Purchasing a new mattress is an exciting time. Whether it is time for a replacement or you are ready for an upgrade, there are many things to consider when making this important decision.
What you might spend the most time thinking about is what kind of material you want to be sleeping on. Remember — a third of your life is spent on your bed so it’s worth taking some time to consider.
Mattresses have come a long way since the days of a pile of hay on a dirt floor. These days, a lot of time and effort goes into material testing and mattress design. The three main choices are latex, foam and spring mattresses. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Let’s take a closer look.
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Spring Mattress vs Foam Mattress vs Latex Mattress
Spring mattresses
One of the most appealing things about spring mattresses is that they are usually the most affordable option. (However, that is starting to change with big manufacturers coming on the scene with foam “bed in a box” option. More on that soon.)
Spring mattresses can also last a long time, up to a decade or more with the proper maintenance.
However, spring mattresses do come with some drawbacks. Spring mattresses do not offer the best support for the body, because the springs respond back to your body with the same amount of pressure as the body places on it. Since some parts of your body are heavier than others, there is not an even amount of support distributed throughout your body.
While spring materials have improved with time, people might still experience sore backs, circulation problems, and aches and pains in the joints. Spring mattresses are also not hypoallergenic and can be a problem for people sensitive to allergens. Dust mites and even mould can make spring mattresses their home over time.
Foam mattresses
As mentioned, this type of mattress is newer on the market and a lot of research has gone into the manufacturing of foam mattresses.
Foam mattresses, also known as polyurethane mattresses, have evenly distributed and consistently dense foam throughout the mattress, so they offer good support, even with two people sharing it. High-density foam is also durable and long-lasting, however, depending on a person’s weight, the foam may not be as supportive as one needs.
Foam mattresses are also hypoallergenic and there are models that are affordable and can be ordered online and delivered to your door in a box, though they tend to run higher than spring mattresses. Another disadvantage is that it can have an odour when they are new, though it will wear off with time.
Latex mattresses
Latex mattresses are made of either natural latex, a mix of natural with synthetic latex, or synthetic latex foams. Natural latex mattresses are breathable and well ventilated which is great for people who run hot while they sleep. These mattresses are high density and the material is evenly distributed, and is great for big-boned or heavier people. Latex mattresses are very durable, naturally hypoallergenic and eco-friendly.
They are, however, also on the pricier side and since they are so dense, they can be difficult to move.
Whatever you are looking for in a mattress, it’s important to make the decision with some research. Remember, an investment in a mattress has payoffs like a good, comfortable night’s rest.