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Mattress Buying FAQ

What mattress sizes are available?

Twin: 38"x74"
Twin Extra Long (TXL): 38"x80"
Full: 54"x74"
Full Extra Long (FXL): 54"x80"
Queen: 60"x80"
Split Queen: 30"x80" (2)
King: 76"x80"
Split King: 38"x80" (2)
California King (Cal King): 72"x84"
Split Cal King: 36"x84" (2)

What is a "split" size?

A split queen, split king and split cal king all come as two pieces. Typically the split version is purchased when buying an adjustable base. This allows for independent movement for each individual. If you have small hallways or narrow staircases the split eases the moving and assembly process also.

When should I replace my mattress?

The easiest way to know whether it is time to replace your mattress is to ask yourself how you slept last night. Although the Better Sleep Council recommends you replace your mattress every five to seven years, many people sleep on a mattress that isn't worn out but that should be replaced because it doesn't fit them correctly.

There are several reasons why a mattress might not fit you correctly anymore. The most important is the mattress doesn't provide proper support for the body's spinal alignment which causes you to wake up with discomfort, pain, or the need to wake and stretch out kinks and stiffness. Secondly, the mattress doesn't have the right type or number of pressure relief layers on top of the support layer which can create pressure points causing you to toss and turn, interrupting sleep and leaving you feeling un-refreshed in the morning.

Is firmer always better?

There is a general belief firmer is better however that isn't always the case. Supportive is the best feature of any mattress. Too firm can make the lower back arch and create lower back pain. If the mattress is firm without support, it will not alleviate tossing and turning or shoulder and upper back pain. If you prefer the firmer feel, latex foam is a great option for you. Latex foam is a perfect combination of support and doesn’t conform to the body like memory foam. To see more on the differences, please read below...

How is latex different than memory foam?

Latex is a naturally based material while Memory foam is a synthetic material derived from plastics. Latex is breathable and tends to sleep cooler than memory foam which is extremely dense and activated when it is heated which typically leads to a warmer sleep. You sleep ON latex, you sleep IN memory foam. Latex is an uplifting material and is bottomless while memory foam is a sinking material and has a maximum compression level. Latex is a fast response material while Memory foam is a slow response material.

What is the difference in Talalay latex foam and Dunlop latex foam?

Talalay Latex is a rubber-based material that comes from the tropical hevea brasiliensis tree. Air is infused into the latex compound to create latex's open cell structure. It has been used for over fifty years to produce one of the finest materials ever used in a mattress.

By definition, latex is a rubber particle suspended in water. There are two types of Talalay Latex, natural and all natural.

Natural Talallay Latex is a proprietary blend of natural and man-made latex to provide the optimal balance of pressure relief, support and durability. Wear-and-tear simulation testing shows the superiority of this blend. Natural rubber latex is used for durability. It inhibits tearing since it can be stretched like a rubber band. All Natural Talalay Latex is referred to as 100% latex and is not a blend. Although it is more expensive and approximately 20% heavier, it is not as durable as the Natural Talalay Latex formulation.

Dunlop was the first process used to make latex. The process whips sap from the rubber tree into a frothy mixture. This mixture is placed in a centrifuge, then poured into a mold, covered, and steam baked. As the latex is baked, natural sediments settle at the bottom, often creating a firmer feel at the bottom of the block of foam.

Why are their multiple layers of foam in memory foam and latex foam beds?

There are anywhere from one to four layers of foam in memory foam and latex foam beds. This is a large reason why you don't flip a foam mattress versus some innerspring mattresses. These layers are very important for support and comfort. There will typically be a base layer of foam that is high density so it will not breakdown and sag with the secondary foam layers on top of it. The other layers are variations of support and comfort foam. Support foam will support your shoulders and hips if you are a side sleeper and prevent stiffness and tossing and turning from pains in the hip or "dead arm." The comfort layers will break down a little because they are the lowest is density. However, it also provides a cushy feel and makes the mattress more comfortable than if you were just laying on the support foam.

What is the difference between a traditional innerspring mattress and a foam mattress?

