How to Buy Perfect Mattress | Buying Guide

So you need a comfortable and healthy sleep ambiance but have no clue what really works for you? After having a prolonged experience with old mattresses, we realize many things about our habitual sleeping positions and pain points. Considering these personalized factors, mattress manufacturers present different solutions ranging from comfort to orthodontics specifications. 

Even great quality mattresses with heavy price tags may not be a suitable match according to your body type. So, pay attention to the mattress composition instead of big brand names. To buy a mattress as per your relevant requirements, we have simplified the process based on sleeping positions. Let’s find out! 

Mattress Types According To Different Sleeping Positions 

Memory Foam Mattress (Free Fall Sleepers)

Memory foam has created a buzz in the mattress industry since its emergence because of the unique feature of sophisticated body contouring. Currently, it is a hot-selling product in mattress stores and is ideally recommended for free fall sleepers. This position is preferred to sleep on the stomach, often with arms wrapped around a pillow and head turned to one side. It is also called the “stomach sleeping position.” Below are the reasons why every free fall sleeper must try the best mattresses in the memory foam selection:- 

• Memory foam’s viscoelastic properties enable it to contour around the body precisely, ensuring effective support tailored to individual body shapes.
• Evenly distributing weight significantly diminishes pressure on critical points for stomach sleepers, notably around the abdomen and hips.
• Its capacity to maintain spinal alignment prevents the common back and neck discomfort associated with the stomach sleeping posture.
• The foam’s adaptability is compatible with various body weights and shapes, offering a universally comfortable sleeping experience.

Hybrid Mattress (Fetal Position)

Hybrid mattresses are ideal for fetal position sleepers due to their unique structure, combining innerspring support with foam comfort. In this sleeping style, an individual curls up on their side with their knees drawn up towards their chest, often with arms wrapped around a pillow or tucked under the head. This position mimics the posture of a fetus in the womb, hence the name. The hybrid bed mattress type is ideal for this position because:-  

• The hybrid mattress’s unique structure is equipped with innerspring for support and foam for pressure relief, which is crucial for fetal position sleepers’ spinal health.
• Enhanced breathability from the coil component prevents overheating, a common concern for those curled up through the night.
• The foam’s contouring ability provides targeted comfort to hips and shoulders, areas under stress in the fetal position.
• Advanced materials like gel-infused foam regulate temperature, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep environment.

Latex Mattress (Log Position)   

Log position sleepers must try latex mattresses for once to feel the significant difference in sleep quality. Although this is among the most expensive mattress options, but worth every penny, whether it’s about luxury or longevity. Log position sleepers lie on their side with both arms positioned downward in a straight line. This resembles a log, hence the name, and is considered a healthy position. 

• It provides exceptional support and alignment for the spine, which is crucial for side sleepers to prevent back and shoulder pain.
• The natural responsiveness of latex provides immediate comfort and pressure relief, adapting quickly to movement.
• The durability and elasticity of latex ensure long-term support and shape retention, making it a wise investment for consistent comfort.
• Natural latex has good breathability that helps in regulating body temperature, keeping sleepers cool throughout the night.

Innerspring Mattress (Soldier Position) 

This mattress holds the title of oldest contender in our list that still has great significance in the sleeping industry. It is constructed with a coil support system for bounce and firmness, often topped with layers of foam or fiber for comfort. It provides firm support and even weight distribution for soldier position sleepers who sleep on their backs with their arms straight down at their sides. This position resembles a soldier standing at attention, hence the name. Innerspring mattress is ideal for them because of the following reasons:- 

• The firm support of an innerspring mattress aligns the spine, preventing back pain for those sleeping on their back.
• Its even weight distribution alleviates pressure points, enhancing comfort and preventing tossing and turning.
• Inner springs construction enhances the air circulation through the coils and dissipates heat, offering a cooler sleep environment.
• The durable coil construction ensures the mattress maintains its supportive qualities over time, supporting spinal health.

Waterbed Mattress (Yearner Position)

As the name illustrates, this mattress variant is filled with water to support cushioning. A water bed is basically a floating mattress ideal for yearner sleepers who sleep on their sides with their arms stretched out in front of them as if reaching for something. They are available in different types, including free-flow designs where the water moves freely and waveless models that restrict water movement to minimize motion. For yearner position sleepers, they are precisely relevant because of the following reasons:- 

• Waterbed mattresses conform to the body’s shape, offering exceptional support and reducing pressure points for side sleepers like yearners.
• The fluid nature allows for easy adjustment to side sleeping posture, ensuring alignment and comfort for the shoulder and hip areas.
• The temperature regulation feature of waterbeds provides a comfortable sleep environment, beneficial for maintaining a consistent body temperature throughout the night.
• The gentle movement of water can have a soothing effect, potentially improving sleep quality by promoting relaxation.

