7 Questions To Ask Yourself To Know Which Mattress Is Best For You

While it is good to have the freedom of choice, give a person too many options and confusion is bound to ensue. With a plethora of mattress options out there, I am sure you stand a little confused when it comes to choosing the right one for you. One mattress does not fit all and therefore it is important to understand our needs. But How? The question still stands! 

As a general rule of thumb, it is wise to know the answers to a few questions so you can be confident while selecting the right mattress for you:

Q1. How old is my current mattress? 

Mattresses are a one time investment and we expect them to last for at least a decade. Many of us do not contemplate mattresses, we keep sleeping on the ones laid for us. Mattresses if used beyond their anticipated limit will definitely harm our bodies. 

Sleep experts recommend changing your mattress once every 10 years so you do not have to suffer the consequences of a dusty and mangled old mattress. Yes, allergy is one of the side effects. If the mattress is relatively new (5 years or less), you may not need to change it. This brings us to the next probing question:

Q2. What’s my preferred sleeping position? 

Sleep is the cornerstone of good mental and physical health. Mattresses are designed to give you that peaceful sleep. The way we sleep definitely is a crucial factor in understanding the kind of mattress we require. Every sleeping position requires a different kind of support, which only a specific type of mattress can provide.

If you are a side sleeper, you need a medium firm mattress. On the other hand, for stomach sleepers, an orthopedic mattress can provide the ideal support. Back sleepers, it is best for you to lay on a mattress that provides head to toe support. And for sleepers who dance their way through sleep, need a mattress that contours that body and gives them complete support irrespective of the position.

Q3. Do I frequently wake up with aches and pains? 

Do you wake up every day with a strained muscle? Or an aching feeling running down your spine? This definitely indicates that your mattress is ill-fitted for you.

Just like we all have different sleeping positions, you need to get yourself the right type of mattress to fix those neck, back and shoulder aches. If you suffer from chronic pains, you will need a firm mattress with orthopedic support. Even doctors suggest memory foam mattresses in such cases. Memory foam cradles your back and neck, alleviating joint pains.

Q4. How does my body weight factor in? 

Since every mattress has a sinking quality, thereby it caves under the pressure applied by your body. Your body shape and size is an important determinant of the type of mattress you should sleep on. So, the real question to ask is – which type of mattress is best for your body depending on your weight?

For light sleepers weighing below 60 kgs, a soft mattress will feel the most comfortable. Average sleepers weighing 60 to 80 kgs will do well with a medium firm mattress since it will contour better to their body. If you weigh 80 kgs and above, a firm mattress will offer a limited sink and keep you supported.

Q5. What kind of mattress do I need – soft or firm?Am I a Hot Sleeper or a Cold Sleeper?

Preference aside, you should ideally get a mattress that feels like home (immensely comfy).

Now whether that should be soft or firm depends on your weight, sleeping position and the aches and pains you experience (if any). Beyond the firmness factor of the mattress, you must analyse if you sweat a lot while sleeping or you feel chilly! For hot sleepers gel-infused memory foam mattresses or latex mattresses that are extremely breathable is the ideal fit. Cold sleepers must definitely get a traditional memory foam mattress that is comparatively dense and has heat retaining properties.

Q6. What mattress material is best suited for my body?

Mattresses come in various shapes, sizes and material. With the advent of new technology, there was a shift from traditional cotton stuffed mattresses to various other materials of mattresses. 

Memory Foam Mattress 

Memory foam is known for its contouring properties. It helps in relieving pressure and providing motion isolation. This material is highly breathable. If you have snoring issues or sleep apnea, you must definitely consider a memory foam mattress as it helps maintain proper body alignment, reducing the risk of airway obstruction.

Latex Mattress 

Made of natural latex rubber, these are best suited to people with allergies, aches and pains since they provide head-to-toe support. Back sleepers should definitely consider getting a good-quality latex mattress. The first latex mattress was made in 1931 and has not lost its charm decades later. Latex mattresses also ensure adequate ventilation and breathability.

Hybrid Mattress 

Combining the best of both worlds, hybrid mattresses with both soft and firm sides are best for young adults and single sleepers.

Q7. What is my budget? 

The size of the mattress, its type and its features can influence its price. So, it is wise to have a budget in mind before you purchase your mattress. You can then compare double bed mattress price lists, for example, to find out your perfect mattress match.

Quality of sleep is very crucial for your daily functioning. May we remind you that you are not just investing in a product but in your physical health and mental health. So, do not just settle for any cheap option. Clear your mind and make your own list of qualities that you need to check while buying a mattress. Once you have the answer to all of these questions, you will know which mattress is best for you.

Finding the right best mattress for you can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. But once you have the answer to all of these questions, it’s a cake walk!