How to Choose a Mattress
A mattress expert's guide to buying your best-ever bed.
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What to Consider When Choosing a Mattress
Your spine should stay aligned when you lie down. Your sleep position, body type and personal preferences for the feel and materials will all play a role in determining which mattress best suits your needs.
Consider cost, convenience, durability and any sleep issues — i.e., whether you're a hot sleeper, have back pain or get woken up by your sleeping partner.
Types of Mattress
Memory Foam
Offers the best pressure relief by conforming to your body. Ideal for side sleepers and those with back pain. May trap heat, though many brands now offer cooling features.
Hybrid
Combines memory foam and coils for both comfort and support. More expensive but offers benefits of both materials. Good balance of pressure relief and bounce.
Mattress Firmness Levels
Mattresses typically range from soft to firm, with medium-firm being the most popular choice. Your ideal firmness depends on your sleep position and body type.
Sleep Position Guide
- Side Sleepers: Soft to medium firmness for pressure relief
- Back Sleepers: Medium to medium-firm for spine alignment
- Stomach Sleepers: Medium-firm to firm for support