Now that you are familiar with mattresses’ relevance according to their sleeping position compatibility, it’s time to figure out which qualities to expect when buying them. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Mattress

We will enhance your knowledge with some technical specifications and quality standards, helpful in knowing the best mattress to buy:- 

Memory Foam Mattress

• Opt for mattresses with a high-density memory foam layer (at least 4 to 5 lbs/ft³) to ensure the mattress provides lasting support and durability. This density helps maintain the foam’s shape over time, offering consistent comfort and reducing the likelihood of sagging.

• Select a mattress with CertiPUR-US certification to ensure that the memory foam is made without harmful chemicals and has low VOC emissions, contributing to indoor air quality and your health.

• A total mattress thickness of 10 to 14 inches, with at least 2 to 3 inches of memory foam, supports proper spine alignment and pressure relief. A medium firmness level is generally recommended as it provides a balance between support and comfort, catering to a wide range of sleep preferences.

• Modern memory foam mattresses are enhanced with gel-infused foam cooling technology that helps regulate sleep temperature. It is highly recommended for hot regions to ensure a more comfortable night’s rest by dissipating heat away from the body.

Hybrid Mattress

• A hybrid mattress should feature a robust innerspring coil system that provides the foundational support of the mattress. Look for individually wrapped coils, which reduce motion transfer and offer targeted support, adapting to your body’s shape and movements for optimal comfort.

• The top layers should include high-density memory foam, latex, or gel-infused foam to contour your body. These materials work in tandem with the coil system to relieve pressure points and reduce the transfer of movement. 

• Good edge support in a hybrid mattress is essential for maximizing the usable sleep surface and preventing sagging or roll-off when sitting or lying near the edge. This feature is often achieved through reinforced perimeter coils or a foam encasement.

• Hybrid mattresses naturally offer better airflow due to the space between coils, but additional breathability and moisture-wicking enhance the sleep experience by regulating temperature more effectively.

Latex Mattress

• Understand the difference between natural, synthetic, and blended latex. Natural latex, derived from the sap of rubber trees, offers superior elasticity and durability. Synthetic latex is man-made and may be less durable but is often more affordable.

• Latex mattresses come in various firmness levels to suit different sleep preferences. A medium firmness is versatile and accommodates most sleeping positions by providing a good balance of support and pressure relief. Consider your weight, sleeping position, and personal preference when choosing firmness.

• Look for eco-friendly certifications like GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) for natural latex, which ensures the latex is organic and sustainably harvested. CertiPUR-US certification is also important if the mattress uses any foam layers.

• When selecting a latex mattress, pay attention to the density and Indentation Load Deflection (ILD) ratings, as these factors influence the mattress’s firmness, support, and durability. A higher density indicates a more durable mattress.

Innerspring Mattress

• The type and count of coils in an innerspring mattress significantly affect its comfort, support, and durability. Pocketed coils, individually wrapped, offer superior motion isolation and contouring compared to traditional Bonnell or continuous coils. A higher coil count generally indicates better support and mattress quality, but also consider the gauge (thickness) of the coils; lower gauges mean thicker, more durable coils.

• Firmness is a subjective preference but plays a critical role in spinal alignment and comfort. Innerspring mattresses often come in a range of firmness levels. Consider your sleeping position and personal preference; for example, side sleepers may benefit from a softer feel, whereas stomach and back sleepers might prefer firmer support.

• Beyond the coil system, the comfort layers on top of an innerspring mattress play a crucial role in overall comfort. Look for high-quality materials such as memory foam, latex, or gel-infused foam that provide pressure relief and contouring while complementing the coils’ support.

Waterbed Mattress 

• Decide between a free-flow water chamber system, which allows the water to move freely and offers a “wave” effect, and a waveless system, which includes baffles or fiber to limit motion. The waveless design provides more stability and reduces motion, which can be beneficial for those who prefer less movement when they or their partner shifts positions.

• Choose a waterbed mattress made from high-quality, durable vinyl to prevent leaks and punctures. The thickness of the vinyl, indicated in mils or gauge, is crucial; thicker material offers better durability and longevity. Some high-end models also feature reinforced corners for added strength.

• Waterbed mattresses require more maintenance than conventional mattresses, including occasional filling, draining, and the addition of a water conditioner to prevent algae growth. Consider models that offer easy-fill and drain mechanisms and assess whether the maintenance routine fits your lifestyle.

• One of the unique benefits of waterbeds is the ability to control the bed’s temperature. Check if the mattress comes with a heating system and how easily you can adjust the temperature. A good heating system allows for comfortable sleep in any climate and can also help alleviate muscle aches and pains.

In addition to the quality standards, also read reviews from credible third party online platforms to know the personal experiences of current users. 

Now you are all set to make a wise decision in bed mattress types that perfectly meet all your compatibility standards. Always remember mattresses are a long term investment (10-15 years), so don’t compromise with quality standards. Consider it a long-term investment for your physical and mental wellness.