Each of us spends a quarter or at least a third of our lives sleeping. Therefore, it is difficult to overestimate such a phenomenon as healthy sleep. It is the key to vivacity, good mood and just a good day.
No matter how much expensive bed stands in your bedroom, how you get a good night's sleep depends on. Correctly chosen orthopedic mattress, suitable for you, will be the key to happy dreams.
Before you go to the store to make a purchase, you should carefully study.
When buying a new mattress, you should pay attention to a number of physical parameters of a person.
Today there are two types of mattresses - spring and springless. Both classes have their pros and cons.
Experts believe that spring mattresses have a better effect on the human body. Moreover, the higher the number of springs, the more pronounced the orthopedic effect.
Depending on the design Among spring mattresses, there are two subtypes: with dependent springs and with independent ones.
Mattress with dependent spring block got its name due to the fact that the springs in it are interconnected. If you press on one of the springs of such a block, the others will press down after it. The undeniable advantages of this subtype include the cost - it is significantly lower than that of mattresses with independent springs. But there is a significant drawback - low wear resistance.
Over time, such mattresses sag in the middle part, and a person finds himself in a kind of hole. If a couple sleeps on such a mattress, then the lighter spouse, regardless of his desire, will roll into this depression.
In addition, over time, such models begin to creak. This mattress is perfect for short-term use, for example, in the country, where it will serve only a short period of time.
Mattresses with independent spring block differ more complex design, which certainly affects the cost. In such blocks, each spring is placed in a separate case made of a special material. It prevents wear and does not allow sagging individual parts mattress.
These are the qualities that a good orthopedic mattress has. The disadvantage of such a mattress, as mentioned earlier, is the high cost.
As the name implies, springless mattresses do not contain springs, but are filled with a special filler. Filler materials can be either natural or artificial.
Natural ones include latex, coconut flakes, and sea grass. The artificial materials used for filling are foam rubber, artificial latex and holofiber.
It cannot be said that such mattresses are definitely worse, but their service life is definitely not comparable to spring structures. However, this model is much more budget-friendly, and therefore so popular among buyers.
When arranging a place to sleep, users often wonder what filling to choose for a mattress. Regardless of the presence or absence of a spring mechanism, all mattresses use different fillers. The degree of rigidity depends on them.
As mentioned earlier, there are two types of materials - artificial and natural. Let's look at the most popular of them.
Advantages of using orthopedic mattresses
The advantage of modern mattresses is their anatomical and orthopedic effect. Today there is a lot of controversy regarding the interpretation of these concepts. The most common point of view is that of European specialists and experts from the USA.
The anatomical effect is the ability of the mattress to exactly follow the contours and curves of the human body.
The orthopedic effect consists of a combination of two functions. This mattress follows the silhouette of the body as accurately as possible, but at the same time provides the necessary support to the spine.
The right mattress provides the body with proper rest. It prevents the spine from sagging, no matter how you are used to sleeping - on your back or on your side.
Using such a mattress, it is possible to avoid such unpleasant phenomena as displacement of the vertebrae and compression of the intervertebral discs. During sleep, nerve endings are not pinched, and ligaments and muscles are not stretched.
When the theoretical issues have been studied, you should move on to the practical aspects of purchasing a new mattress for a comfortable sleep.
First of all, you need to determine the size of the purchase. An old mattress is not suitable for this, since there is a high probability that it has become severely deformed during use. It would be more correct to measure the internal perimeter of the sleeping place.
If you are going to change not only the mattress, but also the bed itself, you will need information about standard sizes produced beds:
- The standard size of a single bed is 90x190 cm;
- the minimum permissible size of a bed designed for two people is 140x190 cm;
- Deluxe bed size - 160x200 cm;
- The European standard for a double bed is 180x200 cm.
Choosing sleeping place, it is worth remembering that the comfortable length of the mattress is equal to the height of a person increased by 15 cm.
It is also worth asking the store manager about different mattress fillings. Often, if the material has been poorly processed, its use can cause allergies. Allergy sufferers should pay special attention to this issue.
As mentioned earlier, rigidity should be chosen based on physical parameters. However, you should not rely on dry data. It’s worth trying out the mattress you like—sit on it in all possible comfort, lie on your back and side. Check to see if it bends under your weight.
It is also worth paying attention to the upholstery of the mattress and the presence of a cover.
The fabric for the mattress must be durable to withstand heavy daily use. For the convenience of consumers, various impregnations are often used on the mattress cover - dust-repellent, fire-resistant and anti-allergenic.
In addition, a good mattress is equipped with a double cover - for the warm and cold seasons. Honest manufacturers who are confident in the quality of their product, as a rule, supply the mattress with a cover with a zipper. That allows you to remove it and wash it if necessary.
It’s quite easy to choose a mattress designed for one bed. Another question is how to choose the right mattress for a bed intended for two people.
When choosing a mattress for a double bed, it is worth remembering that the design of the mattress has limitations for one sleeping place. When choosing such a product, you need to take into account the maximum permissible values.
