You should know how to buy a mattress just as much as you should know about buying a car since at least a third of your life is spent in bed, right? Well, unfortunately, most people don't take buying their mattresses that seriously and end up with bedding that is unsuitable for their bodies.
A bad mattress can cause physical pain, sleepless nights, and allergies if not chosen wisely.
There are several important things to consider when purchasing your next bedding product such as material, size, thickness, and price.
Here's a few tips about how to buy a mattress that will suit your body and lifestyle: Tip #1 - Material There are many types of materials to chose from when buying a mattress.
Some are just the standard combination materials that include polyester fabric, cotton, flame retardant materials and perhaps rayon or acrylic.
You can easily find this type of mattress in a general bedding store and the price is usually very moderate.
Problems with this type of mattress can include less body support, poorer quality, may cause allergies due to synthetic materials as well as the flame retardant chemicals used.
Other materials used to make mattresses are latex, cotton and wool as well as combinations of these.
Some people prefer to sleep on a totally organic mattress which is always healthier because there are no chemicals used in the manufacturing process.
Also, some materials such as natural latex are a natural dust retardant.
Dust mites cannot naturally live within the latex cells which makes this material ideal for allergy sufferers.
Organic cotton mattresses are also excellent choices for those concerned with health issues.
Of course, natural latex as well as organic cotton and wool are much more expensive and you will need to plan in your budget to purchase one of these.
Another material that is wildly popular is memory foam.
There are various companies that manufacture this type of bedding and many people have found relief from sleep problems by choosing these types of mattresses.
Tip #2 - Size Be sure to evaluate the size mattress that you think you need now and will need in the future.
For many adults, the best investment is in a queen size bed which offers plenty of room without taking up too much space in the typical bedroom.
For those who are single, this is also a good choice.
Tip #3 - Thickness Thickness is an important consideration especially in relationship to the type of material you choose in a bed.
For example, latex is dense and thick and does not require several inches to provide adequate support.
Memory foam is similar in that it contours to the body when sleeping and provides dense support.
Other mattresses offer with or without pillowtop designs which may or may not offer support and comfort so it's best to do your homework about the thickness that you prefer and the possible benefits.
Tip #4 - Price All mattresses are not equal and the quality is usually reflected in the price if you deal with a reputable bedding retailer.
Latex mattresses can be very expensive especially if they are pure, organic latex with no fillers.
Memory foam can also be quite pricey, again depending on which manufacturer you deal with and what their quality claims are.
Organic bedding such as cotton and wool are also moderately expensive, but may be worth the price to you in comfort, health concerns and quality.
One rule of thumb about how to buy a mattress is that you generally get what you pay for.
If you want a quality mattress that will last you for years and provide support to your body and overall health, then you may want to consider making a nice investment in your next bedding product.
Be sure to compare features, materials, options, warranties and prices when choosing your mattress.
Remember, knowing how to buy a mattress is at least as important as knowing how to buy a new car!