When Do I Need A New Mattress?

Some types of mattresses last longer than others with memory foam mattresses sometimes lasting 10-20 years which is much longer than the recommended 8 years of traditional spring-based mattresses. A mattress may need replacing before this, however, depending on how often it is slept in and the care that is taken of it. Mattress buying can be quite difficult and it can be confusing to know what you are looking for. We have compromised a few essential bits of information to help you on the way.

It may be hard to spot when a mattress first starts showing signs of needing replacing as it may not show obvious signs of needing replacement. If there are however physical signs such as dips or curves in the mattress outside of a small body curve then it may be time to start looking for a new mattress.

An older, more worn mattress is less likely to be able to provide the support that you need while sleeping which can lead to neck and back pain.

If you are experiencing poor sleep quality, waking up sore or in pain then you may benefit from looking for a different type of mattress when you buy your next mattress.

Also, a buildup of dust mites in older mattresses may cause allergies to become worse.

As you age then it is also recommended to switch mattresses to firmer models. This is due to them providing much more joint support and will also provide support for your spine. A firmer mattress may even reduce back pain.

If the springs are making a lot of noise then it is also a good time to start looking for a new mattress as a spring may be broken or worn out. It is also worth checking the base to be sure it is the mattress making the noise.

Worn out or broken springs can result in negative effects on the mattress’s shape causing issues with comfort and support.

Even the best mattresses wear out over time and will need replacing. Use your judgement and lookout for signs of your sleep being negatively affected.

Mattress sizes

Be sure to always check the size of the mattress you are buying against your base as some European manufacturers often sell European sizes instead of the standard UK sizes.

UK Sizes:

·     Small-single: 2′ 6″ x 6′ 3″ (75cm x 190cm)

·     Single: 3′ 0″ x 6′ 3″ (90cm x 190cm)

·     Small-double: 4′ 0″ x 6′ 3″ (120cm x 190cm)

·     Double: 4′ 6″ x 6′ 3″ (135cm x 190cm)

·     King: 5′ 0″ x 6′ 6″ (150cm x 200cm)

·     Super king: 6′ 0″ x 6′ 6″ (180cm x 200cm)

European Sizes:

·     Euro single: 3’0” x 6’6” (90cm x 200cm)

·     Euro Double: 4’9” x 6’6” (140cm x 200cm)

·     Euro King: 5’3” x 6’6” (160cm x 200cm)

A good general rule is to purchase a mattress that is 10cm larger than the tallest person that will be sleeping in the bed.

Make sure to test the width of the bed by having the sleeper lie on the bed and extend your elbows out from your body, if they touch another sleeper or the edge of the bed then a wider bed is generally advised if you have space.

Always make sure to measure the space within your room first as this will help determine which mattress can fit comfortably within it.

What type of mattress is the best?

Open spring/Open Coil

In an open coil mattress springs of high tensile steel are attached by a looping wire rod going throughout the bed connecting them. The firmness of the mattress tends to be based on the number of springs and the gauge of the wire.

An open spring mattress will often provide good support at an affordable price. Due to the springs being connected as a single unit it spreads your weight around the bed evenly. If you sleep with a partner however any turning in the night may result in interruptions in their sleep due to all of the springs moving as one unit. Despite this spring unit provides excellent support for your neck and back and so are often found in orthopaedics and children’s mattresses. Due to their affordability, they are often a great choice for a spare bedroom.

Pocket spring 

A pocket spring mattress contains individual springs that are each in its covering of fabric, usually cloth. They are generally slightly more expensive than As a result each spring is working independently of each other, unlike traditional open coil mattresses and may help provide your body with pressure-relieving support. Pocket spring mattresses provide a consistent firmness across the mattress due to each spring acting independently holding at consistent tension.

Each mattress will have a different firmness rating a spring rating which will tell you how many individual springs that the mattress contains, usually between 500-3000. Typically the higher spring counts the better quality mattress. The greater the number of springs that the mattress contains then the more support provided by the mattress. A lower spring count often also correlates to a lower mattress lifespan.

Pocket sprung mattresses can be particularly beneficial if you and your partner are different weights or you tend to turn a lot during the night. It is also beneficial as the mattress can adapt to your body shape providing support where it is needed the most.

