Most chiropractors agree that traditional mattresses should be replaced every 5-10 years. However, choosing an expensive new bed that you will be sleeping on for the next several years can be stressful, especially if you have no idea where to start. To make things more complicated, we acknowledge that there is no single style of mattress that works for everyone.
Valuable tips to help you choose one that works for you!
FIRMNESS:
We recommend a medium to firm mattress; however, this ultimately comes down to your personal preference.
Choose a firmness that keeps your spine in a neutral position. Have someone snap a picture, then assess how you line up in your habitual sleep position.
Back sleepers typically prefer a firmer mattress, while side sleepers may desire a little more cushioning.
When in doubt, go with the firmer option – you can always soften a mattress with a topper, but
you can never firm up a soft mattress.
Spring mattress can help distribute force better if you have a sleep partner.
Latex mattresses are not the best for hot sleepers.
Or just consider a separately adjustable bed if your sleep partner prefers a different mattress style.
MATTRESS TOPPERS:
A topper can help dissipate pressure points on your hips and shoulders, but it is not advisable go too thick with a built-in topper; it will be like fusing a cheap mattress onto your good one. You can always add (or replace) an additional aftermarket topper if needed.
If you are considering a coil spring mattress, choose one that you can flip. Built-in mattress toppers usually cannot allow that.
ASSESSMENT:
When mattress shopping, wear comfortable clothes and lie down on several beds to see which one feels best.
Do not judge something by the first few seconds of comfort. Lay on it for at least 10-15 minutes.
Opt for vendor that offers a trial period of up to 60 days or with a reasonable return or exchange policy. However, bear in mind that anything new can be uncomfortable at first.
Give a new mattress at least a few break-in nights before you abandon it (it takes 3 weeks to 3 months to get used to a new mattress, so be patient).
If you noticed your mattress sags or is more than 7-10 years, that is a sign to change it!
COST:
You spend one-third of your life on a mattress, we wouldn’t recommend to skimp on that investment.
Conversely, the most expensive is not always the best!
Still unsure about what is out there in the market? Here is a good resource for mattress reviews https://bedbuyer.com.au (even from Chiropractors!)
Looking for the right pillow? Click on the following link to choose the right one for you today! https://themelbournechiropractor.com.au/blog/pillow-talk-choosing-the-right-one/
