A cozy bedroom with the windows open and a supportive mattress type of bed set up.

Mattress Types: Which is the Most Supportive?

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When shopping for a new mattress or evaluating your current one, you want to consider the mattress type. Much of this depends on your sleep style (back, stomach, or side), your weight, whether you sleep alone or with a partner, and if you have aches and pains.

For many people, a medium-firm mattress is a great choice. In addition, most sleepers will do well with a supportive mattress. But why?

You’ll find that sleeping on a supportive mattress helps evenly distribute your body weight. A supportive mattress also supports your spine and reduces pressure on your joints.

Finding a mattress that works for you is important because it improves your sleep and helps prevent your aches and pains. We’ll dive in to figure out which mattress type is the most supportive.

Hybrid Mattress

You may have noticed that hybrid mattresses have become increasingly popular. This is because they contain both foam and coils.

A hybrid mattress provides the support and bounce of a spring mattress with the comfortable softness of a memory foam mattress.

This mattress type allows for a great experience and provides support more comfortably. The hybrid mattress is an excellent choice for a wide variety of sleepers. You can also choose from various comfort layers and support zones.

Regarding support, the hybrid mattress aces this with the combination of foam layers and coils.

This mattress can work for many sleep positions and habits. Back and stomach sleepers may find pain relief from the added support. If you are sleeping with a partner, the hybrid mattress is positive in that it has bounce and support with an extra dose of comfort.

Memory Foam Mattress

The memory foam mattress conforms to the sleeper’s shape — enhancing performance. When you sleep on a memory foam mattress, it cradles your body when you lay on it and then bounces back once you get up.

Side sleepers and people with painful areas will find a memory foam mattress comfortable and supportive.

A memory foam mattress provides the utmost pressure relief. It relieves pain in your pressure spots, such as your hips, shoulders, and knees. In addition, memory foam mattresses isolate motion, making this a great mattress for co-sleepers.

While supportive, memory foam mattresses are extra supportive, so they are great for sleepers who have pressure build-up while sleeping. They are perfect for the side sleeper.

Spring Mattress

This mattress type has been around since the early 1900s and remains a popular mattress type today. They contain steel coils that compress when you lay down on them.

Spring mattresses are very supportive based on the shape, size, and number of coils. More coils generally mean more support.

For an affordable mattress, you’ll find four types of coils in the spring mattress: continuous, Bonnell, offset, and encased.

Continuous coils use a single wire as the sole support system. These are also durable mattresses.

The Bonnell mattress was the first invented. They use an hourglass shape.

Offset coils eliminate squeaky springs. They also conform more to the shape of your body and are known for being immensely supportive.

Encased coils are pocketed coils. They are wired together, and they work independently of one another. You’ll have motion isolation in this mattress type as well as extra support. In addition, you’ll note that these mattresses are more traditional and provide that bouncy feel many like.

Bottomline — innerspring mattresses fit people with different sleeping habits. Combination sleepers benefit the most. If you want firmer support, this firm mattress is a great option.

How Do You Choose the Most Supportive Mattress for You?

Look at this list of things to look for when shopping for the most supportive mattress for you:

  1. Know how you sleep. Do you sleep side, back, or stomach? Are you a combination sleeper?
  2. What is your height, weight, and body type? You can tell this to your salesperson, and they’ll help you find the right one.
  3. Do you prefer a plush, soft, medium, or firm mattress when you sleep? Remember that a supportive mattress can fit anywhere in that range — even soft.
  4. Do you have aches and pains in the morning, and if so, where?
  5. What are the components made of? This helps you find the most supportive mattress. Even mattresses with comfort components can be supportive. The best-supporting components for you may be different than for someone else.

Final Thoughts

So, to answer the question, “Which type of mattress is the most supportive?”, the most straightforward answer is the mattress that suits your needs.

Purchasing a mattress isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. So while one mattress may feel supportive to one person, it won’t to another.

What is essential to know is that a mattress that provides better support will help you sleep better. Therefore, you want to ensure that you find a mattress with quality materials on the inside and the outside.

The perfect mattress for you supports the comfort layers on the top. You want a strong foundation that helps your body weight regardless of your sleep position.

If you’re ready for a supportive mattress that works with your sleep style, we can help. Contact us today!

Photo by Antonio Caverzan on Unsplash

A cozy bedroom fitted with the benefits of having a bed in a box.

5 Benefits of Getting a Bed in a Box

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You’ve heard a lot about the bed in a box mattress. It appears in your social media feeds, and it is all over the internet. Just what are these mattresses called “bed in a box?”

We uncover them in this article as we look at the five benefits of getting a bed in a box.

Choosing a mattress is an important decision, and when researching your choices, you want to ensure you’re getting a good mattress. If you’re considering a bed in a box, let’s define it first.

What is a Bed in a Box?

