A healthy sleep schedule is associated with several health benefits, from reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases to better concentration and cognition. Besides, there’s no better feeling than returning to a comfortable bed after a long day. And choosing the right mattress is half the battle won in ensuring beauty sleep. Shortlisting a mattress to prevent or eliminate back pain and enhance sleep quality requires research on the options available and adherence to a few steps.

Know the types of mattresses available
Before proceeding with the purchase or even considering mattress brands, it is important to research the different types of mattresses available in the market. For example, foam mattresses are those made entirely from foam, entailing no coils. These mattresses typically provide pressure relief and feel comfortable against the skin. Latex mattresses are those in which all the mattress layers are made of latex rubber. These are highly eco-friendly and absorb body heat effectively. Innerspring mattresses entail coil-based support systems and are bouncier than other types of mattresses. Finally, hybrid mattresses have comfort layers made of latex or foam and may also entail short coil layers called micro-coils.

Consider your sleep position and other factors
One’s sleep position also plays an important role in selecting a mattress. For example, side sleepers often prefer foam mattresses, as these offer pressure relief and conform to the sleeper’s body shape easily. In contrast, memory foam or hybrid mattresses are good choices for back sleepers, as they best support the head, neck, and spinal regions. Finally, stomach sleepers should opt for firm mattresses, as these facilitate optimal spine alignment during sleep. Moreover, plush mattresses are not suited to stomach sleepers, since they do not tend to support the spine.

Consider body weight
One’s body weight is another key determinant of the type of mattress to be selected. Soft or medium-soft mattresses lend themselves better to individuals who are leaner, while firmer models are better choices for heavier individuals. In general, memory foam mattresses are the best options for individuals with less body load, as these mattresses provide extremely soft surfaces and a good skin-to-pressure ratio.

Set your budget limit
The next step is to understand one’s budget range and limit and determine a hard stop or upper limit. Such a consideration helps one plan the expenditure more systematically and avoid splurging. While setting a budget range, it helps to check out the different price ranges at which mattresses from different reputed brands are available in the market. Based on this evaluation, one may decide the amount they can afford to spend on their mattress. It is also a good practice to determine whether one would carry out a lumpsum expenditure or pay in installments. Such planning can also help one plan their other expenses better.

Determine the mattress size
The size of one’s mattress largely depends on one’s height. Individuals who are extremely tall, i.e., over six feet tall, should look for California king or standard king mattresses. In any case, any mattress smaller than a queen mattress is not suitable for tall persons. In contrast, shorter people may opt for smaller-sized mattresses, such as the twin or twin XL sizes. The basic thumb rule while shortlisting mattress size is to add six inches to one’s height. This resulting dimension is typically one’s ideal mattress size.

Consider any existing back problems
Studies suggest that individuals with chronic back pain should opt for medium-firm mattresses, which provide adequate back and structural support to the body. Medium-firm foam mattresses work best for individuals with persistent pain in their muscles, joints, and other major pressure points. It is essential to consider such existing back problems while purchasing mattresses, as the wrong mattress type can aggravate aches and pains considerably.

Check out mattresses from different brands
The internet has made it incredibly easy for buyers to browse the features and prices of mattresses offered by various manufacturers. However, the feel of the mattress can be experienced only by visiting the stores. Hence, buyers should check out their options through both these mediums, browsing and shortlisting brands online and visiting the stores to check out the textures, firmness, etc. Online reviews on brands and specific products can be extremely useful in understanding other buyers’ experiences. One may also consult family members and friends regarding the effectiveness of the product.