Particular attention should be paid to pairs with different weights when choosing mattresses. It is known that people of fragile construction are recommended to sleep on soft mattresses, while people with greater weight should prefer mattresses with high hardness.
Thus, in a couple of different weights, sleep will be comfortable only for one of the spouses. A way out of the situation may be to purchase two single mattresses of the recommended hardness. Although not all couples agree to such a neighborhood.
The solution for such families will be double-sided mattresses with different hardnesses. They will help you empirically choose the most comfortable option for sleeping.
The choice of mattress should always be taken extremely seriously. Even an expensive orthopedic mattress that is incorrectly selected for a specific person will do more harm than good. It is also worth remembering that the average service life of an orthopedic mattress is 10-15 years.
The health of the spine directly affects the condition internal organs
. It experiences a heavy load, supporting the human body in vertical position. With diseases of the spine, a person feels pain, which can spread to the arms, legs, subscapular or thoracic region. The orthopedic mattress has a passive positive effect on the diseased part of the spine, and the spinal column accepts correct position. In combination with the use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, physiotherapeutic procedures, this method has an effective therapeutic effect. How to choose an orthopedic mattress, what to pay attention to first?
Species
Mattresses can vary in different parameters. The task is to find the best option for yourself.
By design
Products have different designs, depending on the purpose.
Spring: dependent and independent
If the product is equipped with spring mechanisms, you need to pay attention to whether they are independent springs or Bonnel-type blocks. In the first case when pressed at any point, the material immediately returns to its original shape. Each spring is located independently of the other and hidden in a fabric cover. This is the “right” mattress.
In the second– a “hole” is formed at the point of pressure, because springs are fastened together, and any impact immediately affects all springs located in the blocks. While the product is new, the spring dependent blocks retain its shape, but after a few months of use characteristic unevenness and “dips” are created on the mattress and it becomes clear that this is far from best option.
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Irina Martynova. Graduated from Voronezh State Medical University named after. N.N. Burdenko. Clinical resident and neurologist of the BUZ VO \"Moscow Polyclinic\".
Springless
These include hard and medium-hard mattresses. If spring ones have a shock absorption function, then springless ones are a layer of special material several centimeters thick. Their surface can be divided into zones with different levels rigidity.
Which ones are better?
And a layer of coconut coir, and latex material, and modified polyurethane, which are the soft basis of spring and springless products, can last a long time if used correctly. But polyurethane does not allow air to pass through, A coconut flakes do not hold their shape for a long time. Latex is better (it is made from the sap of the rubber tree), but the layer thickness should be medium. This is right. Latex is that universal material, which “breathes”, perfectly preserves the product in its original form, does not create problems during maintenance, and its price is quite reasonable. Considering these factors, it will not be difficult to choose a mattress for both a single and a double bed.
One or another type orthopedic mattresses are prescribed depending on the disease. Plays a role and age factor. More recommended for older people soft options. Hard springless mattresses are good for young and middle-aged people with osteochondrosis, uncomplicated forms of scoliosis, pinched nerve endings and other pathologies of the spine.
We'll tell you about simple preventive ways to maintain excellent posture.
About all types of posture disorders and possible reasons who call them, read here
By content
The degree of rigidity of the product and its performance characteristics depend on the filler.
Soft
The following materials are used to make soft mattresses: memoryform, strutofiber, etc. Memoryform - foamed artificial filler, when hardened, forms a soft, “viscous” canvas and having a memory effect. Strutofiber represents a warm, pleasant warming surface made of fluffy, synthetic material.
Hard
Rigid models are thin and presented well ventilated, durable materials
, more often coconut flakes, latex, etc. They return the spine to its correct position. The position during sleep is very important. If it is chosen poorly, then there is no need to talk about a positive effect and good sleep.
Semi-rigid
Medium-hard products made of latex, waterlatex, foam rubber etc. If foam rubber is a foamed artificial layer, then latex and materials based on it are obtained from natural raw materials - rubber tree sap and additional binding components.
Other Features
The ease of use directly depends on the maximum weight of the mattress, which can reach 5-140 kg. If one of the spouses is obese and the other is thin, when purchasing a double version, it is better to opt for a model with independent spring blocks.
Reinforcement around the perimeter with a stronger base does not allow the models to deform, maintains their original dimensions and neatness. appearance. This is a kind of protection that prevents the filler from “blurring.”
Model sizes:
- for newborns – 100-120*50-60 cm;
- for children of primary school age – 140-190*70-80 cm;
- for teenagers – 185-190*80-120 cm;
- for adults: single version – 190-200*80-90 cm, double – 190-200*160-200 cm.
Children's orthopedic mattresses
For newborn babies, orthopedic products are made from coconut coir, having an average thickness of 3-7 cm. The main requirement: the material must be well ventilated and dry quickly. It is better to purchase a cotton mattress cover in advance - it absorbs moisture well.
The use of hard surfaces is recommended for young children and teenagers, providing the spine with an even and correct position. This will protect against the possible development of scoliosis, which children are susceptible to during this period. The bone skeleton in children is just forming, therefore correct posture during training sessions and body position during night rest hours greatly affect their health and overall well-being.
