Renter’s Guide to Buying the Perfect Mattress

As renters, we all know that getting great sleep is very important, especially when you’re sharing walls with other renters in your building or complex.

But just like there is no “one size fits all” jeans, there is no one mattress that suits everyone. What may be comfortable and supportive for one renter may not be the same for someone else. Let’s get into the details.

two pillows on bed

The Important Buying Considerations for a King Mattress

With so much noise both in stores and online about “the best” bed, we understand that it can get pretty overwhelming to decide on the one for you, especially when it comes to purchasing a king mattress. It depends on your personal preference and requirement. When choosing your king mattress, remember to consider these factors: 

Durability

A good mattress can last you for years if you pick correctly. Although some may be shopping with budget or space constraints, getting great king mattresses from reputable brands will ensure you maximize your investment. In any case, you need to remember that price is not always an indication of quality as some materials will wear out naturally faster than others. 

vacant white bed near the window

Generally, latex mattresses tend to last longer than poly foams while tufting can endure natural wear and tear longer than adhesives. The longevity of innerspring coils will depend on their gauge and their method of attachment. 

Adaptability

Choosing a mattress that can accommodate your changing size or sleep positions may enhance its long-term value. This is especially true if you share a bed with your partner. A king mattress with a universal feel can also be preferable for those looking to prolong the usefulness of their mattress as it adapts to your changing bodies or differing preferences overtime. 

Firmness

All mattresses contain a blend of soft comfort and firm support. Depending on your preference, some may prefer a mattress with an enhanced support system that feels firmer while others sleep better in softer mattresses. Those who are considerably heavier will often sink deeper into softer beds compared to other lighter sleepers due to the ability of their body to press through the layers. Hence it is why heavier folks may find better comfort in firmer mattresses. 

Pressure Relief

Pressure relief is typically delivered by the softer materials at the top of your king mattress that molds and conforms to the curves of your body. This will remove any excess pressure build-up which can cause discomfort and restlessness. Those who are extra curvy or suffer from sore joints may often find themselves with better sleep on mattresses with enhanced comfort systems. 

Spine Alignment

Everyone’s body is different from others. Some may experience more body sinks in certain areas compared to others, resulting in a less-than-optimal spine alignment while you sleep. To determine whether your spine is aligned, you should lie down on your bed and feel if your spine is in a neutral position (the same position it is in when you’re standing straight). If your spine feels curved or bowed, you may run the risk of experiencing discomfort and backaches when you wake up. Several mattress manufacturers have included multiple zones in their product to help optimize sleep posture. 

Sleep Position

One might not be aware that sleeping style will also play a big role when choosing a king mattress. When the right of the firmness level is chosen, the bed can comfortably accommodate the sleepers throughout the night. 

person lying on bed covered with white blanket

Back Sleepers – Firmness requirements for back sleepers are more subjective and is a matter of preference rather than necessity. However, in general, you should look for a bed that supports the curve of your lumbar spine to prevent pressure build-up in your hips or upper back area. 

Side Sleepers – Side sleepers tend to experience more pressure on their sides as your entire body’s weight is pressing on a narrower surface area of your body compared to when you’re laying down. The line of your body also tends to be curvier in this position, hence additional pressure relief and softness may be required to help reduce pressure build-up under the hips or shoulder area. 

Stomach Sleepers – Stomach sleepers often experience their hips sinking deeper into the mattress than the rest of your body, causing your spine to run out of alignment. A firmer king mattress with enhanced support in the middle will be a fine choice for stomach sleepers as it helps to counteract the hips sinking issue. 

Conclusion

Considering the many factors you need to take into consideration when purchasing a new bed, it is obvious that a mattress is a highly personalized choice. Regardless of how much research and reviews you check online; you won’t be able to tell if it truly is a match for you until you actually test your king-sized mattress out at home. Hence, this is why we always recommend getting a mattress that comes with a sleep trial. 

Finally, we hope today’s buying guide for the best king mattress can get you on the road to finding your best sleep with an improved understanding of what a bed does and how your body may affect your choice.