9 mistakes to avoid while buying a mattress

A healthy sleep schedule has several benefits, such as increased focus, improved immunity, and reduced risk of heart problems. Choosing the right mattress helps one ensure quality sleep after a long day, facilitating physical and mental well-being. Besides, a comfortable mattress can prevent potential postural issues. Engaging in some research can help one shortlist the best mattress out of the various options available. In addition, here are some mistakes to avoid while buying a mattress:

Not researching the types of mattresses available
Before buying a mattress, it is important to research the different types of mattresses available and the materials they are made of. For example, latex mattresses are the ones in which all the mattress layers are made of latex rubber. These mattresses absorb heat efficiently and are environment-friendly. In contrast, foam mattresses are made entirely of foam and have no coils. These are effective in providing pressure relief, and they feel soft and comfortable against the skin. Hybrid mattresses entail comfortable layers made of foam and latex and may also have short coil layers, known as micro-coils. Understanding the different types of mattresses and the features of each can help one make a suitable decision.

Overlooking the bed frame
Regardless of the quality of the mattress, it cannot provide sufficient comfort and firmness if its frame is faulty. Thus, one should not only examine the mattress but also its frame carefully, checking for any defects. In case of any sags or loose parts, one should get the bed frame repaired immediately before buying the mattress.

Not buying a mattress based on body mass
Body weight is another important criterion to consider while buying a mattress. Soft or semi-soft mattresses are better suited to leaner individuals, whereas those with more body mass may do better with firmer mattresses. In general, memory foam mattresses are the best bet for those with a lower BMI, as they have a good skin-to-pressure ratio. In contrast, latex or hybrid mattresses are better options for those with a higher BMI.

Overlooking the sleeping position
One’s sleeping position also plays a role in one’s decision of buying a mattress. For instance, back sleepers are likely to do best with hybrid or memory foam mattresses, which support the neck, head, and spine. Similarly, foam mattresses typically conform to the sleeper’s shape easily and are well-suited to side sleepers. Finally, stomach sleepers should go for firm mattresses, which ensure spine alignment when asleep.

Not setting a budget range
It is easy to end up overspending on mattresses if one does not set a definite budget range. This budget range should be established following a careful consideration of one’s mattress requirements, income level, savings, and other financial needs. Researching the price ranges of mattresses by different brands is essential while setting a budget range and limit before buying a mattress.

Compromising on quality for price
While setting and sticking to a budget limit is essential to avoid a financial crunch, one should avoid going for an economical mattress without evaluating its quality, firmness, durability, and comfort. It is important to spend a certain amount to ensure that the mattress one buys is of superior quality.

Buying a mattress based solely on its cover and design
An attractive cover and design does not guarantee that the mattress is of good quality. For example, some of these mattresses may not provide adequate pressure relief and back support and may lead to postural issues in the long run. Hence, while visual appeal may be one of the factors to consider when looking for a mattress, it should not be one’s only determining factor.

Not trying out the mattress before buying it
Just like a test drive is crucial before buying a car, trying out a mattress is important before one buys it. A trial helps one practically gauge the mattress’s quality, comfort level, firmness, and whether it is suited to one’s weight and sleeping position. Thus, buyers should not hesitate to ask sellers to allow them a trial of the mattress.

Buying a mattress with several layers
Although it is not a drawback for a mattress to have multiple layers, one should not consider the number of layers in a mattress as the only criterion to buy a mattress. In fact, some of the best mattresses out there have only one or two layers. Thus, when buying a mattress, it is a good idea to prioritize other factors that may be more important.