Materials for the elderly
In older people, bones and joints become more fragile with age, causing diseases such as osteoporosis, arthritis, etc. Too hard surfaces chosen for sleeping will not give them relief, but can cause persistent insomnia, morning lethargy and weakness. For older people, the best option would be mattresses with the characteristics:
- built-in independent springs;
- product hardness level – medium;
- zonal distribution of materials depending on detected diseases;
- the ability to use the back side of the mattress, which has a different level of hardness.
A double-sided mattress is an economical and effective option that solves several problems at once. The semi-hard side is used daily, and the reverse - softer - during periods of exacerbation in osteochondrosis and other diseases. 
Price
Economy class products from domestic manufacturer can be purchased at a very reasonable price: single option – up to 2000 rubles, double – up to 4000 rubles. Mattresses mid-level differ more high quality, their price depends on the “filling” and the presence of springs: independent and dependent spring blocks. Average cost – 7000-17000 rub..
Elite models, mainly produced foreign manufacturers, by price can reach $6,000. But such purchases last for decades. For osteochondrosis and other diseases of the spine, you can get great benefit from them.
Review of brands
Popular manufacturing companies:
- Company TM Sonline. Environmentally friendly, natural materials are used in production. Medium-hard products are equipped with independent (320 springs per 1 sq.m.) springs. Springless models are represented by alternating layers of coconut coir and latex. Winter-summer products covered with cotton on one side and sheep wool on the other are popular.
- Evolution company. The main advantage of the models is their hypoallergenicity, ensured by a special impregnation of the top layer. The company uses such unique materials as palm bark, sisal, seaweed, etc. The spring blocks are equipped with a Euro-frame made of polyurethane.
- DoctorHealth. It produces springless models with a massage effect. They anatomically perfectly “adjust” to the human body. Main fillers: coconut and latex.
- Schlaraffia company. It has been producing bedding products for over 100 years. The products have zonal gel inserts that support the body in a normal position. A pleasant innovation for customers was the use of Sensipurplus foam, which responds to changes in body temperature and has excellent moisture permeability.
- Akant company. Wide assortment and a wide variety of models. The company uses glueless technologies. Produces independent spring blocks own production. The “layers” of mattresses undergo synchronous quilting.
Orthopedic mattresses for the sofa
The advantages of these models include:
- Versatility. They can be placed on sofas, folding beds, sofas, and in some cases on the floor.
- Convenient transportation. It is enough to roll the products into a roll and move them to the desired location.
- Pronounced therapeutic effect. Despite the fact that most models are small in thickness, their use will soon eliminate problems with the spine due to osteochondrosis and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Models for sofas are made of struplast, foam rubber, coconut, and composite additives can also be included.
There are not many disadvantages to such products.
They are connected with wrong choice a model that can “ride” on the sofa is not suitable in size and design. Too thick lumpy mattresses for sofas are not used.
How to choose?
It is necessary to measure the length and width in advance working area and look for a mattress that fits in size. This is the first the right decision. The profitability of the purchase is also determined by:
- At a price. Most economical option– a product with a polyurethane (foam rubber) “filling”.
- Thickness. Thick mattresses are inconvenient to use and care for, while thin models are well suited for use on different surfaces.
- Service life. I wouldn’t want the product to turn into shapeless rags after a few months, so you should ask a consultant how many years a particular filler can last.
You also need to decide on the purpose of the purchase. Perhaps the purchase will relieve the temporary difficulties that arose in connection with the failed sofa. Or it will solve the problem of where to place regularly visiting guests. Or it will turn hard upholstered furniture into a cozy and comfortable “oasis”.
Selection guide
The main principle of an orthopedic mattress, the price of which is not horrifying and we can say about it that it is the best:
- not too soft;
- not too harsh.
Such an explanation may cause slight confusion among a potential buyer. What does this mean and what is the right thing to do?
- Too thin hard mattress on the bed doesn't allow tired from the day relax the muscles. No matter how a person lies: on his back, on his side, free gaps are formed between the curves of the body and the surface of the mattress, the load is distributed over the protruding points of the body, and not evenly over the back or side area (sleeping on the stomach is not recommended, especially with osteochondrosis, since When the spine is bent, blood circulation in the brain and spinal column is disrupted).
- Mattress too soft contrary to the erroneous belief that you can have a great night's sleep in such a bed, it is often causes severe back pain even in the morning after sleep (with or without osteochondrosis). What's the matter? In any position, the person’s body in bed seems to plunge into the “abyss.” In the first minutes the sensations are pleasant, but they are deceptive, because the spinal column takes the wrong position. It bends even more. And given the disproportionate body build of many people (the shoulders are wider than the pelvis, and vice versa), the heavier part of the body “sinks” into the soft surface more strongly. With osteochondrosis, this is even dangerous. And there is no question of a normal rest.
A hard mattress is better than a too soft one, and the ideal option is something in between..
