Mattresses!
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Mattresses
Couples.Reviews say the Simmons Beautyrest line is the best innerspring mattress for couples. The Beautyrest World Class line has a no-flip design and the Simmons Triton Foundation, which helps prevent mattress sagging. The Beautyrest line has perimeter edge support and pocketed coils, which minimize the transfer of movement from one sleeping partner to the other. Those who weigh more than about 250 pounds may need additional support. We found some complaints about all innerspring mattresses, since they eventually sag and need replacement in eight to ten years, or less for heavier individuals. (compare prices)Sealy Posturepedic Mattress
Where to buy Singles and heavier individuals. Reviews say that if you don't expect someone to sleep next to you, you don't necessarily need the pocketed coils; something with continuous coils on the Sealy Posturepedic will suit you. Experts say the number one thing to look for if mattress shopping is body alignment. The latest Posturepedic mattresses help you to accomplish that with heavy-gauge steel coils that are hinged together for stability. Reviewers also say the Posturepedic line is better for heavier sleepers. As with all innerspring mattresses, it will eventually sag and need replacement in eight to ten years, sometimes less. (compare prices)Tempur-Pedic Classic Mattress
Where to buy Viscoelastic foam.Many consumers like viscoelastic Tempur-Pedic mattresses, and medical experts and chiropractors do say the Tempur-Pedic foam bed can provide excellent spinal support, allowing your hips and shoulders to sink into the bed while supporting your legs and waist. Proof that foam mattresses are healthier than traditional innerspring beds, however, is lacking. Owners also report that foam beds require some adjustment time. They aren't as 'squishy' or plush as traditional mattresses, and some owners say the Tempur-Pedic can feel too firm in cold weather (since the foam reacts to room temperature). Other complaints include feeling "swallowed up" by the bed and that these mattresses trap body heat. As with all mattresses, an in-store test is a good idea. (compare prices)Bergad Isoform Mattress
Where to buy Budget viscoelastic foam. We read many reviews on Epinions from owners who assert that despite the lower cost, the Bergad Isoform is comparable in comfort to Tempur-Pedic. Since you can't test this bed before you buy (Isoform is only available online), you should be very confident that you want a foam mattress, which as discussed above isn't for everyone. Be aware that while there's a 90-day trial period, you're on the hook for shipping costs, which vary according to where you live.Select Comfort Pillowtop Mattress
Where to buy Air mattress.In lieu of springs, the Sleep Number uses inflatable air chambers to adjust firmness with a remote control. Dual-chamber Sleep Number beds allow two people to adjust each side of the bed to their own preferences a bonus if one likes a firmer mattress while the other prefers a softer bed. As with all mattresses, we read some complaints from owners that this bed is not as comfortable as expected, and that it is too expensive. Experts say an in-store test is essential before you buy one of these. (compare prices)Where to buy Budget innerspring mattress.The budget Simmons DeepSleep has a variety of comfort levels, but the biggest difference compared to the Beautyrest line is the lack of pocket coils. Instead, the mattress consists of double-tempered, heavy-gauge coils, but they are not hinged together as on the Sealy Posturepedic line. The DeepSleep lacks the benefits of pocket coils, weight support or other costly extras like a pillow top.
Full Story on Mattresses
The average person spends one-third of their life in bed, but we were surprised to find how little scientific research has been performed on mattresses. The UK-based Which? magazine has the most comprehensive test of 17 memory-foam mattresses. While this is an excellent review that tests for durability (simulating ten years of use), support and overall comfort, few of the tested mattresses are available in the United States. Consumer Reports has a large section on mattresses. For a June 2006 report, the magazine hired industry insiders who tore apart and analyzed 18 top-brand mattresses to reveal the differences of high- and low-priced models. In addition, Consumer Reports enlisted 59 staff members to try out different mattresses in a simulated mattress store. Four couples also tested mattresses at home by sleeping on them for a month. This massive article also includes interviews with mattress makers, visits to a variety of mattress stores, and a Consumer Reports online poll. Consumer Reports also tackles mattress myths and the anatomy of a mattress.What you won't find in Consumer Reports' article is ratings or recommendations. That's because even after three different types of exhaustive tests, editors found themselves no closer to determining the best mattress. Editors say that's because no matter how many thousands of people test mattresses, the results still wouldn't address your own particular comfort preferences.
