How to choose the right mattress

Choosing a mattress is essential to ensure a restful night's sleep and a healthy lifestyle. However, with so many options available, we know that it's common to have difficulties when making the decision.

In this article, we help you identify the mattress that best suits your needs, covering the main factors to consider.

Types of mattresses and materials

Before choosing your ideal mattress, it's important to know about the various mattress options and the materials they are made of. We've described the most common types so that you can make an informed decision:

Foam mattresses

They provide greater comfort and support for the body as they adapt to it, always returning to their original shape.

An economical and comfortable choice, foam mattresses use a high-density foam block, as can be seen in the image below, providing durability and comfort at an affordable price. They are ideal for articulated beds and are widely used in healthcare facilities. They also offer good thermal insulation and are recommended for cold nights.

Nowadays, many foam mattress models combine the foam block with different layers of breathable fabric or viscoelastic materials in order to promote superior temperature regulation and air circulation.

Box spring mattresses

Bagged spring mattresses use advanced technology based on the concept of the old biconical or bonnel springs, now improved and encased in individual bags. This innovation allows the springs to be knitted together, providing not only greater durability, but also superior comfort.

Each spring is individually wrapped in small bags made from the material known as TNT (Non Woven Fabric), which helps to isolate the movements of one spring from the others. These are especially recommended for children's rooms due to their strength.

Bonnel spring mattresses

Bonnel spring mattresses are one of the most traditional options on the mattress market, known for their durability and resistance. This type of mattress uses a system of interconnected springs, which provides uniform support across the entire surface, ensuring good weight distribution and minimizing pressure points.

Today, several models of bonnel spring mattresses combine these springs with different layers of foam or viscoelastic materials, offering a more comfortable sleeping experience. What's more, they are often available at affordable prices, making them a popular choice among consumers.

When choosing a bonnel spring mattress, it's important to consider all the materials that make it up, as the quality of the components can significantly affect the comfort and durability of the product. Do your research carefully to ensure that you are investing in a mattress that meets your needs.

Viscoelastic mattresses

Viscoelastic mattresses are a popular choice because of their ability to adapt to the contours of the body without losing their shape, while maintaining the firmness needed to rest comfortably.

This thermosensitive material molds to heat and weight, offering personalized support and relieving pressure on the joints and spine. They are especially recommended for those suffering from chronic pain or looking for superior comfort during sleep.

Viscoelastic reduces motion transfer, making it ideal for couples. However, they can retain some heat, so it's important to check whether the model has ventilation channels or integrated cooling materials to increase freshness on warmer nights.

Latex mattresses

Latex mattresses are made up of a natural or synthetic rubber core and are generally one of the most expensive options. Similar to pocket spring models, they are particularly suitable for people who move around a lot during sleep, as latex effectively absorbs body movements.

This material is perforated to ensure good ventilation and regulate the firmness of the mattress. It is an excellent choice for those who suffer from respiratory allergies or asthma, although you should cover any mattress with a dust mite cover that is washable and easy to put on.

Orthopedic mattresses

Orthopaedic mattresses are made of gel or foam with viscoelastic, designed to offer adequate anatomical support.

These materials allow body pressure to be distributed evenly, helping to prevent sores in bedridden patients or those with reduced mobility. As well as supporting the most sensitive areas of the body, such as the back and hips, they provide relief at the main pressure points.

This type of mattress is more expensive due to the quality of the materials used and the focus on therapeutic issues. However, for healthy people without special support needs, orthopaedic mattresses may not offer significant advantages and may even be too rigid for those who are just looking for comfort.

When choosing an orthopaedic mattress, always check the manufacturer's certifications and reputation, as there are many imitations on the market that don't offer the same effectiveness.

Important factors when choosing the right mattress

Mattress Firmness

Firmness is a crucial characteristic when choosing a mattress. It should be determined on the basis of weight, sleeping position and personal preferences. Mattresses with a higher firmness are harder and less pliable, while those with a lower firmness are softer and more pliable.

Here are some guidelines to consider:

• Sleeping on your side: if you sleep on your side, a softer mattress is ideal and can help relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips.
• Sleeping on your back: for those who sleep on their backs, a mattress with a medium firmness is usually the best choice, as it offers the necessary support to maintain the natural curvature of the spine.
• Sleeping on your stomach: If you sleep on your stomach, choose a firmer mattress to prevent your spine from curving inappropriately.

Mattress size and height

The size of the mattress is also an essential factor in ensuring a restful night's sleep.

It should allow you to relax your arms and legs without touching the edges. That said, it is recommended that the mattress is at least 20 to 30 centimeters longer than your body measurements.

Single mattress: ideal for one person, with measurements ranging from 80 to 90 centimeters wide and 190 to 200 centimeters long.

Body-and-a-half mattress: a little more spacious, designed to offer comfort, 120 centimetres wide and 190 to 200 centimetres long.

Double mattress: perfect for two people, with widths ranging from 140 to 170 centimeters and a length of 190 to 200 centimeters.

Queen size mattress: suitable for those who like more individual space, 160 centimeters wide and 200 centimeters long.

King size mattress: perfect for those who want maximum freedom of movement while sleeping, with a width of 180 centimeters and a length of 200 centimeters.

Custom-made mattressfor those with specific needs, guaranteeing the perfect fit for their space.

Choosing the right mattress depends on a combination of factors, such as the type of mattress, the level of firmness and its materials.

At Mercado do Mattresso, we offer a wide selection of mattresses to ensure you find the perfect model for your needs. Find the ideal mattress for a good night's sleep and well-being at Mercado do Colchão.