For older people preferable use medium-hard and soft models. This is the most right choice. The constant use of orthopedic mattresses has a positive effect on their health. But when serious illnesses is definitely required and drug treatment. Then the parallel use of mattresses will provide tangible benefits.
When should you change your mattress?
The moment inevitably comes when your favorite things become unusable. If the casing products in places rubbed off, and through her spring blocks peeking through– the product will have to be replaced. Exposed springs put pressure on the body, rub the skin, and cause severe physical discomfort. And if you add an unpleasant squeak every time you turn your body and try to get out of bed, then sleep turns into torture.
On springless surfaces dents remain that cannot be straightened out. Gradual deformation of the product turns it into a material with ugly, “blurry” edges. With this condition of the mattress, you should think about replacing it.
Two or one?
For a double bed, you can buy either one wide or two mattresses. But it would be correct to make a purchase based on the health status of the household. If one of them has diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and the other is healthy, then it is better to buy different mattresses for a double bed. It will be correct option. Although the price of the products will be different.
Which width is best? If a person sleeps restlessly, spreads his legs and arms in his sleep, then sleeping next to him is not easy. You can purchase mattresses 1.5-2 meters wide. The price will be higher, but on such a “bridgehead” you can sleep either lengthwise or across.
With and, in the vertebrae it can be very difficult to find a suitable mattress. Many manufacturers wishful thinking, producing mattresses that are far from orthopedic in their characteristics. In appearance, this “best” option looks both stylish and neat, and the seller will read a convincing speech about its exceptional beneficial properties. But in fact, a few days later, after sleeping on such a bed, the unlucky buyer’s whole body begins to ache, and unkind thoughts appear regarding the mattress, the seller and the manufacturer.
To avoid such incidents, it is better to take your favorite pillow (cushion) with you and test the properties of the mattress you like on your body right in the store. After all, you have to pay a lot for this product. cash, which also have to be spent on a bunch of medications for osteochondrosis and other pathologies of the spine.
Lifehacker recommends even for severe sociopaths to get to real store and test mattresses before purchasing. You can buy a mattress online without trying it on only if you know exactly which model you need. For example, you slept on one at a party or in a hotel.
If you happen to lie somewhere on the most comfortable mattress in the world, do not hesitate to ask the owner the name of the model and manufacturer. Perhaps one such question will solve your problems with choice for a long time.
If you don’t have a favorite mattress model yet, you need to find one. Here's what you need to look for when choosing:
- Type of mattress.
- Case.
- Filler.
- Rigidity.
- Size.
- Price.
Types of mattresses
Mattresses are inflatable, water, spring and springless. Let's look at the pros and cons of each type.
An air mattress is more suitable for camping trips or for temporary accommodation of guests. And although you can sleep quite comfortably on it for a couple of nights or even a week, long-term use of such a mattress will not have a very good effect on the health of your back.
Intex2.ru
Pros of an air mattress:
- Mobility. If you frequently move from place to place or temporarily rent an unfurnished apartment while waiting to move into your own, an air mattress can serve you well. However, not always for a long time, since it is very easy to damage it.
- The bed can simply be deflated and stored in the closet. During a party, for example.
- The simplest air mattress will cost you 1,000 rubles; cooler models cost about 5,000.
Disadvantages of an air mattress:
- Does not provide the necessary support to the spine, so after a while you may experience back and neck pain and poor sleep. Among those who have used air mattresses for a long time, very few are satisfied. Others complain of pain and Bad mood in the morning.
- The mattress can be easily damaged, especially if you have pets at home. One joyful jump from a cat can render your sleeping place unusable. Over time, microscopic defects appear in the mattress (most often in the places where individual air chambers are held together). You won't be able to detect where exactly the air is coming from, but by morning you will wake up practically on the floor.
- It is uncomfortable for two people to sleep on an air mattress. When one tosses or stands up, the other feels all these movements.
An air mattress is a good temporary solution, especially if you'll be sleeping on it alone. But don't take it as a long-term option.
Water mattress
In the simplest versions there are no chambers, that is, the mattress is a cover filled with water. It’s impossible to even sit on it without causing a mini-tsunami. Naturally, you will also feel waves when your neighbor turns or moves.
For couples, this option is completely unsuitable, since the lighter partner may end up on a bubble, while the second one comfortably falls into a water hole. And some people even get seasick on such a mattress, so the morning is not particularly good.
The outlet for couples is a water bed divided into two independent parts. Another option is a mattress consisting of several chambers filled with water. It will not go in waves at the slightest vibration.
Pros of a waterbed:
- Ideally adapts to the shape of the body, perfectly relieves the spine and joints. Blood circulates freely throughout the body; you cannot rest your arm or leg.
- They won't start in the mattress dust mites.
- Does not deform over time.
- The water mattress is installed in a special box with electrical heating. Every night you lie down in a warm bed and fall asleep faster. And such warmth is also useful for those who suffer from arthritis, rheumatism, and muscle pain.
- The mattress cover does not require special cleaning; you just need to wipe off the dust with a cloth.