Memory foam

Memory foam mattresses are created with polyurethane with different chemicals to change the mattresses firmness depending on use. Often found in hospitals and care homes due to the increased level of support given by memory foam mattresses they are a popular choice.

They are also hypoallergenic most of the time, although it is best to double-check before purchasing.

Traditionally memory foam mattresses are very warm due to the material trapping heat. Some companies are producing models which are infused with cooling cells to help regulate temperature. Memory foam transforms into the natural shape of your body while still providing firm support. A memory foam mattress can help reduce back pain also due to it supporting the spines natural curve. Even with frequent use memory foam mattresses are some of the longest-lasting mattresses. They may be a good choice for you if you are looking for an extra level of support from your mattress.

Gel Foam

Gel foam is a viscoelastic foam mixed with gel beads. They are an alternative to memory foam mattresses that are generally more breathable due to them allowing body heat to escape rather than being trapped in the mattress but still provide a good level of comfort.

A newer addition to the market, they are a great option with many different models being released recently. They are often advertised with their ‘phase-changing’ technology being the main selling point which is the gel beads that is within the mattress. Often the mattress will be a combination of a gel top with a spring unit or another type of foam underneath to provide extra support.

Gel foam mattresses also return to their original shape quicker which can help if you tend to move a lot while sleeping. While generally a more expensive option than memory foam mattresses they can be a great option if you tend to get too warm while sleeping but it will come down to personal preference and budget. If you are of a heavier weight they may not be able to provide you with enough support and may not last as long on average. 

Latex 

A latex mattress is generally softer and is more buoyant than a memory foam mattress. It can be placed in the middle of memory foam and innerspring mattresses. It is a natural foam, obtained from a species of the rubber tree. Latex mattresses are durable, natural and eco-friendly; while they aren’t considered to be especially comfortable. Temperature regulation is very good within the mattresses and they have a gentle feel to touch.

Latex mattresses are not very widely offered and can be especially expensive. It is worth being wary of a cheaper latex mattress and always be sure to check for the latex percentage within the mattress. They can also be long-lasting with some lasting up to 20+ years. While personal preference always plays a large role, they can be said to be around the same comfort level as classic spring-based mattresses.

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress is typically a mixture of foam and spring mattress intended to provide the benefits of both types of mattress in one. Generally, they have a layer of foam such as gel, latex or memory on top with a spring unit underneath. They can provide a great amount of support due to the spring coils within the mattress.

Hybrid mattresses are also usually cheaper than gel foam mattresses while oftentimes performing better than lower-end models. While they are more expensive than classic innerspring mattresses the benefits of having a foam combination and the support provided can help increase sleep quality. In addition to this, they are usually quieter and last longer. Some hybrid models may also feature a pillow-top.

If you have a partner that is suited to a different type of bed then finding a hybrid mattress that is a middle ground may be easier and be a better fit for the both of you. Because of the high price you may want to order from one of the many online-only mattress brands offering hybrid mattresses due to cheaper price and often a 100-night guarantee for it to be returned if you are not happy with the mattress.

Pillow-top 

A pillow-top mattress is usually mainly spring-based mattresses, the difference is that they feature a topping/padding that is several inches thick sewn on top of the mattress. This topping can have a range of fillings including memory foam, wool or gel. These mattresses provide higher levels of comfort and better back pain-relief potential. The mattresses are also less likely to give off a gassy smell like memory foam mattresses are known to do.

There are a few drawbacks, however. These include a higher average price, not lasting as long as the average mattress by sagging sooner and may not be as easy to move around on them. Due to this, a topper on top of your normal mattress may be a better option.

The increased level of comfort may, however, be worth the price.

Mattress lifespan

Typically it is recommended that you replace your mattress every 8-10 years, however, it is sometimes different depending on the material that it is made from.

·     Spring – 8-10 Years

·     Memory foam – 8-10 Years

·     Latex – 10-20 Years

·     Hybrid – 8-10 Years

·     Pillowtop – 7-8 Years

·     Gel – 10-12 Years

What is a mattress in a box?

A series of extensively advertised mattresses have come around in the last few years and all are delivered through this method, names such as Leesa, Simba and Eve are all delivered through this method of mattress packaging. The name, mattress in a box refers to how the mattress is packaged, it is rolled up and packaged into a box that is a fraction of the size of the whole mattress.

