How do you know if a mattress is good or bad?

Inner spring mattresses are familiar to many buyers, especially compared to the boxed mattresses that have become popular in recent years. Traditional interior spring mattresses can also be flipped over, although most modern mattresses are designed for use on their backs. The warning signs of a bad mattress aren't always obvious, but if you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be an indication that the mattress isn't working as it should. Investing in a quality mattress is one of the easiest ways to promote restful sleep and improve your overall health.

In fact, studies have shown that the right mattress can improve pain, stiffness and sleep quality by 50 to 60%. As mattresses gradually wear out, many people get used to the feel of an old mattress and may not realize that it needs to be replaced. Although these are less common, adjustable mattresses have air chambers that allow you to control the level of firmness of the mattress. It's hard to tell if your mattress fits you well without sleeping on it, and the last thing you want is to be left with a new mattress that you don't like.

If the mattress is too firm or too soft, you may be able to improve the feel with a mattress topper. If you experience any warning signs or if your mattress is more than 6 or 8 years old, you can consider changing it to ensure proper spinal alignment and restful sleep. Indoor spring mattresses are more likely to harbor dust mites, while latex and foam mattresses have fewer open living spaces. While all mattresses degrade over time, a mattress made of high-quality materials tends to last longer before developing sagging or permanent crevices in the body.

You can protect yourself against mold and mildew by using a mattress base that leaves room for airflow under the mattress and reduce allergen accumulation with a machine-washable mattress protector. A recent study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that the average person's mattress was 9.5 years old and that switching to a newer mattress improved sleep and reduced stress. A mattress that doesn't fit your body type and sleep style can be just as harmful as a poor quality mattress.