Everyone longs for that ideal night’s sleep, waking up feeling refreshed and revitalised. Yet, there are times when, despite clocking in enough hours of sleep, you still rise feeling groggy and drained. One of the major culprits could be your mattress.
A high-quality mattress is crucial for a good night’s rest. It not only offers comfort but also supports your body while you sleep. With many options and price ranges available, selecting the right mattress can feel daunting. However, by following these expert tips, you can discover the perfect mattress that meets your needs and ensures you wake up well-rested.
Understanding Your Needs
Choosing the right mattress involves more than just following the latest trends or relying on a salesperson’s pitch. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the mattress that promotes the best night’s sleep for you.
It’s crucial to remember that what works for others might not work for you, so taking the time to understand your body’s needs is a key step in the decision-making process. Let’s delve into the various factors you should consider before making your mattress purchase.
Why a New Mattress Might be Exactly What you Need
If you are struggling with getting a good night’s sleep, reaching REM cycle, or waking up with body aches and pains, it might be time to consider investing in a new mattress.
Here are some signs that indicate the need for a new mattress:
- Your mattress is over 7 years old
- You wake up with aches and pains in your back, neck, or shoulders
- You are not getting enough sleep
- Your mattress shows visible signs of wear and tear such as sagging or lumps
While these factors might seem minor, they can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. Often, an old and uncomfortable mattress can be the root cause of many sleeping problems. By investing in a new mattress, you can improve the overall quality of your sleep and address any issues that may be hindering it.
What to Consider When Choosing a Mattress
Okay, you get it, you need to determine what works best for you, but where should you start?
First, evaluate your sleeping position, body type, and personal preferences regarding feel and materials.
Next, think about practical aspects such as cost, convenience, durability, and any specific sleep issues you may have.
Lastly, determine your budget and recognise the significance of investing in a good night’s sleep, as it plays a crucial role in your overall well-being.
Types of Mattresses
Before getting into the mattress game, I knew there were a lot of options but I didn’t realise just how many. From foam to innerspring, latex to hybrid, the choices can be overwhelming.
To make things simpler, let’s break down each type of mattress and its benefits.
Foam Mattress
Foam mattresses are a popular choice due to their pressure-relieving properties and contouring abilities. This type of mattress is made from layers of foam that conform to your body shape, providing support and reducing pressure points.
If you prefer a soft or medium-firm feel with less bounce and motion transfer, this may be the best option for you.
Innerspring Mattress
Innerspring mattresses are made with a steel coil support system covered by layers of cushioning materials like foam or cotton. They offer a traditional bounce and are often more affordable than other types of mattresses.
The innerspring mattress is best for those who prefer a firmer feel and good support.
Latex Mattress
Latex mattresses are made from natural or synthetic latex foam and can provide excellent pressure relief, durability, and temperature regulation. They have a bouncy feel similar to innerspring mattresses but with better motion isolation.
If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic option that offers both comfort and support, consider a latex mattress.
Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses combine the support of innerspring coils with the cushioning of foam layers. This results in a versatile mattress that provides both contouring and bounce.
If you have a hard time deciding between foam and innerspring mattresses, a hybrid may be the perfect compromise for you.
Adjustable Mattresses
Adjustable mattresses allow you to adjust the position of your head and feet, providing customizable support for different sleeping positions. They are ideal for people with back pain or other medical conditions that require specific sleeping positions.
Some even allow for different firmness levels on each side of the bed, making them ideal for couples with different preferences.
Mattress Firmness Levels
If you aren’t quite sure if you need a firm or soft mattress, don’t worry. Mattresses come in a range of firmness levels to cater to different preferences and needs.
Soft: These mattresses conform closely to the body, providing pressure relief for side sleepers or those with joint pain. However, they may not offer enough support for some individuals.
Medium: This is the most popular level of firmness and offers a balance of contouring and support that works well for most people.
Firm: These mattresses provide less give and more support, making them suitable for back and stomach sleepers who need extra spinal alignment.
Choosing the Right Mattress for Your Sleeping Position
When shopping for a new mattress, it’s essential to consider your sleeping position, as this can greatly impact the type of support you need.
Back Sleepers
Sleeping on your back is the second most common sleeping position, and it’s also considered the healthiest for your spine. Back sleepers typically need a medium to firm mattress that supports their natural spinal alignment.
You want to avoid mattresses that are too soft as they can cause your lower back to sink, leading to back pain. Look for a mattress that provides enough contouring to relieve pressure points but also offers enough support to keep your spine in a neutral position.
If you struggle with snoring or sleep apnea, it may also be beneficial to look for a mattress with good motion isolation to minimise disturbances from your partner. This is where having an adjustable base can also come in handy.
Side Sleepers
Side sleeping is the most common sleep position, and it comes with its own set of unique challenges. Side sleepers need a softer mattress to cushion their shoulders and hips and maintain proper spinal alignment.
