Tag Archive for: different mattresses

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

Memory Foam Vs. Spring Mattresses

/0 Comments/in /by

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 room setup with a tailored mattress.

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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

How to Choose the Right Mattress Firmness

How to Choose the Right Mattress Firmness

/2 Comments/in /by

Deciding on the right firmness when it comes to mattress types is a really personal choice.

It may depend on a lot of things like your size, shape, body weight, pain issues, and whether you sleep with another person.

Yet, there’s good news. There are some standard suggestions on how to choose the right firmness for you. These general “rules” are pretty uniform throughout the mattress industry. So, let’s discuss firmness and how to pick the best mattress for you.

First, though, let’s define the different types of mattress firmness you can look at.

Finding the Right Firmness

The best thing you can do is sit and lay down on the mattress when deciding on firmness levels. How does it feel to you? Are you sinking in so much that you can’t get up? Or is it really firm with little give? While there is a label on each mattress, remember it’s important that you decide how it feels to you.

When it comes to choosing the right firmness, you’re usually looking at soft, medium, and firm. Each mattress is labeled with its firmness level.

Mattresses are rated on a firmness scale of 1 to 10. This means that a mattress on the lower end of the scale is soft. As you move up to 10, the mattress gets firmer. The industry standard for medium-firm is generally 6.5/10. Now let’s look at soft, medium, and firm.

Defining the Soft Mattress

Soft mattresses are in the 3 to 5 out of 10 range. You might notice these mattresses really contour to your body, and you definitely sink in when laying on them. These mattresses provide pressure relief for those with body aches and pains.

A soft mattress might also have a pillow top and be made of cushy memory foam. A soft mattress is great for side sleepers. It also works for people who have pain and pressure points on their bodies.

Defining the Medium-Firm Mattress

Most people, when choosing the right firmness, will end up with a medium-firm mattress. These mattresses fall on the 6 to 7 point out of 10 range when it comes to firmness.

Generally, you’ll find a mattress made from coils or memory foam. Then, you might find layers of softer foam on top.

Medium firm mattresses are great for people who sleep on their backs or for combination sleepers. A medium-firm mattress is supportive while also providing great relief on pressure points.

You won’t find that you sink very far into a medium-firm mattress, but you will feel comfortable.

Defining the Firm Mattress

Many people also prefer a firm mattress. This mattress type is most often preferred by people who sleep on their stomachs. Heavier people will appreciate a firm mattress as well because a firm mattress holds them up better.

A firm mattress is usually in the 8 to 10 out of 10 range on the scale of firmness. These mattresses won’t be soft or cushy. They are very supportive, and for some people, this is just what they’re looking for.

How Do You Choose?

When it comes to choosing the right firmness, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do I like a soft bed or a firm bed?
  • What position do I like to sleep in?
    • This is the most important thing to consider when choosing the right firmness. You will need a different firmness based on what part of your body is in the most contact with the mattress or if you have pain in certain areas. Here are some tips:
      • Side sleepers are better on soft mattresses because they help conform to pressure points.
      • Stomach sleepers are happier on a firmer mattress because it helps support their hips and pelvis. You don’t want your hips and pelvis to sink lower than your shoulders.
      • Back sleepers can choose their firmness because the pressure is spread across their bodies as they sleep. Most back sleepers do well on any type of mattress!
      • Finally, if you have pain in your neck, back, shoulders, or hips, a medium-firm mattress is generally the best option.

Final Thoughts

When it comes time to choose the right firmness, you want to find the right mattress that keeps your spine aligned, helps you sleep better, and leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated in the morning.

Consider your pressure points and how you like to sleep. Choose a mattress firmness that gives you the right amount of support while also supporting the natural curve of your spine.

Remember that it’s important to lay on each type of mattress. Just because it’s medium firm doesn’t mean it’s not comfortable. Likewise, just because a mattress is labeled soft doesn’t mean it won’t support you.

