Comfortable Mattresses
Looking to buy a new mattress? As we spend a third of our lives in bed, choosing the correct mattress is really important.
Choosing the Perfect Mattress: A Comprehensive Buying Guide
When it comes to getting a good night's sleep, selecting the right mattress is essential. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. From different sizes to various types, here's everything you need to know to find the mattress that best suits your needs.
Sizes: From Small Single to Super King
Mattresses come in a range of sizes to fit every bedroom and sleep requirement:
- Small Single (75cm x 190cm): Ideal for young children or compact spaces, offering a comfortable sleeping area without taking up much room.
- Single (90cm x 190cm): Single mattresses are a popular choice for children, teenagers, or guest rooms, providing a bit more space than a small single.
- Large Single (100cm x 190cm): Perfect for those who find a standard single a bit too narrow but don't have the space for a double. It offers more room to stretch out while still being space-efficient.
- Small Double (120cm x 190cm): Small double mattresses are great for solo sleepers who like a little extra space or for rooms where a standard double might be too large.
- Double (135cm x 190cm): A common choice for couples or single sleepers who enjoy ample room to stretch out.
- King Size (150cm x 200cm): Offers luxurious space, ideal for couples who want more room to sleep comfortably.
- Super King Size (180cm x 200cm): The ultimate in luxury, providing maximum space for those who desire the most expansive sleeping area.
Understanding Firmness Ratings
Mattress firmness ratings help you choose the right level of support and comfort:
- Soft to Medium: Ideal for side sleepers or those who prefer a softer, more cushioned feel that contours to the body.
- Medium: A balanced option suitable for most sleepers, offering a blend of support and comfort.
- Medium to Firm: Provides a bit more support while still maintaining some softness, great for those who switch positions during the night.
- Firm: Offers strong support with minimal sinking, perfect for back or stomach sleepers who need more spinal alignment.
- Extra Firm: Sometimes called an orthopaedic mattress, this is the firmest rating, providing maximum support with little to no give, ideal for those who prefer a very solid sleeping surface.
Remember, choosing a mattress comes largely down to personal preference. What you find comfortable will depend on your body composition, sleeping position and a number of other factors.
Understanding different filling options
Choosing the right mattress involves understanding the unique benefits each type offers:
- Pocket Sprung: Features individual springs encased in fabric pockets, providing tailored support to different areas of your body. They reduce movement transfer, making it great for couples.
- Reflex Foam: A firm, durable option that offers excellent support, particularly for those who prefer a firmer sleeping surface. It's also hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers.
- Latex: Naturally derived from rubber trees, latex mattresses are breathable, supportive, and offer a slight bounce. They're also resistant to dust mites and mould, making them a healthy option.
- Cool Gel: Infused with cooling gel particles, they contain a layer of gel-infused memory foam that helps regulate body temperature, keeping you cool throughout the night. They're ideal for those who tend to overheat while sleeping.
- Memory Foam: Known for its ability to conform to the shape of your body, a memory foam top layer provides excellent support and pressure relief. Memory foam mattresses help reduce pressure points and are particularly beneficial for those with joint or back pain.
- Hybrid: A combination of materials like gel, latex, or memory foam with pocket or open coil springs, hybrid mattresses offer the best of both worlds—superior support from the springs and enhanced comfort from the foam layers. This makes them versatile and suitable for a wide range of sleepers.
- Pillowtop: Featuring an additional layer of cushioning sewn onto the top, pillowtop options offer extra comfort and softness, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a plush sleeping surface.
- Waterproof: Designed with a waterproof cover, they are perfect for children, the elderly, or anyone who needs protection against spills and stains.
Other mattress types available
For those with specific requirements, we have a range of speciality mattresses offering tailored solutions:
- Adjustable Bed Mattresses: These are designed to be used with adjustable bed bases, allowing you to change the position of the bed to find the most comfortable angle for sleeping, reading, or watching TV. They are usually 10cm longer than standard size mattresses.
- Euro Size Mattresses: Slightly larger than standard UK sizes, Euro size mattresses are perfect for those who need just a bit more space. They’re often found in luxury or bespoke beds.
- Extra Long Mattresses: Ideal for taller individuals who find standard lengths too short, these mattresses provide additional length to ensure a comfortable night's sleep without dangling feet.
- Trade Mattresses: Typically used in commercial settings such as hotels or guesthouses, they are designed for durability and longevity. Often featuring enhanced construction to withstand frequent use and meet Crib 5 fire safety standards, which are crucial for hospitality environments.
Caring for Your New Mattress
Once you've chosen the perfect mattress, proper care will ensure it lasts for years. Here are some tips to keep your mattress in top condition:
- Rotate Regularly: Depending on the type of mattress, rotating or flipping regularly can help prevent sagging and ensure even wear.
- Use a Protector: A protector guards against spills, stains, and allergens, extending the life of your mattress.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly vacuum your mattress to remove dust and debris. For deeper cleaning, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
By understanding the different sizes and types available, along with proper care, you can make an informed decision that ensures restful and rejuvenating sleep for years to come. Whether you're looking for comfort, support, or special features, there's a perfect mattress out there for everyone.