Types of Back Pain and Mattresses That Can Help

February 28, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

In regards to your health, the most important piece of furniture you own is your mattress. You spend approximately one third of your life in bed. An uncomfortable mattress can have a negative effect on the quantity and quality of your sleep. This is especially the case for millions of back pain sufferers who have been ill advised over the last several decades that a firm mattress is best for them. In actuality there are several factors to consider when choosing the best mattress for you, including: the type of back problem you are experiencing, your sleep position, mattress support, and your comfort preference.

Different types of mattresses help alleviate pain for different types of back problems and symptoms. People with lumbar disc problems have symptoms that include a shooting pain in one leg from the top of the buttock to the lower leg or foot accompanied by numbness, the feeling of “pins and needles”, or leg weakening. Those suffering from this condition would benefit from a firm mattress as a bending or flexing mattress can be very uncomfortable.

Sufferers of spinal stenosis experience pain, cramping or numbness in the back, legs, arms, and shoulders and function better in a flexed or loose position. Therefore, a slightly softer mattress works better for them. The most common back pain complaint is lower back pain. Usually people experience an aching dull pain in the center of the lower back. A clinical study out of Spain showed that a medium firm mattress is generally better at relieving chronic back pain than a firmer model. However, there isn’t one single style of mattress that works best for everyone with lower back pain.

In conjunction with the type of back pain you suffer from, another factor to consider is the position in which you sleep. If you have a lumbar disc problem then sleeping on your stomach with a flat pillow under your stomach and hips is probably the most comfortable position for you because it reduces stress on the degenerated disc in your lower back. A firmer mattress is best for sleeping on your stomach while a softer mattress will cause an uncomfortable arch in your back that will worsen your condition.

People with spinal stenosis are most comfortable sleeping on their side in the fetal position with a pillow between their knees. A medium firm or firm mattress is good for this sleeping position but most people prefer a thicker padding to reduce pressure on their hips and shoulders. Finally, those suffering from lower back pain should sleep lying on their back with a pillow under their knees to relieve pressure from the lower back. There is no single mattress style that works for all people with back pain, but people with lower back pain should choose a mattress that offers support, comfort, and ultimately, a good night’s sleep.

Another major factor in choosing a mattress is the support that mattress provides. A supportive mattress will offer the right balance of support and concavity in order to allow the spine to align naturally. There are several components of the mattress that contribute to how supportive a mattress set is. First, mattress springs and coils are the most important features of a mattress that provide back support. The coil gauge of mattress denotes how stiff or firm a mattress is. The lower the gauge of the coil, the thicker and stiffer the wire, thus, the firmer the mattress. Furthermore, the higher the coil count of a mattress, the better the quality. However, a higher coil count does not necessarily mean a more comfortable or supportive mattress.

The next component of a mattress set that affects back support is the foundation, or boxspring. The foundation/boxspring absorbs weight for the mattress. It is important to purchase the boxspring designed to match your mattress because manufacturers design both pieces to work together. A mismatched set may adversely affect the longevity of your mattress and the level of support the mattress provides.

Finally, the most important key to mattress buying is to buy what is comfortable for you. No two of us are the same when it comes to what we need from our mattress. Therefore, it is important to take time to actually try the mattress out, especially if you suffer from chronic back problems. It is suggested that you spend at least ten minutes on several different mattresses. Turn over from side to side and make sure that mattress provides enough support to allow the spine to rest in its natural state. The mattress quilt and just beneath the quilt, in the middle of mattress, consist of mattress padding made of polyurethane foams, puffed up polyester, and cotton batting. These materials affect the firmness of the mattress. Generally, people find that mattresses with more padding are more comfortable.

Overall, when choosing a mattress, consider all of the factors mentioned above. Ultimately, the best mattress for your back pain is the one you find most comfortable for you and your sleep preferences.

Author: Kermit Bauer
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Tips for Buying the Right Mattress

February 25, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

Do you wake up in the morning all stiff and with a pain in the back? Chances are that you are not sleeping on a comfortable mattress. Mattress plays a significant role in ensuring a good night’s sleep. You spend about one-third part of your day sleeping in bed; hence it is imperative that the mattress you sleep on is comfortable for your body. Here are things which you should consider before buying a mattress:

Comfort

When buying a mattress, comfort should be your primary consideration. For your bed, pick a mattress of superior quality that would provide maximum comfort and support to all parts of your body especially your back, neck and hips.

Firmness

It is your personal choice whether you want to go for a hard mattress or a soft one. But do keep in mind that extremely soft mattress may seem cozy, but it is not good for your health and body. It tends to sag easily and doesn’t provide proper spine alignment. But at the same time, mattresses that are too hard can cause stiffness in the joints. Therefore look for a mattress which is neither too soft nor too hard.

Types of mattresses

Even if your plan to buy discount mattress, it is better to know the four basic types of mattresses and their respective benefits which will help you make your purchase decision:

Inner Spring Mattress: Innerspring mattress is the conventional mattress and most of the people are familiar with it. It is made up of steel coils and covered in layers of cushioning. Innerspring mattresses come in a wide range of variety.

Foam Mattresses: Foam mattresses have become quite popular in recent years. They offer great comfort and conform well to the shape of the body. There are two types of foam used, regular latex foam and memory foam. The major benefit of foam mattress is that it is resistant to dust-mites, bacteria and other allergens, and is long-lasting.