- Contrary to all fears, the mattress is very difficult to damage. You can repair the damage yourself using the included repair kit. Well, the most careful ones can insure their bed.
Cons of a waterbed:
- Those who are comfortable on hard mattresses are unlikely to be able to adapt to a water mattress.
- In the reviews, some complain about increased back pain, which suggests that this mattress is not suitable for everyone. Consult a podiatrist before purchasing.
- The mattress weighs from 100 to 900 kg. Of course, it won’t break the floor in the apartment, but moving it to another corner will be difficult. The process is also complicated by the fact that the mattress box is connected to an outlet (remember about heating?). In general, rearranging, repairing or moving will become even more of a challenge.
- The water in the mattress should be changed every 2-3 years, and a special conditioner should be added to it once a year to prevent the formation of microorganisms.
- The minimum cost of a double water mattress, on which you will not feel dangling on the waves, is 65 thousand rubles. You will also need a heater and a box. The final price of a waterbed is about 130 thousand rubles.
- A good waterbed is not easy to find in a small town. You can take a chance and order online, trusting the reviews of other buyers, but most likely the delivery costs will be scary. And you still have to look for a craftsman who will install the bed correctly.
A water mattress will probably be the best purchase of your life, providing a comfortable, sound and healthy sleep for many decades. But a mistake will cost you dearly. Before you decide to buy, try sleeping on such a mattress for several days, for example, somewhere in a hotel.
Spring mattress
Probably, almost everyone has heard that there are mattresses with dependent and independent spring blocks.
Mattresses with dependent springs
The springs are interconnected into a single sheet. I pressed on one and everyone started moving.
Advantages of a mattress with dependent springs:
- Perhaps the only advantage of such a mattress is its cost. You can find quite budget options. Although sometimes the mattress contains fillers, which raise the price to the level of high-quality springless mattresses or mattresses with independent spring blocks.
Disadvantages of a mattress with dependent springs:
- Gradually, the mattress deforms, taking on the shape of a hammock. It becomes uncomfortable to sleep on it. Plus it's bad for your back.
- Inconvenient for couples, since when one of the sleepers turns, the other will feel vibrations. Also, a lighter partner can slide towards a heavier one in a dream.
- The spring block may break, and the sharp edges of the springs may pierce or prick the mattress upholstery.
- The mattress is difficult to transport. So when you move, you will have to leave it, sell it, or hire at least a minibus for transportation.
In principle, a mattress with dependent springs is suitable for occasional use. You can buy it, for example, for a summer house, choosing a cheaper model.
Each spring is in a fabric case and works autonomously. The number of springs varies from 250 to 1,000 per square meter. The more springs, the better the mattress adapts to the contours of your body.
Advantages of a mattress with independent springs:
Disadvantages of a mattress with independent springs:
- Like the previous type, it is difficult to transport.
- Springs may break.
- Over time, the springs may begin to creak.
Mattress with independent spring blocks - good choice for daily sleep.
Springless mattress
It’s easy to guess that this is a mattress consisting only of a cover and some kind of filler.
Pros of a springless mattress:
- A high-quality springless mattress will provide proper support for the spine. For back problems, these are the mattresses that are recommended.
- Remains silent throughout its entire service life, unlike spring ones, which can begin to creak.
- Convenient for transportation: usually such a mattress can be rolled up and transported even in a car.
Disadvantages of a springless mattress:
- The disadvantages of a springless mattress are the disadvantages of its filler. We will talk about the types and properties of fillers a little later.
If you find a comfortable springless mattress for yourself, it will provide you with sound and healthy sleep for many years. You can buy such a mattress for children, since a spring one can quickly fail when jumping on the bed.
Mattress covers
Mattress covers are primarily made from cotton, with synthetics sometimes added for durability. Warm covers are made from wool. The cover can also be double-sided: the cotton side is for summer, the woolen side is for winter. Sometimes the covers are treated with hypoallergenic and fire-resistant impregnation.
Types of fillers
If everything is quite simple with covers, then there are many fillers. Almost all of them are used in both springless and spring mattresses. Most often you can find a combination of several materials. Let's go through the properties of the most popular fillers.
cotton wool
The only advantage of a cotton mattress is its cost. For just 1,000 rubles you will become the owner of a handsome striped single bed. But the cost of double models is already comparable to more modern types mattresses, so the question arises: does it make sense to buy a cotton one?
Cotton wool does not provide sufficient elasticity for proper support of the spine, it rolls up quite quickly, absorbs moisture, but does not breathe well, that is, the mattress must be dried regularly to avoid the active proliferation of microorganisms. Cotton mattress may be considered as an inexpensive temporary solution.
Sintepon
A springless mattress with padding polyester filling is light and inexpensive, but also cannot provide the necessary support for the spine. But it is convenient to store it at home or take it with you on hikes and to the country. You can use it temporarily and then put it in the closet in case guests arrive.
A padding polyester layer is often used in spring mattresses to provide softness.
Holofiber
Holofiber is usually used together with other materials. Thus, the layer gives elasticity and softness to a rigid base made of coconut slab.
