Ultimate Mattress Buying Guide: How to Choose a Mattress

Discover the ultimate mattress buying guide to choose the best new mattress for you. Get expert advice on how to buy a mattress.

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Welcome to the Ultimate Mattress Buying Guide: How to Choose the best mattress! Whether you're in the market for a new mattress to replace your old one, upgrading to a better night's sleep, or simply seeking the perfect mattress for your needs, you've come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know before making your purchase. From understanding different mattress types and firmness levels to caring for your mattress to ensure it lasts, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and find the perfect mattress that meets all your sleep needs and preferences. At Kidsly you can choose a mattress that suits your needs!

What Sizes?

When it comes to ensuring your child gets the best sleep possible, choosing the right mattress size is crucial. At Kidsly, we understand the importance of a good night's sleep for your little one's health and well-being. That's why we've put together this comprehensive mattress buying guide to help you navigate the world of mattress sizes and make an informed decision.

Shorty (Kids') Mattress:

Standard Size: Length 175cm / 5ft 9in, Width 75cm / 2ft 6in
Ideal for children transitioning from a crib to a bed or for smaller bedrooms.

Single Mattress:

Standard Size: Length 190cm / 6ft 3in, Width 90cm / 3ft
Great for older children or individuals who sleep alone.

Small Double Mattress:

Standard Size: Length 190cm / 6ft 3in, Width 120cm / 4ft
Offers more space than a single mattress, suitable for growing children or guest rooms.

Double Mattress:

Standard Size: Length 190cm / 6ft 3in, Width 135cm / 4ft 6in
Provides ample space for couples or individuals who prefer more room to spread out.

King Size Mattress:

Standard Size: Length 200cm / 6ft 6in, Width 150cm / 5ft
Offers generous space for couples or individuals who prefer extra room for comfortable sleep.

Super King Mattress:

Standard Size: Length 200cm / 6ft 6in, Width 180cm / 6ft
The ultimate luxury option, providing plenty of space for couples to sleep comfortably without disturbing each other.

What type of mattress is suitable for me?

Open Coil Mattress:

Pros:

Lightweight and easy to move.
Suitable for single sleepers.

Cons:

Potential to feel partner's movements.
Tendency to roll towards the middle.
Less supportive compared to other types.

Pocket Sprung Mattress:

Pros:

Offers more support than open coil mattresses.
Ideal for couples with different sizes and weights.
Prevents rolling into the middle.

Cons:

Heavier and harder to turn, may require assistance.
May be more expensive compared to open coil mattresses.

Memory Foam Mattress:

Pros:

Maintains shape with no sagging.
Distributes body weight evenly, conforming to your shape.
Hypoallergenic material suitable for allergy sufferers.

Cons:

Tends to be heavy, making it difficult to move.
Retains heat, potentially causing discomfort for hot sleepers.
Less responsive and bouncy compared to spring mattresses.

Consider these pros and cons based on your preferences and needs to determine which type of mattress is the best fit for you.

What is a hybrid mattress?

A hybrid mattress is a specially designed mattress that combines two or more features from different types of mattresses, such as memory foam, latex, or spring coils. This combination aims to provide improved overall support and comfort.

Pros of Hybrid Mattresses:

Enhanced Support: Hybrid mattresses typically offer stronger support structures, making them beneficial for individuals with larger builds or back problems.
Breathability: Designed with features to promote airflow, hybrid mattresses are often more breathable than traditional memory foam mattresses, helping to regulate temperature and prevent overheating during sleep.

Cons of Hybrid Mattresses:

Weight: Due to their combination of materials and enhanced support features, hybrid mattresses tend to be heavier than standard mattresses. Moving them may require assistance from another person.
Cost: Hybrid mattresses often come with a higher price tag compared to traditional mattresses, reflecting their advanced design and combination of materials.

Consider these pros and cons when deciding if a hybrid mattress is the right choice for your sleep needs and preferences.

What is a rolled mattress?

A rolled mattress, also known as a bed in a box, is a type of mattress that can be compressed into a smaller size for easy transport and storage. This innovative design allows the mattress to be rolled up tightly, making it relatively lightweight and convenient to move. Despite its compact packaging, a rolled mattress still offers the same level of comfort and support as a regular mattress once it is unpacked and expanded.

