It’s not just Goldilocks, we all need a mattress that’s just right for us

19/01/22

We all have a preference when it comes to the softness (or not) of the mattress we sleep on. However, did you know that the type of mattress you choose should depend upon your sleeping position too?

While there are no hard and fast rules about the type of mattress you should use, there are a number of considerations that may help ensure you get a restful night’s sleep.

Different sleeping positions create different pressure points between your body and the mattress. This means that using the wrong type of mattress can, over a period of time, cause problems, usually with your lower back, hip or shoulder.

Comfort layer, support and firmness are the three main differentiators between mattresses. The comfort layer can be made from memory foam, gel, latex or pillow top. The choice is personal, as each one offers different benefits, but they all provide cushioning and support. The support – as to whether it is pocket sprung, open coil or orthopaedic is important, and the firmness of the mattress ranges from soft to firm and can make a big difference to your night’s sleep.

The side sleeper

Side sleeping is possibly the most common sleeping position. If you are a side sleeper, you will require a deep comfort layer of memory foam, gel, latex or pillow-top. A pocket sprung mattress is probably the best option for you too, as this helps prevent movement between you and your bed partner. It is breathable and doesn’t allow heat to build up. A pocket-sprung mattress also provides greater support than a cage sprung or open coil mattress. On the matter of firmness, if you are a side sleeper, you will generally benefit from a medium firm (from medium-soft to medium-firm) mattress.

The back sleeper

Sleeping on your back is one of the least common sleeping positions. You need a medium to medium-firm mattress to keep your back and spine aligned. The comfort layer is truly your personal preference if you tend to sleep on your back, but a pocket sprung, open coil or orthopaedic mattress will serve you best. You might also find that you prefer a medium to medium-firm mattress.

Front sleeper

If you sleep on your stomach, you need a firmer sleep surface, or else you risk developing lower back, shoulder or even neck pain. You will also find that a layer of memory foam, gel, latex or pillow-top will work well for you, along with a pocket sprung mattress.

Mixed – or different from your partner

The fun really starts if you and your bed partner have very different sleeping positions. Your best bet is to invest in a good medium firmness, pocket sprung mattress, that should help keep you both supported and provide a good night’s sleep.

Visit our showroom to see our range of beds, mattresses and pillow, and like Goldilocks, we will find one that is ‘just right’ for you.