Are you losing sleep worrying about your mattress? Many of us do. We hear all sorts of “facts” about what makes a good mattress, but a lot of what we believe is just myths. These ideas, spread by companies trying to sell you something or by friends giving bad advice, can cost you a lot of money and keep you from getting the rest you need.
This guide will clear up these common mattress myths. We’ll help you understand the real facts so you can choose a mattress that fits your needs, not a company’s marketing plan. This will save you money and, most importantly, help you get a great night’s sleep.
Myth #1: A Firmer Mattress is Always Better for Your Back
This is one of the biggest myths out there, and it’s a major reason why people end up buying mattresses that are way too hard. The truth is, a mattress that’s too firm can be just as bad as one that’s too soft.
- The Problem: A super firm mattress doesn’t let your body sink in where it needs to. This leaves a gap between your lower back and the mattress, putting a strain on your spine. It can also cause painful pressure points on your hips and shoulders, leading to aches and pains.
- The Reality: The best mattress for back pain feels “just right.” It should be firm enough to support your back and keep your spine in a nice, straight line, but soft enough to let your hips and shoulders settle in a little. This helps your whole body relax and keeps your spine in a healthy, natural position.
Myth #2: The More Springs, the Better the Support
Many people think the number of springs in a mattress is the most important thing. Mattress companies often use a high spring count as their main sales pitch.
- The Problem: While springs are key for support, a huge number of flimsy springs won’t give you better support than a smaller number of high-quality springs. It’s not just about how many; it’s about the quality and type of spring that matters.
- The Reality: Pay attention to the kind of springs (like pocket springs, which move on their own) and the thickness of the wire. A mattress with 800 high-quality, individually wrapped springs is often a better choice than a mattress with 1,200 cheap, connected springs. Focus on how the mattress feels and supports you, not just the number on the tag.
Myth #3: You Have to Replace Your Mattress Every 8 Years
You’ve probably heard this rule before. While it’s a good guide, it’s not a rule you have to follow.
- The Problem: Sticking to this timeline without thinking about how your mattress feels can make you throw away a perfectly good one or, even worse, keep a bad one for too long. A well-made mattress that’s cared for can last much longer than 8 years.
- The Reality: Listen to your body, not a calendar. If you’re waking up with aches and pains, or if you spot a sagging spot or a dip in the mattress, it’s time to get a new one. But if you’re still sleeping comfortably and your mattress is in great shape, there’s no need to rush out and buy a new one. A good-quality mattress might easily last you 10, 12, or even 15 years.
Myth #4: You Can Find a Great Mattress Online for a Super Low Price
The world of online mattress companies has made shopping easier, but it has also created the myth that you can get a high-quality mattress for next to nothing.
- The Problem: While some online brands offer great value, many super cheap mattresses are made with lower-quality materials that will wear out fast. They might feel nice for a few months, but they won’t give you the long-term support you need.
- The Reality: A mattress is a long-term investment in your health. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Read reviews carefully and look for information on the types of materials used (like foam density or coil type). A cheap mattress that you have to replace in a year or two will end up costing you more in the long run than a quality mattress that lasts for a decade.
Myth #5: There is One “Best” Type of Mattress
Latex, memory foam, innerspring, hybrid… the options can be a headache. Many people think one of these types is the absolute “best” for everyone.
- The Problem: The best mattress for one person is not going to be the best for another. Your personal needs—your body type, how you sleep, and whether you get hot or cold at night—are the most important things to consider.
- The Reality:
- Innerspring: Great for people who love a classic, bouncy feel and tend to sleep hot.
- Memory Foam: Awesome for relieving pressure and isolating motion (so you don’t feel your partner tossing and turning). A good pick for side sleepers.
- Latex: A natural option that’s very durable and responsive, but can be pricey.
- Hybrid: Blends coils with foam, offering a mix of support and comfort. A solid choice for couples with different needs.
- The best mattress is simply the one that fits your personal needs. Don’t let a salesperson or a review site tell you what is “best” for you without understanding what you’re looking for.
Final Word
Choosing a new mattress can feel like a huge decision, but it doesn’t have to be a confusing one. By ignoring these common myths and simply listening to your body, you can find a mattress that gives you the comfort and support you need for many years to come.