Mattress Buying Guide
Choosing a Mattress Size
California King 72" x 84"
California King
If you love the roominess of a king mattress, but would prefer a little more length, then a California king mattress is the perfect answer. Measuring a deep 72" x 84", this mattress is specifically designed for taller people. Because it’s the longest mattress available, you can easily extend your legs without having to worry about your feet dangling off the end of the bed.
King 76" x 80"
King
When it comes to the master bedroom, most people want a spacious mattress that can accommodate two adults and the occasional child or pet. That’s why a king mattress is such a popular choice. Measuring an expansive 76" x 80", it is the widest mattress size available, providing enough room for two adults to stretch out in luxurious comfort.
Queen 60" x 80"
Queen
The most popular mattress size on the market, a queen mattress provides ample room for two people to sleep comfortably, without sacrificing valuable space in the bedroom. Measuring a comfortable 60" x 80", this versatile sized mattress is a wonderful option for both guest bedrooms and smaller sized master bedrooms.
Full 54" x 75"
Full
The size of a full mattress is great for single sleepers who want extra space, and for couples who love a cozy night’s sleep. Measuring a modest 54" x 75", the full mattress works well for teenagers who like to stretch out, small bedrooms, or guest rooms that serve as an office or playroom when not occupied.
Twin 39" x 75"
Twin
The space-saving twin mattress is the perfect solution for small bedrooms, bunk beds, dorms, or vacation homes. Measuring a narrow 39" x 75", the twin is the smallest mattress size available, and intended for use by single sleepers. Its small scale ensures that it will take up very little space, and allows for lots of flexibility in placement. And in the case of a shared bedroom, each person can still have their own bed without the room feeling too cramped.
Twin XL 39" x 80"
Twin XL
If you’d prefer a little more length than the standard twin mattress provides, then try a twin xl mattress. Measuring 39" x 80", this slightly longer version of the twin is a more comfortable option for adults, as well as taller kids who need a little extra leg room. And because it’s the same length as a queen mattress, it can be used well into the teenage years.
Best Mattress for Each Sleeping Position
Sleeping Position
Back
Back sleepers do best with a mattress that offers consistent end-to-end support to keep their neck, shoulders, and torso perfectly aligned. If you enjoy sleeping on your back, consider purchasing a mattress that has medium to medium-firm support, with light contouring to keep your spine properly positioned. There are many types of mattresses that a back sleeper might enjoy, but most find that medium-firm foam mattresses and some medium-firm hybrid mattresses, are the most comfortable.
Side
Many side sleepers enjoy a mattress that has soft to medium-soft firmness, with an equal balance of support and body contouring. A memory foam mattress is a great choice because it easily molds to the body, giving superior pressure point relief. Another option is an innerspring mattress with a soft top layer, or any type of mattress designed to relieve pressure points around the upper body and hips.
Stomach
If you’re a stomach sleeper, then you’ll most likely prefer a mattress that has firm support. An overly soft mattress can allow you to sink in too far, causing your body to overheat and your spine to become misaligned. If you find you end up on your stomach most nights, then consider a firm innerspring mattress or firm foam mattress—both will help prevent overheating and give you the support you need.
Sleep Problems
Solutions for Common Sleep Problems
Sleeping Hot
It’s difficult to get a restful night’s sleep when you’re sweaty and uncomfortable. So, if you live in a warm environment or just tend to sleep hot, you should avoid purchasing an overly plush mattress of any type. These soft surfaces can mold closely to your body, helping to hold in body heat. A better choice would be an innerspring mattress with coils and springs that allow for easy air circulation. Be sure to choose one with a top layer made of cooling materials like natural fibers, gel foam, or latex.
Restless Sleepers
There’s nothing more disruptive than tossing and turning during the night. If you’re a restless sleeper, it’s essential that you have a spacious mattress that’s comfortable and supportive in multiple sleeping positions. Consider trying a memory foam mattress, which offers superior pressure point relief for the entire body. And to minimize disruption, choose a mattress with a medium-firmness to help isolate motion and reduce bounce.
Mattress Types
Innerspring Mattresses
Affordable and long-lasting, traditional innerspring mattresses are still the most popular mattress on the market. These sturdy mattresses feature a core of steel coils and springs wrapped in a soft outer layer of padding and fabric. Due to their strong construction, innerspring mattresses are very supportive and maintain their shape well over time. And because their coil base allows for easy air circulation, innerspring mattresses are breezy and low-temp, making them a great choice for stomach sleepers, and people who tend to overheat during the night.
It’s important to note that innerspring mattresses are more reactive than other types of mattresses, so you will definitely experience more movement and sound. And depending on the type of bedframe being used, an innerspring mattress may require the purchase of an additional box spring.
Hybrid Mattresses
The hybrid mattress combines the durable coil springs of a traditional innerspring mattress with multiple layers of cushioning memory foam, for the perfect balance of comfort and support. This unique design provides great air circulation as well as valuable pressure point relief, so it’s a suitable choice for all sleeping positions. Best of all, these mattresses are available in numerous firmness levels, so you can really customize your sleep experience.
Hybrid mattresses come in a variety of price points, but they do tend to be expensive. Due to their coil spring base, there will be some bounce and noticeable motion transfer. Hybrid mattresses are also heavy, making them somewhat difficult to move.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are popular for their soft, cradling support and exceptional motion isolation. These innovative mattresses are made of high-density foam that gently molds to your contours, providing superior pressure point relief for the entire body. Memory foam is also naturally hypoallergenic, making these mattresses are a nice option for people with allergies. Memory foam mattresses are available in a wide variety of densities, so it’s easy to find the perfect fit.
For some people, the close contouring of memory foams makes them overheat during the night. So if you sleep hot but still want to enjoy the comforts of memory foam, consider a low-temp gel memory foam mattress, which has effective cooling attributes. It’s important to note that memory foam mattresses are thick, and do not allow for a lot of movement. So, if you prefer a bouncy mattress, memory foam is not for you.
Adjustable Mattresses
Adjustable mattresses are specially designed for use on motorized bed frames. Primarily made of latex or memory foam, these flexible mattresses are able to adapt to almost any sleeping, sitting, or reclining position. Some even include luxurious features like massage, or heat. Because they can be adjusted to suit your changing needs, you’ll be completely comfortable whether you’re sleeping, reading, or watching a movie. They’re a great choice for people who spent a lot of time in bed, have chronic back pain, or who want a truly customized sleep experience.
Available as a standard solid mattress, or as a split-design that allows for each side to move independently. To enjoy the benefits of an adjustable mattresses, it must be used in conjunction with a motorized bed frame. This level of personalized comfort does come at a cost. Adjustable mattresses are expensive, and prices differ depending on the features you choose. But if you feel you will truly benefit from all the special features an adjustable bed has to offer, it’s well worth the investment.
Prepare for Delivery
- To ensure a smooth delivery, determine the pathway that will be used to bring the mattress into your home and to the exact room in which it will be placed.
- Measure all door frames, entryways, hallways and staircases in that pathway to make sure they can accommodate the mattress.
- Remove any baby or pet gates, as well as miscellaneous items that may get underfoot. Many animals are frightened by strangers and unexpected activity, so be sure to safely secure your pets in a crate or spare room.
- If you live in a building with an elevator, measure both the elevator door and the interior of the elevator.
- Remember to thoroughly inspect the mattress before the delivery personnel leave.