Shopping For A Mattress

Written by Administrator | Wednesday, 01 April 2009 09:48

Shopping For a Mattress

How do I shop for a new mattress?

No other piece of furniture in your home gets as much use as your sleep set or is as crucial for good sleep. That's why it's so important to find the right mattress for you. Before you start shopping, prepare by learning the basics.

Mattress Construction

A mattress is made of three basic elements:

• The foundation acts as a giant shock absorber, taking the normal wear and tear of nightly use. Foundations also lend added support, durability, and, in the case of adjustable beds, flexibility.
• The mattress core construction varies with the type of mattress. Whether the mattress is made of springs, air, foam, or water, this middle "core" provides support for the sleeper.
• The upholstery layers wrapped around the core provide surface comfort. A variety of foams and fibers are used to improve cushioning properties and enhance the support of the mattress core.

Sleep Set Advances

Due to technological advances and medical developments, today's mattress sets are not the same as those made 10 years ago. Industry research and development have improved mattress and foundation engineering to provide optimum comfort and support. A new sleep set that incorporates these advances can lead to a better night's sleep.

Six Mattress Shopping Musts

1. Support

A quality mattress and foundation will gently support your body at all points and keep your spine in the same body position as good standing posture. When selecting a mattress, keep in mind that your body should be able to relax, with your spine supported in its natural curve. Otherwise, your muscles work all night and you'll wake up stiff and sore.

2. Comfort

Mattresses don't have to be as hard as a board to be good for you, though some people may prefer a firmer feel. Today's mattresses are built with luxurious, new cushioning materials and surface treatments, creating a feel that is more plush.

3. Durability and Warranty

Durability refers to how long support and comfort will last. Like all products, mattresses and foundations gradually wear out. That's why you should reevaluate your sleep set annually. The warranty protects you against product defects and workmanship mistakes, not gradual loss of comfort and support.

4. Space

Select a new mattress that gives you enough room for easy, free movement, especially if you're sleeping with a partner. Couples should select a Queen- or King-size mattress to ensure that both people have enough space.

5. Matching Sleep Sets

Matching mattresses and foundations are designed to work together. Mismatching sets, putting a new mattress on an old foundation or adding a board between the mattress and foundation can impede comfort and reduce the life of the mattress.

6. Value

Buy quality products made with all new materials. Shopping for the best value, not the lowest price, is often a smart way to shop.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 01 April 2009 22:45