Holofiber is breathable, hypoallergenic and quite durable material.
Holcon
This is a material made from synthetic polyester fiber, sometimes with the addition of natural materials: cotton, bamboo, coconut, wool. Holcon fibers are vertical springs, so the filler is fluffy and quickly restores its shape if you press on it.
Holcon is warm, light, does not absorb odors and moisture, hypoallergenic, and inexpensive. Mattresses only made from Holcon are quite thin. These can be used if you sleep on the couch or like to sleep on your stomach.
Polyurethane foam (foam rubber)
Of course, in high-quality mattresses you will not find that yellow thin foam rubber that we are used to seeing.
Modern polyurethane foam for mattresses is resilient and elastic, and follows the shape of the body well. A thick springless mattress made of polyurethane foam is already capable of supporting your back. Thanks to its porous texture, polyurethane foam breathes well, is durable and hypoallergenic.
Various foams
All kinds of foams are derivatives of polyurethane foam, which contain additives of different densities, due to which the hardness of mattresses can vary. There are models with several zones of varying rigidity: they provide proper support for the spine. Also, for example, silver ions can be added to the foam to protect against bacteria.
There are many types of foam, they may differ from one manufacturer to another. In general, modern foams are elastic, resilient, hypoallergenic, and last 10–25 years.
A special mention should be made of memory foam. A mattress with such a filling completely follows the shape of the body, supporting it well and relieving the spine and joints. Plus, the mattress doesn't wobble when your bedmate turns, so your sleep will be more sound and restful.
However, not everyone can get used to sinking into a mattress, and for some it is too hot. It will also be uncomfortable for those who are used to sleeping on their stomachs. However, the layer of such foam can be thin, and then the effect will not be too pronounced.
Artificial and natural latex
Manufacturers claim that dust mites do not live in latex. However, the same is said about foam mattresses. Latex provides good support for the spine. Thanks to the porous structure, the mattress breathes, so moisture evaporates instantly.
The disadvantages include the specific smell and heaviness of the mattress. Some owners note that after a few years, a depression from the body appears on the mattress, which subsequently interferes with a comfortable position. People also sometimes complain that it is hot to sleep on a latex mattress.
The main differences between natural and synthetic latex:
- Natural latex will last more than 30 years, some manufacturers even provide a guarantee for this period. Mattresses made of synthetic latex will please you a little less. It is better to check with a consultant when purchasing exactly how much.
- Synthetic latex is more rigid than natural latex.
- Mattresses made from natural latex are more expensive than mattresses made from synthetic latex.
Perhaps, the advantage of natural latex over other fillers that we wrote about above is precisely its naturalness. And comfort is a subjective concept. You might be as comfortable on a foam mattress as you would be on a latex mattress.
Koir
Coir is a natural filler made from coconut fibers. Typically, coir is used to give mattresses rigidity.
Sisal
A tough fiber obtained from the leaves of the Agave sisal plant. Used as a layer between the spring block and the soft layer to properly distribute the load on the mattress.
Wool
Wool absorbs moisture well and breathes, so this mattress is warm and dry. A springless mattress filled only with wool will not provide adequate support for the spine. However, wool is often used as one of the layers in orthopedic mattresses.
Heat-bonded flax
Natural material that wicks away moisture well. Used as a layer.
Mattress hardness
Typically, mattresses are divided into hard, medium-hard and soft.
Hard mattresses
Rigid models are dominated by coir, sisal, and thermally bonded linen. Such mattresses may have a reinforced spring block, which allows them to withstand maximum loads. Recommended for people with large body weight, as well as for problems with.
Medium-hard mattresses
Medium hardness is achieved through a combination of hard and soft fillers. As a rule, coconut and sisal are used as a rigid base, and a layer of orthopedic foam or voluminous stitching provides comfort.
Soft mattresses
The softness of the mattress is given by various comfortable layers: latex, orthopedic foam, holofiber. The more materials there are above the box spring, the softer the mattress. Such models are suitable for the elderly and people with a fragile physique. Soft mattresses are also recommended for certain diseases of the lumbar spine.
The hardness of the mattress is selected individually depending on the age, weight and preferences of the person. How more weight sleeper, the harder the mattress should be. Not only comfort during sleep depends on this, but also the service life of the product, since rigid models use more load-resistant materials that eliminate early deformation.
The mattress passport indicates the maximum weight of the sleeper. Focus on it, as well as on your feelings when testing the mattress in the store. If you have problems with your back or joints, it is advisable to consult an orthopedist. Old advice“The tougher the better” does not work for many diseases.
It is also worth consulting with a good orthopedist if you are choosing a mattress for a child: the spine can be seriously damaged by an incorrect sleeping position.
There are models with sides of different hardness. This allows you to turn the mattress over depending on your desire or health condition.
Double mattresses can have halves of different hardness. But if you can’t find a mattress that suits both partners, you can put two single mattresses in a box and fill the gap between them with a common mattress cover.
A mattress protector will also save you if you buy a mattress that is not suitable for its hardness, and there is no way to replace it. A properly selected cover will add firmness or softness to the mattress.
