Measurement, weight, density, support, filling. We spend a third of our lives sleeping: a good mattress is health. Keys to deciding which is the best mattress for each need.
It is not just a matter of comfort and convenience. We spend a third of our lives sleeping and a good night’s sleep is one of the pillars of health care. That is why it is important to know how to choose a mattress to make it the best ally for your well-being.
There are several aspects to take into account when choosing a good mattress . There are general issues that we all need to consider, such as measurement, weight, density, padding, and supports. But we also have to attend to some peculiarities that have to do with individual issues, ranging from back problems to personal preferences.
How to choose a good mattress
Table of Contents
When it comes to renovating it, it is important to learn to recognize the characteristics of a mattress and the different materials and proposals that we find on the market. The range of options and prices is wide, but there are basic questions that you should not underestimate:
- Measure : must conform to the available space and the size of the bed . Also take into account who sleeps there and what space they prefer to have to rest. Remember that standard measurements vary from country to country. Later we will specify the most frequent sizes in Argentina.
- Density : it is an important data, especially in foam and memory foam ones . At higher density, more durable, adaptable and comfortable because they have more material in the same space and, therefore, less air. In general, we speak of low, medium and high density.
- Firmness: in general we can find options that go from 1 to 10, in a range that goes from soft, intermediate, firm and dual, which have different resistance levels in the feet and head. You should never feel that you are sinking or that your back remains curved because it is unfavorable for the body.
- Support: as in most products, brands have innovated in terms of advanced systems, technologies and materials, aimed at improving sleep quality. Taking into account the firmness, the structure and the contact surface is essential.
- Padding : this point has to do with the above and is a determining factor in the comfort level. A firm and balanced bra is key to a good night’s sleep.
- It is also important to take into account the quality of the cover, which can be optimized with a good case.
- Beyond the materials and measurements, do not underestimate the data that has to do with the person who is going to use it: their size, their weight, their particular requirements and, also, their sleeping position:
- Those who sleep on their backs or stomachs need a firmer model.
- Side sleepers need a more flexible material. It is so that the hip and shoulder can sag slightly and prevent discomfort.
- Those who weigh more than 90kg need models of great resistance and good support.
- The length should be 4 to 6 inches longer than the tallest person sleeping there.
- Avoid “extremes”: if it is too hard, it will not adapt to your spine; If it is very soft, your back will have a difficult time aligning and you may have lower back or neck pain. Remember that the column must have a rigid and level support. You can test its resistance by sitting in different areas and checking that it stays firm.
What is the best mattress on the market
The answer is clear: the ideal is the one that best suits your tastes and needs. Although there are leading brands and general recommendations, the key is to choose the one that best suits your body, maintaining the natural balance of the curvature of your back. You must not force or bend it. It should be firm enough to keep it in the correct position, yet soft enough to conform to it.
With patience, you will find the best value for money within your preferences. Precisely, there are many models because they do not all work for everyone. Some recommendations to choose well.
Types of mattresses
- Mattresses with springs : these are the most traditional and have a spring base that can be conical or cylindrical, on which a foam plate rests that can be of different densities. They are firm and provide good stability. Today there is a new spring technology that makes it unnecessary to rotate the mattress as it used to be in this type of product. For some people who sleep on their backs they are too harsh.
- Foam mattresses: They are made of a material called polyurethane foam. There are different types according to their density and height. The denser the foam, the firmer and more resistant the mattress will be (HR foam models, or high resilence, are the most resistant and recommended for spinal problems). The main brands have models with different firmness zones that adapt to each part of the body. They are ergonomic, durable and tend to be cheaper than other materials.
- Memory foam mattress : composed of a thermosensitive foam, it adapts to the shape of the body and can have different levels of density. There are options with and without springs. They adapt very well to the shape of the body and no area is left without support, favoring a correct alignment of the spine. They are ideal for those who have back problems or muscle aches.
- Viscogel mattress: they are made up of gel columns distributed over the entire surface. They are very ergonomic, have great elasticity and retain their qualities during their useful life. They are not recommended for people who are overweight.
New tendencies
You may have heard of Colchonbox, Sleepbox or Atma Home , which are the benchmark brands of one of the latest innovations in the field: high quality products and very easy to move, since they can be transported without problems in cars, elevators, stairs and other tight spaces.
They are mattresses that come “packed” in a box or cylinder, in the case of Sleepbox, and are made with 3 different foams that form a smart block, designed to provide comfort when lying down and firm support when sleeping.
Those who have tried it assure that it is very comfortable. It has the characteristics of a conventional mattress but adds practicality and state-of-the-art technology. It does not include a sommier or base and can be used on any bed or surface. Of course: once you take it out of the box or container in which it reaches its destination, you cannot put it back.
Most common mattress measurements
The most common sizes are Twin (also called single or single), double or matrimonial, Queen and King. Remember to take into account the width and length.
- 1 square: they are 80 x 190 cm.
- 1 square and a half: 90 x 190 cm. It is only 10 cm apart but feels much wider.
- Twin : It is the best-selling single size today. They are usually 100 cm wide x 1.90 or 200 cm long.
- 2-seater: it is the standard double bed measurement of 140 x 190 cm.
- Queen Size : They are slightly larger than King or Double but allow a couple to sleep more comfortably. The measurements are 150 cm or 160 cm wide x 190 or 200 cm long. It is higher than 2 seats.
- 2 and a half places : 180 x 200 cm.
- King Size: it is to sleep like kings and it is really big. It is 200 x 200 cm. It is fashionable and can be great to spread out comfortably if you have a lot of space.
When to change your mattress
Beyond care, it is recommended to change it every ten years at the most to prevent posture problems. Remember that whatever its composition, over time its qualities deteriorate and it can cause back pain or other difficulties.
Also, if there are any broken springs, they can tear the lining and cause injuries.
Remember that a good rest is synonymous with good health and a good flow of energy to face the day.
