A mattress is a large pad used to support a person while they sleep. It is usually placed on a bed base or frame.
Different types of mattresses exist for various needs. Choosing the right one is important for both comfort and health. The lifespan of a mattress depends on many factors, including proper care and rigorous use. Call Box Drop Mattress & Furniture of Selah for more information.
Support is a mattress’s ability to keep your spine in alignment while you sleep. This is important because it allows you to maintain good posture and reduces pressure on the spine. The type of support offered by a mattress depends on its construction and materials. The foam, springs (now almost universally called coils), and the way they are layered will determine how much support a mattress offers.
The core of a mattress is the element that provides most of its support. It can be made of various types of foam or metal, depending on the mattress’s construction. In mattresses that have an innerspring core, the metal coils are designed to flex under pressure and then spring back to their original shape when the pressure is removed. This provides durability and a bouncy feel but doesn’t contour to the body as well as some types of foam.
In hybrid mattresses, the foam core supports the outer layers, which provide comfort and motion isolation. The outer layers are typically made of polyurethane or memory foam, which offer plushness and temperature regulation. Some hybrids also have a layer of latex or micro-coils, which provide additional support and stability.
Many manufacturers require that you use a foundation with your mattress to prevent sagging and to keep their warranties valid. Box springs are a popular option, as they’re 8 inches tall and can be used with a frame or directly on the floor. Bunky boards are a cheaper alternative that are basically wooden beams cut to the same size as the mattress. They’re covered in fabric to protect the mattress and can be slipped under it for easy installation.
The uppermost parts of a mattress, sometimes referred to as the “comfort layers,” are responsible for forming a cradle that is deep enough to distribute your weight evenly and relieve pressure points. The construction of these layers can vary greatly from one brand to the next, so it’s important to read the reviews to find out what’s in each one and how it works.
Comfort
Comfort refers to how soft or firm a mattress feels, and the most important factor in determining a person’s mattress preference is their body type and sleep position. Some people prefer softer mattresses, while others need a firmer feel to support their spine properly. Other factors may also influence the level of comfort, such as the presence of back pain or a hot sleeping environment.
The word “comfort” has many synonyms, including consolation, solace, succor, and relief. To comfort someone means to lessen their sorrow or distress and to strengthen them by inspiring hope and a cheerful outlook: “I tried to comfort my brother when his team lost the playoffs.”
A good mattress should provide enough pressure relief for the spinal discs while offering a soft, medium, or firm feel. The feel of a mattress can be affected by the materials used and how they are combined. In addition, the way a mattress is made can affect its durability and lifespan.
Depending on a person’s preferences, a mattress can be made of cotton or polyester fabric, wool, silk, latex, memory foam, or polyfoam. Some brands use natural materials like organic cotton, organic wool, or plant-based latex. Other manufacturers, particularly those specializing in hybrid beds, use a combination of materials. For example, a hybrid mattress might consist of a layer of gel-infused memory foam and traditional polyfoam as the support layer.
While memory foam is often lauded for its cradling feel and high level of breathability, it’s not ideal for every sleeper. If you have a heavy frame, you may find that the mattress sinks too deeply and causes back pain and pressure points. For those who have a light frame, memory foam may be too squishy and make you feel hot while you sleep.
Another option for those looking for a more traditional feel is an innerspring mattress, which offers solid, steady support. Traditionally, these beds were made of metal springs and wires, but modern versions have replaced them with stronger materials that offer durability and more versatility. Several companies manufacture these mattresses, including Sealy, Serta, and Tempur-Pedic. Some manufacturers use chemically treated foam and fibers, which can be harmful when inhaled or absorbed through the skin. These chemicals include polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), propylene oxide, and toluene diisocyanate, or TDI.
Durability
Mattress durability is a key consideration for most shoppers. The longevity of a mattress depends on the materials it’s made from as well as how it’s treated and used. Foam mattresses tend to have the longest lifespans, followed by innerspring and air mattresses. Coir mattresses have the shortest lifespans and are susceptible to sagging and damage from environmental factors.
Some of the most common wear problems for mattresses include sagging, mildew, and stains. These can be prevented by ensuring that the mattress has a sturdy foundation, regularly rotating or flipping the mattress, and using a mattress pad or protector. It’s also important to avoid sleeping on the mattress with sharp objects or pets. Taking care of a mattress will also extend its lifespan.
Choosing the right mattress for your body type can also increase its durability. A heavier person will put more stress on the top layers of a mattress, so it’s a good idea to select a model with a thicker comfort system that uses high-density foam. People with broader shoulders or hips should look for a softer model with more contouring.
A mattress can also be reinforced with a separate layer of padding called a “topper.” This layer is typically 5–10 centimeters (2-4 in) thick and can be used to extend the life of a mattress, make a firm bed softer, or provide extra comfort. Some topper materials include memory foam, latex, and a polyurethane layer designed to be durable.
There are two kinds of latex available in mattresses: Dunlop and Talalay latex. Talalay latex is made by squeezing the latex into a mold and then sucking out any air pockets, giving it a softer feel. It’s also more resilient than Dunlop latex and doesn’t absorb as much heat.
Other mattress components that can help increase durability include individually encased Marshall coils, which move independently of each other for better motion isolation and support. Also, a mattress can be made with a lower coil gauge for a firmer feel or a higher gauge for a softer one.
Price
Mattresses can be expensive, but investing in a high-quality mattress pays off by reducing back pain and increasing sleep quality. Having a budget in mind for your mattress purchase can help you narrow down your options. The price of a mattress depends on a variety of factors, including type, size, construction, materials, and more.
When shopping for a mattress, keep in mind that shipping and delivery fees may be extra. Depending on the company and your location, you can expect to pay an average of $100 for shipping or white-glove delivery (in-home delivery, setup, and removal of your old mattress). Some companies will offer free shipping with a minimum purchase, while others charge an additional fee.
The most significant factor that influences the price of a mattress is its material, with some types of mattresses costing more than others. Materials like natural latex, organic cotton, and specialty foam can increase the price of a mattress, as can specialized construction techniques. The brand of a mattress can also impact its price, with luxury brands typically charging more than mainstream competitors.
