Your mattress has nurtured you through sweet dreams and supported you during sleepless nights, but with all the options on the market, buying a new one can become a nightmare. Here, we break down the basics of this essential piece, so you can sleep tight, knowing you made the right choice.

Many factors can affect the quality of your sleep, such as chronic stress, body pain, medical conditions, whether you share your bed, the environment it’s in or an unsuitable mattress. If it’s been seven to 10 years since you last replaced your mattress and you no longer wake up feeling rested, it may be a sign that it’s time to invest in a new one.

There are many ways to shop for a new mattress, so it’s important to do your research. Get advice from a pro, whether in-store or virtually, to target your needs. There are several stores and online platforms that offer reputable expert advice by phone or email to help you make the right choice, but first, you can narrow down the field and explore what’s right for you with our helpful primer.

If you no longer wake up feeling rested, it may be a sign that it’s time to invest in a new mattress.

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Mattress Composition

Innerspring

PROS:

• classic design
• provides firm support
• good for heavier individuals
• great airflow/does not trap body heat - usually affordable

CONS:

• can be noisy when moving around
• can be too bouncy (especially if you share a bed)

Memory Foam

PROS:

• reduces pressure on joints
• forms to the body
• isolates motion
• great for colder climates and keeping you
• warm at night.

CONS:

• can be too hot
• slow to regain its shape
• high-quality can be expensive

Gel-Infused Memory Foam

PROS:

• provides semi-firm support
• reduces pressure on joints
• helps keep your spine aligned while sleeping (great for those with back pain)
• has cooling properties
• quickly springs back to shape
• resistant to dust mites

CONS:

• can have a chemical smell if not aired out properly before use

Natural Latex Foam

PROS:

• durable for many years
• made from natural materials (sap from the rubber tree)
• helps with proper spine alignment
• designed to improve blood flow and circulation
• naturally resistant to mould and dust mites
• environmentally friendly option

CONS:

• high-quality can be expensive (very different in price compared to synthetic latex, which is made from petrochemicals)

Are Boxed Mattresses Worth a Shot?

For their convenience and price, boxed mattresses are an increasingly popular option. They can be delivered right to your door, plus they’re usually easy for one person to move and unpack. The quality and durability of these mattresses is equivalent to what is available in-store, but their comfort varies according to construction. Since the vast majority are sold online, they generally all come with a 100-night trial guarantee.

Warranty Warning

A word of caution is necessary for both trial night guarantees or long-term warranties of up to 10 years. Every manufacturer states their conditions for honouring the warranty and it’s important to read them when purchasing, and to remember them. Two main conditions you’ll often find: there must be no stains on the mattress, and it must be supported according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.