 The customer can simply order the mattress online (usually offered with free delivery) making the mattress buying process much easier. Upon delivery, the customer can open the box and place the mattress on the base before opening and then simply opening the packaging and allowing it to slowly expand. Within a few hours (up to 48 in some cases) the mattress will slowly expand and be good to use. One of the benefits of this is that the mattress can be easily moved into the room of choice before opening which is much easier than trying to manoeuvre the full mattress around your house.

 Often times you are buying straight from the manufacturer and so are also cutting out the costs of a middle man. The downsides to this, however, is that you cannot test the mattress before buying and so it may not suit you and without the advice of a salesperson to guide you into buying a mattress that you will be happy with it may take a few different orders until you are satisfied with the product. On the upside, though most manufacturers offer a 100-night trial on the mattresses so you can send it back if you are unhappy with the product.

Mattress care/maintenance

Keeping good care of your mattress may be the difference between it lasting 5 years and lasting 10 years. From taking care of the upholstery to making sure one side does not get worn more than another we have some handy tips to keep your mattress in top condition.

Firstly, your mattress should be flipped every 2-3 months to keep it in top condition. Some mattresses are single-sided however and cannot be flipped. These mattresses should be rotated 180 degrees instead of in order to prevent any excess dipping on one side of the mattress.
Make sure to have a good quality base. This will help support the mattress and prevent excess wear on the underside of the bed. Also, it will help prevent dipping and sagging on the mattress. Make sure you have a good quality base to help the mattress support you for years to come.
Using a mattress protector is one of the best ways to extend the life of your mattress as it protects the mattress from body oils and sweat. All of which can greatly reduce the life of your mattress. Make sure to only use a damp cloth and avoid using any bleach or detergents as this can damage the fillings of the mattress. 

You can find more useful tips in our bed care guide here.

What type of firmness should I choose for a mattress?

Soft

If you tend to change your sleeping position frequently during the night or sleep on your side then a softer mattress is likely to be for you. Side sleeping eases the pressure on your spine while sleeping but you want a mattress which will mould to your body while a soft mattress will do best.

Medium soft

If you change positions during the night this is likely to be for you as it moulds to the shape of your body while providing more support than a soft mattress.

Medium

A medium mattress is often a good middle of the road option. It tends to be a good compromise between moulding to the shape of your body and providing a good level of support. If you sleep with a partner it can also suit you well as often you will be different types of sleepers and so will have different requirements. If you often turn or become uncomfortable with a firmer mattress then a medium mattress will often be a good middle ground, in which you can get a good night’s rest.

Medium/Firm

This is often the best option if you sleep on your back, this is due to the extra support provided with this mattress throughout your body, but in particular in your lower back. This is due to it providing a more stable base and more equal distribution of weight. A softer mattress will tend to lose its shape more and so will not provide the support you require and may increase back pain, especially if you already suffer from it. 

Firm

A firm mattress is the one for you if you are heavier, suffer from back pain or sleep on your back. With a softer mattress, you will start to sink into the mattress as time goes on. A firm mattress will provide a good level of support on your spine and increase your posture and keep your body aligned for a night of better sleep. A better sleeping posture will help you get better rest and avoid waking up with aches and pains.

If you share a bed the extra firmness will also mean the bed has less give and so if you move during the night then your partner will not be disturbed as much. It also will mean that you will not roll together as much during the night.

Extra-firm

A firm or extra-firm mattress provides a flat surface for the body to lie on, this level of support helps stabilise the spine and will reduce the pressure on the spine while sleeping. This is because the body does not sink into the mattress as much as a softer mattress and so the curvature of the spine is greatly reduced. Larger/heavier adults will often need the extra support that a firmer mattress gives. The further your body sinks into the mattress, the more it will curve your spine putting extra pressure on the spine. This is why softer mattresses often cause people back pain, especially in those who sleep on their backs. Smaller/lighter adults will not sink into mattresses as much so might be more comfortable with a softer mattress. If they suffer from back pain; however, it may be best to stick on the firmer side of mattresses.

