Buying a mattress is hard. From selecting the right mattress material to finding the best brand to ordering a mattress online, the whole process can get overwhelmingly confusing and taxing, ending you up with a not-so-perfect mattress.
That said, shopping for a mattress online doesn’t have to be this challenging. If you know how to play your cards right, you can have the mattress that will transform your sleep and, by extension, your overall health.
Let’s dive into this complete mattress-buying guide to help you buy the right mattress.
Assess Your Lifestyle Needs
The first step is to always look and understand what you need with regard to a mattress.
For starters, think about your sleep habits. Are you a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper? Why does it matter? Because each position has different support needs.
Side sleepers often need a softer mattress to cushion their shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers usually benefit from a firmer mattress to keep their spine aligned. So, knowing how you sleep is crucial to buying a mattress that fits your needs.
Another thing you need to look at is your health. If you have back pain, you might need a mattress that offers firmer support, whereas someone with arthritis might prefer a softer surface.
Allergies can also influence your choice. Hypoallergenic materials can help keep sneezing and itching at bay. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor if you have specific health issues that might be affected by your mattress.
Understand Mattress Types
Before you order a mattress online, familiarise yourself with different types of mattresses and for whom each is a good fit. Doing so can help you narrow down your options significantly. Each type has its unique benefits.
Innerspring Mattresses
These are the traditional mattresses with coils inside. They offer strong support and are usually more affordable. If you like a bouncy feel and need good airflow to stay cool at night, an innerspring mattress might be your best bet.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are known for their pressure relief. They contour to your body, providing support where you need it most. If you have joint pain or prefer a more cushioned feel, memory foam could be the right choice. However, be aware that most memory foam mattresses tend to retain heat, so if you’re a hot sleeper, look for ones with cooling technology.
Very few mattresses, such as Sleepwell’s Nexa foam mattress, come with superior technology that offers superior airflow to keep you cold at night. So, if you need a memory foam mattress, make sure to buy the best one that comes with airflow technology.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are durable and offer good support and bounce. They’re also a good option for those looking for a more natural product, as they can be made from natural latex. These mattresses are breathable, so they’re good for hot sleepers. Plus, they’re hypoallergenic, making them great for allergy sufferers.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine the best of innerspring and memory foam. They usually have coils for support and layers of foam for comfort. This type is excellent if you want a balance of support and pressure relief.
Customised Mattresses
These are highly customizable, provided you choose a renowned brand like Sleepwell when buying a mattress. You can adjust the firmness, size, and sometimes even the angle of the bed. They’re a great option if you have specific medical needs or a unique bed frame or design.
Look at the Mattress Features
Choosing the right type of mattress is the job half done. To ensure you have a comfortable sleep, you need to look beyond its type. That’s where features come into play.
When looking for a mattress online, go for the one that offers enhanced support, especially if you have back or joint issues. Mattresses with zoned support systems provide different levels of firmness across the mattress, ensuring your spine stays aligned while offering softer support where needed.
If you tend to sleep hot, look at the airflow of the mattress. Good airflow is essential to keep you cool throughout the night. Many modern mattresses incorporate advanced airflow technology, such as breathable cover materials and specially designed foam structures that promote air circulation, which is particularly important if you tend to sleep hot. Sleepwell’s Nexa foam mattress is one good example as it comes with superior airflow technology.
If you suffer from allergies or are concerned about cleanliness, mattresses with anti-microbial properties can help. These mattresses have technology that inhibits the growth of bacteria, mould, and dust mites, providing a healthier sleeping environment.
Additionally, multi-layer mattresses combine different materials to offer a balance of comfort and support. For instance, a mattress might have a firm support layer at the bottom, a contouring memory foam layer in the middle, and a plush top layer for added comfort. This combination can cater to various sleeping positions and preferences.
By considering these features, you can find a mattress online that not only supports your body but also enhances your overall sleep quality.
Determine Your Budget
Mattresses can be expensive. They can range from a few hundred to several thousand rupees. But that doesn’t mean you need to spend so much on it. It’s best to set a budget beforehand to avoid overspending.
Think about what you’re comfortable spending. While it’s true that you often get what you pay for, there are plenty of quality mattresses available at various price points. Generally, memory foam and latex mattresses tend to be more expensive than innerspring ones, but you can find good deals if you order mattress online. For instance, Sleepwell offers goodies like pillow covers and more when you purchase from the website. They also have discounts on select items.
Remember, the most expensive mattress isn’t always the best one for you. Focus on the features that matter most to you rather than the brand name. A well-made innerspring mattress might suit you better than a high-end memory foam one, depending on your needs. But if a mattress has all the advanced features you need and ensures quality sleep, don’t step back from investing in it, despite its high price. You can go for an EMI option to manage your finances well.
Test the Mattress
This is where the rubber meets the road. Once you have determined the best mattress to buy, test it out. If you are shopping in-store, lie down in your usual sleeping position and spend at least 10-15 minutes on each mattress. Pay attention to how your body feels. Are there pressure points? Does your spine feel aligned? Don’t be shy—this is a big investment in your health and comfort.
That said, testing out for a few minutes doesn’t tell about a mattress’s performance in the long run. That’s why some brands like Sleepwell offer a 100-day trial period that allows you to sleep on the mattress for 100 days in your own home before making the final call. That’s perhaps why buying a mattress online is more convenient, and you often get better prices.
Check for Warranties and Return Policy
These are the fine details that can make a big difference. Look for a brand that backs your purchase with a solid warranty. Most quality mattresses come with at least a 7-year warranty. Also, check the return policy. A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress at home and return it if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Conclusion
Buying a mattress is a significant investment in your health and well-being. By assessing your needs, understanding different mattress types, setting a budget, testing mattresses, checking warranties and making a careful decision, you can navigate the complex world of online mattress shopping with confidence.
Remember, the right mattress can make all the difference in your sleep quality and overall health. So, take your time, do your research, and follow this mattress-buying guide to find the mattress that’s perfect for you. Sweet dreams!