Most Balanced Mattress: Simmons Medium Mattress
Cons
- Sides can feel a bit weak at times
Its hard to beat the value of a good mattress in a box. Simmons Beddings Hybrid Medium Mattress is a good middle ground sleeper, especially for couples looking to compromise on firmness. The hybrid design features traditional innerspring coils that minimize motion transfer, a cooling and moisture-wicking cover, and a comfy gel memory foam top. It’s everything you’d want out of a balanced mattress. Not too firm and not too soft, but just right.
How To Get A Great Nights Sleep
Toss and turn all night? Wake up tired and sore? Our expert adviceand the top mattresses, pillows, and more from our testscan help you finally rest easy.
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Sometimes, sleep doesnt come easilyeven when youve avoided caffeine and a heavy meal, and even when youve programmed a bedtime reminder on your voice assistant. You find yourself scrolling through , watching yet another episode on Netflix, sending off one more email. And now its well past midnight. What to do?
Experts say that an important part of sleep is your sleep environment. If your bedroom is not only a comfortable space but a desirable one, then it has more pull, says W. Chris Winter, MD, a sleep medicine specialist and neurologist, and the author of The Sleep Solution .
Fortunately, you wont need to invest time or money in a bedroom overhaul to achieve a better sleep sanctuary. Adjusting a few key elements, including the temperature of your room and the thickness of your pillows, can help create an oasis youll look forward to retiring to each night. Heres what you need to know to sleep better.
A Mattress That Automatically Adapts To Your Body As You Change Positions
Sleep Number
- Trial period: 100 nights
- Warranty: 15 years
If youre a combo sleeper, you cant go wrong with the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed. Like all Sleep Number 360 Smart Beds, you can use the free app to adjust the firmness on each side of the mattress independently. The mattress also responds to your movements and automatically adapts to keep your body properly aligned, so you never feel too much pressure in your shoulders or hips. The i8 model, specifically, has temperature-balancing technology and a breathable fabric thats designed to help you sleep cooler.
All Sleep Number beds also come with a 100-night sleep trial. If you dont like it after a few months, you can return it. But keep in mind that all adjustable bases are non-refundable, so thats not covered by the trial.
What the Reviews Say: One thing reviewers love about this mattress is the adjustability. My wife and I have never had a better sleep in our entire lifetimes. I recommend the i8 to anyone, at any age, writes one five-star reviewer. Its smart, its adjustable in every way, its a dream come true.
Recommended Reading: Mitchell Gold Bob Williams Sleeper Sofa Review
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Wakefit Orthopaedic Memory Foam Mattress
Having a peaceful nights sleep is a blissful experience we all deserve after a long working day, and this mattress ensures just that. Wakefits orthopaedic memory foam mattress is built-in with a 5 layer comfort setup. This mattress is ideal for people who struggle with a sore neck, lower back pain, or other similar problems. Built with the latest technology, it can target the pressure points of your muscles and relieve any stress. One can experience pain relief in their joints within just 10 days of sleeping on this mattress. It comes with bigger cell size foam, allowing good airflow that keeps you cool and comfortable all through the night. It has higher density foam, ensuring a longer life with the firm base foam. It is a good choice for Indias overall humid climate as it keeps your body cool. The breathable outermost layer fights odour, and the high resilient support foam maintains its form and rigidity through the years. However, the mattress is not high enough.
It prevents heat from getting trapped inside and keeps you cool and comfortable. Both sides of the mattress are usable, however, the white side is recommended for maximum benefits. We recommend you use the harder side in cold weather and the softer side for summer. The mattress comes in both king and queen sizes.
- Price: Rs. 5,667
What Should Someone Consider When Finding A Mattress That Wont Sag
- What is the density of the foam found in the mattress? Mattresses often sag because theres a layer of low-density foam somewhere in the construction. So if someone wants a foam mattress that wont sag, they should pay close attention to the foam density. If someone chooses a mattress that is 2.5- or 3-lb foam, it might start to sag. But if they pick a mattress with 4- or 5-lb density foam, this should help the mattress last longer.
- What type of foam is featured in the mattress? If someone wants a mattress that wont sag, latex foam is going to be particularly good because its responsive, bouncy, and durable. This natural product can handle heavier weights without sagging.
- Does the mattress feature coils in its construction? If someone wants a mattress that isnt going to sag, they should take a look at something with innerspring coils because they add an extra level of support and durability. The coils will help support heavier weights while also fighting significant sagging in the mattress.
- Make sure you get the right support system. Getting the right support can keep your mattress from sagging too quickly. Your mattress could require a special foundation or box spring.
- How often should you replace your mattress? Think about how long the mattress is going to last and when it might be time to switch up.
Also Check: How To Buy A Good Mattress Online
The Right Frame Of Mind
If youre in a cozy bed inside a cool, dark, quiet roomand you still cant sleepthen a few mental strategies can ease you into a more sleep-friendly state. You can try the suggestions below on your own, or use an app. Popular options such as Calm and Headspace offer free sessions online and in-app. You can also explore free university resources, such as the exercises on Dartmouth Universitys student wellness center site.
