How to Choose a Good Bed

The bed is the most important piece of furniture in any home, and a great one can make all the difference in getting a good night’s sleep. The right mattress will support your back, align your spine and cradle your hips and shoulders. It will also reduce tossing and turning, and provide relief from aches and pains. Whether you’re looking for a new mattress for yourself or an upgrade for your partner, there are plenty of options on the market from which to choose.

A bed consists of a soft, cushioned mattress that rests on a base, typically wood slats or a sprung base. The bed frame is then covered with some form of covering blanket, usually a set of sheets and a duvet or quilt. The bedding is usually removed for washing, which makes the bed easier to clean. Beds are available in a range of sizes, from infant-sized bassinets and cribs to queen and king-size beds for two people.

If you share your bed with a partner, look for a mattress that offers strong motion isolation to prevent the both of you from waking each other up when one of you moves during the night. You’ll also want to consider how much edge support you need; this will help both of you get out of bed without feeling pitted or pushed to the side of the mattress.

Many people find that their back or neck ache in the morning, and a firm mattress may help to alleviate this pain. It’s important to take the time to test a few mattresses before you buy, so that you can feel the differences between each one. When you’re testing out a mattress, try to spend at least 10 minutes on each one. Focus on the feel of the back support, which should be neutral rather than arched, and on the cushioning of the shoulder and hip areas.

Some people can benefit from a therapeutic mattress, which helps to alleviate specific health conditions. If you suffer from night sweats, asthma, allergies or eczema a therapeutic mattress can offer comfort and relief. If you have mobility issues, poor circulation or back pain a therapeutic mattress can also improve your quality of life and ensure a good night’s sleep.

A bad mattress can contribute to snoring by restricting the airway. A medium-firm mattress can help to eliminate snoring and promote a healthy night’s sleep.

A dirty mattress can be host to a lot of unpleasant organisms, from dust mites to mold and mildew. If you suffer from allergies, an unwashed mattress can wreak havoc on your respiratory system. A good mattress can significantly impact mental health, normalize the immune system, and regulate weight. A clean mattress can also boost happiness, enhance memory and reduce stress levels.