When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, many things can help, though having a comfortable, supportive mattress is a great place to start. There is no better feeling than falling into bed at the end of a long day onto a mattress you love. If you want to upgrade your mattress, here are the top tips and advice on finding the best one and setting it up to maximize its comfort for as long as possible.
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Selecting the right mattress
There are a few things to consider when shopping for your new mattress; it’s worth taking time to answer a few questions to make sure you choose the right one. After all, choose well; it can last you ten years and beyond.
Firstly, what is your normal sleeping style?
We all sleep differently, though it’s important to rest on the correct support – after all, we spend a lot of time in bed. Not sure what is best for your sleeping style? Memory foam naturally contours to all sleeping positions, whether front, back, or side. The supportive foam keeps you in perfect alignment from head to toe, which can help prevent or ease any neck, back and hip pain.
Are you a hot sleeper?
If you tend to overheat at night and prefer a cool, breathable sleep, you want to consider the fabrics you are choosing. Opting for mattresses made with naturally thermoregulating fabrics can keep you consistently comfortable on those warmer summer nights. Advanced technologies in more modern mattresses can further optimise airflow and breathability, affecting price, though a quality mattress is a great investment.
What sleeping surface do you prefer?
Are you a soft, squidgy sleeper or lean more towards firmness and support? Different technologies offer a different experience; memory foam tends to be firmer, while pocket springs can cushion you comfortably. Want the best of both? A hybrid mattress combines fills, which blend orthopaedic support with bespoke comfort. It’s a win when it comes to a good night’s sleep.
Mattress Set-Up – The Expansion Process
Once you have selected a mattress, the next step is to consider getting it set up and ready to sleep on. Mattresses tend to have an expansion process because they are tightly rolled or boxed for delivery. While your mattress can still be slept on, you may find it does not meet peak comfort levels until it has had time to expand fully; while latex mattresses can expand in as quickly as eight hours, memory foam and pocket spring mattresses can take up to 48. What about a hybrid mattress that contains both springs and memory foam? They can take up to 72 hours to fully expand, though when they do – they are well worth the wait.
Settling in
Allow yourself a good week or so before you decide if you have selected the right mattress; adjusting to a different level of comfort and support can take time, especially if you are changing sleeping surfaces or trying a new type of fabric. When shopping for a mattress, make sure you go for a brand that offers a free home trial to allow you the time to get to know each other.
Top tips for setting up your mattress for longevity
Invest in a supportive bed frame – A solid, quality bed frame can help keep your mattress in place and prevent any squeaking and creaking throughout the night. It can ensure your mattress stays secure and still for a smooth, comfortable night’s sleep.
Rotate and flip your mattress – Rotating your mattress every three months can help maximize comfort for as long as possible. You can flip your mattress once every six months to keep it fresh and supportive, maintaining that new feeling.
Protect your mattress – A mattress is a big investment. Protecting it with a waterproof mattress protector can help you get the most out of it. A quality mattress protector will keep it fresh and prevent wear and tear from eating in bed or sharing a bed with pets.
Cleaning – Regularly vacuuming and wiping down your memory foam mattress with a damp cloth can help prevent bacteria from building up, optimising freshness and hygiene.
Additional comfort
Now you’ve found a great mattress, why not consider ways to add additional comfort? Such as…
Supportive Pillows – Having orthopedic grade, supportive pillows complimenting your mattress will provide further care for your neck and spinal alignment.
Comfortable Bedding – Choosing breathable, skin-friendly fabrics for your bedding will enhance the comfort of your sleep and help you drift off for a deep, restorative rest.
Temperature Control– Ensuring your bedroom is at the optimum 18.5-degree temperature will keep you consistently comfortable throughout the night for a healthier, longer sleep.
Extra support and cushioning – If you feel your mattress could be more supportive or slightly more cushioned and giving, adding a topper can help achieve that perfect balance. As with your mattress, look for a brand that offers a free trial so you can experiment and make sure you have found the right fit.
Accessorize – Whether it’s a relaxing eye mask to block out ambient light or throws and blankets for added comfort and style, choosing some bedtime accessories that help you unwind and settle in for a good night’s sleep are ideal last touches.
Conclusion
Selecting the best mattress for your sleeping position and preferences is worth the time; it will help you find the perfect match. It is still important to go for a brand with a free home trial to be sure, as the adjustment period can take time and vary from sleeper to sleeper.
Regularly flipping, rotating, and cleaning your mattress will maintain freshness and hygiene. At the same time, a mattress protector will protect you from any spillages and allow you to enjoy those coffees in bed.
Enhancing bedtime with beautifully soft bedding, supportive pillows, and any sleep accessories, such as eye masks, can help transform your bed into the perfect customized sanctuary, ensuring you finish every day immersed in comfort and enjoy the best night’s sleep.
For more on this topic, check out the full Sleep collection
