The National Sleep Foundation recommends that you replace your mattress every six to eight years. If your mattress is older than you'd care to admit, it's time to shop for a new one. Here's a quick guide to get you started on your journey toward better sleep.
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Types of Mattresses
Most mattresses on the market today fall into three categories: spring, foam or hybrid. Spring (or innerspring) mattresses are probably what you're used to sleeping on. The support comes from a grid of springs or coils topped with padding. Foam mattresses are simply layers of foam. They are made of different materials such as latex and memory foam and provide different sensations and levels of support depending on what the mattress is made of. Hybrid mattresses contain both coils and foam. It's wise to test out one or two of each kind of mattresses. You may be surprised by which mattresses you find comfortable.
READ MORE: What to Know About Mattress Types
How to Choose the Right Mattress
Don't be swayed by trendy advertisements, what your friends are saying or the price tag. Everyone's support needs are different, so you should do your research and go with the best fit for you.
Many mattress brands have showrooms where you can test out different mattresses. Online brands offer trial periods of 30 days or even up to one year. If you aren't completely satisfied with your mattress, you can return it.
To determine if you've found the right match, ask yourself a series of questions:
- Is it as firm or as soft as you like it?
- How does your body feel when you wake up?
- Are you tossing and turning to find a comfortable sleeping position?
- Will you and your partner both be able to sleep comfortably on this mattress?
- Does the overall quality match the price tag?
- What's the return policy?
READ MORE: How to Choose a Mattress Type
Sleeping Position
Do you sleep on your back, your side or your stomach? Your typical sleeping position is also a factor to consider when choosing a mattress.
If you sleep on your stomach, look for a mattress that is medium firm to firm. You'll need a mattress that supports and cushions the midsection while keeping the spine aligned.
READ MORE: The Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, a medium-firm mattress will likely be the most comfortable for you. You need a mattress that supports your spine but keeps your shoulders, hips and lower back comfortable.
READ MORE: The Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your side, look for a mattress with a medium-soft to medium firmness. You need a softer mattress to relieve pressure from your shoulders and hips, but not too soft that it doesn't support your spine.
READ MORE: The Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers
Shopping Guide
Now that you have a better understanding of the types of mattresses on the market and how to choose the right one for you, here are some great choices for you to try for yourself.
Spring Mattresses
Serta Perfect Sleeper Elite Trelleburg II Pillow Top Plush, $999
Foam Mattresses
Hybrid Mattresses
Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam iCoil Hybrid, $312