Best mattresses by sleeping position

It can seem like you are going in circles trying to choose the right mattress while considering what the firmness and filling materials are and what you should pick based on how you sleep. Tailoring your mattress to your sleeping position is one of the most important factors of getting a great night’s sleep. No matter how you sleep, choosing the correct mattress based on this can greatly improve your sleep quality.

Side sleepers

More than half of the population in Britain sleep on their side. In some people this can cause problems such as numbness or shoulder pain, side sleeping can help ease people who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux. It is also a great option for expecting mothers. If pain is experienced due to pressure points while you are sleeping then a softer mattress that provides more cushioning is recommended.

A medium or medium-soft mattress is recommended for most people as it provides a good amount of cushioning that will support the shape of your body while still providing enough support for your spine.

Stomach sleepers

Back sleepers

Sleeping on your back is beneficial to many as it helps maintain a neutral spine position and does not place any extra stress on the back. It may, however, increase the likelihood of snoring as it makes the base of your tongue and soft palate collapse to the back of your throat. People who sleep on their back tend to have the biggest variance on mattress firmness, this is because some people prefer a softer mattress due to the cushioning provided. Others, however, opt for a firm mattress due to the increase in support. Generally, a firmer mattress is recommended as you require an increased level of support in the spine. An orthopaedic mattress is also recommended as they are designed specifically to support the joints and spine and prevent any extra stresses on them during sleeping.

Best types of mattress for pregnancy or back pain

Pregnancy

First Trimester

There is not a general best sleeping position and so whatever sleeping position is most comfortable for you is best as getting as much rest as possible is very important for you.

Second Trimester 

Your baby’s weight will start to increase and you will start to notice these differences. Some sleeping positions will start to feel uncomfortable and so some changes may have to be made. A softer mattress during this time will help as well as the use of a pregnancy pillow. Throughout this time it is important to avoid sleeping on your back as the inferior vena cava (blood vessel back to the heart) can be pressed by your bump and so less blood can return to the heart, this can leave you feeling faint. Especially as the bump is increasing in size it is recommended to sleep on your left side.

Third Trimester 

To ease the extra weight and pressure during the third trimester it may be helpful to sleep on your left side with a pillow under your head, bump and between your legs.  Due to the increased weight of the baby, your lower back will be under increased strain to support the baby and may be painful. Sleeping as recommended can help you get better rest and help you feel better. Continued use of a good pregnancy pillow will help you sleep with increased comfort. 

Back pain

A mattress that is suitable if you suffer from back pain needs to provide a combination of support and comfort. The vast majority of bed and mattress shops will recommend a firm mattress, however, this may not always be the best option as if you are lighter than a softer mattress may be a better option due to the increased comfort they can provide. Trying a mattress before you buy it is probably the best option in this case. Many online retailers do offer a trial period in which you can return the mattress and get your money back if it does not suit you. One of the most important things is to make sure your back is kept in alignment while in your sleeping and the mattress provides enough support to keep pressure off your spine. Orthopaedic mattresses are designed to help support the joints and spine and may help alleviate your pain, they are on the firmer side and so you may not find them comfortable.

Recommendations based on age:

Mattresses for older adults

Aches and pains are often just another sign of ageing. Even without any major issues general aches and pains can present themselves now and then. Often times it can be easy to dismiss these as normal and expected with age. Trying to ignore the problem and not address it as it happens though may cause them to become gradually worse. This may lead to increases in pain or even the aggravation of certain conditions. A new mattress that allows you to sleep well, providing support to your body and a great level of comfort may be the difference between waking up in pain and waking up without aches and pains and being able to enjoy your day from the start. As our bodies carry on changing as we age you may find it useful to reassess what you need out of your mattress and a good one may help you delay the onset of conditions or help you manage existing ones better. 

Mattresses for children

Buying an appropriate mattress for a child can be difficult due to rapid changes in their height and weight. Generally, ages 2-5-year-old a classic daybed is a good option, this, alongside fitted guard rails are a good option as they are low to the ground and the guardrails provide an extra level of security for your child.

Between the ages of 5-10 loft or bunk beds are popular choices, the added height usually adds a lot more enjoyment to the bed and can make going to bed a lot more fun with the added climbing. If these are not suitable a single or small double bed can provide a lot of room for growth and will mean replacing this mattress may not have to happen for a long time.