In the simplest terms, a bed in a box is something that is sold online and shipped to you. It is usually a foam mattress that has been rolled and compressed.

It’s then put into a box and shipped right to you. The box is often sized just right for easy moving.

When you get the mattress, all you have to do is unpack it, lay it out flat, and wait for it to expand. It will regain its natural shape soon. Now that you know what it is, let’s look at the benefits of a bed in a box.

#1: Cost Savings

Because it takes out a lot of manual labor, a bed in a box is usually less expensive than a traditional mattress purchase.

Yes, you can pay thousands for a bed in a box, but most of these mattresses are more affordable than standard mattresses. You’ll also find online sales nearly all year long.

In this direct-to-consumer sale, overhead costs are reduced so that the manufacturer can pass the savings on to you.

#2: Easy Delivery and Set Up

Since your bed in a box is being shipped right to you, there are no delivery fees to pay. Or, you don’t have to figure out how to get your new mattress from the store to your house. There’s definitely no strapping a new bed to the top of your car.

Your compressed mattress arrives straight at your door. It comes in a manageable size box. So you don’t have the chore of lugging a very large, cumbersome mattress through doorways or upstairs.

Once home, the setup is seamless.

In no time, you can open the box, lay out your mattress, and it fluffs back into shape. Then, all you have to do is lay the compressed mattress on your box spring or bed frame and wait for it to inflate to size. This usually takes about a day.

Then it’s off to a dreamy night’s sleep.

#3: A Risk-Free Trial Period

Another benefit of the bed in a box is that many manufacturers let you try the bed out for a period of time. A free trial to decide if you like your new mattress is a great bonus.

There’s nothing quite like sleeping on your new mattress for a month or so to decide if it’s the right one for you.

Look around and see what sleep trial companies are offering. You may find some for a few weeks to a whole year. A risk-free purchase of your new bed in a box is a benefit worth considering.

#4: Comfortable Sleep

You’ll find that whether you sleep alone or with a partner, the bed in a box is a very comfortable option.

The layers of memory foam create a cozy sleep spot on a medium-firm mattress. The bed in a box is a comfortable, supportive mattress whether you sleep on your back, side, tummy, or a combination. You’ll enjoy the cooling properties, especially if you sleep hot.

Finally, the memory foam is quiet and absorbs movement, so you have little motion transfer when your partner moves or changes position.

#5: Options That Make Sense

One of the most frustrating parts of mattress shopping is wading through the many choices. That can make it extra challenging.

The good news is that when you are looking at a bed in a box, you will generally have fewer options to choose from. This makes it easier to pick out just the right one.

So, instead of a company offering 20 different mattresses to choose from, a bed in a box company may offer a handful. This makes choosing so much easier.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the benefits of a bed in a box, you are ready to buy one of these unique mattresses. But, still do your research. You have options, so you want to think about what’s important to you. For many, that’s cost and comfort.

In addition, you want to consider your body type, your sleep position, and the level of support you want. As you do your research, look at mattress features, such as cooling technology, motion isolation, and even whether it has a removable, washable cover.

Be sure and check out our bed in a box mattress! Our hybrid memory foam mattress provides superior comfort and support.

Photo: Rebeca Alvidrez on Unsplash

A cozy bedroom brown-tone that with either a memory foam mattress or a spring mattress.

Memory Foam Vs. Spring Mattresses

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Let’s face it, mattress shopping is confusing. With hundreds of choices and different types of mattresses, you may think it’s the most confusing process you’ve been through. The good news is we are breaking down the differences and similarities between the two most popular types of mattresses.

In this article, we look at memory foam versus spring mattresses. Then, with this information, you can be a well-informed mattress shopper who is well-equipped to find the best one for your needs.

What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

Created by NASA and once only available for astronauts, memory foam mattresses hit the market in the 1960s.

This memory foam consists of polyurethane foam and acts like a sponge, trapping air in small cavities. This is what makes it moldable to your body position. When you lay on it, it molds to your shape. Then, when you get up, it goes back to its natural state.

Memory foam is dense, but it is also very durable. In addition, memory foam mattresses are very comfortable and provide relief from pressure points.

Some of the best features of a memory foam mattress include:

  • It can relieve the pressure on your bones and joints.
  • The ability of the bed to mold to the sleeper’s shape makes it more comfortable.
  • If you’re sleeping with someone else, it absorbs the movements of the other person, so your sleep is less disturbed.
  • It provides support for your neck, back, hips, and shoulders.

On the other hand, some people find that memory foam mattresses tend to sag over time, are heavy, and frequently smell because chemicals are used in making them.

