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Mattresses
Bedding experts recommend getting a new mattress
every five to ten years in ensure a properly
supporting mattress and a good night’s sleep.
Buying a mattress it can be bewildering because
of all the sizes and features you can choose
from and the use of different names for the
same mattress from the same manufacturer.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Select a mattress (twin, double or full,
queen, or king) that is long enough, gives
you room to stretch out, and allows you to
move around during sleeping. You may be accustomed
to a double bed, but a larger bed could give
you both a more comfortable night’s rest
plus room for any pets or young children
that like to climb into bed with you on weekend
mornings.
- Mattresses come in various firmness (firm,
regular, and plush), but these are arbitrary
and not necessary comparable across brands.
Newer mattresses are generally made thicker
for more comfort and may include an extra
few inches of a "pillow top." Remember
that if you are changing mattress sizes,
you will need new sheets ("deep pocket"
fitted sheets are designed for thicker mattresses).
- More expensive mattresses use variable air
pressure (adjusts the firmness), "memory
foam" (contours the surface to your
body), and/or individual spring coils (isolates
motion to reduce the chance of being awaken
by your sleeping partner's stirring) to provide
a luxury sleeping experience. Adjustable beds allow you to transform a flat bed into a
shape more like a recliner.
- Mattresses made from all natural materials
are available but generally at a higher cost.
Some beds also have stain resistance and
higher fire resistance features you might
like. For those with allergies, consider
allergen free mattresses or a bed with a
removable, washable mattress top.
- Mattresses are often sold as sets with box
spring units ("foundations"). Box
spring units are not necessary if you have
a platform bed. You can also buy a specially
designed hollow "box" if you want
to get the total height of a bed with box
springs but want a firmer rest than box springs
provide or want to have more storage space
beneath.
- Compare the warranty and return policy to
make sure you do not end up stuck with a
mattress you are unhappy with it.
Check around several places to get the best
price. Mattresses are often on sale or have
other special incentives (free delivery,
take-away of the old mattress, etc.) that
reduce the price. Also, don't be afraid to
bargain, as most stores have built that expectation
into their prices. |
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