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3 Mattresses That Are "Just Right"

When it comes to purchasing a mattress, the most popular choices are innerspring, foam and air mattresses, according to BetterSleep.org:

  • Innerspring: This type of bedding uses the support of tempered steel coils in a variety of configurations. Layers of upholstery provide insulation and cushioning between your body and the spring unit.
  • Foam: Solid foam mattresses can be made of a solid core or of several layers of different types of foam laminated together. Foam technology includes polyurethane foams, natural and synthetic latex and the newer visco-elastic (“memory”) foams.
  • Air: Air mattresses are designed to look like the familiar mattress/box spring combination, with an air-filled core providing the support instead of an innerspring unit or foam core. These designs also offer a range of firmnesses and typically are adjustable to suit individual sleeper’s needs. 

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  • Goldilocks and Her 3 Best Mattress Choices

    Quick keys to successful mattress shopping.

    by J.D. Walker

    Purchasing a mattress involves a lot of trust—in yourself. Experts say the right mattress for you is the one that feels right to you. So with just a few guidelines, you can feel secure in your decision to pick the most important piece of furniture in your home.

     

    Don't Be Overwhelmed by the Selection

    The great blessing of the American marketplace is that we have so many choices. We are long past that by-gone era when automaker Henry Ford allegedly said consumers could have an automobile in any color they want, “so long as it’s black.”

    But having so many choices can be a drawback too, especially when it comes to mattresses. This can be a heavy burden to bear for a purchase you are advised to make once every five to seven years. Fortunately, there are some general guidelines that will help you simplify your mattress selection process.

     

    4 Mattress Shopping Guidelines

    Innerspring, foam and air mattresses make up the bulk of all mattress sales in the country. Regardless of the type you choose, start with these basics.

    1. Dress for success.  First, Kelly Rampson, director of integrated marketing with Serta International, says you should dress comfortably when you head out to shop. Wear loose clothing that will allow you to move. Wear shoes that will be easy to slip on and off so that you don’t have to fumble with footwear.
    2. Take your time.  Next, head to a retail outlet you trust and give yourself time. Chances are, you aren’t going to be able to pick out a mattress on your lunch hour. Also, you should do more than just sit on the side of the mattress. “We suggest you should give yourself time to spend 10-15 minutes laying down on the mattress you are considering,” says Karin Mahoney, director of communications for the International Sleep Products Association, (ISPA).
    3. Explore the options.  Try several types and manufacturers of mattress. Researchers at SleepCouncil.com note there is a great deal of variety in the manufacture of mattresses, even among the same types of mattresses. Recline on the mattress in your favorite sleep position. How do your lower back, shoulders and hips feel? If the mattress is right for you, you shouldn’t feel pain or undue pressure in any of these areas.
    4. Bring your mate.  Encourage your partner to test the bed with you, says Rampson. What feels right to a single individual may change when two people lie on the bed. What feels comfortable to you may not be relaxing to your partner.

     

    Choosing Size

    Humans are creatures of habit—not necessarily a good thing when it comes to mattresses. As you shop, explore the possibility you might need a different size bed. A bed that is too small can lead to a restless night of sleep.

    If you like to sprawl, you may find yourself hanging off a standard twin or full-sized bed. If you sleep with a partner on a full-sized bed, the size most often found in couples’ bedrooms, consider that each of you have a resting space that is roughly 26.5 inches wide. While the size of your bedroom will dictate the ultimate size of your mattress, it pays to consider the benefits of going “bigger.”

     

    Sleep on It

    Every major consumer purchase should be made with serious consideration. This is especially true of your mattress purchase. You will use your mattress more than any other piece of furniture in the house. Choose wisely to ensure it’s a happy relationship.