Pros of Rolled Mattresses:

Easy Transport: Rolled mattresses can be compressed into a compact size, making them easy to transport, especially in tight spaces like narrow hallways or staircases.
Lightweight: Due to their compressed form, rolled mattresses are relatively lightweight compared to traditional mattresses, making them easier to handle during transportation and setup.
Convenient Storage: The ability to roll up the mattress allows for convenient storage in smaller spaces, such as closets or under beds, when not in use.
Optimal Comfort and Support: Despite their compact packaging, rolled mattresses still provide the same level of comfort and support as traditional mattresses once they are unpacked and allowed to expand.

Cons of Rolled Mattresses:

Initial Expansion Time: Rolled mattresses need time to fully expand and regain their original shape and firmness after being unpacked. This process can take several hours to a few days, depending on the mattress type and materials used.
Off-Gassing Odor: Some rolled mattresses may emit a temporary odor known as off-gassing when first unpacked. This odor is typically harmless and dissipates over time but may be bothersome to sensitive individuals.
Limited Options: While rolled mattresses offer convenience and portability, the selection may be limited compared to traditional mattresses, particularly in terms of thickness and firmness options.

Consider these pros and cons when deciding if a rolled mattress is the right choice for your sleep needs and lifestyle.

What About Mattress Firm Rating?

Determining whether you need a soft or firm mattress depends on your sleeping style and personal preferences. Here's a breakdown of different mattress firmness levels and their suitability for various sleeping positions:

Soft Mattress:

Allows your body to sink into the mattress, providing contouring support.
Perfect for side sleepers who need pressure relief on their hips, shoulders, and arms.
Ideal for individuals who prefer a plush, cushiony feel while sleeping.

Medium-Soft Mattress:

Maintains the softness of a soft mattress while offering slightly more support.
Suitable for modest-build individuals who move around during sleep.
Provides comfort around the shoulders, arms, and hips while still allowing some sinking into the mattress.

Medium Mattress:

The most popular choice offering a balance between softness and support.
Suitable for back sleepers as it evenly distributes weight and maintains spinal alignment.
Offers suppleness similar to a soft mattress while providing better support for most body sizes.

Medium-Firm Mattress:

Offers more support than a medium mattress with a bit of flex.
Ideal for average-build individuals who need extra support.
Perfect for stomach sleepers as it maintains spinal alignment and prevents backaches.

Firm Mattress:

Provides minimal flex and maximum support, offering a sturdy sleeping surface.
Suitable for individuals with above-average build who need strong support.
Ideal for stomach sleepers as it prevents hips from sinking lower than shoulders, keeping the spine aligned.

Consider your sleeping position, body type, and personal comfort preferences when choosing the right mattress firmness level for a restful night's sleep.

Common mattress conundrums

Navigating the world of mattresses can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle. Here are some common mattress conundrums and how to tackle them:

Finding the Right Firmness: It can be challenging to determine the ideal firmness level for your mattress, especially if you're unsure whether you need a soft, medium, or firm mattress. To solve this conundrum, consider your sleeping position, body type, and personal preferences. Experiment with different firmness levels, and don't hesitate to take advantage of trial periods offered by mattress retailers to ensure you find the perfect fit.
Dealing with Motion Transfer: If you share your bed with a partner, motion transfer can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling groggy in the morning. To minimize this conundrum, opt for a mattress with motion isolation features, such as memory foam or pocketed coils, which absorb movement and prevent it from transferring across the bed. Additionally, consider placing a mattress topper or using a mattress with a high-density foam base to further reduce motion transfer.
Managing Temperature Regulation: Temperature regulation is essential for a comfortable night's sleep, but finding a mattress that keeps you cool can be challenging, especially if you tend to sleep hot. To address this conundrum, look for mattresses with breathable materials, such as gel-infused memory foam or latex, which promote airflow and dissipate heat. Additionally, consider using breathable bedding and keeping your bedroom well-ventilated to maintain a comfortable sleep environment.
Balancing Support and Comfort: Achieving the perfect balance between support and comfort can be tricky, especially if you have specific health concerns or sleep preferences. To tackle this conundrum, prioritize mattresses that offer adequate support for your spine and joints while still providing cushioning and pressure relief where needed. Consider adjustable mattresses or mattress toppers that allow you to customize your sleeping surface to find the ideal balance for your needs.
Addressing Allergies and Sensitivities: If you suffer from allergies or sensitivities, choosing the right mattress can be crucial for your health and well-being. To solve this conundrum, opt for hypoallergenic mattresses made from natural materials like latex or organic cotton, which are resistant to dust mites, mold, and other allergens. Additionally, consider using allergen-proof mattress covers and regularly cleaning your mattress to maintain a healthy sleep environment.

