mattress evaluator - disregard the seven marketing jargon terms and focus on these critical factors instead.
Summer 2021 has been a scorcher, leaving many across the USA tossing and turning in restless nights. As the mercury rises, finding a cool and comfortable mattress becomes more important than ever. Here's what you need to know to make an informed decision.
When shopping for a cooling mattress, it's essential to look beyond a breathable cover. Many brands boast about their breathable covers promising a cool night's sleep, but this term doesn't guarantee cooling properties. Instead, focus on mattresses with concrete features that actively manage temperature.
One such feature is Phase Change Materials (PCM). These materials absorb excess body heat by changing phase (solid to gel-like state) and then release the heat once the body cools down, actively regulating temperature rather than merely allowing airflow.
Another feature to consider is ventilated foam or hybrid construction. Mattresses that combine ventilated foams with innerspring coils (hybrid) improve airflow dramatically, helping heat dissipate and preventing heat buildup.
Advanced cooling foams, such as Tempur-Pedic’s PureCool® and PureCool® Plus materials, are engineered to pull heat away from the body for a sustained cooling effect.
Moisture-wicking and cool-to-the-touch covers, made from fabrics designed to wick away moisture and feel cool on skin, can help maintain a dry, cooler sleeping surface. Some covers are infused with cooling fibers or advanced technology for added comfort.
High-tech mattresses may incorporate smart cooling technology, with air chambers that can be actively cooled or warmed, or dual-zone temperature controls to adapt to your needs throughout the night.
Some mattress pads use materials like Outlast®, developed by NASA, with thousands of microscopic beads to absorb body heat and moderate temperature.
Remember, a sleep trial that lasts at least 90-100 nights is sufficient to determine if a mattress is right for you. While a 365-night sleep trial may seem generous, it's not always necessary.
When it comes to warranties, look for one that lasts for at least 10 years. Brands may advertise a "forever" warranty, but such warranties are rare and may have limitations or conditions. Lifetime mattress warranties are not necessary and do not guarantee the mattress will last a lifetime.
It's also crucial to understand that there is no such thing as a "mattress for all." Factors such as body weight, sleep and health issues, whether you sleep alone or not, and personal preference need to be considered when mattress shopping.
The best mattresses typically offer a combination of a good warranty period and exceptional customer service. So, do your research by reading guides on how to choose a mattress, how firm your mattress should be, how thick your mattress should be, and how to choose a mattress for your sleep position.
Lastly, be aware that many brands have evergreen sales that stay the same throughout the year, even during major sales events like Black Friday. So, there's no need to rush into a purchase during these times.
With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to finding the perfect cooling mattress for a restful night's sleep.
- For a comfortable and cool summer night, consider mattresses with Phase Change Materials (PCM) that absorb excess body heat and release it as needed, or ventilated foam or hybrid construction to improve airflow.
- Advanced cooling foams, such as Tempur-Pedic’s PureCool® and PureCool® Plus materials, are engineered to pull heat away from the body for a sustained cooling effect.
- Moisture-wicking and cool-to-the-touch covers can help maintain a dry, cooler sleeping surface, while high-tech mattresses may incorporate smart cooling technology for adaptive temperature controls.
- When choosing a mattress, remember to consider factors such as body weight, sleep position, and personal preference, and take advantage of sleep trials that last at least 90-100 nights to ensure a comfortable fit.