When shopping for a memory foam mattress, you’ll find three types:

  • A traditional memory foam mattress is made with polyurethane, traps heat, and molds to your body. Sometimes people may find these hot.
  • An open-cell foam mattress has all the same attributes but a different internal structure. It has an open cell to improve air movement, making the mattress cooler and fluffier.
  • A gel memory foam mattress has gel pods that are added to the memory foam. Or, it has gel on the top for a comfort layer. You’ll find these mattresses are bouncy, yet they also “bounce” back into shape. They often have more features than the previous two.

What is a Spring Mattress?

This is the type of mattress you may be most familiar with. You may have heard them called innerspring mattresses as well. They are comfortable and supportive for sleepers who have lower back issues. Also, heavier people may find them better because they have more support than a memory foam mattress. Stomach and back sleepers generally like spring mattresses.

Some of the best features of a spring mattress include:

  • They are supportive of back sleepers.
  • Spring mattresses often cost less than memory foam mattresses.
  • They have superior edge support.
  • They are bouncy.
  • Because of the coils, they provide good circulation.

On the other hand, spring mattresses can be noisy, and you may feel co-sleepers motion. These mattresses can also sag over time and wear out quickly.

Like memory foam mattresses, you’ll find several different types of spring mattresses:

  • Offset coils are in an hourglass shape. They conform to your body and are stiff and durable. These are high-end spring mattresses.
  • Pocket coils are individual springs that are covered with a fabric cover. Each coil functions on its own and conforms to body pressure on its own. These coils also separate the motion of other sleepers. These mattresses are often the most expensive spring mattresses.
  • Continuous coils twist into s-shaped coils. This is a very supportive mattress, and it also isolates motion from co-sleepers.
  • Bonnell coils are also an hourglass shape and are often the cheapest and help your body settle in once you lay down.

Similarities and Differences

Both of these mattress types are available in different firmness levels. However, you will generally find that innerspring mattresses are slightly firmer.

Regarding motion isolation, memory foam beds are generally better than spring mattresses. Yet, if you choose a spring mattress with individually pocketed coils, you’ll find more motion isolation.

Generally, memory foam mattresses provide a hotter sleep than spring mattresses. If you find one with gel, memory foam can be cool.

Both mattresses are similar when it comes to sleeping positions and provide for them all. Of course, your sleeping position should determine your firmness level, but you can be happy on either mattress.

Spring mattresses are often more durable, but memory foam can still be stable. Both types will last seven to 10 years. For price considerations, you can find mattresses from budget to luxury for both types.

Final Thoughts

You have a myriad of options when it comes to choosing a new mattress. While it may seem complicated, you are now armed with the information you need when comparing memory foam and spring mattresses.

They both have advantages as well as disadvantages. It depends on your sleep style, your needs, and your budget. We are happy to help you wade through your options and choose the best mattress for you.

Photo by dada_design on Unsplash

A cozy hybrid mattress bed with covers and a nightstand with a lamp on it.

Hybrid Mattresses: Explained

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The history of the first mattress goes back millions of years, and you can see they’ve come a long way. While those original mattresses were nothing more than leaves and debris, today’s hybrid mattress combines features from the traditional coil mattress and memory foam.

If you are researching a new mattress and no one’s explained the hybrid mattress to you, you’re in luck. Let’s examine the features and uncover why you might want to look at one.

What is a Hybrid Mattress?

Simply put, a hybrid mattress combines a spring coil mattress with many layers of foam. This extra foam on top provides you with extra cushion and comfort. It can accommodate a wide variety of sleeping positions as well as a variety of sleeping types. It isn’t for everyone, so read on to learn more about its features.

It is good to know that any mattress today can be considered a true hybrid if it has a pocketed coil support layer and a foam comfort layer.

What’s Inside?

If you look inside one, you’ll find innerspring coils and foam. This means you have the comfort of memory foam with the support of coils. Your mattress combo leads to a bed that has bounce, offers support, and provides pressure relief.

It’s important to note when shopping that the number of foam layers will vary by mattress. So be sure and ask and also try the beds out.

Think of your hybrid mattress as one with two support systems for added comfort.

Will I Like a Hybrid Mattress?

The most important feature of your new bed is what it will feel like. You’ll find that generally speaking, a hybrid mattress is supportive but also provides you with exceptional pressure relief. This is due to memory foam.

You should also be able to find a hybrid mattress in various types, from medium to firm and even medium-firm. For example, if you have back pain, you want to steer toward the medium-firm bed.

You won’t feel the pocketed coils inside the mattress, but you will benefit from them. They will provide some bounce and give to your mattress while the memory foam cradles your body comfortably.

You might feel like you are sinking into a comfortable top layer supported by the coil bottom.

How Many Layers are Inside?

All hybrids must have foam and coils, while some hybrids may have transition layers inside.

