Getting a good night's sleep isn't just about finding the right bed — it's also about dispelling the myths that can keep you from finding the best mattress. With so many misconceptions swirling around mattresses, it's easy to get caught up in old wives' tales and marketing gimmicks.
But don't lose sleep over the myths; it's time to separate fact from fiction! We've dug in and debunked some of the more common myths you know — and some you don't! Let's dive in!
Myth #1: You Have to Flip Your Mattress Every Few Months
The old tale says to flip your mattress every few months to keep it in tip-top shape. But guess what? Most mattresses these days are designed to be one-sided, so flipping is a no-no. Instead, you'll need to rotate it so the materials wear out evenly over time!
- For the first two months, give it a turn every two weeks.
- Then rotate it once a month for the next six months.
- After six months, you only have to rotate it once every quarter.
This helps to ensure your mattress wears evenly, helping you avoid those pesky dips and humps. So, remember, flipping is out; rotation is in!
Myth #2: It's Against the Law to Remove the Mattress Tag
Ever seen the "Do Not Remove" tag on your mattress or pillow? It turns out the "penalty of law" bit is only for retailers, not you. These tags are there for fire safety reasons and to let you know what's in your mattress.
But once you've bought it, it's yours — no one will come after you if you snip it off. But remember, doing so might void your warranty. So, if it's not harming you and not in the way, you might be better off leaving it there.
Myth #3: Firmer Beds Are Better
If you've heard that a firmer bed is the secret to solving back pain, you might be surprised to learn that's not always the case. This myth probably originated when mattresses were either hard or saggy with no in-between. In reality, you need a bed that caters to your preferred sleeping position and keeps your spine in neutral alignment.
If it's too firm, it might force your hips and shoulders up, leaving your back unsupported. The truth is comfort is subjective, but we've found that medium to medium-firm mattresses often provide a good balance of support and comfort for most sleepers. So don't fall for the hard bed hype!
Myth #4: Mattresses Should be Replaced Every 8 Years
While it's true that many people replace their mattresses around the 8 to 10-year mark, this isn't a hard rule. The lifespan of your mattress really depends on its quality and how you use and care for it.
The signs that you need a new mattress are less about the calendar and more about comfort. If your bed has deep impressions, isn't comfortable anymore, doesn't support your spine, or causes pain — it's time to think about a replacement, no matter how old. Listen to your body, not the clock!
Myth #5: All Memory Foam Makes You Hot
This myth is partly true — some memory foam mattresses can make certain sleepers (about 8 percent) feel a bit warm. But it largely depends on the type of memory foam and how much your body sinks into the surface. The deeper it sinks, the more heat it traps.
However, not all memory foams are created equal. So, if you get a little toasty at night, look for open-celled memory foam, medium to low-density foams, or gel memory foam. These foam mattresses have cooling properties that help regulate temperature and keep you from overheating.
Myth #6: Latex Mattresses are All-Natural
Latex mattresses are often praised for their all-natural properties. But here's the truth bomb: not all of them are as "natural" as they claim to be. Some latex mattresses use synthetic materials, like styrene-butadiene rubber, which is made from petroleum-based ingredients and other chemicals.
There are also blended latex mattresses that mix both synthetic and natural materials. So, while you might be getting some natural goodness, you're also getting a bit of the synthetic stuff. But if you're all about the all-natural lifestyle, ensure you get a mattress made from 100% natural latex.
Pro Tip: If you want completely natural latex, look for certifications that back up these claims, like "organic" labels — they have to meet certain parameters to be considered organic!
Myth #7: More Coils = Better Sleep
When it comes to innerspring mattresses, people often think the more coils, the better. But hold your horses — coil count isn't the be-all and end-all of comfort or durability. It's actually the construction of the coils that matters more, as it determines things like motion isolation, breathability, and bounce.
Instead of obsessing over coil counts, pay more attention to how the mattress feels. Remember, a good innerspring mattress should have enough coils to support your body — about 300 for a full, 375 for a queen, and 450 for a king. But don't forget, the quality of those coils is what truly counts!
Bonus Myth: Longer Warranty = Longer Mattress Life
You might be attracted to mattresses with warranties that promise 10 to 25 years or even a lifetime. But let's get real here; no mattress lasts forever. These warranties are mainly there to protect against manufacturing defects like broken springs or foam malfunction, not regular wear and tear or the inevitable sagging over time.
No matter how long the warranty is, if your mattress doesn't keep your spine in neutral alignment, causes you discomfort, or just feels worn out, it's time to think about a replacement. So don't be swayed by lengthy warranties — focus on how the mattress feels and performs over time.
Sleep Tight and Myth-Free!
As you can see, there are several mattress myths out there. But now that you know the truth, you can confidently upgrade your mattress at Livingood's Appliances & Bedding! We have various brands and styles to keep your sleep comfortable.
And if you have any questions, give us a call or stop by! We're here to help you sleep better!