Mattresses for teenagers

Buying a mattress for teenagers comes with a few considerations. Often they will outgrow their current mattress by the time they grow into adults. Also, their rapid growth may mean that sleeping position has to be considered to avoid discomfort and excess aching. A firmer mattress may be a better choice to the extra support and spinal alignment these provide. Probably the biggest factor of all is the price, parents may not want to spend a large amount of money for a better quality mattress that will generally last longer as the teenager may change their sleeping habits or needs and require a new mattress within a few years.

Other mattress options

Guest room mattresses

A guest room mattress that will only be used on an occasional basis does not require an expensive option to allow for a good night’s sleep. An open coil mattress is probably your best bet for this as they can be picked up for a cheap price and can still provide a great night’s sleep. If you are looking for a mattress that will provide a bit more comfort or will be used on a more regular basis then a pocket sprung mattress is a great option and can be picked up for a reasonable price.

Mattresses to stay cool during the night

Mattresses to stay warm during the night

Keeping warm during those cold winter nights can make a big difference in your sleep quality and your entire day. We have put together a few different options that can make a big difference in keeping warm while not costing you too much in heating bills.
A great option for keeping warm is the Eve Hybrid mattress. A double mattress can be picked up for just £399 and it comes in a box so it is easier to put into the room of your choice. This mattress features a layer of memory foam alongside the support of a pocket sprung layer. It comes with a 100-night sleep trial, too, so you can return it if it doesn’t match your taste or sleep style. It also retains a large amount of heat to keep you warm on those cold nights.
A slightly different option for the cold winter months is to buy a heated mattress pad. This allows you to still have the comfort from a mattress you know you like and it can simply be folded away when not needed. It is also a great cost-effective option as the electricity costs for one of these is much less than the cost of heating. It can also help with pain relief, gentle heat can be soothing for many spine and joint issues and so a heated mattress pad can help alleviate the pain and help you get more uninterrupted sleep.
Another important choice to keep warm during the night is your bedding. A higher tog duvet is that bit thicker to keep you nice and warm throughout the night. A cheap hollowfibre duvet can be picked up for around £10-£15 and can really make a big difference. Also, bedding with higher thread counts generally are less breathable but can help you stay warm during the night.

Mattress Buying Factors

Factors on how we choose a mattress usually differ from person to person. Whether it is budget or warranty cover, it is important to have a reasonable idea of what to look for before viewing a website or stepping foot in a shop. This section will aim to inform you of a few of these and help to buy a mattress or new bed a much easier process. We do spend a large amount of time in our beds so it is worth spending that extra bit of time to learn what suits you best.

Budget

Budget is going to vary from person to person depending on your socioeconomic place. We all value our sleep though and want the best we can afford. Most of us spend between a quarter and a third of our lives in our beds and so it is worth investing that little bit extra to get the bed you prefer. Visiting a shop is always a good idea when you are first starting looking, this will allow you to see the different options and feel the different levels of firmness and how the different prices change the feel of the mattress, if much at all.

Comfort

Comfort is a very difficult factor to measure. This is due to it being very subjective and often can cause problems if you sleep in the same bed as somebody else.  If this is the case then a middle ground can often be found that keeps both people sleeping well. If this is the case then visiting a bed shop together can help solve the problem and help aid you in finding the level of firmness suits you best.

Warranty cover

It is important to check what the warranty covers and spills or stains that result in sagging are often not covered. Sleeping with a mattress protector on the bed is recommended as often any stains or spills on the mattress will void any warranties and can contribute to the mattress losing shape much quicker.
Guarantees and warranties are often provided by the manufacturer of the mattress, Not the shop itself. Information about this can usually be found within the product description or on the manufacturer’s website. Warranties are getting better all the time with mattresses such as the Nectar comes with a lifetime warranty to give you that extra peace of mind during purchase.

Payment options

Whether finance, payment plans or paying for the full mattress at once. If finance is the option that is best for you, try to look for somewhere that offers 0% finance but make sure to check the terms. While some shops may not offer finance they may allow you to pay off the balance of the bed in smaller, more manageable amounts and deliver the mattress when the full balance is paid off. Others may also offer cash on delivery options.