Let’s uncover the secrets of the hybrid mattress:

  • For many, the comfort layer is the most important layer because it makes the mattress feel so good. A regular innerspring mattress isn’t covered in memory foam layers, so it isn’t quite as cushiony. The memory foam molds to the sleeper’s body, but because there are springs underneath it, sleepers won’t feel “trapped” in the foam. So you don’t see the comfort layer on most hybrids, but you will see it on a pillow-top mattress.
  • Some hybrid mattresses may have a transition layer that is made from some foam. This makes the mattress more bouncy and cushiony. This layer might also contain cooling features that are especially helpful for people who sleep hot.
  • The support layer is where you find the pocketed coils. Because they are separate, the mattress won’t squeak like a regular spring mattress. You also may not notice motion transfer as you would in a traditional mattress.

Like all mattresses, the layers are variable depending on the quality and the manufacturer.

Benefits of a Hybrid Mattress

If you’re in the market for a new mattress, you should consider these features of the hybrid mattress:

  • It is supportive. The pocketed coil support provides the perfect spot for your back and spine. The mattress can help you prevent chronic pain.
  • The hybrid is highly responsive. Because it’s made from foam and coils, it’s both springy, responsive, and cozy.
  • It relieves pressure on your body. The memory foam on top provides pressure relief and conforms to the curves of your body.
  • While most foam mattresses trap heat, the hybrid mattress doesn’t. The coils allow for air circulation, which keeps the foam from overheating.
  • The hybrid has little motion transfer. The independent coils won’t transfer motion across the mattress if you are sleeping with a partner.

Final Thoughts

A hybrid mattress may be just right for you if all foam or traditional innerspring mattresses don’t feel quite right. You can see from the features listed here, that a hybrid mattress is a good option for many.

Do your research, try some mattresses out, and you’ll soon find the bed of your “dreams.”

At Mattress Outlet, we can help you find the perfect mattress with just the right mattress features for night after night of solid, comfortable sleep.

Photo by Fred Kleber on Unsplash

An affordable mattress set up with nice covers and pillows.

You Can Find an Affordable Mattress with Great Features

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greaYou’re ready to start shopping for a new mattress. You may have even done a little bit of research and come away shocked by the prices you see. The good news is that you can find an affordable mattress with great features. Furthermore, just because a mattress is affordable doesn’t mean it’s cheap.

Let’s look at how you can save money on a mattress and still find one that has the features you’re looking for and works for your sleep style, your needs, and your budget.

Steer Clear of Big Name Brands

You know that when shopping at the grocery store, you can save money on food when you shop for store brands. The same holds true when shopping for a mattress. If you stay away from the big-name brands, you can bring the price down quite a bit without sacrificing quality.

Now, let’s look at some of the features you want to look for when shopping for an affordable mattress:

Memory Foam Mattresses

If you’re looking for one of the most popular types of mattresses on the market today, you might be looking for a memory foam mattress.

Many people will be quite happy with this bed, and you can find an affordable memory foam mattress.

Why are people flocking to memory foam mattresses? Besides affordability, memory foam mattresses are very adaptive. This type of mattress evenly distributes your weight and can help relieve your pressure points.

In addition, memory foam mattresses are great for co-sleepers as the foam contours to each person’s body shape. This means each side is personalized for your sleep style. Perhaps the best for co-sleepers, you won’t notice your partner moving around as much because memory foam doesn’t move with sleepers.

Affordable memory foam mattresses can last eight to ten years.

Hybrid Coil Foam Mattresses

If you like a combination of memory foam with a traditional coil mattress, you can find an affordable hybrid coil foam mattress, too.

This type of mattress mixes the thick, comforting layers of memory foam with the traditional support of an innerspring mattress.

Sleepers find this bed contours to their bodies like memory foam and is bouncy like an innerspring.

A hybrid mattress combines the best of both worlds. It provides foam and springs. Many people find this is a great recipe for a wonderful night’s sleep.

You will get firmness, support, bounce, and the memory foam “hug” at an affordable price.

Adjustable Frames

When it comes to affordable mattresses and overall packages, you can also find adjustable frames to suit your needs. This type of frame lets you up the ante on support. You can adjust your bed for either your upper body, lower body, or both.

You’ll find that when looking for an affordable mattress, you also want to look for the right bed frame. An adjustable frame isn’t just for the hospital!

In addition, you’ll find that an adjustable frame can enhance your sleep quality by improving your blood circulation. By elevating your head, legs, or both, you can also reduce snoring and improve your breathing.

Be sure to check out the adjustable frames when searching for your new mattress.

Some Budget-Conscious Shopping Tips

Now, let’s look at a few of our favorite tips for finding an affordable mattress:

  • Buy at the right time. You may find special deals around major holiday weekends when shopping for a new mattress. Watch for promotions in your hometown and look online, too. You may find deals on mattresses as well as add-ons. For example, some manufacturers may throw in a bed frame during sale weekends.
  • Save your money. If your mattress is five or six years old, start saving now to buy a new mattress. You don’t want to wait until you start having back or neck pain or until your mattress is broken down and sagging. If you start saving early enough, you won’t have sticker shock when it’s time to buy.
  • Don’t pay extra for coils. Some salespeople will try to upsell you based on coil count. While this was important in the past regarding firmness, it’s not true today. Remember, you want to choose a mattress that is comfortable for you and in your price range.

