Everyone anticipates sleeping on a new mattress, especially after getting it from the store. However, you often get disappointed as it is too firm for comfort. Your sleep gets affected, and you wake up groggy.
To get optimum quality of sleep, you need the right materials. They are a bed of the right size, the ideal mattress, and the mood in the room. Mattresses come in all shapes and sizes, depending on the individual need. Gone are the days of reeds and grasses.
You now have options ranging from spring coils to gel-infused memory foam. All these types have one thing in common. When they are brand new, they tend to be too firm for comfort.
So, do these firm mattresses get softer overtime? The answer is yes. The longer you continue using a mattress, the softer it will become. But you do not have to wait a year for it to soften. Several techniques exist that you can use to get your beauty sleep in no time.
Before embarking on the journey to the store, know your bed type. A wooden bed frame with slats works best with hybrid mattresses. They break in easy, and you will be sleeping like an angel in no time.
In some cases, the mattress may not be the problem. Your bed might be too old to handle the new technology mattress. If it has passed down three generations, it is about time you get a new one.
There are better bed frames now that offer ample lumbar support and the desired softness. These bed frames combine different elements to create ideal sleeping conditions.
Is a Firm Mattress Bad For me?
Having a firm mattress can have numerous benefits to your body. They offer sufficient support for your lower back and ease the strain on your muscles. A firm mattress helps to improve your blood circulation since your body is evenly placed.
Your snoring may be as a result of poor sleeping posture, by sleeping on a firm mattress may alleviate this. If you prefer to sleep on your stomach or back, you will be more comfortable on a firm mattress.
The even distribution of weight means that there are no pressure points on your body when you sleep.
How Soft Should my Mattress be?
There is no set standard on how soft a mattress should be. The level entirely depends on you. However, there are some tell-tale signs to determine if you have achieved the right kind of softness. If you sleep on your side, then you should opt for a soft mattress.
It will ease the pressure on your shoulder and hips. Sufferers of conditions such as lower back pain and arthritis also need to use soft mattresses.
A soft mattress comfortably adjusts to your body frame and eases pressure on your back and joints.
My Mattress is Too Soft, Should I Get a New One?
Experts recommend that you should replace your mattress every eight to ten years. However, you can still go on with your mattress until it becomes uncomfortable. It all depends on the care you give to your mattress during usage.
Classic cars exist because their owners take very good care of them. If you think that your mattress is too soft, there are ways to give it back that oomph.
Getting a stiffer mattress cover will do the trick. Visit your local mattress store and find one that feels good to lie on. You can also add a platform on the underside of the bed.
A stiff sheet of plywood will do the trick. Sometimes a simple flip can be all the difference. Flip your mattress 360 degrees and make sure when you place it, the feet section becomes the head section.
Memory Foam Mattresses
These are ideal for anyone seeking a good night’s sleep. Having been around for nearly forty years, most manufacturers have this type of mattress within their product lines.
They are available in three variations: gel-infused, plant-based, or petroleum-based. Each variety comes with its benefits, and the price ranges depending on the type.
The reason why memory foam has become so popular with sleepers is because of its versatility. As the name suggests, it adjusts according to your sleeping position and weight.
You are less likely to incur pressure pain with memory foam as compared to other mattress types.
It is highly resistant to allergens that may cause you difficulty in breathing, affecting your sleep. Bedbugs and dust mites avoid this model, given the compounds used to make it.
From a pricing perspective, they can be quite expensive as compared to other types. However, this depends on the brand, size, and type of material used.
In What Other Ways Can I Improve my Quality of Sleep?
Regardless of mattress type, there are some things you can do that will better your night. Here is a list of easy to do hacks that will not make you break the bank:
- You can add a mattress cover. Quilted covers are best since they offer extra cushioning on the mattress making it more bearable.
- Change your sheets. You may be surprised that your mattress is not to blame for your sleeping woes. The material that your sheet consists of maybe the one causing you problems. Use sheets that are soft to the body and absorb sweat. You will enjoy going to bed.
- Adjust your room temperature setting. Sleep experts recommend setting your room temperature between 18.5 and 22.5 degrees celsius for optimum sleep. Between these ranges, your body can cool down from the heat that you generate during your daily activities.
- Block out any unnecessary lights. You can have dark-colored curtains in your room that will resist any light coming into your room. If having a light is necessary, you can use a sleeping mask instead.
- Eat light and drink less. Heavy meals cause discomfort in the body, thereby affecting your sleep. Drinking a lot of fluids before bed will increase your trips to the bathroom when you sleep.
- Adjust your sleeping position. If you find that when sleeping on your belly causes you no sleep, try sleeping on your side. It may take a little getting used to, but the results will be worth it.
How Would I Know What Mattress to Buy?
Mattress buying is not rocket science. Any mattress store worth its name should allow you to test it before you make a purchase. However, you can always focus on these two points to make an informed decision.
Check whether you suffer from any conditions such as arthritis and lower back pain. Focus on your sleeping position. If you sleep on your back or stomach, then focus on firm mattresses.
If you are a side sleeper you will be more comfortable on a soft mattress.
Other factors may come into play such as budget, size, and bed type. But there are plenty of options from which you can choose. Take your partner with you when mattress shopping.
As people have different preferences. One ignored factor is body weight. Heavier people are more suited for firm mattresses.
Having your partner there will allow for a decision that is acceptable for both parties. It will lead to a better understanding between both of you. In special cases where there is a traumatic injury or a pre-existing condition, you can always consult with your doctor.
Mattresses have come along since they were first introduced. There is an option for everyone out there. Manufacturers are increasingly coming up with new types every day.
A firm mattress will eventually get soft with prolonged use as it wears and tears. But if you purchase one and find it too uncomfortable, there are different ways to fasten the process.
You can either go back to the store for a refund or use the methods discussed above.