Sleep trial

A 100 sleep guarantees are becoming more and more common, especially with companies selling mattresses in a box that you often do not have a chance to try before you buy.
Despite some shops not providing sleep trials they often provide the opportunity to try in person with physical locations (often quicker than having to send back several mattresses).

Mattress accessories

A good quality pillow can be the difference between waking up with aches and pains and getting a good night’s sleep. There are a few other items/accessories that will help you extend the life of your mattress and get a better night’s sleep.

Mattress/Pillow protector

A mattress protector is a thin covering that goes over the top of the mattress, this thin, waterproof layer helps protect the mattress from soils, body fluids, dust mites and daily wear and tear.
Buying one is a small cost to pay in order to protect your mattress warranty. If your mattress is soiled stained or ripped, the warranty is void and this is followed by nearly all manufacturers. This is due to the risk of potential diseases that are passed through bodily fluids. As a result stained mattresses cannot be returned to the manufacturer due to health risks to factory workers that will be performing these repairs or disposing of them.
Mattress protectors can also come with other benefits other than protecting your mattress such as helping maintain consistent body temperature and improve comfort levels.

Pillows

Selecting a good pillow that you find comfortable can be as useful as finding a good mattress in terms of sleep quality.
The main types of pillow include feather and down, microfibre and memory foam. There are also specialist pillows which may be for medical conditions or provide extra support.
Personal choice is the most important thing, just like a mattress, it’s best to try out pillows before you buy them where possible.
Prices can range from hundreds of pounds to just £10. Better quality pillows will generally last longer than cheaper options but the increase does not necessarily mean a better night’s sleep. A good pillow that suits you will support your head, neck and shoulders and that you find comfortable to rest on. If you have owned your pillow for more than 5 years then it will not be providing the level of support you require and is time for a new one. Generally, pillows last for around 18 months but as with mattresses different materials such as memory foam will last longer.

Bedding

Make sure you know your bed measurements so you can pick appropriate fitting bedding. In terms of bedding, here are five main things to consider: Thread count, material, weave, pattern and finish.
For duvets, the most important thing is its tog rating. Tog rating is a measure of warmth that the duvet will provide and will ensure that you enjoy sleep at the optimum temperature for the season. For summer, use a 2 to 5 tog; general use, use a 7 to 10 tog; and for winter, an 11 to 13 tog. This may vary slightly depending on the room temperature where you sleep. If sharing with a partner and finding yourself without enough duvet to go around then picking a duvet that is one size up from your mattress size may help solve this.

Mattress toppers/Mattress pads

A mattress topper is another layer of material, often similar to the type to find within your mattress. It is put under your bedsheets and provides additional support and comfort, it can also make your bed more breathable helping maintain a comfortable temperature while you sleep. You can pick from a variety of materials: wool, polyester, memory foam, feathers, each providing different benefits and levels of comfort and support. Mattress pads are often slightly thinner and do not provide as much support or comfort but can still make a big difference in your sleep quality.

Frequently asked questions

Are memory foam mattresses warm?

Having trouble keeping cool on your memory foam mattress at night? This is because memory foam as a material is not breathable and so is reflecting most of your body heat back at you. With your body temperature being higher than the environment you sleep in you can quickly warm to uncomfortable levels. Because the mattress is not breathable then any sweat or oils that may come from your skin will stay around on the surface of your mattress resulting in you waking up feeling clammy or sweaty. Due to the nature of memory foam mattresses moulding to the shape of your body this can increase your body temperature to an uncomfortable level. There may be other medical reasons that are causing you to be too warm at night but a memory foam mattress may not be helping. Many newer memory foam mattresses sometimes include mattress covers that include mattress cooling technology to help reduce the heat problem and may be worth looking into if you enjoy sleeping on a memory foam mattress but get too warm.
Adding a good quality breathable mattress protector on top of your mattress may also help you sleep cooler as it helps remove and sweat or excess heat away from your body.

What is an orthopaedic mattress?

An orthopaedic mattress is a mattress designed to offer a firmer sleep surface, providing targeted support for your back and joints. Whilst they are particularly beneficial and are designed for those who have a bad back or experience aches and pains throughout the night, this type of mattress isn’t only for those who suffer from back pain. A higher level of comfort may be found with these mattresses due to the high levels of support, pressure relief and general comfort they provide.

