subject: Your Mattress Matters: How to Choose the Best One for You [print this page] The mattress market is filled with an almost overwhelming variety of options; because there are so many choices, people often invest in the wrong mattress, or they don't realize the importance of a mattress as an investment. Being unable to sleep comfortably can affect people negatively throughout the day, so it is vital to research mattresses before making a purchase.
There is no clear-cut answer as to which type of mattress is superior, because each person has different needs from a mattress. There are many clinical studies with mixed conclusions regarding this issue, but the general consensus is that for most people, a medium-firm mattress is best. However, those without back problems might prefer a softer mattress, whereas those who suffer from chronic back pain might need the medium-firm mattress that many doctors recommend.
There are a few basic factors to keep in mind as far as choosing the best mattresses for your needs; comfort is likely the most obvious one, but aside from that are cost, size, and type of mattress. With mattresses, the saying "you get what you pay for" does not necessarily apply. Some dealers with an inferior product might overcharge to cover the store's overhead costs, whereas the most reputable dealers will likely have a generous selection of high-quality mattresses at an affordable price. Another consideration is size; a single person might be comfortable with a twin-sized mattress, but a couple will likely need at least a queen-sized mattress. The size of the bedroom might be an issue for some, as some couples might want a spacious king bed, but their room will be unable to accommodate any more than a queen bed.
Type of mattress is another important factor to keep in mind: memory foam mattresses are often geared toward those with sleep problems, whereas the most common types of mattresses currently on the market are innerspring mattresses. They each have their own advantages and disadvantages, so there is no straight answer on which one is more highly recommended.
A mattress is a major investment that will require a significant amount of research before buying. Overall, the benefit to researching mattresses is not only better quality of sleep, but better quality of life as well.
Your Mattress Matters: How to Choose the Best One for You