Buying a new bed? Here are 6 tips to help

Choosing a new mattress can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available in today’s bedding industry. Armed with the knowledge of the latest trends and technologies, my journey into the world of mattresses began with a realization – a bed is more than just a place to sleep. As I delved deeper, my once comfortable bed suddenly felt inadequate, leaving me questioning its support and comfort. The discovery of comfort layers like memory foam and latex unveiled a world of possibilities, explaining the mysterious aches and pains I had attributed to restless nights. With newfound knowledge came a sense of paranoia, but also a determination to find the perfect mattress for both body and mind. If you’re embarking on a mattress hunt, remember that it’s a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:

1. Go in with a budget

Before starting your search for your new mattress, you need to decide what your max budget will be. Remember that you spend almost a third of your life in your bed and that you might need to spend a little bit more than what you initially wanted to spend. Don’t push yourself way over your limit though, as it will be no use sleeping on a fancy mattress if you cannot afford to pay your bills at the end of the month.

Keep in mind accessories you might need to purchase, such as a mattress protector and pillows as well. This will prevent you from overspending and causing unnecessary financial stress.

2. Do your research and know which options are available

First off, you would need to decide which support system and comfort level you prefer. Support cores of mattresses usually vary between different types of spring systems and all-foam mattresses, which generally will consist of selected high-density foam layers.

Many people believe in myths like that a firm mattress would be the best option if you suffer from lower back pain. However, research has shown that a medium-firm mattress would be better suited. One thing you need to understand is that there is a difference between firm support and a firm feel. In the case of lower back pain, you would, for instance, be more comfortable with firm supports combined with a comfortable feel.

Therefore, it is vitally important to research the benefits as well as disadvantages of the many options available to you. Once you understand the support structures, you can start looking at comfort layers such as the popular memory foam, latex, pillow top and more.

3. Research the brand as well as the guarantees and warranties that they offer

It is important to research specific mattress brands. Many brands have been in the bedding industry for many years and have done an extensive research to improve their products and provide you with optimal support and comfort.

A good mattress or bed set will have a combination of a minimum of 10 years guarantee and warranty. this will give you an indication if the brand you are investing in has a decent reputation and trust in their own product.

4. Ask about trial periods

A trial period allows you to ‘test-drive’ the mattress for a few days. During this period, you will be able to decide if the specific bed gives you the support and comfort that you, as an individual, needs. Make sure to ask them to explain the process to you in detail, including any cost that might be involved if you decide that your new mattress is not quite as comfortable as you thought it might be. This is especially important if you buy your mattress or bed set online.

As an example, Beds Online offers a 100-night exchange guarantee. We believe that 30 days are more than enough time for your mattress to adapt to your body’s unique contours and weight to know whether or not the mattress would be suited for years to come.

5. Shop at a store that specializes in beds

When you go to a  general department store you will receive information as to the basic aspects of a bed. However, by shopping at a retailer that specializes in a certain field, as we do, you will be certain that the salesperson who is assisting you has the appropriate training and knowledge to help you make an informed decision. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as possible. Knowledge is power.

6. Protect your investment

You will realize that human bodies are pretty gross if you think about it. When we sleep our bodies will perspire and shed dead skin cells. In fact, according to research, we shed approximately 4.5kg of dead skin cells over a period of 8 years and our mattress can absorb up to 160 liters of body fluids in this same time. This, in turn, creates a perfect breeding ground for dust mites. Dust mites are microscopic creatures and cannot be seen with the naked eye but these mites are the main cause of allergies, especially in children.

General spills could also be absorbed by your mattress and all of this could, in turn, shorten the lifespan of your mattress from a hygienic point of view.

Most warranties on mattresses will state that the warranty will be void if there are any stains on the mattress. Investing in a mattress protector will keep your mattress more hygienic and prevent stains which will definitely void your warranty.

Final thoughts

Getting enough sleep plays an important role in your general health. Poor sleeping habits have been linked to heart disease, lack of concentration, and depression, to only mention a few. But that in itself is a topic that can be discussed extensively!

So, what are the most important things to remember when shopping for a new bed? Firstly you need to do your research and become familiar with the terms a salesperson might throw at you.

Secondly, ask as many questions as possible! It might be a good idea to make notes of questions you would like to ask while you are doing your research. Yes, you might feel that you are probably irritating the salesperson with all your questions, but that is exactly what they are there for.

So, take your time, do your research and make sure that you find the right bed!