Air Mattress: In an air mattress, chambers of air provide support and the correct amount of comfort. The major advantage of these mattresses is their ability to adjust to your personal comfort. Some air mattresses are lightweight and are used for camping. Some others are meant for daily use at home. There is a wide variety of air mattresses available so choose the one which is of superior quality. You can check out various online stores in UK which provide top quality air mattresses at discount prices.

Waterbed: Waterbed mattresses come in a variety of styles, and sizes to choose from.

They are of two types: hard-side water beds and soft-side waterbeds. Both are made of vinyl and filled with water. These mattresses provide maximum support to the spinal alignment. Waterbeds mattresses contain a valve to fill or remove water. This water can also be heated during the winters to keep the bed warm. Compared to other mattresses, waterbed mattresses are quite bulky and expensive.

Size

The size of the mattress is another important factor while buying a mattress. The basic mattress sizes which fit the most bed frames are full, twin, queen, and king-size mattresses.

Twin size: A twin-size mattress is good for children. It measures about thirty six inches wide and is seventy-five inches long.

Full size mattress: It measures about fifty-four inches wide and seventy-five inches long. It is suitable for a single person.

Queen-size mattress: It is about sixty inches wide and eighty inches in length. It is good for couples.

King-size mattress: A king size mattress is the biggest of them all. It is seventy-six inches wide, and eighty inches long. It is perfect for couples who are looking for optimum space, but make sure you have a large bedroom to accommodate it.

Foundation

Mattresses are designed in a way to work best with certain foundations. So when you buy a mattress, make sure to get its companion foundation too. A foundation absorbs weight and stress for the mattress and can extend its life.

The quality of mattress directly affects your sleep. So make sure you buy a mattress which is comfortable and is of high quality. After all, it is an investment which would reap you benefits for years to come.

Author: Julie K Brown
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Organic Latex Mattress Buying Guide

February 22, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

So, you’re looking for a new organic latex mattress? Confused yet? It’s not hard to become confused with all the information, misinformation and conflicting facts you may find about the new mattress you are looking to buy. There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for that mattress and a few things to never forget in that search. If you remember these simple things, shopping for the perfect organic latex mattress will become a lot clearer and will ensure you get what it is you are looking for, and, more important, what you are paying for.

One of the most important things to remember is to not forget what it is that you are looking for. Sounds like a complicated statement, but it’s a vital one in your search for your organic mattress. Basically, what it means is to not lose sight of your mission. Don’t let someone talk you into something that you know isn’t what you want. If you want a truly organic mattress, don’t settle for anything less. There are many retailers out there selling organic mattresses. Some companies that sell truly organic mattresses and some that do not. Before you begin comparing mattresses, you need to compare companies. Begin by weeding out the ones that aren’t 100% organic.

ORGANIC LATEX MATTRESS. This can mean different things to different people and organic can definitely mean something different to you than to the manufacturer that is building your mattress. If you are looking for and paying for organic, make sure you are getting 100% organic components in your mattress. The law says that if a manufacturer puts as little as 8% organic materials into their product they can call that product organic. Yes, I said 8%! Why bother, right? Be sure the product says it is 100% organic. If it doesn’t, you are not getting a truly organic product. And, after all, isn’t that what you are paying for?

Don’t be fooled by a ‘pure’ product. Just because a product says that it is pure, doesn’t mean it’s organic. In fact, most manufacturers that use “pure” or some term other than organic to describe their raw goods are in fact NOT using organic ingredients in their mattresses. Some manufacturers will go as far as telling you un-truths to cover the fact they are not using organic. For instance, some companies will tell you that organic wool is dirty and filled with feces. That’s absolutely, 100% not true and is simply a selling tactic to cover the fact they do not use organic wool in their mattresses. Organic wool, like any other wool used in the manufacturing industry, is washed with natural and earth-friendly soaps. Organic wool is more expensive to produce and when a manufacturer is looking to cut costs, wool is a simple thing to skimp on. Non-organic wool affords the manufacturer lower costs and better profit margins while the consumer is left with an inferior, non-organic product. The organic mattress market is becoming very competitive as the popularity of organic products continues to grow. Insist on organic wool and be sure to check out the manufacturers certificates for the organic wool. Reputable retailers will have these certificates readily available. For your convenience, some retailers have links to their certificates on their website. Don’t stop there. Follow up on those certificates. Call the supplier and verify that the manufacturer you are considering purchasing your mattress from is indeed buying their products from the supplier they have the certificates for. Insisting on organic wool is the only way to be sure there is nothing in your wool that you don’t want there.

By Federal law, ANY AND ALL mattresses manufactured and sold in the United States must pass a flame test. Under the law, a mattress must be subjected to a flame for 70 seconds before it ignites. How this is achieved varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but most manufacturers achieve this by using chemicals. These chemicals (Boric acid, Antimony and Decabromodiphenyl Oxide) are the same chemicals that have been banned in Europe for years and the same chemicals that are used in pesticides to kill roaches and have been linked to reproductive and developmental diseases, heart and lung damage, hair and memory loss, SIDS, birth defects, skin irritation and are believed to be carcinogens. Continued exposure to these chemicals cause accumulation in the body and present themselves in breast milk, the blood stream and in umbilical cord fluids.

