A good night’s sleep is essential to stay healthy, productive, and happy. What many people do not realize is mattress thickness is key to a good night’s sleep. But what is the right mattress thickness for you? To determine the right mattress thickness for you, you need to consider a few essential factors.
Body Type
Remember, there is no standard mattress that suits all. Which mattress thickness will work for you depends on your body type, size, shape, and weight.
- Less than 130 Pounds- If you are a lightweight sleeper, that means, if you’re 130 pounds or less, a 12-inch or thicker mattress will provide you adequate support.
- 130-230 Pounds- If your body weight is between 130-230 pounds, you come under the average sleeper category. For your weight, a 10-inch mattress thickness is recommended. However, remember, mattress thickness also depends on your sleeping position, mattress material, and health condition.
- 230+ Pounds- If you weigh 230 pounds or more, a 12-14 inch mattress is recommended, with a comfort layer of at least 6 inches irrespective of your mattress’s thickness. A thicker mattress is recommended for this weight range because there is more pressure compressing the bed, and therefore, there needs to be more support.
Sleep Position
While determining your ideal mattress thickness, you should consider your sleeping position as well. This is because certain sleeping positions apply more pressure than others.
- Side- Are you a side sleeper? If yes, a suitable mattress thickness for you is 12-14 inches, which can support your hips and shoulders well. That’s because the hips and shoulders bear the maximum pressure for a side sleeper.
- Back- A 10-12 inch mattress thickness is recommended for a back sleeper. Remember, the mattress should support your spinal cord’s natural curvature while you rest on your back. The mattress should have a thick base layer for support and a thinner layer for comfort to hold the spine correctly.
- Stomach- A 10-inch thickness is ideal for stomach sleepers. A thinner comfort layer will ensure your abdomen can rest adequately, resisting compression.
- Combination- A medium-firm 12-inch mattress should be comfortable for a combination sleeper. Ideally, the mattress should have the right balance between softness and firmness to support your shoulders, hips, spinal cord, and abdomen.
Sharing a Bed
If you sleep alone, you can choose a mattress that you’re comfortable with. But if you co-sleep, you need to have a thicker mattress, even if you’re a lightweight sleeper.
A thicker mattress will allow room for enough compression even when its weight is doubled while ensuring the sleepers’ comfort. While a thinner mattress will sink to the base, thus creating discomfort for the sleepers. Thicker mattresses are more durable as well. A 12-inch or thicker mattress is recommended if you sleep with your partner, children, or pets.
Bed Base Height
Not many people take it into account while purchasing a mattress, but your bed base height is essential to measure. An ideal bed height is less than 25 inches. So, if your bed base is seven inches high, your mattress shouldn’t be thicker than 18 inches.
Medical Conditions
Take into account your health conditions while choosing a mattress. People who suffer from back and neck pains or arthritis often complain of pain from their beds. Choose a medium-firm mattress with 8-12 inch thickness if you have neck pain. This will offer enough support to your spine’s natural curvature and help relieve the pressure from the back.
If you have arthritis problems, choose a thicker mattress with additional cushioning and comfort layers. A 12-14 inch mattress is recommended. If you’re an expecting mother, you would want to consider a thicker mattress, especially in your third trimester, when mobility is limited. A thicker mattress will help you get in and out of bed quickly, especially during late-night bathroom visits, and is best for side sleeping.
Choosing the Right Mattress for you
Consider your body shape, size, weight, comfort, medical conditions, and personal preferences before choosing a mattress. Also, consider other factors like how long you intend to use the mattress, whether you will use the bed with a partner, and will the mattress be on the floor or a boxspring before buying the mattress.
If you’re buying it from a physical store, you can always go and check a few options before making a decision. If you’re planning to buy a mattress online, remember to read some reviews to help you make an informed decision.
