Mattresses come with support layers like foam materials, coils (in hybrid or innerspring), and other things like cooling materials. But did you know that the more layers it has, the thicker the mattress gets? Sure, it makes the bed taller, but the thickness can actually affect the comfort of your sleep!
So, how does the thickness affect your sleep? And how can you select the mattress thickness that fits your needs? All good questions! And luckily, we have the answers!
Mattress Thickness and Health Implications
When it comes to health, your mattress thickness isn't just a comfort thing — it can help (or hurt) your sleep health! A thinner mattress might leave your spine unsupported and aggravate back pain. So, to avoid that, look for a bed that’s 10 to 12 inches to prevent unsupporting your spine or causing it to curve unnaturally as you sleep!
Of course, it’s not just avoiding back pain you need to think about. The right mattress can also help you with other aches and pains, and the thickness is key. Thicker mattresses offer more cushioning, which can help alleviate joint pain. But if you have circulation issues, a thinner mattress might be the option!
Debunking Myths: Thickness vs. Durability
You might think a thicker mattress automatically means durability, but you’d be wrong. The thickness is only part of the story; what’s inside the mattress counts more! A mattress made of quality materials will last much longer than one with poorer materials. However, not all the layers in a mattress are created equal, as some materials might wear more quickly than other layers.
So, if you’re concerned about durability, don’t just focus on the thickness. Check out mattress reviews and look into brand reputation to better understand which mattress will support your sleep longer!
Matching Thickness to Your Body Type and Sleep Style
Did you know mattress thickness can align with your sleep style and body type? You can’t just pick solely on the health considerations (but keep them in mind!). Every sleeper is unique, so it’s essential to pare things down for your needs!
- Side Sleepers generally benefit from mattresses in the 10 to 14-inch range. This thickness provides ample cushioning for hips and shoulders, aiding in proper spinal alignment.
- Back Sleepers require a mattress thickness of 8 to 12 inches for a balance of support and comfort, preventing the lower back from sinking too deeply while still cushioning the spine.
- Stomach Sleepers typically need a mattress on the thinner side, around 6 to 10 inches, to avoid excessive sinking of the abdomen, which can lead to back pain.
- Heavier Individuals around 230 lbs. and over require mattresses in the 12 to 14-inch range for better contouring and support, preventing excessive sinking.
- Lighter Individuals around 130 lbs. and under may prefer mattresses in the 6 to 10-inch range for adequate support without feeling overly firm or hard.
And if your body type is in-between (around 130 to 230 lbs.), look for mattresses in the 10 to 12-inch range. But make sure to test out different mattress thicknesses in person to have a better feel!
Thickness & Mattresses-in-a-Box
Finding the right mattress thickness for your sleep is essential, but how does this apply to mattress-in-a-box options? Even though these mattresses are rolled into a compact form for delivery, they don’t skimp out on quality or comfort — they’re designed to match the support and comfort levels of any traditional mattress!
Since they’re made to expand once unboxed, all the layers they do have will support your sleep like a traditional mattress. In fact, more mattresses-in-a-box now include hybrid models with memory foam and coil layers, so regardless of the thickness, you still get the support you need!
Enhancing Comfort with Mattress Toppers
When your mattress doesn't quite hit the mark in thickness and comfort, a mattress topper can be a game-changer. It's the go-to fix for several thickness-related issues:
- Boosting Support for Thin Mattresses: If your mattress is on the thinner side and is not providing enough support, a topper can add that crucial extra layer for side sleepers or those with body aches who need more cushioning than their current mattress offers.
- Extending Mattress Life: Is the top layer of your mattress showing wear, but the rest is still in good shape? A topper can revitalize it, adding the thickness and comfort you need without a complete replacement.
- Adjusting Bed Height: Sometimes, it's not just about the feel but also the ease of getting in and out of bed. A thicker topper can increase the overall height of your bed, making it more accessible, especially for those with mobility issues.
- Firmness: Sometimes, the firmness level of your mattress isn’t quite right because it’s too new or you got the wrong one, but a mattress topper can add a softer layer for additional comfort and improve the overall thickness and feel.
Bedding & Mattress Thickness
As mattresses get thicker, sometimes the standard bedding sizes won’t quite cut it. Trying to get the fitted sheet to sit right the first time is already hard enough, but if it’s not deep enough for the thickness of a mattress, then it’s impossible. Thankfully, there are more bedding options that consider thicker mattresses!
- Bed Sheets: Standard sheets typically fit mattresses up to 12 inches thick. But if your mattress exceeds this (with or without a topper), look for deep-pocket sheets that can fit thicker mattresses up to 17 inches or more.
- Protectors: Standard mattresses that are 10 to 14 inches thick will fit a pocket-depth protector easily; thinner mattresses up to 8 inches need a slim-fit mattress protector; thicker mattresses larger than 14 inches need protectors that are an inch more in-depth.
- Comforters & Duvets: You might not think it, but mattress thickness may influence the size of your comforter or duvet; thicker mattresses require a larger and broader comforter/duvet to drape even over the sides.
Pro Tip:
If you use a mattress topper, don’t forget to factor in the extra height it brings when selecting your bedding!
The Thick and Thin of Mattress Matters!
As you can see, mattress thickness is more important than you think. And when you combine finding the right thickness with the right size, mattress type, and brand, your sleep nights are completely transformed — for the better! But if your current sleep setup leaves you with more yawns than ever, it’s time to upgrade your mattress at Jim’s Appliance & Furniture! We carry the top brands in the thickness, size, and mattress type to leave you cozy in dreamland!
Questions? Give us a holler or stop by — we’ll make sure you find what you need!