Dispelling 5 Common Misconceptions about Mattresses
In the world of sleep, finding the perfect mattress can be a daunting task. But fear not, for CHOICE lab experts have uncovered the key factors that significantly impact the comfort of a mattress.
According to CHOICE, the interplay of several elements plays a crucial role in mattress comfort.
Comfort Layer Thickness and Quality
The comfort layer, usually made of foam or latex, cushions the body and relieves pressure. Thicker layers, around 4 inches on average, tend to provide better pressure relief, especially for heavier sleepers. A thinner comfort layer may still offer comfort but can be less effective for heavier bodies, as they might sink too much into the support layer, causing pressure buildup.
Pressure Relief
A mattress should distribute body weight evenly to avoid pressure points around the shoulders, hips, and back. Materials like memory foam, latex, or zoned foam systems that contour to the body help relieve pressure and enhance comfort.
Support Core
Beneath the comfort layers, a firm support core (usually high-density foam or coils) maintains spinal alignment and prevents excessive sinking, balancing softness with necessary firmness.
Motion Isolation and Noise
Effective comfort layers absorb motion to prevent disturbance from a partner moving during sleep, and quieter materials like foam and latex reduce noise, contributing to comfort.
Cooling and Breathability
Comfort layers with cooling technology (e.g., gel infusions, phase change materials) or breathable materials help regulate temperature and prevent overheating, which is crucial for comfort.
Mattress Firmness
The overall firmness, influenced by the comfort layers and support core, affects comfort by providing appropriate cushioning without compromising support. Medium-firm mattresses with zoned support are often favored for balancing softness and spinal alignment.
However, it's important to note that many manufacturers' claims about 'cooling technology' are not always accurate; many mattresses tend to run medium-warm or warm.
When it comes to permeability, spring mattresses tend to be more permeable than foam mattresses, making them a better choice for sweaty sleepers and those living in the tropics.
The number of springs does not guarantee a more comfortable mattress. Peter, from the lab experts, states that more springs do not guarantee a more comfortable mattress. Similarly, foam mattresses do not necessarily provide greater stability compared to mattresses with a spring build.
In the realm of pricing, the recommended retail price is rarely the best price a retailer can offer. Haggling or waiting for sales can save consumers as much as $2600 on a mattress. However, it's harder to bargain with online retailers compared to bricks-and-mortar stores.
Bricks-and-mortar retailers can add mark-ups as high as 200% on mattresses, while the cost of a mattress does not always guarantee comfort; affordable mattresses can rate as good as or better for comfort than expensive ones.
CHOICE, an independent consumer advocacy organisation, has been making a difference for Australian consumers for more than 60 years. They fund their expert reviews and independent product testing through memberships from consumers who value their work.
For instance, The Original Mattress Factory's Refresh (queen) has 286 springs per square metre, while the Dusk & Dawn Essential MK2 (queen) has 184 springs per square metre, and the Sleep Firm (double) mattress has 411 springs per square metre.
In conclusion, the quest for a comfortable mattress is a journey that involves understanding the interplay of comfort layer thickness and quality, pressure relief, support, motion isolation, noise level, cooling features, and appropriate firmness. Armed with this knowledge, consumers can make informed decisions and enjoy a good night's sleep.
[1] CHOICE (2021). Mattress buying guide. [online] Available at: https://choice.com.au/mattresses/buying-guide [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023].
[2] CHOICE (2021). How to choose the right mattress. [online] Available at: https://choice.com.au/mattresses/how-to-choose-the-right-mattress [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023].
[3] CHOICE (2021). Sleep firm mattress review. [online] Available at: https://choice.com.au/products/sleep-firm-mattress [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023].
[4] CHOICE (2021). Dusk & Dawn Essential MK2 mattress review. [online] Available at: https://choice.com.au/products/dusk-dawn-essential-mattress [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023].
[5] CHOICE (2021). The Original Mattress Factory Refresh mattress review. [online] Available at: https://choice.com.au/products/the-original-mattress-factory-refresh-mattress [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023].
- When looking for a new mattress, one should consider factors like comfort layer thickness and quality, pressure relief, and the support core, as they significantly impact overall comfort.
- Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts can shop for cool, breathable, and innovative mattresses that offer cooling technology and improve temperature regulation.
- For those who want to save on food-and-drink costs, opting for an affordable mattress might be a good lifestyle choice. Bricks-and-mortar retailers sometimes offer great deals and discounts, allowing consumers to buy high-quality mattresses for a lower price.