Some organic mattress manufacturers produce an organic product only to spray it down with these chemicals to pass the flame law test. So while you are buying an organic mattress, that does not necessarily mean you are buying a chemical-free mattress. It only means you are buying a mattress made with organic materials that have been sprayed with chemicals. Imagine the hypocrisy! This is where the importance of organic wool becomes apparent. Naturally, wool is a fire retardant. Wool doesn’t burn when exposed to a flame. When wool is used in an ample amount (an inch compressed) it becomes a fire retardant that passes the federal flame law requirements, making chemicals no longer necessary. While it is more costly to use wool, a true organic mattress manufacturer goes the extra step to be sure that your mattress is chemical free and truly organic. By the way, there are other fire-proofing methods available that are not chemical, but they also are not natural or organic. Be sure to ask if the manufacturer is using organic wool for fire retardant in the organic mattress.

Another consideration when purchasing a new organic latex mattress is the type of cover that the manufacturer uses. The cover should be 100% organic. While there are different options for the type of material used in the cover, cotton is the best option. Bamboo, on the other hand, is a poor choice because of the process it goes through to be made into a fabric. Many hazardous chemicals are required to process bamboo thus making it “un-organic.” Most bamboo fabric is manufactured in China where the employees are subjected to poor working conditions and little or no ventilation. There are many “gimmick” fabrics available, such as aloe vera and lavender infused fabrics that are supposed to help with one ailment or another. Honestly, don’t waste your money. They don’t work. And if they did, they wouldn’t be able to make it through your sheets to get to your body. Hemp is good quality fabric but tends to be more expensive than cotton with no additional benefits. While the cover is the one part of the mattress that you will come in contact with, many manufacturers use a cheap, sometimes uncomfortable cover on their mattresses. The cover should be soft and comfortable to the touch. Although sheets should always be used on your mattress, a rough, uncomfortable cover will come through the sheets and make your sleeping experience less than desirable. If you are unsure about the cover that is being used to make your mattress, ask for a sample to be sent to you so you can feel it out before you buy the mattress. Any reputable company would be more than happy to fill your request. A lot of companies will send you a sample pack of all the ingredients that make up their bed, but this is simply overkill and an unnecessary gesture. Unless you are concerned about latex allergies, the latex used in your mattress is pretty much the same from company to company.

Next, be sure the latex that comprises the bed you are considering is 100% natural latex. There are different types of latex available, including natural and synthetic latex and a combination of both. Synthetic latex contains synthetic ingredients and chemicals that are in no way natural. Whether you are considering Talalay or Dunlop latex, be sure that it is 100% natural latex. While there are a few other ingredients in natural latex (zinc oxide, fatty acid soaps and sulfur) rest assured, they are natural ingredients. Be careful not to fall for the “Dunlop/Talalay latex is the best and we only carry the best” tactic. Many manufacturers only carry one type of latex and will tell you that the latex they carry is the best. However, both Talalay latex and Dunlop latex are equally good products and a reputable company will offer you the choice. One rule of thumb to remember about the difference between the two types of latex is that Talalay latex will typically be softer than Dunlop latex of the same firmness category. For example, soft Talalay latex will be softer than soft Dunlop latex. Some manufacturers will try to confuse you by telling you that there is no such thing as natural Talalay latex. And, up until a few years ago, that was true. However, Latex International now makes a 100% natural Talalay latex product. Another consideration for the latex in your bed is the amount of latex that actually makes up the bed. Sure, a manufacturer can say that the latex in the bed is 100% natural, but that doesn’t mean that the 100% natural latex comprises the whole bed, only that the latex in the bed is 100% natural. If you are buying a 12″ mattress and the mattress contains 6″ of latex, something else has to make up that other 6″. After allowing for the wool or cotton that also make up the mattress, usually around 2″, what else comprises the mattress? The answer is usually polyurethane. Many companies, in order to keep costs down, will use a 6″ polyurethane core with 2″ of latex on top. That’s right, polyurethane. Why would you want to sleep on the same stuff that gasoline is made from?

Another trick of the organic mattress trade is to use latex that has sand fillers. Technically, the latex that uses sand fillers is still natural because sand is indeed natural. However, if you are buying a latex mattress, you want 100% natural LATEX. A reputable company manufacturing 100% natural Dunlop latex with no sand fillers is Green Latex. Latex International is the only company making 100% natural Talalay latex and they add no sand fillers to their latex. When shopping for your new organic latex mattress, purchase from a company that buys their latex from these companies and you will know you are getting good latex in your mattress.

You may be asking yourself by now why I haven’t mentioned organic latex. After all, I have insisted on organic wool and cotton, why not organic latex? The simple reason is that it doesn’t exist! Although most latex that is produced would probably be organic, there is no certifying body that has certified it as organic. Rest assured the latex in your organic latex mattress, if it is natural latex, is as good as it can be. There is just no certification as of the date of this publication.