What is the best type of bed if I have bad allergies?

Key things to look out for to help lessen the symptoms of allergies in mattress product descriptions are these 3 words; Hypoallergenic, Antimicrobial, Dust mite resistant. Any other mattress will not be manufactured with these things in mind.
Innerspring or coil mattresses tend to be the ones to avoid. Latex or memory foam mattresses, on the other hand, tend to have these properties but it is always best to check the label before you buy.
There could be a big list of reasons why your allergies are worsened while sleeping but these 4 tend to be the main culprits:

Mould and mildew – Houses with high levels of moisture, or if you suffer from night sweats, may lead to the growth of large amounts of mould and mildew. Try to keep a good flow of air into the room and eliminate any mould as soon as it is visible to stop it from growing any further.
Dust mite faecal matter – Very common on innerspring mattresses, it is important to carry out regular care on your mattress to reduce this as much as possible.
Chemical components – Many cheaper mattresses may have had corners cut to help meet fire regulations so it is important to keep an eye out on the list of materials used in the production of the mattress.
Shedding pets – Pets in the bed can be a huge problem if you have any allergies. Alongside any fur/hair, tey may drop into or on the bed, if your pet is going outside then it is also picking up potential environmental allergens that you may be suffering with. One of the only and best solutions to this is to keep any pets out of your bedroom. As tough as that might be it might be the only way to reduce your symptoms.

How can I get rid of my old mattress?

The majority of local councils offer a bulky waste collection and disposal service, including beds and mattresses. The best way to check this is to search on your local council website. This can prove to be very expensive and if you are looking to get your old mattress recycled then there is no guarantee of this.
Your local tip will take your old mattress, getting it there may present a challenge sometimes but if it does not fit inside your car then you may be able to fold it using cable ties or look to borrow a van from a friend or someone in the local area. Social media websites can be useful to search for this help and someone may be willing to do it for a small charge.
Check when buying your mattress if the company offers old mattress disposal, many do and this can sometimes be free or for a much smaller charge than your local council will charge you.
If you are struggling with any of these options then there are specialist mattress disposal companies such as collect your old bed or Mattress recycling ltd that will dispose of your mattress at your convenience.

For more information about how to dispose of your bed click here.

How often should I turn/flip my bed?

Rotating a mattress is done to even out the wear and tear on the mattress and help prevent any excess sagging or dipping. This helps maintain spinal alignment and increase the lifespan of the mattress.
Each mattress will differ but rotating should be done roughly every 6 months. The less durable and generally, the cheaper the mattress then the more often it will need to be turned, this is due to increased wear in and a decreased life span. A mattress like this should be turned around every 3 months.
Before you begin flipping your mattress, make sure to check the manufacturer’s information as some models do not require turning, some models such as pillow tops will not be able to be flipped however regular rotation is recommended for these. Also, it is always advisable to get a friend to give you a helping hand as it could otherwise cause a risk of injury especially with the heavier mattresses that can weigh up to 60kg.

What if my partner is a different sleeper to me?

What type of mattress is best if I am a light sleeper?

Memory foam is a great option for light sleepers as they are relatively noise-free and do not tend to pass on much noise from a movement which can be especially useful if you share the bed with someone else. Memory foam mattresses tend to get quite warm however and so mattresses with pocket springs may be a better option as these also limit motion but are very breathable and so will help you stay at a comfortable sleeping temperature. A balance between the two can be found with hybrid mattresses as well.
It is also worth looking at the reasons as to why you are a light sleeper, these may include medical and behavioural issues that should be taken up with your GP. Some tips to try and avoid interruption during the night may be to reduce outside noise. This can be done by using a white noise machine or a fan. Alternatively, earplugs may help reduce the noises to level at which you can sleep through. Some other tips include: Developing a regular nightly routine can help you develop better sleeping habits and find it easier to get to sleep. Trying to avoid any caffeine after 2 pm will help your sleep quality and avoiding blue light from electronics such as mobile phones or computer screens before bed will help you get better-uninterrupted sleep. Taking just one of these onboard may help you get the extra needed hours throughout the night.