Written By Mikkie Mills / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

When it is time to shop for and purchase a new mattress, you’ll see a lot of options. In fact, there are so many options that it may become overwhelming. This is particularly the case if you search for a mattress to help alleviate a specific issue, such as back or neck pain.

The fact is, purchasing the wrong mattress can make a huge difference in if you feel good or are in pain throughout the day. Regardless of if you plan to purchase a new or used mattress for sale, you can use the tips below to ensure you get the one that best suits your needs.  

Consider the Different Mattress Materials

Before making a purchase, get to know the most common types of mattresses available and how they are built. For example, an innerspring mattress uses coils. These typically offer that “bounce” feel and adequate support.

Another option is a latex mattress, which provides more bounce and responsiveness than the innerspring option. These are also considered “cool” sleepers. To get a mattress that contours to your body and provide pressure relief, memory foam is a smart option. These also sleep warm if you are typically cold in bed.

You can also find hybrid mattresses, which combine latex or memory foam layers on top of an innerspring mattress. This design aims to provide a balance between support and softness.

Ask Your Doctor

If you have some type of neck or back condition, discuss mattress options with your physical therapist or doctor. See what they recommend for you.

Try to find a mattress that will keep your low back and neck in a neutral position when you are lying down. This helps ensure proper spinal alignment. Even though your doctor isn’t a mattress expert, they know your medical history and may be able to recommend based on this.

Test Several Mattresses Before You Buy

It’s a good idea to go to a few mattress stores and try out several different types before purchasing. Take your shoes off and lay down on a few of them for a minimum of 10 minutes each. You shouldn’t worry about feeling self-conscious.

Remember, a mattress is an important purchase and a significant investment. Because of this, you need to take your time to make sure you make the right decision.

Don’t Fall for the Common Gimmicks

While some sellers will label their mattresses as being “medically-approved” or “orthopedic,” no official organization provides mattress certifications. This means the labels are based on what the seller thinks rather than scientific evidence.

A Firm Mattress Isn’t Always Best

Purchasing a firm or hard mattress isn’t the right option for everyone. In fact, some research shows if you suffer from back pain, the best mattress option is one with medium firmness.

Also, remember there’s a difference between a firm feel and firm support. You want to find a mattress that provides firm support and a high level of comfort. Comfort is subjective, so you need to find what works for you.

Look at Past Customer Reviews

You shouldn’t pay much attention to what mattress companies say about themselves. After all, companies need to market their products positively. Look for unbiased reviews from people who have bought the mattress that you are considering.

It’s also smart to read a mix of positive, middle-of-the-road, and negative reviews to really get a “big picture” idea about the mattress.

Buying the Right Mattress

As you can see from the information above, you have a lot to consider when buying a mattress. Be sure to keep the tips and information above when you start making this buying decision. It will pay off and help you get a quality mattress that is comfortable and that provides adequate support.

Remember, buying a mattress is a big decision and an even bigger investment. Be sure to get it right by knowing what to look for and consider. 

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Written By: 

Mikkie Mills is a freelance writer from Chicago. She is also a mother of two who loves sharing her ideas on interior design, budgeting hacks and DIY. When she's not writing, she's chasing the little ones around, walking her dog, or can be found rock climbing at the local climbing gym.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.