Practice slowing your breath and lengthening it, particularly on the exhale. When we control our breath, we lower our heart rate and we bring our blood pressure down, says Maren Hyde-Nolan, PhD, a psychologist at Henry Ford Health in Detroit. If distracting thoughts come to mind, let them pass and go back to focusing on your breath.
Try guided imagery. You can use an app as your guide, or simply imagine a place that relaxes you, such as a specific beach youve vacationed at or a park that you enjoy strolling in. Recreate the scene in your head, including every small visual detail, as well as the scents, sounds, and textures.
Editors Note: This article appeared in the February 2023 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.
What Makes The Saatva Hd Stand Out
- This mattress has a firm, hybrid feel thats best suited for heavier back, side, and stomach sleepers. However, some average-weight stomach sleepers may also find that its a good match.
- The zoned latex layer and durable steel coils create a great balance of comfort and support.
- When you shop with Saatva, the company offers free white glove delivery and a 180-night sleep trial period.
Read our full Saatva HD mattress reviewto learn more. If you arent interested in the Saatva HD mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for heavy people for more great options!
Also Check: Can You Flip Purple Mattress
Best Gel Foam Wedge Pillow
- Type: flat-bottomed gel memory foam
- Dimensions: 24x 24 x 10 in.
- Pros: quality materials
- Cons: takes a while to dry after spot cleaning
Helix is a pillow brand well known for its proprietary gel-based memory foam and hypoallergenic pillow design, manufactured entirely in the United States.
This pillow comes in a standard 24- by 24- by 10-in. size thats easy to use with any mattress size. It may work well for those with acid reflux or chronic pain.
This pillow may seem to have no frills for its somewhat high price. But it features a 100-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty in case youre ultimately not satisfied.
- Type: flat-bottomed memory foam, adjustable also available
- Dimensions: 31 x 28 x 7 in.
- Pros: can help alleviate acid reflux issues, folding version convenient for travel
- Cons: people with back issues say its uncomfortable
Medslant is a larger wedge pillow measuring 32 in. by 32 in. It has a 7-in. incline thats good for both side sleepers and back sleepers. Theres also a 24-by-32 folding version more convenient for travel or for tight spaces.
The cover and pillow materials are all made of polyurethane thats hypoallergenic and doesnt emit a lot of factory odors, which are common in inexpensive wedge pillows.
- Dimensions: 24 x 22 x 12 in.
- Pros: good for people recovering from surgery and pregnant people with varying sleep needs
- Cons: some users say its too small for their support needs
The standard pillow measures 22 in. wide and 12 in. deep.
What Is A Cooling Mattress
Many people tend to sleep hot, or notice themselves wake up in the middle of the night feeling hot and sweaty. Some mattresses exacerbate this problem, while others ease it. Hot sleepers might want to seek out a cooling mattress to help them stay asleep throughout the night.
The term cooling mattress is used by many mattress manufacturers to indicate that there is something about the mattresss construction meant to keep sleepers cool during the night. After testing hundreds of mattresses, weve experienced firsthand the many ways in which a mattress can help you sleep cool. The term cooling mattress doesnt refer to any single particular mattress part or system.
Also Check: Asteria Beth Pillow Top Mattress
Mattress Size And Thickness
The first thing factor to consider while buying a mattress should be its size. It should be well aligned to the size of your bed. While you can always have custom made mattresses depending upon the size of your bed, there are generally four types of mattress sizes that are available in India:-
a. Single Size Mattress: These mattresses generally vary in sizes from 72 x 36 inches to 75 x 36 inches. These are ideal for a single divan or a child. A grown-up person may feel a little cramped in it.
b. Double Size Mattress: These mattresses generally vary in sizes from 72 x 48 inches to 75 x 60 inches. These are ideal for two average-sized adults.
c. Queen Size Mattress: These mattresses generally vary in sizes from 72 x 60 inches to 78 x 60 inches. These are ideal for a small family with two adults and a child less than one year of age.
d. King Size Mattress: These mattresses generally vary in sizes from 72 x 72 inches to 78 x 72 inches. These are ideal for two adults and a child of up to ten years of age.
Alongside the size of the mattress, our experts also looked at the thickness of the mattress . Lightweight individuals prefer shorter and thinner beds, while heavier adults go for thicker mattresses. The thickness of the mattress determines its comfort, strength, and life of the mattress.
How Do You Find The Perfect Mattress
Defining the ideal mattress is extremely subjective. Every sleeper has their own idea of the perfect firmness level. Optimal support and bounce can depend on your sleeping position and body weight. The right mattress can also vary based on whether you share a bed, whether you sleep hot, and of course, your budget.
Given all these factors, its impossible to say that theres one single best mattress for you. For that reason, weve broken our top picks into individual categories so that you can find the best bets among specific mattress types and aspects of mattress performance.
For an in-depth look at how to choose a mattress, visit our guide here. We also have every piece of information youd need when learning about mattresses in our mattress information section.
