Getting a good night's sleep
If you haven't given the quality of your bed a second thought recently, the UK's Sleep Council would suggest that you do.
A mattress has a shelf life of seven-to-ten years and if you're suffering disturbed sleep, waking up un-refreshed or with aches and pains, or if your mattress shows signs of wear and tear, chances are it's time to change yours.
The Furniture Industry Research Association shows that beds can deteriorate by as much as 70% over ten years. Plus, if you've changed your sleeping partner in that time, you may need another mattress - for health reasons as much as diplomacy.
Here's what to know about beds:
Ideally buy a base and mattress together; they're engineered to work in tandem, and the base affects the performance of the mattress. A new mattress on an old divan may also invalidate the manufacturer's warranties or guarantees.
Your bed should be four-to-six inches (10-15cm) longer than the tallest partner. Anyone over 6ft (1.8m) should get a longer-than-standard bed.
Partners of differing weights (three stones/18kgs) or more, may need two single mattresses zipped together which offer differing tension.
Check if the mattress is adequately supportive; lie on your back, the slip the flat of your hand under the hollow of your back. If your hand slides in easily or there is a gap, the bed is too firm. If you can't slide it in at all, it's too soft.
Quilted mattresses tend to have a smoother flatter surface. Tufting (those secured by tags or washers to prevent loose fillings from being dislodged) may not be the best choice for some who are sensitive to the tufts (although a mattress protector may help). Side-stitched mattresses may help the mattress stay in shape longer.
Sprung mattresses need to be turned regularly, so 'No-turn' varieties are a good alternative. Latex and visco-elastic (foam) mattresses don't need turning, but should be rotated about once a month.
Foam mattresses have the best heat retention, so if you're sensitive to heat, look for cooling covers and make sure the mattress is well ventilated.
For luxury, try a pocket sprung mattress; the springs work independently to adapt to your body weight.
Always air your new mattress for four hours after delivery.
The Good Bed Directory
Tempur (08000 111083) have adjustable beds which you can raise for reading, plus mattresses and pillows made with visco-elastic foam which distribute your weight evenly. Ideal for those with back or neck pain.
Contact Allergy UK (01322 619898) for information about beds and bedrooms.
Find a range of allergy-free bedding at Healthy House (0845 450 5950).
Get a personalised online profile of your ideal bed from The London Sleep Centre (020 7725 0523).
Sealy has a range of luxurious non-turn mattresses with stay cool fabrics.
Visit John Lewis (08456 049 049) for a range of mattress toppers and protectors.
The Sleep Council (0845 058 4595) has advice on how to choose the right bed.