Final Thoughts

Many people think that just because something is expensive, it must be better. Like a lot of things, this isn’t necessarily the case. A more expensive mattress doesn’t always equal better quality.

The best and most affordable mattress is one that has the great features you need and works for you. Do your research, lay down on mattresses, and talk to the salespeople, and you will be well on your way to the perfect affordable mattress for you.

And remember, there’s nothing wrong with finding a bargain as long as you’ve done your research!

At Mattress Outlet, we can help you find the perfect mattress with just the right mattress features for night after night of solid, comfortable sleep.

A group of people holding wine glasses drinking in a party setting.

7 Things to Avoid Right Before Bed

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Are you craving a good sleep? Do you have the best mattress and the perfect pillow, but sleep still eludes you?

It just may be what you’re doing before bedtime that has you struggling to go to sleep and stay asleep. Here are seven things to avoid right before bed and tips for good sleep.

#1: Don’t Drink Alcohol

If you’re like many people, you like a glass of wine or a beer with your dinner. If so, consider drinking alcohol at least three hours before bedtime for a better night’s sleep.

Some people think drinking alcohol helps them sleep, but that isn’t the case. Alcohol contains sugar which is a stimulant. You’ll find that alcohol can make you feel sleepy, but it will interrupt your sleep later in the night.

#2: Don’t Drink a Lot of Water

You want to be careful with your intake of water the closer you get to bedtime.

Some people don’t drink enough water during the day, so they are extra thirsty in the evening. They drink a lot of water, and they get up several times during the night. This interrupts their sleep and leaves them exhausted in the morning.

While we’re looking at things to drink, you also want to avoid drinking caffeine before bedtime if you find that keeps you up.

#3: Don’t Check Your Email

Stress is the enemy of good sleep. And what could be more stressful than checking your email right before bed and being reminded of all the things you need to do?

You want to resist the temptation to dive into your inbox at bedtime. Instead, turn off your notifications or ignore them altogether.

Just imagine if you open an email at 10 pm only to find there’s a work problem. You’re too tired to deal with it, but you stew about it for an hour and have trouble falling asleep. Just ignore that email!

#4: Don’t Use Your Smartphone

You want to avoid blue light before bedtime, and that means not only your smartphone but your laptop, tablet, and your television, too.

Scientists have linked exposure to blue light to problems sleeping. Why? Blue light messes with your melatonin which is the hormone linked to your circadian rhythms.

Stop looking at screens a couple of hours before bedtime. If you must watch a movie, try to turn it off at least an hour before bedtime. Say goodbye to your addiction to technology and pick up a book instead. You’ll find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Finally, don’t forget to turn your phone notifications off. Or, better yet, leave your phone in the kitchen.

#5: Don’t Argue

You’ve probably heard the old saying about going to bed angry. Well, it turns out you want to avoid arguing right before bed if you want to improve your sleep.

If you think you’re about to get into an argument, calm down, and try to put off the heated conversation until the next day. In addition to better sleep, you just may find what you were getting ready to argue about isn’t that important after all.

#6: Don’t Work

This goes hand in hand with not checking your email. Set boundaries for your work hours. This means both office workers and remote workers.

To maintain your health and the health of your relationships, leave work at work. If you must work, don’t work in your bedroom and stop at least two hours before bedtime so you have time to relax and slow down.

#7: Don’t Work Out

Finally, while working out helps you sleep better, it’s important to pay attention to what time you do work out. Working out is vital to your overall well-being, but it’s a good idea to avoid it right before bedtime.

Exercise is a stimulant and just may keep you up.

Final Thoughts

The Sleep Health Foundation says one in three people have sleep problems. This in turn causes many health problems, both mental and physical.

Getting good sleep is first about your mattress and pillows, and it’s second about doing the right things before bedtime.

We’ve talked a lot about the seven things to avoid right before bed, but one thing you should do before bed is soak in a hot bath or a hot tub.

Soaking in a hot tub or warm bath about 90 minutes before bedtime helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep. Improving sleep can help you feel better the next day and function at a higher level.

So, what are you waiting for? Get a new mattress that works for your sleep style and try some of these tips for good sleep.  You’ll find that by making a few easy changes, you’ll be sleeping better and longer in no time.

A back sleeper sleeping in their bed with the covers over their head.

The Best Mattress Type for a Back Sleeper

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Whether you’re a back sleeper, side sleeper, or tummy sleeper, there are mattress types made just for you.

