New year, new bed, new you!

Firstly Happy New Year. Been away over the festive period and come home to realise that your bed isn’t as comfy as you remembered? Then, let us help you navigate the unfamiliar bed shopping experience.

It’s crucial that you understand what type of mattress and bed works best for you, your partner (if you share a bed) and your sleep environment.

Here are some pointers to remember whilst out shopping to help avoid disappointment several weeks or months down the line. Here’s how to test beds in-store properly to ensure you get the most out of the experience – and your money’s worth!

Shop together – if the bed’s for two and if you have children who also like to jump in!

You should be able to lie side by side, with your arms behind your head and your elbows out, without touching. Your bed should 10-15cm longer than the tallest occupier.

Try lots of mattress options – even if you think you don’t like foam mattresses!

Test a range of firmness levels – to be sure which is best for you. Remember, there’s no industry-wide standard to compare firmness ratings from one manufacturer to the other.

How to test for the correct level of firmness

One of the simplest ways to measure firmness of a mattress is to use the hand test. Lie on your back and slide your hand into the hollow of your back. If it slides in too easily, the bed may be too hard for you (leading to pressure on your hips and shoulders); if you struggle to slide your hand in, the bed is probably too soft. If you can move your hand with just a little resistance, the bed may be just right for you!

Make sure you have the correct support

The correct support depends on your weight, height, build, and even preferred sleeping position. Ideally, the mattress should mould to the shape of your body while remaining supportive. When you lie on your side, your spine should be horizontal. You should be able to turn fairly easily. As a general rule, the heavier you are, the firmer the tension you will need. You do not necessarily need a firm bed if you have a bad back.

Bigger is better

If you’re sharing and your budget and the space allow, a bigger bed means you are less likely to disturb one another – one of our most common sleeping complaints!

Talk to the Experts

Of course, you’ll want to do your research online before you head over. But if in doubt, chat with us. We’re your best resource when it comes to how to test a mattress, and we can make recommendations as needed.