By tackling these common mattress conundrums with informed decision-making and a bit of experimentation, you can ensure a restful night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated each morning.

Turning Your Mattress: A Key Maintenance Step

Regularly turning and rotating your mattress is essential for maintaining its shape, support, and longevity. Remember to turn your mattress every few months. Here's what you need to know:

Why Turn Your Mattress?

Evenly Distribute Wear: Turning your mattress ensures that you distribute the wear and tear evenly across all areas, preventing premature sagging or impressions.
Maintain Support: Rotating your mattress helps prevent body impressions from forming in specific areas, ensuring consistent support and comfort.

Frequency of Turning:

Non-Turn Mattresses: If your mattress is labeled as non-turn or rotate-only, simply rotate it from head to foot regularly, typically every few months during the first year and then semi-annually thereafter.
Turnable Mattresses: For mattresses labeled as turnable or turn with the seasons, rotate it from head to foot and flip it over every few weeks during the initial break-in period, and then semi-annually to ensure even wear.

How to Turn Your Mattress:

Start by stripping the bedding off your mattress.
Rotate the mattress 180 degrees so that the foot end becomes the head end.
If your mattress is turnable, flip it over so that the bottom surface becomes the top.
Use caution and lift with care to avoid injury or damage to the mattress.

Reminder System:

Set a reminder on your calendar or phone to rotate and turn your mattress at regular intervals, ensuring that you don't forget this important maintenance task.

By following these simple steps and incorporating mattress turning into your regular maintenance routine, you'll extend the lifespan of your mattress and enjoy optimal comfort and support for years to come.

Mattress Care

Ensure your mattress stays in top shape and provides the best sleep experience by following these essential care tips:

Impression Insights: It's normal for mattresses to develop impressions over time, especially where you sleep most. These impressions indicate that your mattress is conforming to your unique body shape, weight, and sleep habits. Don't fret; it's a sign that the comfort fillings are doing their job! Remember, these impressions won't compromise the overall support of your mattress.

Rotation Recommendations: To minimize impressions, adhere to our rotating and turning guidelines. Check your mattress's surface label to determine if it's a non-turn/rotate only or a turnable/turn with the seasons type. Rotate non-turn mattresses regularly during the initial months and then about twice a year or monthly thereafter. Turnable mattresses may require rotation every two weeks initially, then approximately twice a year or monthly.

General Care Tips: Keep your mattress spick and span by gently removing dust and fluff every few months using a soft brush. Avoid vacuum cleaners, as they can displace natural fillings and void warranties. If your mattress contains memory foam, steer clear of electric blankets or hot water bottles, as they can alter its feel.

Handling Precautions: Handle your mattress with care to prevent personal injury or damage. Utilize the handles for moving and rotating, avoiding prolonged carrying. Refrain from sitting on the mattress edge for too long, particularly with natural mattresses, to maintain consistent shape and support. Remember, never use your bed as a trampoline or fold or roll your mattress, as this can cause harm.

Following these care and handling guidelines will prolong your mattress's life, ensuring continued comfort and support for years to come. If it's time for a new mattress, consider exploring our wide selection of top-quality mattresses to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Thank you for exploring our comprehensive mattress buying guide. We hope this resource has equipped you with the knowledge and insights you need to confidently choose and buy the perfect mattress for your bed and mattress needs. Whether you're in search of a soft mattress for a good night's sleep, looking to replace your old mattress with a new one, or simply seeking the perfect balance of comfort and support, our guide will help you navigate through the myriad of options available. Remember to consider factors like mattress size, type, firmness, and mattress brands to ensure you choose the best mattress that's just right for you. And when it's time for a change, don't hesitate to replace your mattress every few years to maintain good quality sleep and support your mattress needs. Whether you prefer a rolled mattress delivered conveniently to your doorstep or you're browsing in-store, our guide will help you find the best mattress offers and deals. Happy mattress shopping!