We found informative and convincing articles at WebMD.com and Chicago's Daily Southtown, both of which feature interviews with medical experts and chiropractors. A November 23, 2004 article published in The New York Times by Mary Duenwald cites interviews with experts such as Dr. David N. Neubauer, associate director of the Johns Hopkins Sleep Disorders Center in Baltimore, and neurologist Dr. Clete Kushida, director of the Stanford University Center for Human Sleep Research. Also helpful are the results of a Spanish scientific study published in The Lancet in November 2003. We also found interesting reviews from less prestigious contributors at Epinions. Though these owner-written reviews may not be rooted in doctoral degrees, many owners are people who had trouble finding a mattress that works for them. Reports on their search offer helpful lessons and insights. One Epinions contributor in particular has written a good buyers' guide.
Ads by GoogleMattress PricesBest Bed ReviewsBed CompareCompare Mattresses A new and still-evolving website, MyFoamMattress.net, has a good collection of articles and tools, especially on memory-foam and latex mattresses. Although no particular brands are recommended, the general information is useful, especially if you're considering a viscoelastic mattress such as Tempur-Pedic.
One fairly recent development attacks the old adage that "firmer is better" if it comes to mattresses and back pain. However, a 2003 Spanish study of people with lower back pain revealed that medium-firmness mattresses help back sufferers more than hard mattresses, something to bear in mind if you have an occasional achy back.
According to Dr. Scott Bautch, a Wisconsin chiropractor interviewed by Mary Duenwald in The New York Times, "Your spine should look the same if you're lying down as it does if you're standing up." That means that when you are lying on your side, your shoulders and hips should sink into the mattress, while your waist is supported. A too-firm mattress -- whether made of foam, springs or air chambers -- may not allow enough give for that to happen. Choice.com's excellent article explains that a hard mattress may tax back and neck muscles, which will have to work harder to keep your spine straight. At the same time, editors say a too-soft mattress will also cause spinal alignment problems, as "your muscles work to compensate for the lack of support." Keep in mind that heavier people, however, may need a firmer mattress than average people in order to provide similar spinal support. But most people probably need something in the middle, neither the hardest nor the softest mattress.
Cornell University's Ergonomics group recommends looking for a mattress designed to conform to the spine's natural curves and to keep the spine in alignment if you lie down. Also suggested are mattresses designed to distribute pressure evenly across the body to help circulation, decrease body movement, and minimize the transfer of movement from one sleeping partner to the other, as well as one that includes perimeter edge support.
Although three-fourths of mattress buyers still go with a traditional innerspring mattress set, the noisiest industry buzz is reserved for expensive new technologies like Tempur-Pedic mattresses (*est. $1,000 to $1,700 depending on size) , not including foundation, made of viscoelastic, also known as memory foam. Originally, NASA created viscoelastic for use in astronauts' seats to help absorb G-forces.
Ads by GoogleMattress PricesMattress ReviewBuy MattressCompare Mattress We found many glowing testimonials from owners who say the Tempur-Pedic is enormously comfortable. We also found a couple of professionals who say memory-foam mattresses are a good choice for those with back pain or osteoarthritis. Jeffrey K. Bergin, dean at the National University of Health Sciences, reports to WebMD.com's Leanna Skarnulis that memory foam "supports the entire body at all the pressure points as though you're floating."
Experts say the Tempur-Pedic mattress receives a wider range of opinions from testers than other mattress types like air or spring. And while owners generally like Tempur-Pedic, a few issues pop up repeatedly in owner-written reviews. Users say that Tempur-Pedic mattresses take some getting used to, in part because they aren't as squishy as an innerspring mattress with fluffy quilted ticking. Some users say that in colder weather, the Tempur-Pedic mattress feels hard; that's an impression we found confirmed elsewhere, that the foam gets firmer in cooler temperatures. Some owners report that their new mattress has a strange chemical smell for several days up to a couple of weeks, and Tempur-Pedic acknowledges that this odor is a result of "our unique manufacturing process." The odor goes away eventually, but some find it noxious. A Tempur-Pedic spokesman told testers the company would replace the mattress if the smell continues to bother the sleeper.
While most reviews say the Tempur-Pedic mattress is very supportive, some say that because the form conforms to your body so much you can feel a bit like you're being swallowed by the mattress, and that it's hard to move around or change positions easily.
