What to Look For in a Bed
A great bed should help you feel refreshed in the morning, promote a good night’s rest, and support your health and wellness goals. It should also be a smart investment that won’t break the bank. But with so many mattresses out there—some incredibly cheap, others wildly expensive—it can be challenging to know which ones are worth the money.
The right mattress can make the world of difference. But you’ll have to weigh several factors before making a final decision, including the construction and feel of the bed, your sleeping position and body type, and whether or not it fits within your budget.
Firmness: It’s important to understand the distinction between soft, medium, and firm, as this can have a significant impact on how you feel in your sleep. Heavy sleepers tend to prefer a firmer feel, while light sleepers are often better off with a softer mattress.
Pressure Relief: The lower parts of a mattress, or what is called the core, can have an impact on how much you sink into your mattress and how well it forms a cradle around your body shape. It’s also responsible for regulating spinal alignment and is influenced by all layers of a mattress, not just the upper ones.
Breathing and Circulation: A mattress that doesn’t provide enough support can cause poor airflow during sleep, which can lead to a lack of oxygen in the brain and other organs. This is a serious issue for people with asthma, allergies, and other health conditions.
Allergy Prevention: The sneezing, itchy eyes, and wheezing you experience while sleeping can be caused by a variety of things, but one of the most common culprits is dust mites. These microscopic bugs like to burrow into mattresses and pillows, where they can wreak havoc on your respiratory system. A mattress with a cover that’s tightly sealed and infused with antibacterial properties can help prevent them from flourishing.
Warranty: Most mattresses come with a standard 10-year warranty, though some have extended warranties of up to 25 years. A warranty typically covers abnormal or premature deterioration and can result in repair or replacement of your mattress. It’s important to read the fine print and keep in mind that setting your mattress up incorrectly can void the warranty.
A bed frame is another piece of a bedding set that can have an impact on the overall look and function of your mattress. Depending on the design and material of your frame, it can add a touch of character or help it blend with other room décor. It’s also important to consider how you will use your bed, since different types of frames are best for different purposes. For example, platform beds are a popular choice for modern bedrooms because of their clean lines and minimalistic style. They’re also easy to assemble, making them an excellent option for anyone who is short on space. For those who prefer something a little more traditional, there are a number of classic and elegant designs to choose from as well.