If your mattress is too firm, you may experience pressure points on your shoulders and hips, leading to discomfort or pain. Look for a soft or medium-firm mattress that offers good contouring to relieve these pressure points without sacrificing support.
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleeping is the least recommended sleep position as it puts strain on your neck and spine. Sleeping on your stomach can cause your lower back to arch, leading to discomfort or pain. It can also create stiffness in your neck from having to turn your head to the side.
If you are a stomach sleeper, it’s important to look for a firmer mattress that will prevent your hips from sinking too much. This will help keep your spine in a more neutral position and alleviate pressure on your lower back. You may also want to consider using a thin pillow or no pillow at all to avoid straining your neck.
Combination Sleepers
Combination sleepers are those who switch between different sleeping positions throughout the night. If you fall into this category, it’s important to find a versatile mattress that can accommodate all of these positions but you’ll want to lean more towards your primary sleeping position.
A medium-firm mattress is usually a good option for combination sleepers as it provides the right amount of support and contouring for all positions. Look for a responsive material like latex or memory foam that can quickly adjust to your movements without disrupting your partner’s sleep.
Additional Considerations
We all wish it was as easy as determining what position we sleep in and buying the appropriate mattress, but there are a few other factors to consider when choosing the right mattress for your needs.
Body Pain and Health Concerns
Sleeping is where your body heals and recovers from the day, so it’s important to choose a mattress that can support any specific body pain or health concerns you may have.
Sleep Apnea, snoring, circulation, and acid reflux are other conditions that can be improved with the right mattress. Additionally, a good quality mattress can also help reduce stress levels and improve your overall health.
Here are some of the most common health concerns and how to choose a mattress based on them:
Back Pain
Look for a medium-firm or firm mattress that can provide enough support for your spine. A pillow-top or memory foam mattress can also add extra cushioning for pressure relief.
Joint Pain
Opt for a mattress with good contouring abilities, like memory foam or latex, which can help alleviate pressure on joints. You can also add a mattress topper that offers additional support and cushioning.
Allergies
Consider an all-natural latex or organic cotton mattress, which is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and other allergens. You can also buy a washable Mattress Cover that’s hypoallergenic. This will help to create an additional barrier against allergens and dust mites.
Sleep Apnea
Choose a firmer mattress to keep your airway open and aligned while you sleep. It might also be worth considering your sleeping position, as sleeping on your side can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
Acid Reflux
Elevate your upper body with an adjustable bed or add a wedge pillow to prevent acid reflux from disrupting your sleep.
Temperature Regulation
If you tend to overheat at night, look for a mattress type with cooling properties such as gel-infused memory foam or a breathable design. This is one of the best ways to regulate your body’s temperature and promote a comfortable night’s sleep.
Partner’s Preferences
If you share your bed, unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just finding the right mattress for your own needs. You also need to consider your partner’s preferences and sleeping styles. A split mattress, with different levels of firmness on each side, could be a great option if you have different sleep needs.
Being able to cater to both partners’ needs will result in a better night’s sleep for everyone. Overall, it’s important to communicate and compromise with your partner when selecting a mattress that works for both of you.
Shopping for a Mattress
In the past, you would head to a brick-and-mortar store, probably called Sweet Dreams or something to that effect, and test out different mattresses by laying on them for a few minutes.
However, with the rise of online shopping, purchasing a mattress has become much more convenient, but it can also be overwhelming with so many options and no physical testing.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you decide to buy a mattress.
Where to Buy a Mattress
You can literally buy a mattress just about anywhere these days, I think Woolies even sells them, but that doesn’t mean all mattress retailers are created equal.
Brick-and-mortar stores
You can still go the old-school route of heading to a physical store to test out mattresses. This allows you to feel the mattress and get a better sense of its firmness and comfort level. Plus, you can usually take it home with you that day.
Unless you go to a specific mattress store, you can also compare prices and options from different brands. This is a helpful option if you prefer to see and touch a product before making a purchase.
Online retailers
With online shopping becoming more popular, many mattress companies are now selling their products online.
However, this means you won’t be able to physically test out the mattress before purchasing. This can require a bit more research and potentially some trial and error to find the right fit.
However, online retailers often offer free trials and shipping, making it easier to return the mattress if it doesn’t work for you. Plus, they often have sales and discounts that can make buying a mattress more affordable.
Direct-to-consumer brands
If you know the brand of mattress you want, but just aren’t sure where to buy it, you can always go directly to the source.
These companies sell their own brand of mattresses directly to consumers, cutting out the middleman and often offering a lower price point. This is a great option if you already know exactly what type of mattress you want and want the best price possible.
Additionally, many of these brands offer generous trial periods and warranties.
