That’s the big question. Be sure that your bed is to blame for your sleepless nights. Chances are if a couple of these signs apply to you, it’s time to start shopping:
Regarding the age of your bed, you might think eight years or so isn’t very long, but it’s important to remember that as you grow older, and become a bit creakier, your bed has to keep up with your body’s needs and still give you proper support.
We’re not here to sell you on a new mattress. But we can't underestimate the importance of getting solid sleep. In today’s over-worked, caffeine-fueled society, proper sleep can help reduce stress levels, increase productivity and keep you healthier. To get better sleep, maybe you need a new bed or just better habits at night. See the back of this guide for some important sleep tips.
As you’ll soon learn when you shop, there are many types of mattresses to choose from. A little homework will keep you from feeling overwhelmed in the store.
Traditional Innerspring mattresses - the most traditional type of mattress set, typically use systems of open coils or metal springs layered between padding. When shopping you’ll hear the term “Coil Count.” Typically, the higher the count, the more support you’ll get but the ‘support value’ really depends on the design of the coils and layers of padding used in combination with them.
Pocketed Coil® mattresses - created by Simmons®, feature an advanced innerspring system. The springs are individually wrapped in a fabric cover, enabling each coil to adjust independently to your body. Because these springs move individually, if your bedmate rolls over, the motion won’t awaken you out of your sleep cycle.
Latex and Memory Foam mattresses - made of advanced pressure relieving materials designed to reduce pressure points and provide natural body alignment. Memory foam is oftentimes temperature sensitive and conforms as your body warms it. Latex foam provides great durability and pressure relief is available in many different comfort options. When you research, be on the look-out for new and better types of foam, as new generations are constantly being developed.
Hybrid mattresses - feature layers of memory foam or latex over an innerspring or pocketed coil system to provide a more traditional feel with the benefit of pressure relief. These beds give you the comfort and support of both technologies. And, if you’re not sure about buying an all-foam mattress, it makes for a nice compromise.
Choose your comfort. Firm? Plush? Or Pillow top?
It has long been said, and usually by hard-boiled men with calloused hands, that the only mattress you need, sonny boy, is a firm one. But thankfully, that kind of thinking is changing. Today, plush and pillow top mattresses are selling well as guys realize that a soft mattress will not diminish their ability to change a flat tire. But, ultimately, the decision is up to you. Some people like the solid feel of a firm mattress, while others would rather sink into bed and prefer a pillow top. Do yourself a favor and spend a few minutes on each to see which feels best.