One obvious drawback to a Tempur-Pedic is price. A queen-size mattress costs in the neighborhood of $1,500, and that doesn't include a box spring ($225). That's twice as much as a high-quality innerspring mattress set. Other manufacturers are now making less expensive foam mattresses to compete with Tempur-Pedic. The most notable of these is the Bergad Isoform (*est. $850), which according to reviewers compares well to Tempur-Pedic and costs a fraction of the price. Sealy, Serta and others are now making their own versions of memory-foam mattresses.
Your mattress choice these days includes deciding between a traditional innerspring mattress and one of the newer types on the market, including foam (such as the Tempur-Pedic), air (such as the Sleep Number bed) or latex (such as Royal-Pedic). Experts agree that any of these types can provide proper support, and that choosing between them comes down to how much you can spend and whether you're willing to pay a premium for a foam or latex mattress that doesn't need flipping and reportedly lasts for 20 years.
We were not able to form any final view that foam, latex or air mattresses really are a superior choice for consumers in comparison tests or based on user reports. Accordingly, while we list various mattress types in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers, the safer choice remains with the more traditional spring-type mattresses for consumers who don't want to personally test mattresses before buying them. But all reviewers say shoppers should test a mattress at a store, hotel, even at a friend's home before buying. Some manufacturers offer an in-home trial, but you'll be responsible for paying shipping charges.
Innerspring mattresses
Innerspring is the most popular and familiar type of mattress. But at the same time, a dizzying variety of brands, models and features can make mattress shopping confusing. Simmons, Sealy and Serta rule the mattress market along with Spring Air, Duxiana and Stearns & Foster, but there are still dozens of other brands out there. Each offers a variety of lines, from the basic models up to fancy pillow-top mattresses with hand-stitched embroidery. To make matters worse, manufacturers have dozens of names for models that may vary only slightly in features, and many offer 'exclusives' to certain stores. The result is that it's impossible to comparison shop based on the model name.Although model names and cosmetics vary widely, innerspring mattresses share the same basic structure. Differences between less expensive models and more expensive innersprings include items you can see -- such as pillow tops (an extra layer of cushioning on top of the mattress), mattress height and the fabric used for the cover. But construction details that you can't see -- such as coil gauge, coil count and construction materials -- determine the firmness of the mattress, quality and how long it will last. Stain-resistant fabric is one trend. The Simmons HealthSmart has a removable, washable cover, while Serta's Perfect Sleeper models are made with stainproof yarns.
Most mattress stores offer cross sections of mattresses so you can see and feel the interior materials for yourself. The ultimate goal, as with any product, is to score the highest-quality mattress within your price range, but that's hard to do unless you know what you should be looking for. Innerspring mattresses use coiled springs, which give support and make the mattress firm or soft. Springs come in three shapes: hourglass, continuous-coil and pocket spring.
Hourglass-shaped springs. Traditional hourglass-shaped springs, which are attached through spiral wires, compress easily new. But as the springs compress over time, the mattress becomes firmer. Mattresses made with hourglass springs aren't as durable in the long term, and may become too firm. Sealy budget BackSaver and Posture Premier lines use hourglass springs.
Continuous-coil springing is an arrangement of coils compiled from a single length of wire. These tend to have thicker coils and offer more support. Both the hourglass and continuous-coil springs connect to each other at the top and bottom, affecting the springs around them if pressed. Continuous-coil springs are more durable and maintain their shape longer than hourglass springs. Serta's Perfect Sleeper series uses continuous coils.
Pocket springs. The third spring type is a pocket spring. These are different because they are in their own "fabric pocket" rather than being connected to each other like hourglass and continuous-coil springs. Pocket springs react individually to pressure and weight. Mattresses with pocket springs are a good choice for couples. Because the springs move a bit more independently, you may be less affected by your partner's movements. Simmons' Beautyrest Classic mattresses use pocket springs.
Spring descriptions don't stop with shape; they also differ in strength, called wire gauge. Lower-gauge numbers offer broader wires, which in turn make a firmer mattress. Thinner wires have higher-gauge numbers, resulting in a softer mattress. A good-quality full-size mattress has a wire gauge of between 12.75 (more firm) and 15 (less firm).