Mattress Trial Periods, Return Policies, and Warranties
You can lay on a mattress in a store for 15 minutes or read 100 reviews but ultimately, you won’t know if a mattress is right for you until you spend a few nights sleeping on it.
That’s why many mattress companies offer trial periods and return policies that allow you to test out the mattress in your own home for a certain period of time before making a final decision.
It’s important to carefully read through these policies and understand their terms and conditions. Some companies may charge restocking fees or have specific requirements for returning a mattress.
Additionally, most mattresses come with warranties that cover manufacturing defects. Make sure to check the length and coverage of the warranty before making a purchase, as this can give you peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.
Mattress Delivery and Setup
One important factor to consider when purchasing a mattress is how it will be delivered and set up.
Will they be dropping off a box at your doorstep for you to set up yourself, or will they deliver and set up the mattress in your bedroom? Some companies even offer white glove delivery, where they will not only bring the mattress into your home but also remove your old one and set up the new one for you.
The truly innovative companies in the mattress industry are constantly finding ways to make the delivery and setup process as seamless and hassle-free as possible for their customers. With Letto, you’ll be able to set up your bed in 3 easy steps without the need for any additional tools or assistance.
Customer Service and Support
Last but certainly not least, it’s important to consider the level of customer service and support a mattress company offers. From answering questions about product materials and features to helping with delivery and setup, a good customer service team can make all the difference in your overall experience.
Look for companies that have easily accessible customer service channels such as phone, email, or live chat. It’s also helpful to read reviews and see what other customers have to say about their experiences with a particular company’s customer service.
You don’t want to make this investment in a new mattress and then be left on your own if you have any issues or concerns.
Budget and Value
One of the most important things to consider, and honestly, what drives a lot of our decision-making, is the cost of a new mattress. A good night’s sleep shouldn’t have to break the bank, and thankfully there are many options available at various price points.
Here are a few things to consider when it comes to budget and value:
How Much to Spend on a Mattress
Mattresses can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping and to know what your goals are.
Sure you could buy a bed for $300 but the likelihood of having to replace it again in a few years is high. That’s why it’s important to consider both your short and long-term goals when determining how much you want to spend on a mattress.
A good mattress that will last you for at least 7-10 years can range from $1000 to $2000 depending on the size and features. Of course, this may seem like a lot of money upfront, but when you consider how much time you spend in bed and the impact it has on your overall health and well-being, it’s worth investing in a quality mattress.
Getting the Best Value
When it comes to mattresses, value is more than just getting a good price. It’s also about finding a mattress that meets all of your needs and provides the best support and comfort for your body.
Some ways to get the best value for your money include:
- Researching different brands and models to find the best one for your specific needs
- Taking advantage of sales, promotions, and discounts
- Comparing prices and features at different retailers
- Reading reviews from other customers to see their experiences with the mattress
Ultimately, finding a balance between budget and value is key in purchasing a new mattress. It’s important to prioritise your comfort and health while also staying within your budget.
Additional Costs to Consider
When setting a budget for your new mattress, it’s important to consider any additional costs that may arise. Some things to keep in mind include:
- Mattress accessories such as pillows, sheets, and mattress protectors
- Delivery fees if purchasing online or from a store that doesn’t offer free delivery
- Any potential return or exchange fees
It’s also recommended to factor in the cost of a new bed frame if you are upgrading to a larger mattress size. It’s important to plan and budget accordingly to avoid any surprise costs when making your purchase.
The Best Time to Buy a Mattress
Typically, buying a new mattress is an expense we don’t always prepare for. We think we aren’t sleeping great because of stress, work, or busy schedules; however, it could be because your mattress has outlived its lifespan.
But once you’re in the market, when is the best time to buy a mattress? Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Holiday sales: Many retailers offer major discounts during holidays such as Australia Day, EOFY, and Anzac Day.
- End-of-year sales: As stores make room for new inventory, they often deeply discount older models at the end of the year.
- Online sales events: Keep an eye out for online shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where you can find great deals on mattresses.
But ultimately, your sleep health shouldn’t solely rely on the time of year. If you need a new mattress, it’s best to prioritise your comfort and make the purchase when it’s necessary.
Final Thoughts on How to Choose the Perfect Mattress
Having a good mattress is a game changer for your sleep quality. It can help you wake up feeling more rested, assist with sleep apnea or snoring, and allow you to fully doze off into that REM cycle our bodies love and crave.
Letto mattresses have been designed with all of that in mind and to provide exceptional support tailored to your individual needs. By simplifying the mattress selection process, we aim to help you make informed decisions that enhance your sleep health.
Investing in a high-quality mattress like Letto can contribute to improved well-being and quality of life over time and we are excited to have you on the journey with us. So, whether it’s time for a replacement or an upgrade, we hope this guide to finding your perfect mattress is the first step towards your best night’s sleep.