Mattress size
There are two possible scenarios for the development of events.
Option 1
You buy both a bed and a mattress at the same time. Then you need to select the dimensions based on the area of the room and the physiological characteristics of those who will sleep on the bed.
The length of the mattress should exceed the person’s height by at least 15 cm, so that the sleeper does not rest his feet on the foot of the bed. The width of the sleeping place should be equal to double the width of the sleeper's shoulders.
Robert Oksman, expert sleep specialist from Askona
Once you understand what size the mattress should be, all that remains is to choose the right bed for it.
Option 2
You have a bed, you only need to choose a mattress. If the bed is new, then the dimensions can be found in its passport. If the bed is old, you need to measure the inner perimeter of the bed, but in no case the old mattress, since over time its dimensions change due to inevitable deformation.
It happens that measurements give non-standard results. For example, instead of 80 cm in width, the result is 79 or 83 cm. A discrepancy of up to 1 cm is quite acceptable. If the bed measures 79 × 201 cm, feel free to buy a standard mattress 80 × 200 cm. But if the difference is 2 cm or more, you will have to make a custom-made mattress, otherwise it will either not fit into the bed box or will dangle in it. In the latter case, the cover wears out quickly.
Alexander Babichev, mattress expert from Strong
Mattress cost
Before you go looking, decide how much money you can and want to spend. Excessive savings are of no use here, unless, of course, you need a temporary option. But usually a mattress is bought for 10 or even 20 years.
Look up the prices of different models online to get a rough idea of prices, and go to the store to test mattresses.
If you find a mattress that is too expensive, study its features and look for a mattress with the same characteristics from other manufacturers. Maybe you'll be lucky and find a cheaper analogue.
Mattress buyer checklist
1. Think about what position you sleep in most often.
It is usually more comfortable to sleep on your side on a soft mattress, and on your stomach on a hard one. Since a mattress is purchased for several years (or even decades), and circumstances (weight, illness) may change, it is better not to choose extremely soft or extremely hard models.
2. Remember what problems with your back, neck, and joints bother you. If there are many problems, consult with an orthopedist before purchasing a mattress.
3. Decide on a budget.
4. Decide on the size of the mattress.
5. Explore mattress models in online stores, read reviews. Sometimes opinions about the comfort of one mattress are completely opposite. Nevertheless, some information can be gleaned from reviews. For example, about the durability of the selected specimen.
6. Go to the store to test mattresses.
When choosing a mattress in a store, remove outerwear and try it with your back: lie down on the mattress, don’t sit down. Don't choose a "soft" or "hard" mattress based on the label. Be guided by your feelings: the mattress that is right for you should immediately seem very comfortable.
Dmitry Borisov, founder of the service for selecting design projects and furniture ReRooms.ru
Feel free to lie down for a few minutes in the position you usually are in. In the end, you are buying a very expensive thing, the convenience of which depends on your health.
7. Having looked closely suitable model, don't rush into purchasing. Calmly think about everything again, read the reviews about this particular mattress. If it's too expensive, look for alternatives.
8. If you are absolutely satisfied with the chosen mattress, test it again and buy it.
A good “correct” mattress is not a cheap purchase. But it is worth the cost, since the quality of your sleep depends on the quality of the mattress, and on it, in turn, your health. This is not an exaggeration - good sleep gives the body the rest it needs, and a good mattress guarantees the absence of insomnia and allergic reactions, a “medicine” for muscles and spine. Having provided comfortable sleep, a person will not experience a feeling of constant fatigue, will stop being irritated, feel drowsy, and will become more active and happy. The quality of life will improve. In addition, an orthopedic sleep product will help correct deviations in the spinal column without any effort on the part of the person.
But before studying information about corrective mattresses, it is necessary to answer the question of whether a person needs an orthopedic model. What does this term even mean, and is it useful for everyone to sleep on such a mattress, ignoring the usual one?
Important! An orthopedic or anatomical mattress is a product that is most friendly to the human body. It is adapted to him and really helps to create the most favorable conditions for the location of the joints and spine during sleep. During the day, a constant load is placed on the supporting organ, and if proper relaxation does not occur at night, illness cannot be avoided.
The purpose of an orthopedic mattress is to provide support for the spine when a person sleeps or rests
Such mattresses are recommended for both adults and children, both those with and without spinal problems. The difference between the anatomical one is that it simply takes the shape of the body lying on it, repeating it exactly. The orthopedic also bends in shape, but provides some resistance, correcting and supporting the spine in its curves.
Naturally, it is necessary to make the right choice of your mattress, because if you choose it incorrectly, instead of correction and benefit, it can cause significant harm.
What should an orthopedic (anatomical) mattress be like?
There is a necessary set of functions that a mattress must perform of this type. This is how it differs from a regular product, the only function of which is to serve as a surface for sleeping.
- . The orthopedic berth automatically bends at the locations of the pelvis, shoulders, and back. At the same time, the product has elasticity, which helps to support the sleeper’s body in all positions, preventing it from bending.