Today, we’re looking at mattress features for a back sleeper. If this is you, you are most likely looking for a mattress that has the perfect combination of support and comfort. You want your mattress to conform to your contours yet one that’s sturdy enough to help keep your spine in alignment.

Let’s look at the best mattress type for you, a back sleeper. When looking for mattresses for back sleepers, there are certain mattress features to look for.

1. Look at Firmness Levels

When considering mattress features for back sleepers, you want to first look at how firm the bed is. The firmness level of your mattress is vital to your overall comfort and even pain level.

Generally speaking, the best mattress is medium firm. It’s not too soft, and it’s not too firm. Because it’s not too soft, you don’t sink into the bed, and you have enough support. And because it’s not too firm, it still contours to your body. In addition, a mattress that is too firm can really put extra pressure on your shoulders and your hips. You then end up sore in the morning.

2. Look for a Mattress that Contours

Another mattress feature a back sleeper wants to look for is the perfect balance of support combined with comfort.

For example, a memory foam mattress is often a great choice for a back sleeper because the foam contours to the shape of your body when you lay on it. Most back sleepers find this incredibly comfortable. Not only does the mattress contour to the curves of your spine, but it cradles you in comfort.

If you’re looking for a more traditional innerspring mattress, you want to find one with a memory foam layer. Alternatively, you can add a foam mattress topper.

3. Look for a Strong Mattress

When shopping by mattress features, you want to look for a durable, strong mattress. Spend a little bit more money for durability, and your mattress will offer you support for your spine.

Consider the quality of the mattress and the materials involved in making it. The best mattresses will last you around eight years.

4. Look Out for Comfort

As you start shopping for a new mattress, we encourage you to lay down on several. Check for comfort. You want to know from the outset that the mattress feels good to lay on.

Comfort is important for back sleepers. Consider when you lay down on your mattress, how you have a space in the lumbar area of your back. This is an important place to pay attention to when lying down.

You want to make sure there is enough lumbar support to close that gap between the mattress and your lumbar region. This is vital, especially if you have back pain.

Final Thoughts on the Best Mattresses for Back Sleepers

The back sleeping position is the second most popular type of sleeping position after side sleeping.  People who sleep on their back may sleep straight like a “soldier.” Or they might sleep like a “starfish” with their arms above their heads and their legs stretched out to the side.

Whichever back position you find yourself in, it’s important that you choose a mattress with the mattress features that work for you.

First, you want proper spine alignment. Without this, you’ll find yourself waking up with aches and pains. You want mattress features that support your hips and shoulders. Yet you don’t want to put pressure on them. You want an even sleep surface, a mattress that conforms to your contours, and one that doesn’t sag.

Second, you want to look for a medium-firm mattress. This is especially true for average-weight back sleepers. If you are heavier, you want to look for a firmer mattress.

Third, don’t forget your pillow. Like your mattress, you want to find a pillow that is comfortable and supportive.

Back sleepers don’t need a pillow with a lot of loft. For those who sleep on their back, a thin to medium pillow is best. Choosing the right pillow means you can keep your head, neck, and spine in proper alignment.

The best mattress features are the ones that not only meet your sleep position needs, but your personal preferences, and your budget.

At Mattress Outlet, we can help you find the perfect mattress with just the right mattress features for night after night of solid, comfortable sleep.

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

A cozy room setup with a tailored mattress.

Firm Vs. Soft: How to Know What Mattress is Right for You

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Shopping for a mattress can be frustrating and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be if you have the right information upfront. As you get started on your mattress shopping journey, one of the first questions you need to answer is how firm of a mattress you want.

For example, are you looking for a cushy bed that you sink into? Or do you prefer a bed that is firm and supportive without the cushy feeling? We’ll look at firm vs. soft mattresses and look at how to know what mattress type is right for you.

What is the Difference Between Firmness and Support?

You don’t want to confuse firmness and support when shopping for a mattress. First, a supportive mattress keeps your spine neutral. Second, firmness is how your mattress feels when you lay on it.

Both firm and soft mattresses can be supportive and relieve pain. And they can both be comfortable. The most important thing for you to know is which mattress feels best for you. You also want to make sure it was built for your sleep style.

What is the Difference Between a Firm and Soft Mattress?

When you start looking at mattresses, you may hear people talk about the scale of firmness. Many mattress companies use this scale to rate mattress firmness. This is a 1-10 scale. This scale may vary between manufacturers, but on average, anything under 6.5 is a softer mattress, and anything over 6.5 is firmer. Around this middle point, you’ll find a medium-firm mattress.

Generally, memory foam mattresses are softer, while innerspring mattresses are firmer. Many people these days prefer memory foam mattresses because they contour to the sleeper’s body, are comfortable, and offer pressure relief.

However, you can find a memory foam mattress that is medium-firm to firm. It all depends on the comfort layer on the top.

