The architects of the Dantas & Passos Arquitetura studio explain how to evaluate type, firmness and density to choose the ideal mattress
Everyone wants a restful night’s sleep, right? And, in order for the energies to be completely renewed, it is necessary that the room meets all the needs of the residents, such as comfort, warmth, ergonomics and well-being. Based on this, the mattress it is one of the most important elements to choose and must consider the physical characteristics and preferences of those who will use it.
For those looking for a new mattress, but don’t know exactly how to decide on the model, the architects Danielle Dantas and Paula Passos, from Dantas & Passos architecturewith experience in furnishing bedrooms and in accompanying its customers in the shops of the segment, takes the opportunity to bring you a guide full of advice to help you with your purchase.
How to choose a good mattress?
“Buying a mattress is not easy. There are many brands and models on the market, which is really confusing. But this choice must be made very carefully, after all we spend about 1/3 of our day on the mattress, right? Therefore, it must be very well thought out, it’s also nice to make comparisons,” says Paula.
According to the architects, the very beginning is ideal evaluate the types of mattresses available: continuous spring, individual spring, foam, memory foam, latex, etc. “Like everything else in life, each type has its pros and cons. So when choosing one, it’s important that it’s comfortable for your body. So, research as much as you can and ask for opinions from those who understand,” adds Danielle.
Which mattress to buy: spring or foam rubber?
Comparatively, foam mattress is firmer and more durable than spring mattress. It is usually recommended for those who have posture problems and back pain. It must be chosen by yours density and type of foam. Its duration is approximately 5 years. The spring mattress is considered more comfortable and soft. Pocket springs are recommended for couples due to the difference in motion: when one moves, the other doesn’t feel the impact. Its useful life is between 8 and 10 years.
How to choose the density of the mattress
The density of a mattress represents the ratio between the amount of foam used x m³. It is a way of knowing whether or not it bears the weight that will be applied. The density is indicated with the letter D and a specific number. There’s a official table of biotypes of the National Institute for Rest Studies (INER) to help in this choice. The density has to do with the profile of the user, as it will be related to the best distribution. “A person with a higher weight, for example, needs a higher density mattress,” they say.
Density of single bed x double bed
Therefore, for singles, when choosing the density of a mattress, it is necessary to respect the relationship between the user’s weight and the density indicated by the manufacturer. In the case of a double mattress, it is necessary to calculate the average height of the couple and the weight of the person with the greatest body mass. (To find your average height, add the two measurements together and then divide by two.)
firmness
A very firm or hard mattress doesn’t always help in case of back pain. The same level of firmness doesn’t exactly work for everyone. This is variable, because everything will also depend on the body structure of each person.
“A narrower, lighter body structure, for example, will need one type of mattress firmness. A larger, heavier body structure will require another type. Therefore, you need to check this in the shop,” the architects comment.
“The important thing is to have a ideal sleeping position, so that the muscles relax enough and the body recovers during sleep. To avoid back pain, the recommended thing is a mattress that offers spinal alignment. But when you’re not sure about the model, a medium firmness is the solution. When in doubt, always seek out specialists,” they recommend.
Standard sizes in Brazil (mattresses and box beds):
- Newborn cradle: 0.60 x 1.30m / 0.70 x 1.30m / 0.70 x 1.50m
- Single bed: 0.78 x 1.88m / 0.88 x 1.88m
- Double bed: 1.28 x 1.88m / 1.38 x 1.88m
- Queen size: 1.58m x 1.98m
- King Size: 1.86 x 1.98m / 1.93 x 2.03m
*For measurements considered out of the ordinary (such as in cases of non-standard height), it will be necessary to ask the manufacturer for a special foam mattress.
According to the professionals, the measurements of the mattress must be 2 cm smaller than the measurements of the traditional bedto get the correct fit. Except, of course, the box bed where the mattress should be the same size.
Test!
It is important to test the mattress before purchasing. So go to a store and notice the differences between one type and another. “Try and really lie down in the shop, because in addition to density, it must be comfortable. Choosing the wrong mattress can affect the quality of sleep and cause muscle pain,” says Paula.
Another interesting piece of advice is: “If you sleep in a hotel, inn, or at a friend’s house, and you really like the mattress, it’s worth asking what company and model it is. After all, you’ve already approved it”, advises Dani.
Expiration date
Did you know that mattresses have an expiration date? Therefore, it is always good to observe this detail as well. Moreover, in this way, the health of sleep and well-being in moments of rest will be guaranteed.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