- Correction and absence of curvatures. Therefore, it is important to choose a level of rigidity that will help relax the muscles, rather than strain them. A product that is too hard can, over time, bend the spinal arch, constantly maintaining its unnaturally tense state, just like a product that is too soft, since the deflection will be deep.
- . Only in a relaxed state do they get rest. This function – complete relaxation – is one of the leading ones. In this state, you can get quality sleep and proper rest.
- Relief from pain. When you sleep on a mattress that is too hard, lumpy, and lacks shock-absorbing properties, your body weight is distributed unevenly. This can lead to unpleasant and painful sensations. The anatomical product excludes them.
- Getting rid of insomnia. In many cases of insomnia, it begins with the wrong mattress and pillow. When arranging a comfortable sleeping place, the problem disappears.
- . Corrective models provide elasticity in those points that need to remain mobile to avoid pinching nerves or blood vessels. On an absolutely flat, non-elastic, or vice versa, lumpy (and also non-elastic) surface, sooner or later the nerves will definitely be pinched.
- Microclimate preservation. The mattress does not adhere directly to the body, like pajamas or bed linen, but air exchange in it is very important, as well as moisture and heat exchange. A person releases up to half a liter of sweat, thermal energy and carbon dioxide. To remove these waste products, the mattress must have the necessary qualities.
- Hypoallergenic. This indicator is important not only for chronic allergy sufferers. The material filling the product must be environmentally friendly and contain hypoallergenic components, antibacterial, and also prevent the development of mold and fungi, and the proliferation of mites.
Selection criteria
If you list all the selection criteria, there will be more than a dozen of them. It is not necessary to take into account absolutely everything, but the main ones need to be taken into account.
Table. Criteria for choosing an anatomical mattress.
| Criterion | Characteristic |
|---|---|
| By type of design | There are options with and without springs. The latter, in turn, are divided into products with dependent and independent springs. |
| According to filler material | There are a lot of them - from those used since ancient times to the newest, innovative ones with “memory”. There are natural and artificially created fillers. |
| By quality of sides | Each mattress has the same number of sides, but the quality may vary. In this regard, they are divided into one- and two-sided. |
| By degree of hardness | There are three levels: hard, medium, soft. They are selected depending on age, the presence of spinal problems and their severity. |
| By size | There are single, double, one-and-a-half, teenage, children's, and infant products. Size is important. |
Overview of options
It will not be possible to analyze all models - manufacturers offer thousands of them. But to get your bearings, you need to get an idea of what choices are possible and consider them in detail.
By the way. In addition to specific characteristics, it is necessary to take into account the size of the bed, the age of the user, and necessarily personal preferences and comfort. You need to lie down on the selected product and try to feel if it is right for you.
Design selection
Perhaps the first thing to start with is choosing a mattress design. Its base will either be spring or not.
Springless
If you choose this option, then you purchase a product consisting of block or single sheets of natural or artificial material, compressed so that the shock-absorbing functions are performed to the maximum extent.
By the way. This category also includes inflatable and water mattress products, which can also be orthopedic.
Spring
More often, springs are hidden under the outer cover. And, as already mentioned, they may or may not be addicted. What's the difference?
Dependent springs have mutual interweaving. That is, if it is a double mattress on which two people are resting at the same time, they can roll towards each other, or when one gets up or changes position, the entire mattress reacts.
Independent are such because each spring is taken into an individual autonomous “glass” covered with fabric. If the springs are isolated from each other, they more accurately adapt to the body, doing this locally, only at the point where the change occurs. The optimal number of independent springs in a product is from 500 pieces per bed.
Advice. Which one is better? The choice is individual, but orthopedists do not exclude the possibility of limiting ourselves to dependent springs, if a person sleeps alone, and purchasing an option with independent springs, for sleeping together.
Filler selection
This is a very important step when choosing a mattress. The variety of fillers is amazing; new ones are constantly being invented, along with the fact that some manufacturers continue to use felt, wool and other “grandmother’s” materials.
All fillers can be divided into two types - natural and artificial. Moreover, in the case of mattresses, natural does not necessarily mean better.
Natural
- Latex. Extremely popular material, which is obtained from the sap of the rubber tree. It has natural elasticity, hygiene, is anatomical and is not allergenic. Supports the spine well. There is artificial latex - polyurethane foam. When purchasing, you need to be careful, because artificial version latex is just a common commercial name for the product.
- Coconut. Coconut coir, or coconut fiber, is another natural filler that has become popular recently. It is elastic and durable, famous for its antibacterial properties. Typically used for tougher products.
- Sisal. Less popular natural fiber, which has hygroscopicity and antistatic properties. The material is highly durable and can withstand heavy loads.
- Horsehair. Continues to be used in mattresses of increased rigidity. Valued for its environmental friendliness.
- It is not used alone; it is used only as layers in springless versions or a soft frame in spring ones.
- Wool fiber can be used from different animals: camel, sheep, llama, merino. Basically, it also acts as a layer for stiffer materials, although there are also completely woolen models.