It is very important to test out mattresses before purchasing because one person’s firm mattress isn’t always another person’s. It may depend on personal preference or the size of the sleeper. For example, a heavier person might feel like a memory foam mattress is firmer, while a lighter person would find the opposite.

Who Benefits from a Firm Mattress Type?

A firm mattress isn’t one that you can sink into. This type of mattress is great for people who sleep on their backs or their stomach. This is because a firm mattress helps keep your back and hips aligned, so you don’t have pain when you sleep or wake up in the morning.

In addition, heavier people might prefer a firm mattress because they won’t sink into it. Thus, they won’t feel like they are stuck in the mattress. Firm mattresses aren’t the right mattress for all sleepers, though. Sometimes a firm mattress isn’t comfortable. This is especially true if you’ve been sleeping on a soft mattress. It might take a month or two for you to get used to it.

Also, if you have arthritis or joint pain, a firm mattress may cause you even more problems. A softer mattress is probably right for you.

Who Benefits from a Soft Mattress Type?

A soft mattress is one that conforms to your body and is very responsive. They are often made from memory foam, and the better the mattress, the more layers it has. A soft mattress is a good choice for side sleepers because it provides soft cushioning for your hips and shoulders. This in turn supports a healthy spine.

Soft mattresses are cozy and cushioning. They can help reduce pressure points, so you don’t wake up with back, neck, shoulder, and hip pain. For people with lots of back pain, a soft mattress might even help relieve your pain because it cradles your back.

On the con side, a soft mattress can offer too much cushioning, and back and stomach sleepers may not find it comfortable. Generally, they need a sturdier surface.

Final Thoughts

So, how do you choose, and how do you know what mattress is right for you in the firm vs. soft battleground? You will know which mattress type is right for you based on your sleeping position (back, stomach, side, or combo) and your size.

Choose a firm mattress if you are a back or stomach sleeper or a larger person. If you are petite or you sleep on your side, head to a softer mattress. For most people, somewhere in the middle is the best place to be.

Lay down on mattresses and try them out. It really is up to you and based on your personal preference. You want to choose the best mattress for you and your sleep partner if you have one.

Photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash

White pillows on a Mattress Outlet mattress.

How Your Pillow Type is Impacting Your Sleep

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What’s your pillow type? We talk a lot about how the quality of your mattress can affect your sleep, and why it’s important to find the right mattress for your sleep style. Both things are also true about your pillow type. Have you considered your own pillow at home and how it’s affecting your sleep?

In this article, we look at how your pillow type is impacting your sleep and help you with the next steps.

The Right Pillow Helps Support Your Spine

First, you want the right pillow for your sleep position. For example, a side sleeper will want a different type of pillow than a back or stomach sleeper.

Next, you want a pillow type that provides you with the right amount of support for your head, your neck, and your spine. Your pillow should support the natural curve of your neck. The wrong pillow can make your neck bend unnaturally, negatively affecting your sleep.

If your pillow is too firm or too soft for the way you sleep, you’ll compromise the quality of your sleep.

For example, if you sleep on your side, but your pillow is too soft, your head moves sideways to find a comfortable spot. For some people who sleep on their stomachs, their too-firm pillow causes them to sleep with their neck bent backward.

To get good quality sleep, look at different types of pillows. See which ones are labeled for the way you sleep: on your back, side, or tummy.

The Right Pillow Helps You Sleep Comfortably

Losing sleep is never the goal. Getting a good night’s rest is imperative to how you function during the day.

If you aren’t sleeping properly, your body doesn’t have time to repair itself. Your brain doesn’t unwind all the way either. So, you can see how important getting a solid dose of sleep can be to your regular daily functioning.

If you sleep on the right pillow type for you, you’ll avoid sleep deprivation. People who don’t get enough sleep may be in a bad mood, they may be impatient and quick to anger. In addition, their reflexes are slow, they aren’t thinking at the top of their game, and they may eat more than they should.

What’s more, chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a wide variety of issues including diabetes, heart disease, and low productivity.

This is just another way your pillow is impacting your sleep, and why it’s good to buy the right one for you.

How to Find the Right Pillow

Do you know the right pillow type for you?

It’s important to know that the pillow type for you may not be the pillow type that works for your partner. So, it’s not a good idea to simply go out and buy two of the same pillows. It’s a personal preference unique to you.

Here are some of the most common different types of pillows you may look at:

  • Memory foam pillow: like a memory foam mattress, this type of pillow conforms to you and is supportive. In addition, it contours to your head and neck and cradles you.
  • Down pillow: this is a luxurious, soft pillow. You’ll find that you can move it around and position it how you like. These pillows aren’t as supportive as memory foam. Do consider the down fill, though. The higher the fill, the better the pillow.
  • Feather pillows: these are more affordable than down, but they aren’t nearly as soft.
  • Down alternative: this is an option for people who love down but are allergic to it. Again, it’s not as nice as down, but it is a good option for some.

