How to Assess a Mattress

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To help those with low back pain, it is important that you choose a mattress that is supportive, comfortable, and high-quality. Shopping for the right mattress can be difficult due to marketing messages, promotions, and other special features.

Individuals can compare and accurately assess mattresses by understanding its physical structure and asking questions about the interior. Some mattress stores offer cutaway views of the inside, which can be a great aid in understanding and gauging the mattress’ quality.

The Key Components of Good Mattress

These are the key features of high-quality mattresses.

Coils and mattress springs offer back support

There are many thicknesses of the wire used in coils. A thicker gauge number indicates a stiffer and firmer mattress. Higher concentrations of steel coils can indicate a better mattress. However, this does not necessarily mean the best mattress. Patients should make their own decisions about which mattress will provide support and ease their low back pain.

Comfortable mattress padding

The padding that is placed on top of a mattress can be a sign of quality. The padding on a mattress is typically made from materials like polyurethane foam or puffed-up Polyester. Although it is more costly, many people feel that extensive mattress padding is more comfortable and well worth the extra expense.

Mattress middle padding

This padding is found below the quilted top layer of the mattress and is typically made from foam. If you look at the cross-section of the mattress it will be apparent that the firmer foams are more supple to the touch than the softer ones. Next is the cotton batting, which may differ in thickness between mattresses or within one mattress. The mattress will feel firmer in certain areas than in others. For example, the middle area may feel firmer.

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Mattress insulation

The padding is placed on top of coil springs to prevent them from being felt from the top. It also protects coils from damage to the top layers of the mattress.

Quilting and mattress ticking

Ticking is the outer layer of a mattress. It is typically a cotton-polyester or polyester blend in a high quality mattress. The ticking is attached to the padding’s top layers by mattress quilting. It is a good idea for you to inspect the quality of the stitching on your mattress quilting. Look out for uniform, unbroken stitches.

Mattress foundations

A mattress foundation, or box spring, adds an additional layer of support to the mattress. A foundation usually consists of a metal or wooden frame with springs. A simple wooden frame can make mattresses feel more difficult than one with springs. Wood mattress foundations should be bought only if there are no cracks in the wood and if it is straight. The Better Sleep Council suggests that a foundation and mattress be purchased together to preserve the mattress.

Foam mattresses

Some mattresses can be made entirely from memory foam, or mostly latex foam. You can buy them in different densities. Foam mattresses can be made up of several layers of foam, some with a foam core at the center. Foam mattresses can be made in a variety of firmness levels to offer greater comfort and back support. Personal preference will determine which foam mattress you prefer.

Patients will be more informed if they ask questions, request written information and examine each mattress carefully. Patients will be able to choose the right mattress for their needs.

For expert advice on memory foam mattresses contact Ric Sleep mattress.

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