The new wave of latex mattress that is sweeping the bedding market is the mattress that comes to the consumer in pieces and must be assembled once it is received. This mattress is truly a wonderful product and is often misunderstood. After it is assembled, it resembles and sleeps like a traditional latex mattress. The benefits of this type of latex mattress are numerous. The shipping of the “break-down” mattress is very economical and affordable to a larger number of consumers. Traditional mattresses can be very costly to ship, especially if they have to travel a long distance to get to the consumer. Lower shipping costs allow for a comfort exchange policy that affords the consumer the option to ship back a layer single layer of the mattress to achieve a different comfort level. If a consumer purchases the wrong comfort level of mattress, they simply exchange one of the layers of the mattress. This makes for a very convenient transaction as the consumer usually sends back the layer they wish to exchange only after the new one is received from the company. This makes for no “down time” without a mattress. Buying a new mattress is a complicated, nerve-racking endeavor that is rarely perfected in one try. Even when purchasing a mattress from a brick and mortar store, you lie on the mattress for 15 minutes to determine if the new mattress will be comfortable for the next sevaral years. Then you get the mattress home and it’s not exactly what you wanted, but you live with it because it’s such a hassle returning it. With this new type of mattress, if you don’t perfect it the first time, you simply request a comfort exchange. By the time you decide you will do a comfort exchange, you know exactly what the problem is. If the mattress is too firm, you send back a firmer layer for a softer one. If the mattress is too soft, you send back a soft layer for a firmer one. And the best part of all, you don’t have to decide the perfect combination in 15 minutes in a store. You sleep on the mattress at home and have usually up to 90 days, depending on manufacturer, to determine what it is you need to make the mattress perfect.

One thing to consider with this type of mattress is whether or not the individual layers inside are covered. This sounds like a trivial thing and something that is perhaps not necessary. In fact, some companies (those that do not offer covered latex layers) may try to talk you out of purchasing a bed with no covered layers. However, covered layers are VERY IMPORTANT to the functionality and durability of the mattress. Covering the layers makes them more durable and easier to handle when assembling the bed or rearranging the layers to achieve a different comfort level. Latex, by its inherent nature is susceptible to ripping and tearing if it is handled too rough or is tugged too hard. Some manufacturers and retailers claim that covering the layers will change the comfort levels of the latex by covering them. However, this is not true as the layers are covered in organic cotton that has stretch to it. The stretch in the fabric allows for the latex to keep its original level of comfort and affords the protection of the latex that is of major importance for this type of mattress. Many manufacturers will also claim that covering the latex allows the latex layers to slide inside the mattress. However, this also is not true. The organic cotton used to cover the latex prevents the layers from moving inside the mattress. Also preventing the layers from moving inside the mattress is the cover. The layers fit snug inside the cover, thus not allowing the layers to move around. Covering the layers is an added expense that most manufacturers forego. These manufacturers try to explain away the reasons for not covering the individual latex layers, but the bottom line is their main reason for not covering the layers. Latex that is damaged while trying to assemble the mattress or while removing the latex for a comfort exchange will, in most cases, not be exchanged and voids the warranty. It cannot be stressed enough; if you purchase a mattress that has individual layers that are accessible, be sure those layers are covered.

Another consideration when purchasing your new organic latex mattress is the foundation to put the mattress on. A latex mattress needs a sturdy foundation, but also one that will allow the mattress to ‘breathe’. If you are purchasing a foundation from the company you are buying your mattress from, be sure that the base has ample slats to support the heavy weight of the mattress. A good base for a latex mattress has slats that are no more than 2 inches apart. Also be sure that the cover on the base is the same organic cotton fabric that your mattress is made of. Be sure that the wood in the base is untreated wood and any glue used in the base is a water-based, non toxic glue. While purchasing a matching base with your mattress makes for an aesthetically pleasing set, it is not necessary. However, the proper support for your new latex mattress is very important and improper support for the mattress will void the warranty. To be sure your mattress performs properly and your warranty is valid, I highly suggest purchasing the matching base at the time you purchase the mattress.

Finally, consider the return policy for the company. Are you stuck with the mattress if you are not happy or can you return it? The best policy is some type of comfort exchange, especially with the ‘break down’ mattresses. Most, if not all companies require that the consumer pays the shipping costs to return the mattress. This is an inevitable part of doing business online. If you are unwilling to pay this fee, you should consider not purchasing your mattress on the internet. However, I have found that the savings of purchasing online far outweigh the cost of a possible comfort exchange. You must also consider that many of the mattress stores today charge a restocking fee for any mattress that is returned and the customer is responsible for returning the mattress to the store or for any fees associated with the store picking up the mattress from the customers home. I also find that the customer service for many online companies surpasses that of most brick and mortar stores.

You are paying a lot of money for your new mattress, be sure you are getting what you are paying for. I am not saying that you shouldn’t pay good money for a good mattress. When it comes to latex mattresses, the old saying “you get what you pay for” is truly applicable. When you purchase your organic latex mattress, it could last you up to 30 years. There is no coil or memory foam mattress on the market that can make that claim. And the health benefits of an organic latex mattress are truly unduplicated. Take your time in purchasing your new mattress. Consider the company’s ship time. You want to buy from a company that will ship your order in a reasonable amount of time. If a company tells you it will be 4-6 weeks for your product to ship, that’s too long. A reasonable amount of time to ship your order is anything less than a week and the sooner the better. Also consider the transportation time. Just because a company says it will ship your order in 3 days, it will not appear in 3 days! The average transportation time is 4 days. Remember, most manufacturers will charge your credit card when you place your order and will put your order into production only after receiving payment. Be sure to ask questions and get the answers to your questions. Any reputable company that is doing what they should be doing will be happy to answer any and all questions you may have. If you follow this guide and ask the questions you need to ask, buying that organic latex mattress will be an easy task that will lead to many nights of sweet organic, chemical-free dreams.

Author: Brian S Vogt
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Tips On Buying Cheap And Good Mattresses

February 19, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

The best way to shop for a proper mattress is to know what you are doing and what you are looking for before stepping foot into the store. The description of a good mattress is one that is comfortable and yet firm enough so that the body is properly supported during the sleeping process. Given so many variety and selections, it can be confusing shopping for a mattress.

