Buy a better mattress
Sleep tight by shopping for the best bedding and pillows
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The average person spends a third of their life asleep so investing in a good mattress and pillows makes sense.
A quality mattress should be replaced every 10 to 12 years, depending on how well it’s cared for.
Tip - Sleeping on an old mattress can cause neck, back and postural problems and poses a hygiene risk.
Choosing the best fit
Identical or similar models are often sold under different names so the key to comparing them is knowing the difference between the types and taking time to test them.
To test, lie on the mattress for at least 10 minutes. It should be comfortable in a natural position. If too hard it puts pressure on shoulders and hips, too soft and it can lead to poor posture and pain.
Dr Chris Idzikowski of the Edinburgh Sleep Centre says the surface is the most important factor.
‘The more comfortable you feel the better the chance of a good sleep.’
Reputable stores offer up to six months’ trial period during which the mattress can be returned, but check details before buying.
Inside a mattress
Innerspring systems have 300 to 800 coils. The construction quality of the coils, not just the number, determines the support and longevity.
Latex is a good choice for allergy sufferers as it inhibits bacteria and fungi and is resistant to dust mites.
Memory foam is high-density foam that reacts to body heat, moulding to the shape of the body.
The surface material
Padding and ticking most influence price and perceived luxury. Ticking is the outer cover and cheaper mattresses often use flat cotton. Others have quilted covers of linen, silk, cotton or wool fabric woven with patterns.
For more tips on choosing the best bed click here.
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3 of 4 Comments |
| RD Editor on 01 August 2011 ,18:51 Thanks for the feedback. You can find more information about buying a mattress at the link below. I hope that helps. - RD Editor http://www.readersdigest.com.au/choosing-a-bed |
| Michelle on 01 August 2011 ,02:24 I second what albert above says: Where's the info? |
| albert on 27 July 2011 ,10:13 this article is a waste of time - it gives absolutely no input as to how to test a mattrass, what a waste of time and space. | See More Comments |
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