WHICH MATTRESS SHOULD I BUY AND HOW LONG CAN I USE THE SAME MATTRESS?
Should I buy a spring mattress? Or a newer type of latex mattress? Do I also need a mattress topper?
Should you buy a spring mattress? Or a newer type of latex mattress? Do you need a topper? Should the mattress be soft or firm? One large mattress or two smaller ones?
Sleep is essential for human life, and we literally spend a third of our lives asleep. If we don’t get enough quality sleep, negative consequences follow: the immune system weakens, stress tolerance decreases, movements become slower and less precise, memory worsens, and mental performance declines. Chronic sleep deprivation can cause auditory and visual hallucinations and brief micro-sleeps during the day, which may go unnoticed. Even an uncomfortable bed is not the last on the list of sleep disorder causes.
THE BACK MUST BE STRAIGHT
When sleeping, the support under your back should be neither too soft nor too uneven. Everyone has a different body structure, but the spine should remain straight when sleeping on the side – this allows circulation, muscles, and bones to recover. If the mattress is too soft, the body sinks excessively, bending the spine like a bow.
Orthopedists generally recommend a firmer mattress over a softer one, though this doesn’t mean sleeping on a bare board. Mattress firmness is relative and individual, depending largely on the sleeper’s weight.
Doctors also make allowances: the mattress must be comfortable for the person lying on it. The key is the support it provides. Always try different mattresses in-store – the mattress should adapt to the body, not the other way around.
Some spinal conditions may require special support; in these cases, consult your doctor or orthopedist first.
A mattress used for years – especially one worn by others – is like sleeping in potato furrows and is harmful to the spine. Mattresses should be in one piece and flat. This is why sofas made of multiple cushions are not ideal for sleep.
MATTRESSES NEED REPLACING PERIODICALLY
Depending on how quickly it wears out, a mattress should be replaced. When shopping, lie down and test the mattress – touching or sitting isn’t enough. Never choose a mattress solely based on price, look, material, or advertising.
ONE LARGE OR TWO SMALLER MATTRESSES?
Mattresses use various combinations of springs, padding, and upholstery, resulting in differences between models. Therefore, try at least 3–4 options before deciding.
A firmer mattress lasts longer, and softness can be added with a topper. A thicker mattress also benefits from a topper, which provides support, protects the mattress, and extends its life. Toppers are usually affordable and easy to replace. Most manufacturers provide removable, washable covers for toppers.
Couples with different preferences should consider separate mattresses with a shared topper – this eliminates the uncomfortable gap between two halves. Some large mattresses can be customized to accommodate two sleepers of different weights.
For very wide beds (over 180 cm), two separate mattresses are more practical – replacing covers or sheets is easier.
CAUTION WITH LATEX ALLERGY!
Mattresses may contain various materials, like foam. Some worry about artificial materials, but modern foam is highly breathable, durable, and odor-resistant. Foam is especially suitable for allergy sufferers, as it doesn’t attract dust mites.
Latex is also used, mainly as an intermediate layer between springs and fabric. Made from natural rubber, latex is durable, flexible, and breathable. However, people with latex allergies should choose another material. Even mattresses with thick cotton layers may not suffice for highly allergic individuals. Latex allergies can cause rashes, dizziness, vomiting, weakness, breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, shock – a life-threatening condition. People with latex allergy often react to certain fruits (kiwi, banana, tomato, apple, fig, avocado) or even potatoes due to cross-reactivity. Allergic individuals should avoid latex products and consult a doctor.
Special eco-friendly mattresses (e.g., horsehair) exist but are not widely sold in Estonia. Ask your mattress store – some can order them.
NO MATTRESS LASTS FOREVER
Spring mattresses should be rotated occasionally, as materials need recovery (springs tire). The best mattresses are double-sided: a wool side for warmth in winter and a cotton side for breathability in summer. Do not place a topper on a double-sided mattress, as it negates the dual-side effect.
The bed frame is also important. It should not be fully closed (e.g., plywood, chipboard) – this can cause mold. Slatted frames should have gaps depending on mattress type (25–65 mm). Heavier mattresses need thicker, wider slats. Pure latex or foam mattresses require at least 28 slats. Some mattresses come with orthopedic slats that flex based on the sleeper’s weight.
All materials wear over time, and sleepers release moisture at night. Experts recommend replacing mattresses every 5–7 years.
Sources: Dr. Katre Maasalu (University of Tartu Orthopedics), Sleepwell, Mati Rea (Poodium Interior Studio)
TAKE CARE OF YOUR MATTRESS!
- Ensure the mattress is properly positioned. Consult the store if unsure.
- Rotate toppers regularly, ideally when changing bed linens. This helps detect wear or moisture stains.
- Foam or spring mattresses should be rotated lengthwise or flipped: monthly for the first six months, then every six months.
- Check bed legs, wheels, and frame for stability.
- Vacuum the mattress and bed regularly, preferably when flipping the mattress. Do not use a carpet beater!
- Wash all removable covers as instructed. Stretch covers into shape while damp.
- Remove stains with mild cleaner and minimal water.
- Avoid sitting or letting children jump on the mattress; this deforms the springs.
- Do not remove manufacturer labels – this may void the warranty.
- For adjustable mattresses and slatted bases, choose flexible slats to maintain comfort longer.
