Buying a Bed

A bed is the flat surface on which a person lies or sleeps. It may be made of wood, metal, or fabric. Beds can be covered with sheets, blankets, duvets, or quilts. They can also be upholstered with sofas, chairs, or other furniture. Beds can be framed with headboards and footboards, or they can be free-standing. Beds can also have railings to keep them from moving during a sleep cycle.

When choosing a mattress, consider its firmness and feel. It should feel firm enough to support the back and hips of stomach sleepers, but soft enough to cradle the shoulders and rib cage of side sleepers. Firmness levels vary from soft (3) to extra-firm (8). Choosing a mattress firmness level based on your preference and sleep position can help avoid discomfort and pain in the future.

The best mattresses are able to cradle the body’s natural shape and form a deep cradle to alleviate pressure points. This feature is called sinking in, and it depends on the upper layers of a mattress, usually foam.

Mattresses with higher layers of foam are generally more expensive than those with lower layer ratios, but they are also more durable and tend to last longer. The average lifespan of a mattress is six to eight years, and the longevity of a higher quality bed can be up to twice as long.

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a mental health condition that affects both men and women of all ages and from every socioeconomic background. People with BED have an increased risk of medical problems and low self-esteem. BED can also interfere with a healthy lifestyle and impact relationships.

Many factors contribute to the development of BED, including genetic predisposition and a combination of environmental, social, and cultural factors. People with BED often feel shame and guilt about their binge eating behavior, which can lead to avoidance of treatment and a stigmatizing social perception of the disease.

Whether you’re buying a new mattress or looking to upgrade an old one, it’s important to test out the mattress in store before making a purchase. Try laying on each model to see how it feels to you, then spend at least 10 minutes assessing the firmness and feeling. Lie on your back and check that your spine feels neutral, not arched, and that your hips and shoulders are comfortably cushioned. Also consider how your head sits on each bed and, if you’re a combination sleeper, which positions you favor sleeping in most. Lastly, ask the salesperson about the mattress’ return policy and transportation or restocking fees, which may differ from those listed on the brand’s website.