What to Look For in a Bed
A bed in its simplest form is a sleeping system that should do two things: provide comfort and support your body as you sleep. Despite the thousands of “words” you will hear when shopping for a mattress, such as softness, firmness, coil count, zoning, ILD, and more, it all boils down to these two things.
A new mattress is a big investment, so you want to make sure you’re happy with it for the long-term. A good rule of thumb is to start thinking about a new mattress when it starts to show signs of wear or you have trouble finding a comfortable position. Other indicators include waking up with new aches or pains that cannot be explained by a bad day at work, as well as a new dip in the middle of your mattress that can’t be fixed by rotating it regularly.
There are a lot of different mattress types, from traditional innerspring to foam hybrids. A mattress’s construction also impacts how it feels, whether or not it has edge support, and if it will retain heat. A mattress with a coir fiber pad will typically feel softer and more resilient than one without, while a pocketed coil design will have a more buoyant feel. A breathable cover is important, as is a layer of organic cotton and wool to help keep you cool.
If you’re a side sleeper, a medium or plush feel will allow your shoulders and hips to sink into the mattress layers, helping to relieve pressure on those joints. Back and stomach sleepers, on the other hand, can benefit from a firmer-feeling mattress that keeps your spine in a neutral position.
Memory foam is another type of material that can be used to build a mattress. This type of foam is responsive to the body’s temperature, adjusting to keep you cool in warm weather and warmer in colder months. Memory foam is also a natural insulator and has the ability to wick away moisture, making it a good choice for those with allergies or who suffer from hot flashes.
An all-foam mattress can be a great option for those who suffer from back or neck pain, as it will adapt to your unique body shape and contour to your curves for better support. Some all-foam mattresses also incorporate a layer of latex, a naturally bouncy material that is eco-friendly and sustainable. Several manufacturers offer this layer in their beds, with some using Dunlop latex and others using polyurethane-based foams. Regardless of the type of foam, look for a mattress with high levels of durability and a breathable fabric cover. This will help to stave off the buildup of allergens and prevent mold from growing in the seams. Also, avoid any mattress with a strong chemical smell. This can be an indicator of off-gassing, which is a potentially harmful chemical.