’s sleep. That’s why we offer a wide range of sleep solutions, from supportive mattresses and stylish bed frames to space-saving bunks and accessories.
Visit our site today and discover the perfect combination for your sleep sanctuary.