Springs may also vary in distribution throughout the mattress. Commonly, firmer springs are found in the middle, since that is where the body needs the most support. Some newer models have edge-to-edge support, with firmer springs along the edges of the mattress for the times you sit on the edge of the bed. Stearns and Foster innerspring beds are known for good edge support, with a foam enclosure around heavy-gauge 12.75 coils.
Mattresses can boast up to as many as 1,000 individual coils, but you don't need such a high coil count to get a quality mattress. Editors at Choice.com say a good mattress should have a minimum of 300 coils in a full-size bed, 375 in a queen size, and 450 in a king size. Editors at What'sTheBest.com discourage judging a mattress on coil count alone. Coil counts can be misleading, since two mattresses of equal coil count can have completely different characteristics such as gauge strength.
Many manufacturers use the same spring system in all of their mattresses, but use a variety of filling materials, which can significantly boost both comfort and price. The middle padding, usually foam, lies directly beneath the quilted top layer. Consumer Reports says "egg carton" foam is softer compared to flat foam, and helps spread your weight over a wider surface area. Look for more resilient foams, which feel almost moist to the touch. Foams that feel dry or crunchy won't spring back as readily. Low-end models may use materials such as lower-grade foam or reclaimed cotton fibers in lieu of foam. The editors of Choice.com say the cheaper materials don't tend to last as long because they can break apart or form lumps and pockets, losing the ability to spring back. Deluxe mattresses may also include layers of wool, cashmere, latex, goose down or memory foam. Luxury layers such as these add significantly to the price, but may not make a big difference in durability or comfort. You can compare and feel the difference in many mattress shop cutouts.
The final layer of padding is the insulation padding. This layer lies directly on top of the springs, preventing you from feeling them. A "coco pad" (from a coconut husk) and a "shoddy pad" (matted fabric) are glued together and often used as mattress insulation. There should be a metal screen or layer of plastic webbing between the springs and insulation to prevent the springs from chewing up the padding. The only effect this layer may have on your comfort is if multiple layers of coco pad are used alone (without a shoddy pad). This can make a mattress feel too hard.
The outermost fabric covering of the mattress is called the ticking. The materials used in the ticking vary from foam-backed vinyl, found in low-end mattresses, to the more common polyester. Many manufacturers tout silk coverings, but experts say this is more of a marketing gimmick. Silk is no more durable than polyester.
Manufacturers add a number of enhancements to the outside of the mattress. A pillow top is an extra two- or three-inch layer that sits on top of the main mattress. This adds an extra layer of plushness without affecting mattress support. Euro-top mattresses differ from regular pillow tops in that they're made with higher-quality material and have a nicer finished look. If you like the "feather bed" feeling, a pillow top may suit you. Experts say thick layers of padding (like pillow tops) are more likely than the springs to compress, resulting in the impression that the mattress is beginning to sag even though there's nothing actually wrong. Several reviewers discourage buyers from purchasing pillow-top mattresses for this very reason, and instead suggest buying a separate mattress topper, then replacing it as needed.
Most mattresses are now being sold with only one sleep surface; they no longer need to be flipped. Rotating the mattress, however, is a good idea.
The final factor in buying an innerspring mattress is the humble box spring. You may or may not be able to keep your old box spring. Because newer mattresses are heavier than the mattresses of ten or 15 years ago, you may need a new box spring to support the increased weight. Many, but not all, manufacturers will void your warranty if you're not using a matching box spring. Though the salesperson may work to convince you that you also need a box spring, be sure to ask whether you must buy one to maintain the warranty.
Box springs are less costly to produce, but often the price for the box spring is close to the mattress price, so it's not much of a leap to guess that this is where most of the profit margin lies. For that reason, you may be able to negotiate a discount. It doesn't hurt to ask.
Foam mattresses
A high-quality foam mattress will offer good pressure relief and will contour to your body in response to your body heat and weight, giving good support. Foam mattresses are made with a variety of materials; the most popular are viscoelastic, latex and polyurethane. Viscoelastic, such as that used in Tempur-Pedic and Isoform beds, is the most expensive and most durable. Less expensive polyurethane may initially feel comfortable at first, but over time the material can degrade and compress more quickly than viscoelastic. Latex is a good choice for allergy and asthma-prone people since it is hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant. Latex's breathable characteristic is known for keeping the sleeper warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and some prefer it to viscoelastic. According to MyFoamMattress.com, latex mattresses spring back more quickly so it's easier to move around in bed than on a viscoelastic mattress.A viscoelastic memory-foam mattress can be affected by cold weather, making it feel firmer. The mattress will feel softer once it warms from body contact. Reviews say that viscoelastic foam feels warm with body heat, a sensation that's nice in the winter but could feel too hot in the summer. Latex foam isn't as affected by room temperature, and won't feel firmer in cold weather. Viscoelastic and latex foam mattresses are a good choice if one person tosses and turns more than the other. Memory foam doesn't bounce, so one person's movements are more isolated.