Traditional innerspring mattresses are made of several steel coils that provide different levels of support. They will often come with a foam pillow top or other plush materials to add more comfort.

Healthy Back features memory foam (Healthy Back Sleep System and Tempur-Pedic) and latex foam (Healthy Back Bliss Latex and Sealy Embody) mattresses which conform to the body to provide optimal support to side and back sleepers suffering from back pain. When sleeping on your back or your side your body is never completely flat but contoured. Foam will conform to these contours and provide support to still keep your spine in proper alignment which will prevent or alleviate lower back, upper back, shoulder and hip pain.

How long will a mattress last?

It really depends on the materials the mattress is made of. A traditional innerspring mattress can last anywhere from 5-7 years. Most memory foam mattresses can last anywhere from 10-20 years depending on their construction. Warranties typically will cover any foam breakdown for the first 10 years and the second 10 will be prorated costs for any breakdown. Just remember, you get what you pay for!

What is the difference between a foundation and a box spring?

A box spring is typically made of springs with a wooden frame then covered in a cloth material. When you purchase a traditional innerspring mattress, it would lay on top of the box spring. A foundation however is typically made with a nail-free design, heavy duty boards to provide more support for a heavier memory foam or latex foam mattress.

A good bed foundation can be just as important to a good, healthy night sleep as the mattress that it supports. The foundation will make sure that your mattress is on a completely flat surface elevated to a proper level. This will make it easier to get into and out of bed and allow you to lie in a position that will not injure your back. If your bed foundation is adjustable then it will also allow you to sit up in a great position to watch television or read.

The bed foundation will also help extend the life of your mattress. If a mattress is placed directly onto the floor or onto wooden slats they will not take any of the pressure off of the mattress and it will wear out rapidly. A foundation, however, absorbs some of the pressure and shock of your body weight and will keep the mattress in great condition for longer. Foundations have been shown to add years of life onto a mattress before a new one is needed.

What is an adjustable base? Why would I need one?

The best foundation is one that can adapt with you. An adjustable base will adjust to your needs in ways a traditional flat foundation cannot. It elevates your head and feet when you want to sit-up, and it helps you find relief in the low-pressure zero-gravity position. Some models offer a head and foot massage with a rolling wave feature. You will find instantaneous relief from common muscle aches, sleep apnea, heartburn, acid reflux, hernia, and neck and back pain. An adjustable base also promotes better blood circulation so if you sleep warm, sleeping with an adjustable base may allow your body to reach a more level temperature. It is also great to have if you like to read, watch TV or work on your lap top while in bed. No more propping up pillows and getting that stiff neck and sore lower back!

Hints and Tips on Mattress Shopping

1. Search out a mattress with the proper level of spinal alignment support for your body. When you lie on your back, you should not feel your back arch in the slightest way. If you were able to look at yourself from a distance, your head, hips and toes should all be in line with each other which probably means your shoulders and hips are settled into the mattress somewhat. There should not be space between your lower back and your mattress.
2. Search out a mattress with the proper level of pressure relief for your body. When you lie on your side, you should not feel any pressure to your shoulder or hip.
3. Search out a mattress that isolates motion from one side of the mattress to the other. Take your partner shopping with you. Lie on the mattress together and have your partner toss and turn. The more you feel the mattress jiggle, the more fragmented your sleep is likely to be.
4. Be prepared to take your time and ask questions. Buying a mattress shouldn’t be a rush decision but something you spend time looking into. Start with a comfort test on good-quality mattresses and determine your comfort preference. Try plush and firm mattresses to see which feels more comfortable and supportive. You will need to lay on each for at least 5 minutes to really get an idea of what works for you. Next try other types of mattresses to experience different feels, including memory foam and latex foam mattresses.
5. A few questions you should ask once you find a mattress you like:
   • Whats inside the mattress that offers proper back and body support?
   • What's inside the mattress that minimizes tossing and turning?
6. There is no perfect mattress that will cure all your aches and pains. There are mattresses and other accessories that can help you sleep more comfortably, provide more support to alleviate hip, back and neck pain and help you wake up feeling much more refreshed.