Even in the recent past, the question of choosing a mattress was practically absent: apart from spring and foam, there were no others. There are many options now, and it's important to buy a mattress that will provide you with quality sleep for years to come.
Let's start with what functions the mattress on which you sleep every day should perform:
It should evenly support the spine. That is, without “dips” and protruding springs. This is the only way you can relax and find a comfortable position.
The mattress should match your weight and height. Remember how uncomfortable you feel every time you have to tuck your knees in your sleep. In addition, some mattresses may not be suitable for people with large body weight.
The mattress must remain fresh throughout the entire period of use.It must be well ventilated, not heated, and its composition should not contribute to the breeding of a “zoo.”
The materials from which the mattress is made are should not be toxic.You should receive only comfort and health benefits from your sleeping place, and not harm.
Orthopedic traumatologist Kirill Masliev recommends carefully studying the composition of the materials from which the mattress is made. Avoid volatile organic compounds (VOCs), flame retardants (in polyurethane foam), formaldehyde (the glue that holds materials together), and phthalates (in polyvinyl chloride).
The range of consequences of exposure to VOCs is wide: from allergies, respiratory tract irritation to endocrine disorders and even cancer. Thus, a 2013 study conducted in California showed that flame retardants in the mother’s blood negatively affected the development of the fetus, which led to a decrease in mental abilities in born children of school and preschool age.
Masliev Kirill Sergeevich 
expert
traumatologist-or toped, k.m. n. 
What types of mattresses are there?
If you go to the website of a mattress store, The richness of the assortment can make your head spin. It is better to understand this issue in advance, because different options have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Spring
Yes, the good old spring mattress is not a thing of the past, and if made well, it can be a good solution. In particular, orthopedic mattresses are sometimes produced on a spring basis. What is especially important is that modern models do not begin to creak treacherously after some time, since instead of blocks of continuous weaving they are equipped with a system of blocks of independent springs.
Springless with various fillers
These mattresses do not have spring block systems and are created on the basis of various fillers — polyurethane foam, rubberized coconut fibers, latex monolithic slab or layers of different types of fillers.
Such mattresses are in great demand, including due to the fact that they have high or medium hardness and are suitable for people with back pain and children, since their spine is still developing.
But there is an important nuance: some of materials may be toxic, that is, contain volatile organic compounds. Kirill Masliev advises to be very careful when choosing mattresses that have in their design:
- Polyurethane foam. Made from petrochemical products, it emits a lot of VOCs.
- “Organic” foam. Made from castor and soybean oil along with petrochemical products, it emits VOCs no less than polyurethane.
- Polyurethane foam. Based on Many mattresses are produced from this material, including memory foam ones, which take the contours of the sleeper’s body and then return to their original shape. Some polyurethane foam products may have minimal levels of VOCs, so it is important to study the composition.
- Synthetic latex.Also produced on a petroleum basis and is often passed off as natural.
But natural latex, obtained from the sap of a rubber tree, is a good choice, Masliev believes . It is highly resistant to mildew and dust mites, durable to use. Of course, mattresses made from this material are not cheap.
The range of consequences of exposure to VOCs is wide: from allergies, respiratory tract irritation to endocrine disorders and even cancer. Thus, a 2013 study conducted in California showed that flame retardants in the mother’s blood negatively affected the development of the fetus, which led to a decrease in mental abilities in born children of school and preschool age.
Vacuum
< p>The same mattresses that are sold in the form of tightly twisted rolls in popular furniture and general merchandise chain stores. They are very easy to transport, they are quite durable, and provide the necessary supporting effect. But the problem is the environmental friendliness and safety of the product: they are made on the basis of polyurethane foam.
Orthopedic
This type of mattress is one of the most popular, and although it is produced on both a spring basis and a latex one , it should be highlighted separately. The main difference between orthopedic mattresses and others is that they are specially designed to support the spine in an extended position.
Overall, this is a versatile mattress for adults and children. Yes, it costs significantly more than others, but its price is justified.
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How to choose the right mattress?
There are several golden rules for choosing a mattress that should be followed if you want to create a comfortable sleeping place for yourself and your loved ones.
Go to a store that sells mattresses and test out several options.Be sure to lie on it for at least 10-15 minutes to truly appreciate the comfort.
Life hack: if you liked the mattress at the hotel, try to find an analogue one or even ask the staff what type they use. Hotel mattresses are selected quite carefully and are usually very comfortable.
Never order a mattress online without a “test drive.”< /strong> Even if it has excellent reviews. What works for others may not work for you. Consider your weight and sleeping position to narrow down your range.
If you have back problems, it is best to consult your doctor. For example, for scoliosis and osteochondrosis, firm mattresses are recommended . But if you have chronic pain, it is important to take into account various nuances that a specialist can suggest.
Choose a mattress according to your height and weight. People with normal body weight and without restrictions due to their health, they are more free in their choice, but if you have a high BMI, be sure to pay attention to what kind of rigidity the product has.