Foam mattresses, however, aren't for everyone. We found many comments from owners who say they take some getting used to. That's because foam mattresses don't feel as fluffy or squishy as an innerspring mattress with pillow tops and cushy quilted ticking. Before you buy, you'll want to take a test nap on a foam mattress. In an interview with Daily Southtown reporter Jamie Oslawski, chiropractor Corlin Stein says foam beds may not be the best choice for heavier people because the foam "tends to get crunched together," resulting in loss of spinal support. Both viscoelastic and latex are durable. Latex mattresses are more expensive.
Viscoelastic foam comes in several densities; that's why you'll see a big price difference between premium brands and budget lines. Although foam density doesn't tell the whole story, in general, you want a higher foam-density number of 4 to 6 pounds. Tempur-Pedic beds ($1,000 to $4,000, depending on size) have a foam density of 5.3 pounds. Less expensive, less durable foam beds have a much lower density of 2 or 3 pounds. Experts say you should also look for a foam core of between 4 and 6 inches.
One less expensive alternative to Tempur-Pedic is the Bergad Isoform ($500 to $2000, depending on size), which has a 5.5-pound viscoelastic foam density -- comparable to that of Tempur-Pedic. We read many reviews on Epinions from owners who assert that despite the lower cost, the Isoform is comparable in comfort to Tempur-Pedic. We read over 75 great reviews on Epinions for Bergad.
Bergad is an Internet-only company. While you can try out a Tempur-Pedic bed in stores, you can't test a Bergad prior to purchase. Both manufacturers tout a no-obligation trial period. If you decide you don't like the mattress, you can return it to the company and pay only shipping charges (which vary according to where you live). However, we read several complaints that Bergad customer service is unresponsive. And, while Tempur-Pedic says customers who return mattresses pay a return shipping charge equivalent to the delivery charge, Bergad doesn't issue this guarantee. We read comments from owners who were charged a much higher shipping rate to return a mattress. Since you can't test this bed before you buy, you should be very confident that you want a foam mattress, which, as discussed above, isn't for everyone.
Other manufacturers are beginning to get into the lucrative foam mattress market. Sealy unveiled their Reflection True Form visco foam line ($1,000 to $1,700, queen size) and Simmons has introduced its Caresse viscoelastic line (*est. $2,200, queen size).
Right now, viscoelastic memory foam is more popular, but latex memory foam is also an option. Some experts prefer latex because latex foam doesn't get as hot as you sleep and is a bit springier, so it's easier to move around and change positions. Latex foam is also resistant to dust mites.
AllergyBuyersClub.com, a website designed for allergy sufferers, endorses Royal-Pedic latex foam mattresses (starting at *est. $2,700 for queen size without box spring). Latex mattresses don't feel as warm as viscoelastic, but they still have memory properties, plus they are dust mite-resistant. However, latex mattresses are heavy. A queen-size Royal-Pedic mattress weighs about 145 pounds.
Sealy has a latex mattress called Sealy Posturepedic Springfree (*est. $1,700 for a basic queen set). While the Royal-Pedic mattresses are made of real, natural latex, Sealy uses synthetic latex for their version. Experts like natural latex, which lasts for 20 years or more and is biodegradable.
If you think you'd like a foam mattress but don't want to spend so much, one alternative is a foam mattress pad that you can simply lay on top of your regular innerspring mattress. Tempur-Pedic sells a one-inch-thick viscoelastic pad (*est. $300 to $600, depending on size), which you can roll on top of your existing mattress. Bergad also sells viscoelastic pads from two to four inches thick. Epinions reviewers are generally positive about Bergad toppers, touting them as an inexpensive method of achieving a high comfort level. The nice thing about a mattress pad is that it can easily be replaced.