Whatever bed frame you decide upon, it is important that you do not forget with regards to the importance of choosing a quality bed mattress as well. A bad mattress can give you some spinal problems, backaches and a number of other aches and pains. A bed mattress is probably the most important part of the bed, however it often gets overlooked. Maybe it’s time we turned to some of the better mattresses that we have available to us today.

The experts at sleep study institutions everywhere fully know the ramifications of getting a full night’s sleep and know the importance of having a good one. Take advantage of great night’s sleep and wake up fresh and in a good mood each day. The root cause of not getting enough sleep is discomfort and the root cause of not being comfortable enough is, of course, the mattress.

Tips on buying a latex mattress

The latex mattress is soon to be the newest sleep system “craze” in North America, and it’s very popular right now in Europe. Latex foam mattresses smoothly conform to your body and body movements. With a latex mattress, you have the opportunity to experience a superior level of comfort that just cannot be reached with a conventional inner spring mattress.

All the big names such as Sealy, Serta, Royal Pedic and Simmons all have come out with their own line of latex mattresses. A latex mattress comes in a variety of foam densities, generally the higher the density of the foam, the higher the quality. These days latex foam mattresses are also being made of synthetic latex caused by which the cost of latex foam mattresses have descended to some extent.

Tips on buying a futon bed mattress

Futon beds are a popular choice for many consumers caused by their flexibility of function. A futon bed can be used during the day as a sofa and makes a great bed for sleeping on. There are many kinds of futons, also known as a futon bed, and they can possess many advantages for you and your home.

A futon mattress can be made from different kinds of materials. Different material affects the rigidity and weight of the mattress. The rigidity of the futon mattress will also govern how the mattress folds over the frame when it’s used as a couch or chair. The weight of the mattress will determine the effort of reconfiguring the futon sofa into a bed. Some are made from a mixture of cotton. Such mattress is much lighter and less firm than that of one made from 100% cotton. A futon mattress made from 100% polyester is by far the lightest of all; it also rates well for firmness and rigidity.

Another factor to consider is the warranty period. Futon mattresses have a wide range of warranties, and the longer they are the better. Futon mattresses can be purchased on the web or through your local retailer. If you purchase a futon mattress that is durable, long lasting and has all of the right qualities for you, you will get long lasting wear out of it.

Size Does Matter

The mattress dimension plays a very important role, as it assures the shock absorption of the body, especially for those who suffer from backaches. The thicker the mattress dimension, the better it is for your back and joint comfort, and the types available today get up to 10 and 11 inches high. Also, it is important to remember that there are a number of mattress sizes available on the market today. These sizes include twin, full-size mattresses, queen, .king and California king.

Where To Get Cheap Mattress

Perhaps the best place to purchase a mattress is at a mattress warehouse store. But remember, when choosing your mattress, the cheapest price is not necessarily the best value. When you select your ideal mattress, you will need to get up on the mattress sin the store and lay on it. Is it too soft? Too hard? If you focus on the specific needs you have, your options will automatically narrow down.

When you are looking for a bed mattress, be sure to test out the options. If you know exactly what you want before you buy you are going to avoid being disappointed with the purchase of your bed mattress. It is important to remember that, as the consumer, you get what you pay for.

Author: Cindy Heller
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Special Features of Full Size Mattresses

February 16, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

Mattress size would be the key feature or factor to consider when purchasing a mattress, particularly if you are shopping for a mattress as a couple. Mattresses come in different sizes: king size mattress, queen size mattress, full size mattress, single size mattress and twin size mattress. A full size mattress has dimensions that are close to the dimensions of other mattresses; you may find it difficult to tell the difference between a full size mattress and its other counterparts.

Similar to other mattress types, a full size mattress is composed of several layers of fibers, foam or any other forms used as mattress stuffing. Full size mattresses are typically available worldwide, most especially in the United States and other advanced countries. When it comes to thickness, full size mattresses and other large size mattresses are usually between 6 to 18 inches thick.

Different Sizes of Full Size Mattresses

Typically, a full size mattress is just the same as a double size mattress. A full size mattress has a width of 54 inches and length of 75 inches. These measurements apply in North American and Europe. However, in other countries such as those in Asia, full size mattresses have a width of 48 inches and length of 78 inches — a slight reduction in width and a slight addition in length.

Another kind of full size mattress is the full extra large mattress, which is only found in North America. A full extra large mattress has a width of 54 inches and length of 80 inces, longer than the length of the Asian full size mattresses.

People often get confused between a full size mattress and a queen size mattress due to how close their dimensions are. A queen size mattress typically has a width of 60 inches and length of 80 inches, almost similar to the width and length of a full size mattress. Generally, the size of a full size mattress can vary in the United Kingdom and the other European countries, but the width of both queen size and full size mattress is the same.

Tips When Buying a Full Size Mattress

One major consideration in purchasing a full size mattress is the general finish, the padding and materials used, which must be of good quality. Like queen size mattresses, full size mattresses come in three different comfort levels. In the United States, full size mattresses have a two-year warranty so make sure that the full size mattress you buy is covered with a warranty that is no less than two years.

Author: Scott Nichols
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Simmons Mattresses Reviews

February 13, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

Simmons is amongst the big players of mattresses and have been making some of the best mattresses available on the market. Simmons makes a range of mattresses to suit different sleep requirements and at budgets to suit all. Here’s a review of the types of mattress that are made by Simmons.

