5 Mattress Myths Debunked

Everyone wants to sleep well, but with so many different types of mattresses on the market and varying schools of thought on what to look for in this slumber-inducing tool, it's hard to know what's best and where to begin.Let's take a look at five mattress myths and separate fact from fiction.Myth: A firm mattress is best for your back.

Fact: While many believe that a rock-solid mattress is universally best for ones back, this isn't a one-size-fits-all situation. Ideally, you want a mattress that contours to your body and offers support as you change positions while sleeping.Rather than a "firm" mattress, which can lead to pressure point pain, experts recommend choosing one in the "medium firm" category as it will be comfortable at the same time it alleviates pressure.

Your height and weight also play a role in determining what's best. Listen to your body and think about the best nights' rests you've gotten and the mattresses that supplied them and then choose accordingly.Myth: Change your mattress every eight years.

Fact: You may be tempted to go in for a mattress with a lifetime guarantee, yet The Better Sleep Council actually recommends replacing it every seven to 10 years. So, how long should your mattress last Experts suggest that the lifespan of a mattress is typically a product of its original quality, the way you maintain it, the amount of use it receives, and weight of those sleeping on it.Also, keep in mind that some lifetime warranties only cover certain parts of a mattress so if you're considering purchasing one, be sure you understand what it covers completely.

Myth: You must flip the mattress every few months.Fact: For decades, it was advised that mattresses be flipped multiple times per year so they'd wear evenly over time. But today many mattresses are manufactured in such a way that only one side is meant to be slept upon.

Instead, you can rotate your mattress by turning it periodically but always keeping the same side on top.Myth: It's against the law to remove mattress tags.Fact: You won'thave to worry about serving time in jail for removing your mattress tags, but it might be a good idea to cut them and store with your warranty papers.

Many manufacturers require the tags for a warranty claim.Myth: All mattresses are the same.Fact: Just because mattresses may look and feel the same doesn't mean they are.

Don't judge a mattress by its cover because it's what's inside that counts, and choosing the right one depends on each person's sleep preferences.Next time you're in the market for a new mattress, don't let these myths sway your decision-making. Instead, keep the facts in mind.

For more information on mattresses, visit P.C. Richard & Son.

Liz Alterman