The goal is to keep your spine in a neutral, straight position. When it comes to pillow types, also consider the following:

  • Back and stomach sleepers want to find a thin, soft pillow.
  • Side sleepers need a firm pillow.

Final Thoughts

Are you one of the many people who logs the “right amount” of hours each night, but you have trouble getting out of bed every day? Are you always tired even though you’ve “slept for eight hours?”

It could be that your pillow is causing you problems. In addition, if you have a sore neck, or your shoulders are tight, it might be your pillow.

Do you know anyone who won’t leave home without their pillow? They take it to hotels and on long road trips. They might tell you it’s the only way they’ll get a good night’s rest. Well, it turns out they are right!

When combined with the right mattress, your pillow type can impact your sleep. There are many pillow types, and there are benefits of different types of pillows. Do your research and find the best pillow for you.

Photo by Jude Infantini on Unsplash

A comfortable mattress with thinner summer-time bedding area perfect for good sleep on a hot night

The 5 Ways to Get Good Sleep on a Hot Night

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For most of the country, summer is hot, and that can make sleeping difficult. Whether you have air conditioning or not, your house is undoubtedly hotter.

So, how can you improve your sleep when it’s hot for months or you live in a warm climate?

Let’s look at five ways to get good sleep on a hot night.

#1: Cool the Room During the Day

When you keep your shades, blinds, or curtains open all day, you’ll find that the room heats up considerably.

This is the last thing you want to do if you want a cooler place to sleep at night. By keeping your room cool all day, you have a better chance of keeping it cool while you sleep.

Most people agree that the best temperature for sleeping is between 66-69 degrees. Even if you use your air conditioner and fans, you want to keep your shades shut so you can keep your bedroom cool during the day.

#2: Buy a Cooling Mattress

If you buy a nice, high-quality mattress, you’ll find that you feel cooler when you sleep on it. This is because nicer mattresses are better able to disperse your body heat. So ultimately you end up sleeping cooler.

Most memory foam mattresses will allow you to sleep cooler.

#3: Get Prepared

How do you prepare for a good sleep when it’s warm outside and in your house?

You want to prepare the room so there is a good breeze blowing.

If it’s cool where you live in the evening, you can open your windows and let the fresh air and breeze in. Be careful, though, and make sure it’s not loud in your neighborhood.

Yet, if you don’t live somewhere where it cools down at night, you definitely want to use a fan or even several.

Set up a couple of fans around your bedroom so you get a strategic breeze that’s not annoying but is soothing.

You may also find the sound of the fan and the white noise it makes easier to fall asleep while helping you stay asleep longer.

In addition, if you run your air conditioner, consider turning it down a little at night. It’s always better to sleep cool.

Finally, make sure to sleep with the door open. If you close the door, the heat has nowhere to go.

#4: Limit Your Bed Guests

If you have kids and pets in bed with you, it’s a good idea to send them to their own beds. Keep your bed for you and your partner.

While you may like cuddling with your partner, your pets, and even your small children during the cold winter evenings, you want to limit your bed partners when it’s hot because togetherness raises the temperature in the room.

You’ll find the more creatures in your bed, the harder time you’ll have at cooling off. Bottom line – the fewer bodies the better.

Another good idea is to spread out on your bed, so you and your partner aren’t so close to one another. And make sure the fans blow on everyone who likes the cool breeze.

#5: Cool Your Bed

If you want good sleep on a hot night, you can also try sleeping in lighter pajamas. Now is not the time for long sleeves and long pants or flannel pajamas.

Sleep in breathable, lightweight fabrics when it’s hot. Also, look for more natural materials and fibers as they make it easier for your body to regulate its temperature.

In addition, consider switching out your bedding for summer weight sheets, lightweight blankets, and a thin comforter. It can be helpful to have a winter set and a summer set that helps you feel cooler when sleeping.

Final Thoughts

To get the best night’s sleep on a hot night, you want to keep your body temperature at normal or even slightly less than your normal temperature.

By keeping your body at these temperatures, you are better able to sleep. It’s a proven fact that sleeping colder can help you sleep better. In fact, a Harvard study found that your body temperature drops right before you go to sleep. Then your body reduces its core temperature while you sleep by 1 to 2°F. This helps you conserve energy.

Therefore, when you sleep in a colder room, your temperature drops faster, and you fall asleep and stay asleep easier.

As you improve your bedroom for a good night’s sleep on a hot night, don’t forget to forgo the caffeine after an early dinner, avoid screens a few hours before bedtime, and take a warm bath or shower before bedtime.

With the five ways to get good sleep on a hot night we discussed in this article, you may be able to hit those core temperature numbers for a great night of sleep!

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash