Considering buying a new mattress sometime in the near future?
Not sure what to look for? In this article you’ll learn all about the best things to look out for when purchasing and using a new mattress.
Purchasing a new mattress can be a confusing process. What a minefield!
So many rules, so many opinions and such a long-term decision!
Coming into winter, a cuddly warm environment is something we look forward to on these dreary days! Let’s start with getting your bed right!
Having a good mattress is a big deal. It is a place where you should be spending about 1/3 of your life on.
So, it’s something about which you want to make sure we are making an informed choice.
It can definitely be more comforting knowing that you’ve made a good choice, as buying a bed can be costly.
What do you look for in a mattress?
#1 Structural integrity
We want a mattress that has as many pocket springs as possible in a mattress. A pocket spring design allows better weight distribution across the mattress.
The ads for these mattresses show that you can balance a glass on wine on it and jump on the mattress without it spilling over.
This is because the design allows only the areas that have pressure on them to move down.
This means that if you are sharing a mattress, there is less ‘partner disturbance’ (one person bouncing the other around with their movement!).
Another benefit is that you can rotate your mattress around and have it last twice as long!
#2 Zoning
The biggest and heaviest parts of our bodies are our shoulder and pelvic regions. Some mattresses have specific zoning for these heavier bits.
This means there is a different tension to cope and adapt with this area of the body, helping to improve longevity of the mattress.
#3 How firm
Firmness of a mattress is always a debate. It’s you that has to sleep in the mattress – your personal choice is primary here.
I usually recommend medium firmness and you can always experiment with mattress toppers to help.
There are specific conditions that may require softer or firmer mattresses, so do ask your chiropractor for more specialised advice.
#4 Pillow Tops
They can make your mattress incredibly comfortable! Just remember if you get a pillow top, that it is permanently attached to the bed, which means you can’t flip the mattress.
Also, it can be more difficult to regulate temperature throughout the year. Just something to keep in mind.
#5 Hygiene
A waterproof mattress protector is really important for the health of your mattress. You may have heard that we weigh less in the mornings.
The reason for this that while we sleep, we do lose liquid in the form of sweat and oils into our sheets and mattresses.
Its pretty gross yes, and that fluid stays within and does make our mattresses heavier with time.
The best way to avoid this is to get a good quality waterproof cover to go with your mattress and pillowcases.
I hope this has helped you gain some understanding about what’s in a mattress, some of the jargon associated with mattress purchasing, but a great resource for your is https://bedbuyer.com.au/
This website has a great range of articles, reviews and discount codes for purchasing online. The quality of the mattresses in a box should not be overlooked.
They have great mattress technology in them! Ask one of the chiropractors here at Canberra Spine Centre if you’re still unsure about what is best for you!
Remember, when you choose the best mattress for your body, you are providing the best support you can for the spine that protects your nervous system – the prime controlling and coordinating system for every function in your body. Reducing stress on your spine helps your nervous system function better, ultimately helping you to feel and function better.
If you’re on the lookout for a mattress and you have more questions please call us on (02) 6257 9400 and you can chat with one of our chiropractors.
If you would like some more information about the spine and nervous system and how it relates to your health, please check out the other articles on our Facebook page or go to our website: www.spinecentre.com.au.
Also, make sure you read the other interesting articles we post on sleep this month.