Don’t forget the person you sleep with too. You may find you both need different levels of firmness. If this is the case, choosing a medium-firm mattress can work well for both of you.

Ready to choose the right firmness? Let us help you find just what you need.

Photo by Vladislav Muslakov on Unsplash

Mattress Types Explained

Mattress Types: Explained

/1 Comment/in /by

If you’re looking for a new mattress, shopping can be overwhelming. The good news is there is a mattress out there for you, and it’s perfect for your sleep style and your budget.

In this article we look at a few different mattress types and explain them so you’re ready to start shopping.

Types of Mattresses

First, let’s look at an overview of your choices as well as some budget information.

  • The innerspring mattress is a medium to firm mattress. Pricing ranges from budget to luxury.
  • The hybrid mattress has a medium firmness. Pricing ranges from budget to luxury.
  • The memory foam mattress is a soft to medium firm mattress. It is also priced budget to luxury.
  • The gel-infused foam mattress is a soft to medium firm mattress. It is priced mid-range to luxury.

Now, let’s look more closely at each mattress type.

The Innerspring Mattress

This mattress is the one most people think of because it’s a traditional type of mattress.

You’ll find this mattress consists of layers of coils enclosed inside the mattress. These coils are where you find support. The coils may be connected or wrapped individually. If they are connected, your bed has more bounce. You might feel your partner moving around on this mattress.

When coils are individually wrapped, you most likely won’t feel any movement when your partner moves around.

When it comes to the innerspring, you’ll find manufacturers use different types of coils and layouts. You’ll find these mattresses come in a wide range of budget options. Generally, the better the coils, and the more coils the mattress has, the more you’ll pay.

The innerspring mattress is often very comfortable and quite affordable. If you’re a stomach or back sleeper, have lower back pain, or you are a larger individual, you’ll find this mattress more supportive.

The Hybrid Mattress

A hybrid mattress generally combines both memory foam and a coil mattress into one. This creates a mattress that is medium to firm.

You’ll find that the coils are underneath, and the memory foam sits on top of the mattress. This makes it both firm and cushioning at the same time.

The hybrid mattress is a good choice for sleepers or any position. This makes it perfect for couples where perhaps one is a back sleeper, and one is a side sleeper.

Some types of hybrid mattresses are even marketed as a bed-in-a-box. You can have these shipped right to your door, move them into your bedroom, open the box, and they are soon ready to put on your bed.

The Memory Foam Mattress

The memory foam mattress is perfect for side sleepers and those suffering from back pain. You can usually find them in a soft to medium firmness. This mattress is long lasting.

Memory foam mattresses entered the market in the 1990s, and they are now more popular than ever.

Unlike the coil spring mattress, the memory foam mattress works with your body. It cradles and cushions your pressure points. This is why this type of mattress is so good for side sleepers.

Whether you choose a soft or medium firm mattress depends on your needs. Many people love this mattress because it’s so soft and cushioning.

The Gel Infused Mattress

This mattress is perfect for people who love the memory foam mattress, but they want something cooler.

The gel in the mattress regulates the temperature. This mattress is gentle on your pressure points.

Oftentimes, this is incorporated into the hybrid mattress.

To Conclude

Buying a new mattress can be a daunting task. You know you need one, but you aren’t sure where to start. And once you do, there’s so much information.

Now you don’t have to worry, because we just looked at different mattress types, and you’re ready to buy now.

You have all the information you need to be resting on a comfortable, supportive mattress that helps you sleep better every night.

Finally, as you begin to search for your new mattress, make sure you know how you prefer to sleep. Are you a side, stomach, or back sleeper? Armed with this information, you can pick out the perfect mattress for you.

Sleep is vital to your health, so getting a healthy night’s sleep on a quality mattress is imperative to your overall well-being.

If you’re ready to buy a mattress, and you’re looking for an online mattress solution that works for you, look no further than Mattress Outlet. Check out our online inventory of new mattresses, and you are well on your way to better health and better sleep.

Photo by Reimond de Zuñiga on Unsplash