Finding the right bed to get a proper night’s sleep does not have to be a daunting task. Don’t let your bed become the oldest item in your house. An old mattress that you can fold in the middle is probably not one that can support you.
Experts say to consider changing your bed every seven years. Remember you are going to spend over 20,000 hours on your bed during its (seven year) lifespan so it’s worth taking a little time and effort in the beginning to make sure you make the right choice.
• Decide your priorities and concerns in advance. For example, is it: price, storage, access to bedroom, turning the mattress, getting in and out of bed, overall size or shape, a health issue, etc
• If possible, try a selection of beds for comparison before you buy. Set aside enough time to do the job properly so you can appreciate the differences.
• Buy for correct support and comfort for your weight and build – not just firmness. Wear comfortable clothing, remove any outdoor gear and lie on the bed for quite a long time – at least 10 minutes. Lie down in your normal sleeping position and make some turns, too.
• Try it together, if the bed’s for two. You both need to feel comfortable.
• Don’t forget a bed is a mattress and a boxspring or frame working together – don’t consider them in isolation.
• Think big – larger beds are more comfortable. Being disturbed by a sleeping partner is one of the most common complaints. With a larger bed you are less likely to disturb one another.
Check dimensions. Bed sizes are not standardised and even if they have the same name (e.g., King size) they may not be the same size – especially if the mattress and boxspring or frame are not from the same manufacturer.
Once you’ve bought yourself a new bed, make arrangements to have the old one disposed of. Don’t give it to the kids or guests. If it wasn’t good enough for you, it’s not good enough for anyone else, either. In fact, it’s a veritable health hazard – get rid of it.