Air Mattresses
Select Comfort is one of the fastest-growing U.S. bed providers and the maker of the well-known Sleep Number Bed ($1,600 to $2,300, queen size). In place of springs, Select Comfort employs air chambers that pump and release air in and out of the mattress. The Sleep Number has settings between zero and 100 that represent a combination of mattress comfort, firmness and body support for each side of the bed. If your partner likes a firm mattress and you like a soft mattress, no one has to suffer. You can both adjust your own side to your liking. Select Comfort beds are also available without the divider and with only one control pad. Panelists involved in mattress tests favored the pillow-top style over the basic Sleep Number model.Better Homes & Gardens recommends Select Comfort beds because the mattresses, which look like 'real' mattresses, have air chambers which are completely enclosed and protected within layers of foam. Owner comments for the Sleep Number bed are mixed. As with all types of mattresses, many owners are very happy, but others comment that the Select Comfort bed isn't worth the high price. Some complain that it is not as comfortable as they had hoped. Some say they can't adjust the mattress to be firm enough for them. Again, the only way to tell if the Sleep Number bed is right for you is to give it an in-store trial.
Inflatable guest beds such as the AeroBed (*est. $800, queen size) are not meant to replace a regular bed. These can be inflated and deflated as needed. Chiropractors say that inflatables don't offer enough support for long-term use.
Adjustable bed Mattress
Experts say adjustable beds, which can bring you to a sitting position, should be used primarily by people who are immobile or who have medical problems such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, circulation problems or a difficult time sleeping on a flat bed due to health conditions. Experts also add that mattresses sold as "therapeutic" solutions are actually not much different than hospital beds. Rather than purchasing an adjustable bed, they suggest simply using additional pillows, which can help simulate an adjustable bed. Adjustable beds prevent free movement during sleep. While full-blown tossing and turning may impede one's sleep, small movements are important for spine health. In an interview at WebMD.com, Roger Herr, PT (president of the American Physical Therapy Association Home Health section) says movement during sleep is normal and in most cases shouldn't be discouraged. Arthritis Today author Susan Bernstein also disapproves of adjustable beds, suggesting instead a pillow-top or a foam mattress topper under the sheets for those with back or joint pain. She also recommends satin sheets to improve one's ability to turn over and get out of bed. As always, check with your physician on the best sleeping arrangements for you if you have any health concerns.Waterbed Mattress
The vinyl waterbed recently celebrated its 39th anniversary, and although they're not as popular as they used to be, they still have a good reputation, especially with allergy sufferers. One benefit of a waterbed is the lack of pressure points, since the water forms to your body. The key is to ensure the mattress is full enough so there is enough support. If you're shopping for a mattress, be sure to look for one that minimizes the amount of disturbance you may receive if you sleep with a partner.Waterbeds are quite a bit savvier today. You can find models with luxury touches like washable pillow tops. Some claim to be 85 percent or 95 percent waveless. The extra-firm, waveless Sorento (*est. $1,000 to $1,400) has an added layer of memory foam. NightFlight Elite (*est. $1,200 to $1,400) has a variety of customizable waterbed mattresses, which can offer you as much support (with or without waves) as you need. Some styles come with a waveless inner coil that offers additional support.
Important Features of Mattresses
Experts give the following advice about purchasing a mattress:Spend at least 15 minutes on a mattress in the store. By spending five minutes on your back and both sides you will be more likely to determine if the mattress you are trying out is the right choice for you. If you sleep with a partner, try out mattresses together.
Among innerspring mattresses, construction quality and materials is more important than brand or model name. You shouldn't overpay, but you shouldn't underpay either. You can find a quality mattress once you hit a minimum price point. Consumer Reports magazine says you should expect to pay about $800 for a quality queen-size innerspring mattress set. It can't hurt to negotiate price.
The mattress should support your body at every point. If you prefer, you can buy a mattress with extra support at the head, center or ends, or with "zoned" support, which offers different support levels for different parts of the body.
If you have difficulty rolling over, the bed is probably too soft. If the bed is too firm your hips and shoulders will feel uncomfortable. Lie on your back and try to slide your hand under the small of your back. If your hand slides too easily, the mattress may be too firm.
The gauge number, or thickness, of the springs determines the mattress's suspension. If you prefer firm suspension, look for a lower-gauge number (which means thicker spring wire); if you like soft suspension, go for a higher-gauge number (thinner spring wire). A good-quality full-size mattress has a gauge of between 12.75 (more firm) and 15 (less firm).
