"You don't want your mattress too soft, and you don't want your mattress too firm. Right in the middle is the best. If you have a big pillow top on your mattress, you want to make sure you have a firm mat underneath. There are so many, many different types of mattress. Find the one for you," advises mattress expert Nikki Coker of Beds, Beds, and More.
The best mattress has a combination of padding and a firm foundation that will support the natural curves of your body. A few of the labels you will find on mattresses include firm, cushion firm, plush, pillow top, and ultra plus pillow top. These indicate comfort levels while support is achieved through the coil or foam system at the core of the mattress. So it's important to become educated about the different technologies and construction techniques that make each mattress different when selecting a new mattress.
A second myth about mattresses is that all queen size mattresses, for instance, are the same size. Mattresses generally meet industry standards for length and width but can vary greatly in height. This is important to know when shopping for fitted bed linens.
A third myth is that inner spring or coil mattresses are better than foam mattresses. New technologies have allowed foam mattresses to offer just as much support and comfort as inner spring or coil mattresses. Once again, the best mattress is determined by personal preference. Concerning inner spring mattresses, it is supposed that the more coils the mattress has the better it is. While it is true that more coils can mean higher quality, the most important factors are the thickness or gauge of the steel the coils are made from and the quality of the padding and upholstery covering the coils. It should be noted that the lower the gauge of the steel the stronger and thicker the steel is. For example, 10 gauge steel is stronger than 15 gauge steel. As far as foam mattresses, the quality is generally determined by the weight or density of the materials used and by the mattress's ability to regain its shape after being pressed upon.
A fourth myth is that is okay to buy a new mattress and use it with an old box spring foundation. Mattress and box spring sets are designed to work together. The old box spring may not be properly equipped to support and absorb the shock of a mattress it was not designed for. Not using the matching box spring may also invalidate a mattress's warranty.
A fifth myth is that all mattresses should be turned and flipped to prolong their life. It is true that turning and flipping certain mattresses will balance the wear on them and help them last longer, but newer mattresses especially are designed to be no-flip. Only one side of these mattresses is upholstered with cushioning appropriate for sleeping on and flipping them could either damage the mattress or reduce your comfort level.