Also remember to contact us if youd like a personalized mattress review from our product review staff.
Also Check: What Kind Of Mattress Should I Get For Back Pain
How To Choose The Right Mattress Size
One golden rule for choosing the right size of mattress is to make sure it’s 10cm longer than the tallest person sleeping on it. Width-wise, if you’re sharing a bed, you and your partner should be able to put your hands under your head without your elbows touching.
If you sleep alone, you’ll have the right size mattress if you can put your hands under your head without touching the edges. So measure that distance and as long as you choose a mattress wider than that, you’re good.
Most options listed in our best mattress guide are available in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king and Cal king sizes. Some come in split options too, which enable you to choose a different mattress firmness to your partner. You can also find mattresses with a different level of firmness on each side.
How Sleeping On Your Side Affects Sleep
Sleeping on your side is highly regarded within the medical community, and its benefits are compelling. Not only does side sleeping open your airways and reduce snoring and symptoms of sleep apnea, but it may also improve brain health and help prevent certain neurological issues. For people with heartburn, and especially for pregnant women, sleeping on your left side has been shown to reduce acid reflux. This sleeping position is also best for keeping your spine aligned, though there are measures you should take to ensure your body and spine get the proper support when sleeping on your side. Putting too much pressure on your neck, shoulders, and back can result in aches and pains.
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Choosing Mattress Firmness: How Do You Sleep
When choosing a mattress, comfort and support is key. We spoke to Myriam Ruffo, Head of Bedrooms and Bathrooms at IKEA UK, who gave us the 101 on the best mattresses for the three key sleeping positions back, front and side. ‘Be sure to test the firmness and take into consideration your sleeping style, to ensure you choose a firmness that offers you the correct back support,’ she says. ‘Your mattress plays a huge part in your health and well-being when you consider you spend around eight hours every night sleeping on it.’
Sleeping on your back – Medium firmBack sleepers require support for the lower back, otherwise too much pressure can be put on this area which can result in pain. A medium-firm mattress is the best mattress in this scenario as it offers the support of a firm mattress but also has a softer, more comfortable feel.
Sleeping on your front – FirmThis sleeping style requires a mattress that can keep the body afloat, rather than sinking into the mattress, as this can cause lower back pain. A firm mattress is the best mattress here, as it will keep the body in a position where spine alignment is minimal.
Sleeping on your side – SoftSleeping on your side allows your spine to relax and therefore takes pressure off of the back. This makes it one of the healthiest ways to sleep. Side sleepers require a softer medium-firm mattress so the spine can rest in its most natural position. This allows the mattress to mould itself to the curves of the body.
Other Mattresses We Recommend And Why
Mattresses under $1,000
Nest Bedding Robin Flippable Hybrid: Formerly known as the “Flip Double-Sided Hybrid,” this affordable bed is unique in that you can flip it. One side has a medium firmness, and the other is firmer. The medium side is the best budget option for side sleepers since our budget pick is best for back and stomach sleepers. I was impressed with the excellent edge support, how easy it is to move around, and that it’s made of CertiPUR-US foam. The most significant negative was the poor motion isolation.
Bear Original: The Bear Original does a good job of cooling, is made in the US of CertiPUR-US certified foams, has great edge support, and is easy to set up and move around. However, it’s on the firmer side, so it was uncomfortable for side sleeping. Also, the motion isolation was poor, so it may not be the ideal option for couples.
Bear Pro: Despite feeling a little softer than average, I was comfortable on my stomach and side while sleeping on the Bear Pro, and I think its all-foam construction will appeal to all sleeping types. The copper-infused foam, gel-infused foam, and breathable Celliant cover give the bed impressive heat dissipation. The main negatives are it offers poor edge support, and it’s a bit pricey for an all-foam mattress. Read our full review.
Mattresses under $2,000
Mattresses over $2,000
Recommended Reading: What Type Of Mattress For Stomach Sleepers
Sleep Trial And Return Policy
Despite what companies may advertise, its impossible to find the perfect mattress within a one day trial. In some ways, online retailers offer a better advantage than traditional brick-and-mortar shops. They can cut out the middleman and save customers from the added pressure to buy on the spot.
Most online manufacturers offer a sleep trial of at least 30 days to allow customers to properly break in a mattress. Sleep trials give customers an adequate trial period to test out a mattress to see if its the best fit in offering the right amount of comfort and support. If not satisfied, companies will have the used mattress donated to charity at little to no cost to the customer.
Sleep trials offer customers the chance to decide whether or not a mattress is right for them. Choosing a mattress is not as simple as an hours visit at a local retailer. It takes serious consideration that may not be helped by added pressure to buy.
When searching for a mattress, take advantage of a sleep trial and give yourself the time to really try one out to make sure its the right one for you. A sleep trial is a perfect way to properly test out a mattress.
With how expensive mattresses can be, an available return policy may help to assure customers that their comfort matters. Companies who dont offer any type of reassurances with their mattresses, especially a return policy, should be avoided since they may not be looking after the customers well-being and more their own.
