Which is the Best Type of Mattress for a Better Night’s Sleep?

Getting the recommended eight hours of sleep is one way to accomplish a happier, healthier lifestyle. With a good night’s sleep, individuals can experience benefits such as boosted immune systems, improved moods and better brain function. If you’re not getting the best sleep possible, it’s time to go ahead and find yourself a new bed mate – we’re talking about mattresses here – and pave your path to some uninterrupted Zs. So, which is the best type of mattress for you?

There are a lot of things to consider when buying a new mattress. When it comes down to the actual bed, you’ll need to think about firmness, size, and materials. But there are also individual preferences to consider, like your favorite sleeping position or how much you weigh. Some people might even want to factor in old injuries or problem areas. With all of these things to think about, finding the best type of mattress could feel impossible. We break it down and cover the basics.

Which is the Best Type of Mattress For… Side Sleepers

Side sleepers have some pretty unique needs. And since their resting positions often change throughout the night, it’s important to find a mattress that offers all-around support. A side sleeper’s bed should relieve pressure on the hips and shoulders, as well as keep the spine, neck and back aligned. That means you’ll want to look for something between soft and medium on the firmness scale. Foam mattresses, which contour and support the shape of your body without too much pressure, are great options. Side sleepers should look for mattresses with materials like memory foam, latex foam, gel polymer, poly foam, or coils with a pillow top design.

Tip: Proper spine alignment is particularly important when it comes to side sleepers. Place an old pillow between your knees while you sleep. This can help make sure your upper leg is properly supported.

Which is the Best Type of Mattress For… Stomach Sleepers

While side sleepers should focus on beds that contour the body, stomach sleepers should do the exact opposite. Instead, opt for beds that fall somewhere between medium and slightly firmer. This will allow stomach sleepers to remain flat (or as flat as possible) while resting and prevent backs from overarching, which can cause stiffness and prolonged back pain. However, even though stomach sleepers should invest in firmness and support, most still want a bed the feels soft and comfortable. If you find yourself in this category, look for options with highly advanced foam materials or a firm mattress with a thin, but soft foam or pillow-top layer. This should help give you that perfect balance between rigid and soft.

Tip: Stomach sleepers should try to keep their bodies as flat as possible when resting. You’ll want to find a pillow that supports this position. According to Sleepopolis, an overstuffed pillow will elevate the head too much and may lead to extra pressure or spinal misalignment in your neck.

Which is the Best Type of Mattress For… Back Sleepers

Like stomach sleepers, most back sleepers need a mattress that is firm. According to Sleepopolis, the medium to slightly firm range generally provides necessary back support, while remaining soft enough to remove pressure points. However, back sleepers can choose from a wide range when it comes to firmness levels, it all depends on preference. Those with a lower overall weight might find that mattresses that are too firm may cause a “floating” feeling that exacerbates lower back pain. Adjustable foundation mattresses can be a great investment.

Tip: Sleeping on your back can feel a little awkward. If you have some extra pillows lying around, use them to better position your body. According to The Sleep Jungle, placing one pillow under each arm is a great position for back sleepers.

While the information above can help consumers make more informed choices, budget will ultimately decide what type of mattress a person springs for. Before heading out on your next shopping adventure, do some research and consider factors like mattress size and brand, since these will both affect pricing.

How do you decide which is the best type of mattress for you? Let us know in the comments below.