The flagship of the company is the Simmons Beautyrest. The company claims that the Beautyrest mattress is the best on the market for motion separation; your partner moves, but you’re not disturbed. The secret lies in the Beautyrest Pocket Coil system used by Simmons. Unlike conventional mattresses where the springs are interconnecting, the Pocketed Coil springs are tied together at the side of each fabric pocket, so each coil acts independently. Not only do you get pocket coils, you get an awful lot of them; a Simmons Beautyrest mattress comes with 850 pocket springs, compared to the usual 300 springs from other manufacturers. The more pocket coil springs you have, the more you increase motion separation. Also, the Beautyrest mattress comes with 2 rows of heavier gauge pocket coil springs around the edge of the mattress; this helps reduce motion and gives a more comfortable seating edge. Finally, a Simmons Beautyrest mattress comes with an optional Triton foundation, to provide more support.

The price of a Simmons Beautyrest mattress is about mid-range for a good quality mattress. However, the Simmons Beautyrest range goes from mid-range to expensive, depending which type of mattress you buy from the Beautyrest collection. The collection begins with the Beautyrest Classic, which has all the features mentioned above. The next in the collection is the Beautyrest World Class. In addition to the Classic the World Class mattress uses latex foam to provide more comfort – the latex yielding to the exact shape of your body. The Simmons Beautyrest Exceptionale comes with an Alternating Pocketed Cable Coil System. What this means is that the mattress comes with rows of the pocket coil springs together with rows of Pocket Cable Coil, to provide enhanced motion separation. The Simmons Exceptionale also comes with a high-density foam encased seating edge. The mattress comes with optional features of memory foam or latex. The Simmons Beautyrest World Class Exceptionale mattress is the most expensive in the collection. With this mattress, support is provided by complete layer of plush Pocketed Coil springs that sit on top of a layer of firm Pocketed Coil springs. Again, memory foam and latex comes as optional features.

If money is no object then you could consider the Simmons Beautyrest Black mattress. This mattress comes with luxurious silk, wool and alpaca comfort layers: true form encasing, generous layers of memory foam and latex; and circular knit fabric with 100% natural Modal Yarn blended with cashmere. The Simmons Beautyrest Black collection consists of the Gabriela, the Edaline, the Helena, the Viola, the Orchid, the Rosalyn, the Hyacinth, the Florence, the Exquisite, the Ophelia, and the Temptation.

For couples, the Simmons Beautyrest mattress is one of the best on the market. But are there any criticisms of this mattress? Well, one or two. If you or your partner weighs more than 250 lbs you’ll probably need more support than you get with the Simmons Beautyrest – you’ll probably need to purchase the base along with the mattress, making it an expensive proposition. Also, there have been complaints from consumers that the Beautyrest World Class mattress is just fine when new but after a time it begins to sag and dip. This sagging is probably due to the use of latex, which does sag over time.

If you’re on a budget many mattress reviews recommend the Simmons DeepSleep innerspring line. It doesn’t come with pocket coil springs. Instead the mattress consists of double tempered, heavy gauge coils; nonetheless it is a very comfortable mattress. The Simmons DeepSleep mattress is also an excellent choice if you’re single or on the heavy side.

Simmons also make a mattress especially for those with back problems; it called the Simmons BackCare mattress. What’s different about this mattress is that there is a layer of gel on top, which moulds to your body shape, thus relieving pressure points. Simmons call this system the Technogel system. Whether or not the Simmons BackCare mattress will be more popular than the Tempur-Pedic memory foam mattress remains to be seen. However, memory foam is something people either love or hate, so for those that hate memory foam but still need a mattress to help with their back problems, the Simmons BackCare mattress may just be the answer.

Simmons have been making top rated mattresses for a long time. Simmons mattresses don’t come cheap but the company makes a large collection of mattresses, each with optional extras, so the chances are a Simmons mattress will provide you with a good night’s rest.

Author: Robin Cassidy
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Digital Camera Information

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Is the Tempur-Pedic the Best Memory Foam Mattress?

February 10, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

In just a few short years, this new company has become as well known as some companies who’ve been making mattresses for over a hundred years. They are seen by many consumers as making the best mattress on the market. But is Tempur-Pedic’s reputation deserved?

First, let’s find out what was so different about a Tempur-Pedic mattress. Quite simply, it was a revolution in the mattress world. The Tempur-Pedic mattress was made like no other mattress, being made from one piece of visco-elastic material called TEMPUR. Originally, NASA had created visco-elastic for use in astronauts’ seats to help absorb G-forces. The material would yield to the exact shape of the astronaut thus helping to alleviate pressure points on the body. A small Danish company was quick to realize that, if visco-elastic could help protect astronaut’s bodies from extreme G-forces, it could also help people with back problems get the support they required for a comfortable night’s sleep: the world’s first memory foam mattress was born.

The therapeutic benefits of a Tempur-Pedic mattress have been attested by healthcare professionals. Testing by the Institution for Clinical & Physiological Research at the Lillhagen Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden of 23,000 patients for a period corresponding to approximately 8 years of clinical and in-home use concluded that the patients suffered from less pain and experienced greatly enhanced and deeper sleep. Over 30,000 medical doctors, chiropractors, physiotherapists and osteopaths world-wide recommend the TEMPUR Mattress and Neck Pillow. Many experts agree that a memory foam mattress delivers the best, orthopedically correct alignment of your neck and spine. When you sleep, your spine should be in the same position as when you’re standing up: this is what a memory foam mattress does.