Besides wire gauge, the number of coils also determines a mattress's support. Manufacturers tout different configurations and number of coils as providing the best support, but most experts say that, after a certain number of coils, it doesn't make a big difference. A good-quality full-size mattress should have at least 300 coils (although many premium models have close to 400); a queen-size mattress should have a minimum of 375; and a king-size mattress should have no less than 450.
A firm mattress has fewer layers and stiffer materials, while a softer mattress has extra layers or pillow-top cushioning. Less expensive mattresses may have vinyl ticking (the outermost layer of the mattress) instead of polyester or a cotton-polyester blend, but all should hold up over time. As for top padding, soft foam is preferable to polyester batting, which tends to lose loft. Convoluted foam in the middle padding (which looks like an egg carton) should feel softer and more comfortable than straight foam.
Some higher-end mattresses have fancy designs sewn into the fabric (rather than printed on), but the use of silk in the design is really just a marketing ploy. Stitch designs, however, should be uniform and unbroken to prevent the fabric from loosening.
You should buy a mattress and box spring as a set. The two parts are engineered to work together; using an old box spring will reduce a mattress's comfort and longevity. Many manufacturers will void their warranty if you do not purchase a matching set. Box springs that have coils in addition to wood or steel bars are better. Also, you should always use a bed frame, and make sure there's center support for larger-sized mattress sets.
If you have allergies, look for nonallergenic or antimicrobial materials in the padding.
Reputable retailers allow a testing period. Make sure you get a comfort guarantee. Find out how many exchanges you are allowed, and if you are restricted to a product of equal or greater value. You should also understand the return policy and make sure the dealer can't deliver a "substitution." Ask about refunds and re-stocking fees. The warranty should cover at least ten years. Most important, get it in writing. If they're saying your bed is returnable for a refund, have the salesperson write this on your invoice.
If you plan on co-sleeping with an infant, pillow-top mattresses and waterbeds can be a safety hazard and are not recommended.
New mattresses are thicker now, so your old sheets may no longer fit. Widths have gone from about 7 inches to more than 9 inches, so you may need sheets with a deep-pocket corner.
Ask about disposal of your old mattress. Some stores offer free disposal, while some only carry it to the curb.
Look for a fire-resistant mattress. Currently, Tempur-Pedic and Serta are the only major brands to meet the strict requirements of California's fire-safety mattress code. As of July 1, 2007, a federal mattress flammability standard will take effect. Ventilate a new mattress for a few hours. Open the windows in the room and leave the bed unmade.
Experts also say used mattresses should never be passed on to children since their bodies are still developing and need a good-quality, firm mattress.
The elderly or those with medical conditions may want to avoid beds that are too high or too low. The rule of thumb is that your feet should reach the ground comfortably if you sit on the edge of the mattress. And you should be able to stand without much effort.
Some mattresses may be too heavy to turn or flip regularly, so you may want to choose a lighter-weight mattress if you have back problems.
Aging bodies will often require softer padding to protect pressure points. Vegetarian Times and Choice suggest that older people purchase a model that is slightly softer, as aging joints require more cushioning.
Queen is the most popular mattress size. The dimensions of mattresses are: Twin, 39" x 75"; Double, 54" x 75"; Queen, 60" x 80"; Standard King, 76" x 80"; California King, 72" x 84".
If you have been flipping your mattress regularly and have been taking care of it over the years you may be wondering whether you should even bother investing in a new mattress. By taking notes on your current mattress you might just get your answer. A few obvious signs it's time to change are lumps, bumps, dips or sagging, and if the cover is stained or torn. Even if the exterior of your mattress is in good shape, experts recommend the average mattress to be replaced every eight to ten years and every ten to 12 for a premium mattress. Some experts even recommend buying a new one every seven years for the sake of hygiene, which isn't a bad idea considering that the average sleeper secretes half a liter of perspiration a night, and up to double that if ill.
Mattress Consensus Report
Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our All The Reviews Reviewed chart. The Consensus Report also appears in the Full Story.Despite hotly marketed alternative beds, such as those from Tempur-Pedic and Select Comfort, most consumers buy traditional innerspring mattresses. Experts say offerings from Sealy, Simmons and Serta are comparable, and all offer a large variety of features and prices. Experts say that ultimately construction and quality of materials is a more important consideration than brand.
