5 Mattress Myths Debunked

If you're getting the right amount of sleep, you can expect to spend a solid third of your life snoozing on a mattress. Although they clearly play an important role in everyday life, there are still a number of common misconceptions about mattresses that might affect your purchase and care decisions. We'll address five common mattress myths and explain why they're not as true as you might think.

You Need a New Mattress Every Eight Years

For some mattresses this might be exactly the case, but the number will inevitably vary based on several factors. This includes which kind of mattress you own, your body type, and how you cared for your mattress over time. So, how long does a mattress last? Some mattresses may lose their value after only a few years of use, while other better-made mattresses might hold out for 10 years or more.

A Firm Mattress Is Always Best for Your Back

Many people believe that the firmest mattress tends to be the best mattress for back pain. While very firm mattresses certainly have their benefits and can be helpful for alleviating back pain, it's important to bear in mind that everyone sleeps differently, so your mattress choice has to be tailored to your unique sleep habits and body type. Additionally, according to Harvard Health Publishing, mattresses that are too firm can detract from your quality of sleep, while mattresses that are simply firm or medium-firm tend to keep sleepers much more comfortable.

All Memory Foam Mattresses Are Pretty Much the Same

Though it may seem like each memory foam mattress is built the same, there are a number of differences between models that may make them better suited to your sleep style. Memory foam mattresses are known for providing full body support as you sleep, while gel memory foam mattresses are able to provide ample support, and are more breathable than other styles. Though these are the 2 major types of foam mattress, there are others like polyfoam and latex too.

The Best Mattress for Your Needs Will Feel Perfect Immediately

A new mattress should definitely feel like a step up from one that's sagging or worn out in other ways, but if it doesn't feel like total bliss on the first night, that doesn't mean you made the wrong selection. We spend a good portion of our lives on our mattresses, so your muscles are likely used to finding the most comfortable spot on your older mattress. New mattresses haven't gotten the chance to be broken in yet, so it's not a surprise that they may feel a little uncomfortable when you use them the first few times. That familiar feeling of comfort will soon apply to your new mattress, too - just give your body some time to adjust. P.C. Richard & Son takes this adjustment period into account, and offers a 90-night sleep guarantee with every mattress.

The Most Expensive Mattress is Always the Best One

When it comes to mattress price options, you might find that some brands price average-quality mattresses higher than others will price their top-quality selections. This is why it's hard to put a number on what an average mattress price should be. Rather than focusing on just how much money you're spending, take the material construction and its other design features into consideration to ensure that it measures up to your needs.

Finding the right mattress isn't an all-encompassing sleep solution, but a comfortable bed is an excellent first step on the path to restful sleep night after night. Being mindful of these mattress myths will help you stay more aware of your options, and make the right choice to outfit your bed with the best mattress and box spring for your needs.