The Tempur-Pedic responds to both temperature and weight. When you first lie down on a Tempur-Pedic mattress, the first thing you feel is the lack of springiness that you will be used to from spring mattresses. Instead the Tempur-Pedic mattress feels firm. However, almost immediately, your weight and body heat cause the mattress to yield and form to the exact contours of your body.

So, what are the advantages of a Tempur-Pedic mattress? Unlike conventional spring mattresses, the Tempur-Pedic is suitable for all weights; you don’t need to buy a firmer mattress for someone heavy and a softer mattress for someone who is lighter. This also means that partners can do away with buying twin mattresses. As you’ve read above, memory foam mattresses are thought, by many healthcare professionals, to be the best type of mattress for providing optimum support. Many sufferers of back-pain have experienced the enormous improvement in their sleep when sleeping on a Tempur-Pedic mattress. Because a memory foam mattress doesn’t have springs, they are an excellent choice for people who suffer from being woken up from their partner’s movements; with memory foam there is no ‘wave’ motion that is experienced with innerspring or air mattresses.

Are they any drawbacks? Well, memory foam mattresses aren’t to everyone’s liking. Many consumers don’t like the lack of springiness, or fluffiness, compared to traditional innerspring mattresses. In colder conditions, some have reported that the Tempur-Pedic mattress stays quite firm. There have been reports that there is an unpleasant smell from the Tempur-Pedic mattress. Tempur-Pedic says that the smell comes from their manufacturing process and fades away after a few days; some disagree with this. Finally, Tempur-Pedic mattresses are more expensive that their competitors.

But, does Tempur-Pedic make the best memory foam mattress? Are Tempur-Pedic mattresses overpriced? When buying a memory foam mattress you should buy one made from visco-elastic. You can buy memory foam mattresses made from latex – a good choice for allergy sufferers as latex is hypo-allergenic. However, latex doesn’t conform to your body shape as well as visco-elastic. You can also buy polyurethane, which is less expensive, however it doesnt last as long and will soon ‘compress’, thereby losing its support. Not all visco-elastic is made the same. Each company uses a different manufacturing process to make their own version of e memory foam mattress. Many companies make cheaper memory foam mattresses than Tempur-Pedic, but remember this: who do all companies compare their version of memory foam mattresses to? Does Serta compare their memory foam mattress to Bergad, Does Simmons compare their memory foam mattress to Sealy. No. They all compare their mattress to that of the Tempur-Pedic. Why? Because the Tempur-Pedic mattress is the bench-mark that all other manufacturers aspire to.

In life, you get what you pay for. The Tempur-Pedic is the most expensive memory foam mattress, but many consumer reviews have rated it as the best. The Tempur-Pedic memory foam mattress was the original and remains the best memory foam mattress on the market today.

Author: Robin Cassidy
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Digital Camera News

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Different Mattresses = Different Benefits

February 7, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

Mattress options have changed dramatically in the last 15-20 years. Memory Foam and Latex mattresses have become common and quite inexpensive. Inner-spring mattresses have changed as well, as major mattress manufacturer’s incorporate latex, memory foam, and other types of polyurethane foam into their mattresses. It just goes to show that innovation is paving the way for sleeping surfaces for all of us. Below you can find the positive qualities and the negative qualities of each type of mattress, so you can choose what is best for you.

Inner Spring Mattress:

Inner Spring Mattresses are the tired and true mattress that most people have come to expect as they are the most common. We all grew up with a mattress that ended up poking at us with broken springs when we were children. These mattresses have begun to change to try to attract the customer that would want to purchase foam mattresses. By incorporating different types of foam, these mattresses are attempting to pave the way for a new kind of innerspring mattress. Most sets consist of a mattress and foundation. The inner springs consist of hundreds of coils of wire of different gauges. These are normally covered with some type of quilting or pillow top to give a softer feel. These mattress sets should last between 5 and 10 years. Most find innerspring mattresses uncomfortable when they are compared to foam mattresses or water beds. Innerspring mattresses will hammock and cave in the middle when using a standard innerspring design.

Water beds:

Water beds reduce the pressures on the body that a traditional mattress cause. Sleeping on water gives the proper support and spinal alignment one needs to wake up more rested and in less pain. Water bed mattresses are the original conforming type of mattress. The water can also be heated to provide therapeutic effects of heat for one that sleeps on it. The problem with a water bed is the water. A simple puncture can equal a huge mess. If you share a water bed with a partner, every time they move there will be a wave that runs the risk of waking you up.

Air Mattress:

Air mattresses offer multiple firmness settings based on your choice. Each side of the bed adjusts to the individual level of comfort you select. Air beds provide a level of conforming that is similar to a Water bed. The Sleep Number bed is the first of this kind and like TempurPedic, they charge a premium for it. There are plenty of other options for air mattresses if that is what you like. Most Air mattresses offer memory foam or latex add-ons. Air mattresses have many interior parts that can and often do break. Most companies that offer this type of mattress include inferior warranties and a lot of fine print. Air beds can easily hammock like innerspring mattresses which can lead to an uncomfortable sleeping surface.

