We probably spend more time lying on our mattress than anywhere else, and yet we seldom consider whether or not we are using the right one.

If you are ready to shop for a new mattress there are all kinds of considerations to keep in mind. Sleep position, budget and personal preference are just a few.

Here is a breakdown of the most popular types of mattresses, and how to know which one is for you.

Types of Mattresses

You will find five main types of mattresses generally available in today’s market:

As their name implies, foam mattresses are made entirely of foam, without any coils at all. They are a great option for side sleepers or those who need just a little extra support.

Innerspring mattresses are the most common type, as well as the most economical. Most people you know probably sleep on an innerspring mattress.

Latex, like other foam mattresses, provides that extra bouncy and cushiony feel. There is a greater variety in levels of softness/firmness due to the variation in the layers of latex.

Hybrid mattresses combine innersprings with a foam support core. These layers combine foam and/or latex with small micro-coils.

Instead of coils or foam, air chamber mattresses are made of small individual air-filled compartments, usually with a layer of foam on the top.

Sleep Positions

Your preferred sleep position is an important factor in determining what kind of mattress is best.

If you are a side sleeper, you need a mattress that provides plenty of support and cushioning in order to keep your spinal alignment neutral. Side sleepers do best with a memory or latex foam or a hybrid mattress.

For back or stomach sleepers, the most important factor to keep in mind is the firmness of the mattress. A mattress that is Medium Firm to Firm, in either an innerspring or foam model, is the best option.

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How To Shop

With all these considerations in mind, you’re ready to go to the mattress store.

Experts recommend testing out a mattress by lying on it in your preferred sleep position for at least 15 minutes.

After you’ve tried out several different mattresses this way, you’ll know which one feels the best to you.

Try not to take price into consideration until after you’ve tested the mattresses for comfort. Remember this is an investment in your long-term health.

Size

If you’re a couple, you’ll want either a king-size or queen-size mattress. But a king-size is probably the best choice if you also share the bed with children and/or pets, if either one of you is physically large in size, or if you just prefer more space.

Bed In a Box

Instead of visiting a furniture store, many people these days are choosing the convenience and affordability of a “bed in a box:” a memory foam mattress delivered to your door.

While these offer a greater variety of choices, you do take a risk by paying for a mattress without trying it first.

You may find it uncomfortable, and in some cases it might not even fit your bed frame.

Fortunately, most stores allow you to try a bed-in-a-box risk-free. You can return them after a sleep trial and get a full refund.

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With so many great options available today, there’s no reason to suffer with the wrong mattress. A good night’s sleep is one of the best and most important investments you can make.