How to Choose the Best Mattress for Your Needs

by David Le Blanc

date: 01/19/2022

When it comes to choosing the best mattress for your needs, there are a lot of factors to consider. Whether you're looking for something that will be comfortable on your back or something that will keep you cool at night, there's a perfect mattress out there for you.

Size, type, comfort, and budget are all important considerations when making your decision. However, there are several other things that will impact your decision-making.

Taking the time to go through these considerations ensures you get the best mattress for your needs, but you should also keep in mind your preferences.

Choose Your Favourite Type

The first step in choosing a mattress is to consider your preferences. There are a variety of different types out there, but it’s up to you to pick based on what you prefer in terms of softness, comfort, and price.

The most popular types include the innerspring, memory foam, latex foam and hybrid. If you're unsure about which one to get, it helps to think about the pros and cons of each type.

Memory Foam Mattress

Memory foam mattresses are possibly the most popular. They're known for being comfortable and supportive because they mould around your body. Memory foams also keep you cool at night because the materials absorb heat. The downside to memory foam is that it's a fairly dense material, so you may sink in too far when laying down.

Innerspring Mattress

Innerspring mattresses are known for their durability and resistance to wear. They also offer moderate support, without sinking too far into the mattress. However, some people find them uncomfortable because they don't provide enough pressure relief. Whether you'll like it or not depends entirely on your preferences and needs.

Latex Mattress

Latex mattresses are durable and bouncy, making them a good choice for people who like to change positions often during sleep. They also offer good pressure relief and tend to keep people cool at night. However, these can be more expensive than other types due to the many benefits they offer.

Hybrid Mattress

Hybrid mattresses are a cross between innerspring and memory foam. They offer good support, keep you cool at night and deliver the benefits of both types. However, these can be more expensive because they combine two different materials.

It's also worth noting that some manufacturers make models which aren't technically hybrids because they only have a layer of memory foam or latex on top of an innerspring mattress.

Get the Right Firmness

It's important to get a mattress that matches the firmness level you want. Soft ones are ideal for people who like sinking into their beds, while firm models suit people who prefer more support.

People with back issues may also benefit from a firmer surface because it will provide better support and reduce pressure in the lower back. If you're not sure what firmness you need, it's best to err on the side of caution and go for a firmer type.

If you can, try to test several types before deciding on one that fits you the best.

Pick a Mattress Based on Your Sleeping Position

People have different sleeping positions and, as a result, require different types of mattresses. Side sleepers need something to conform to their curves, while back sleepers need a mattress that is firm and supportive. Here's what else you should know:

Back Sleepers

People who sleep on their backs tend to need a firmer surface to sleep on than side sleepers. A firmer type will keep your spine in line and relieve pressure by keeping the weight of your body evenly distributed. If you're a back sleeper, you'll find soft types too uncomfortable to get a good night's sleep.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers need one to adapt to their curves and provide some pressure relief. A softer surface will contour to your body, reducing the amount of pressure you feel on your hips, shoulders and spine. If you're a side sleeper, avoid types that are too firm because they won't provide the support you need.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers need a very supportive mattress to keep the spine in line. If you're a stomach sleeper, it's best to avoid memory foam because it tends to be less supportive than other types. You should also look for some degree of firmness so that your hips and lower back are properly supported.

Combination Sleepers

Combination sleepers tend to place more weight on their hips and shoulders, which means they need a mattress that offers good support in the areas where it's required. Because combination sleepers tend to switch positions often, they also do better with firmer models because soft ones leave them sinking into their beds.

Body Type

Your body type also plays a role in which mattress and sheets are best for you. Heavier people need a firmer model to support their weight, while lighter people can usually get away with softer surfaces.

Bear in mind that your weight isn't the only factor that affects firmness. For example, people with broad shoulders tend to weigh more than they look, but their broader build adds extra pounds, which can affect firmness.

Age is another factor that should be taken into account. As you age, you lose muscle mass, which makes you less able to tolerate a firm surface.

How to Get Proper Mattress for a Child

When it comes to buying one for your kid, you'll likely want something that's comfortable and safe as well as affordable if your child will grow out of it soon. The good news is there are several factors you can take into account when looking at different models:

Young kids need less support than adults, so a softer mattress is usually the best option. However, you will still need to make sure it doesn't sag and that it offers good support all around. In comparison, teenagers can do well with a medium-firm or firm because their muscles are stronger and they aren't as sensitive to pressure points.

Consider Your Budget

There's no need to spend a fortune regardless of the type you’re buying. That said, it's important to set a budget and stick to it. If you're not sure what type you want, start by checking out the different models that fall within your price range. You can also save money by shopping online or buying a used mattress.

Although you should consider many factors, it's also important to have a pre-determined budget to narrow down your list of options.

However, this is something nobody can do for you as it's up to you to determine how much money you want to spend.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider when looking for a mattress but start by deciding what type of sleeper you are. If you're a back sleeper who weighs over 200 pounds, a firm one is the best option. Similarly, side sleepers with broad shoulders should go with a medium-firm, while stomach sleepers need something very supportive.

Finally, it's important to take your age and budget into account. Children need softer surfaces, while older adults require more support for their hips and shoulders. You should also have an idea of how much you want to spend so that you can narrow down the available options.