Memory Foam Mattress:

The overall body support offered by a quality memory foam mattress is the best of any mattress (in our educated opinion). Memory foam was initially designed to offer pressure relief. It provides that better than any other surface available today. Memory Foam feels more solid than latex foam. Latex has a very bouncy feel. Memory Foam can vary greatly between manufacturers. TempurPedic was the first company to offer Memory Foam, as they designed memory foam mattresses for medical purposes. They were also the first company to offer this type of bedding to the general public. They advertise heavily and it shows in their pricing, they charge a premium for their product while other options offer an equal quality for much less. Memory Foam is a Polyurethane foam and is not a natural product. Memory Foam can have a funky odor to start with and some people find it extremely offensive.

Latex Mattresses:

Latex mattresses offer a conforming comparable to memory foam, while offering a natural sleep surface. Most companies offer organic cotton covers for their mattresses as well. Natural latex mattresses do not have much resilience and normally will only last 5 years. Talalay or Dunlop are the most common forms of a latex mattress. Talalay is the more involved process and provides the best resilience. It is also washed to remove any impurities. Latex gives you a bouncy feel, after all it is rubber. All latex is not alike and quality levels vary greatly between the different latex options. Be careful and ensure that you purchase the best possible quality latex available.

Author: Ross Goldberg
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Digital Camera Times

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What About Your Mattresses?

February 4, 2010 · Posted in mattress · Comment 

Do you really need a new mattress. When you arise in the morning does your body ache? Body aches after resting the night on an innerspring mattress is a strong indication that it may be time to start looking for a new mattress. But the signs of a mattress loosing its shape and comfort can be detected sooner.

These simple tests can help you discover if your mattress is still giving you the comfort you need:

  • Lie on your back and try to slide your hand under the small of your back. If it is very easy and your shoulders and hips are uncomfortable, you may want to consider a new mattress.
  • Try to roll over. If it is a lot of effort your mattress may be too soft and a new mattress may be a solution for a more comfortable night’s sleep, and well rested awakening in the morning.

Another sign of a mattress losing its comfort is when it takes longer to feel rested as you start to sleep later and later. Staying a couple of hours longer in bed can extend the result a poorly performing mattress that wouldn’t otherwise be noticed with a shorter or normal sleep period.

Once you have decided that your mattress is no longer giving you the comfort that it should give, the search for a new mattress commences. The quality of a mattress is recognizable by the following:

Quality Mattress Indicators

Durability

Quality materials which are well put together are a sign of durability, but more importantly is the warrantees given which are a sign of how long the factory believes the life expectancy of the mattress is. Depending on the price level of the mattress, warrantees should be for 5 years for promotional priced queen beds ($199 to $599), 10 years for middle of the road quality ($699 to $999), 15 years for premium quality ($1,199 to $2,999) and 20 years for true luxury beds ($3,199 to $12,999).

Softness and Firmness

The required softness or firmness of a mattress is a personal preference and most people know exactly what they want. They either like a softer or harder mattress. Often weight is a consideration when choosing the firmness of a mattress. Large or very heavy adults generally prefer firmer mattresses that provide them with more support. When buying a mattress for a child, remember back problems start as the spinal cord develops, saving money now may cost you in the long run. Children generally like a softer mattress and promotionally priced twin sets have less support and more pressure points than premium priced products.

Warrantee

As mentioned before, the warrantee should be of considerable time, at least 5 years and up-to 20 years for true luxury beds. The duration of the warrantee is just one factor. Most warranties are limited warranties and have body impressions restrictions before the manufacturer will service the product. Very few manufacturers have 100% no questions asked warranties so its very important to read the warranty before you purchase, most manufacturers have web sites with the warranty posted, do not take some ones word for it in a retail store, get it in writing and know your rights, buyer beware. Also look for things like no shipping fees in case of a problem, no repair costs, replacement mattresses for free, etc.

Space

Last but not least, space! Look for the largest mattress your room can hold and you can afford. When sleeping together with your partner, space is not only going to make your nights more comfortable, but may also keep your relationship at a healthy level. In case your buying a mattress for your child, keep in mind that your child will outgrow a short mattress. A 74 inch mattress length may be great now, but ten years from now their feet may be floating in the air.

Once you have purchased your mattress, maintenance is important to make your mattress last as long as specified by the manufacturers guarantee. The following tips are helpful to make your mattress last longer:

  • Can-Flip Innerspring mattresses should be turned over and rotated monthly.
  • No-Flip Innerspring mattress should be rotated bi-monthly.
  • All foam mattresses should be rotated monthly.
  • Never wet an innerspring or all foam mattresses. Use a vacuum cleaner for regular cleaning.
  • The handles on a mattress are there for positioning and should not be used to lift or carry the mattress.
  • Obviously, do not try to fold or bend an innerspring mattress, luxury foam mattresses are bendable.
  • Sitting on the edge of innerspring or all foam mattresses is not good for its durability. Mattresses are designed to carry the weight of a person lying down and not to support somebody sitting on the edge for long periods of time.
  • Make sure the mattress is placed on a matching foundation and 5-leg bed frame for queen sizes or larger. All foam mattresses are heaver than traditional innerspring, so foundations are very important, the wrong type will cost you your warranty. A mattress is only as good as its foundation no mater what you spend.

A mattress is the place where you spend about 30% of your lifetime during those moments that comfort is of your highest priority. Knowing the important factors is essential. Children that get a better nights sleep do better in school and are easier to manage. Adults health is mostly determined by the quality of rest they receive especially in high stress work places. Buying online is an excellent way to purchase a new mattress as long as the company offers 100% no non-sense comfort guarantees with no re-stocking and shipping charges.

Author: Thomas Jay Wacker
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty rates

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