This “mattress buying guide” will help you make an informed choice to get the right mattress for you and your partner. The correct mattress with the right divan base or bedstead can mean the difference between sweet dreams or sleep deprivation. A good quality mattress promotes deeper, more refreshing sleep by giving you better support.
Take a look at our range of mattresses here before reverting back to our mattress buying guide.
3 easy steps to choosing your mattress
Don’t compromise – A good mattress can last up to 10 years, so it’s a serious investment. But you should buy the best you can afford: when you think that every £100 you spend on a mattress represents just 2.7p a night over 10 years, it’s a small price to pay.
Try before you buy – If you’re buying a bedstead or divan separately we recommend you talk to one of our selling assistants in our shop. It’s important you test the mattress on your chosen bedstead or divan so you can be sure they achieve your desired comfort level. And it’s only by trying a few different mattresses that you can fully appreciate the difference between levels of support and different types of mattress.
Match mattress to divan base – Our mattresses and divan bases are designed to complement each other. The right mattress and divan base combination will promote the correct posture and provide support where you need it most. If you already have a bedstead in good condition you may only need a mattress. However, if you have a divan, a new mattress alone won’t give you the full benefit. It’s advisable to replace both. Divans act as bases for mattresses and have a solid top which provides firmer support. A divan base is useful if you are tight for space in your bedroom as they often have drawers for storage – or you prefer a more neutral look.
Different types of mattresses
One of the biggest causes of sleepless nights is fluctuations in body temperature, so we offer some mattresses with 100% natural fillings to keep you comfortable all year round. Mattress design and technology has never been more innovative. We offer a wide range at prices to suit every pocket.
Open coil spring mattress – The most commonly used springing system in the world for budget-priced mattresses. Border rod or wire gives the mattress a firm edge and helps retain its shape. The unit is made up of hour glass shaped springs which are joined together.
Pocket spring mattress – Recommended if there’s a size difference between you and your partner, as it minimises the risk of you rolling towards each other during the night. A pocket sprung mattress is more luxurious with individal small springs housed in separate fabric pockets. Springs work independently to respond to individual body weight.
Looking after your mattress
Airing – After delivery the mattress should be aired for 4 hours to freshen and remove any aroma from storage. The mattress should be aired on a weekly basis by turning back the bedlinen for a few hours. A mattress protector or an under blanket below the sheet is recommended.
Sprung Mattresses – With the majority of sprung mattresses it’s important to turn your mattress regularly to maximise its life. Body weight compresses a mattress, leading to dips and ultimately an uneven sleeping surface. Consider a one-sided ‘no-turn’ mattress if turning a heavy mattress could be difficult.
Circulation – Avoid using a plastic sheet on or under the mattress as this prevents air circulation and can cause condensation. If needed you can purchase a breathable waterproof mattress protector.
Memory Foam Mattresses – These mattresses do not need turning and in some cases only have one sleeping surface so cannot be turned, but the mattress should still be rotated lengthways occasionally (once a month) to maximise its life. Over time these mattresses may feel as if they are gradually getting softer, as cells within the foam open more fully and the surface reacts more quickly. However, the important pressure relieving properties remain the same and eventually the whole mattress will react evenly.
This article originally published at Beds Glasgow Blog here