1. Know Your Needs
Optimal comfort is the ultimate goal here, but there are other questions you should ask yourself, including:
– What’s my usual sleeping position?
– Does my spouse and I have different sleeping needs and concerns?
– How big is my bedroom?
– What’s my budget?
– Do I have sleep issues I want to correct?
Photo: Stocksnap
2. Know Your Mattress Types
There are four common ones: innerspring, foam (including memory foam), latex and air mattresses, all with varying degrees of firmness. Here are some general guidelines to help you out:
Innerspring: These bouncy mattresses provide support with the use of steel coils submerged under layers of comfort materials like latex, memory foam and pillow. Make sure to get good-quality ones as cheaper ones may not have enough cushion and you might feel the coils poking through over time.
Memory Foam: Made with different layers of foam, this mattress type actually reduces pressure points as they conform to the contour of your body as you lie down, which makes it great for relieving pain and provide more comfort. It also absorbs movement, so you’re less likely to be disturbed by your partner’s tossing and turning.
Latex: Made from natural or synthetic rubber, these mattresses are also good for relieving back aches and pains as they’re firmer than memory foam mattresses but provide similar body support. There’s a bit more “spring” involved.
Air: Not to be confused with blow-up mattresses, air mattresses contain chambers filled with air instead of coils. They’re typically used for those with spinal injuries and have to lie down for a long time, and the firmness can be adjusted.
Nowadays, many brands sell hybrid versions for greater versatility and target your sleep needs even better.
Photo: Tempur
3. Test Drive Mattresses At The Store Before Buying
When you get to the store, make sure to actually lie down on the beds for at least 10 to 15 minutes each, and in your usual sleeping position. This will increase your chances of selecting the best bed for yourself.
Photo: Baton Mattresses
4. Do The Spine Test
It’s wise to shop with your partner or a trusted friend. Lie down on the mattress and ask them to observe the position of your spine – is it neutral, sagging or curved? Keep searching until you find one that keeps your spine in a neutral alignment.
Photo: Pixabay
5. Look for one with a good warranty and return policy.
Especially if you’re getting a really expensive one, you want to make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth when you get back home.
Photo: Baton Mattresses
6. Consider getting a mattress topper or mattress pad.
For added luxury and even better sleep, opt for a mattress topper that provides an extra layer of comfort, such as this one from IKEA (it’s the TROMSDALEN mattress pad, $399).
READ MORE: 10 Bedroom Must-Haves For Better Sleep
Now, check out five mattresses with advanced technology to give you a good night’s sleep:
Tempur's latest Flagship Mattress Range, from $3,699.
The latest range of mattresses from Tempur features four distinct collections: Contour, Cloud, Sensation and Hybrid. There’s something for everyone – whether you need a firmer or softer feel, or a mattress that lets you toss and turn with ease. Available at Tempur boutiques and selected major departmental stores.
Sealy Limited Edition UniCased Posturepedic Vigor, from $2,499.
To celebrate World Sleep Day, the brand’s unveiled a limited edition mattress that features its signature Posturepedic technology for greater support and comfort. Available at all Sealy stores until 26 March.
Baton Sleep Medium Firm with Pillow Top mattress, from $490.
If you’re looking for something a bit more wallet-friendly, Baton Sleep ‘s memory foam and high density foam mattresses provide comfort and good posture support without compromising on quality. Available at 110 Eunos Avenue 7, Comfort Design Building.
King Koil Latex Mattress, price unavailable.
This eco-friendly mattress with a latex comfort padding absorbs your body movements and help with blood circulation and muscle relaxation. It’s ideal for those with allergies as this material is anti-microbial and resistant to dust mites. Available at King Koil stores.
