Stiffness
Firmness is one of the most important characteristics when choosing any mattress. Modern models can be soft,
medium or firm.
It is believed that products of any hardness are suitable for healthy people, and the choice in this case depends solely on personal preferences. However, there are certain recommendations related to a person's weight and allowing you to determine which option is likely to be the most comfortable. Thus, for people weighing up to 60 kg,
a soft mattress is considered optimal, 60-90 kg - medium, over 90 kg -
hard. This, however, only applies to "adult" models;
children's's mattresses are standardly of medium hardness. If a mattress is selected for a person with spinal problems, it is advisable to consult a doctor before choosing.
Note that there is a separate category of mattresses that combine different levels of firmness. Most often, these are double-sided models with different levels of firmness on each side — this allows you to change the firmness by simply turning the mattress over (for more information on the meaning of this function, see below). In addition, double versions with different levels of firmness on each side can be produced; for more information, see below. All such products in our catalog are designated as “soft/hard” or “soft/medium,” depending on the combination.
In
...the description of the model's rigidity, we additionally indicate the rigidity in numbers (on a scale as is customary in the field of describing the rigidity of mattresses) from 1 - soft, to 5 - hard.Number of layers
The number of individual layers of filler provided in the design of the mattress. By itself, this parameter does not have a special effect on the overall quality and practical features of the product - these moments are determined primarily by the filler materials (see below) and other design features. However, in spring mattresses (see "Type"), more layers usually correspond to a greater thickness of the filling - which means that the customer is less likely to feel individual springs on such a mattress.
Note that the cover is not taken into account when counting the layers - it is not always included in the kit, and, as a rule, can be replaced if necessary.
Now on the market there are mattresses with the following number of layers:
1,
2,
3,
4,
5,
6,
7 and
more.
More features
—
Winter/summer effect. This feature is found exclusively in double-sided mattresses (see above). It is due to the fact that the human body functions differently in winter and summer, incl. during sleep. Therefore, in cold weather, a surface made of dense thermal insulating materials (like wool) is considered optimal for normal sleep, and in warm weather, light ones that are good at dissipating excess heat (for example, cotton). Accordingly, the “winter” and “summer” surfaces of double-sided mattresses have different coatings, which allows you to provide maximum comfort at any time of the year without purchasing an additional mattress.
-
Memory effect. Mattresses with this function use a special filler (usually polyurethane foam with special additives, the so-called Memory Foam), which is able to “remember” the shape given to it for a few seconds. Such material may seem quite hard, but under the influence of the heat and weight of a person lying down, it contracts and takes on a shape that exactly follows the contours of the human body. At the same time, products with memory effect are quite dense, but do not have a characteristic “pushing” effect, unlike many other types of mattresses (especially spring ones). This, according to the manufacturers, provides very high orthopedic properties, because provides maximum comfort and relaxation of the body in a natural position. And after the impact stops
..., the mattress returns to a flat state in a few seconds.
— Anti-allergenic/antibacterial. Mattresses made from anti-allergenic and/or bactericidal materials, as well as having appropriate features (for example, a design that prevents the accumulation of dust). All these nuances are easy to combine in one product, so for most models with this feature, both hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties are claimed. However, it still wouldn’t hurt to clarify the specifics separately, especially if the mattress is purchased for a person prone to allergies or in poor health. However, such mattresses will in any case be more hygienic and safer than models for which anti-allergenic and antibacterial properties are not declared.
- Vacuum packaging. Mattresses standardly supplied to the so-called. vacuum packaging. When packing such a mattress at the factory, a special machine compresses it tightly, twists it into a roll and seals it in film. Thanks to this, a folded mattress takes up several times less volume than in a working one - vacuum packaging can “shrink” a porous material like polyurethane foam (see “Filler”) almost 10 times. Accordingly, storing and transporting the mattress is greatly simplified; and when the film is removed, it takes its normal shape in a few minutes. At the same time, in terms of characteristics, “vacuum” options are in no way inferior to similar products that have not been subjected to such packaging. However, it must be taken into account that vacuum packaging is disposable - it is impossible to return the mattress to a compact form at home. Therefore, for the average user, the mentioned conveniences relate exclusively to transporting the mattress from the store to the home or other place of use.
— Moisture-repellent fabric. Mattresses with a surface made of moisture-repellent (usually completely waterproof) fabric. For everyday use, such materials are not required, however, such mattresses are indispensable in medical institutions - hospitals, nursing homes, etc., where there is an increased likelihood of biological fluids getting on the bed. In the event of such a problem, the water-repellent surface can be easily washed, and the mattress is ready for use again literally within a few minutes, whereas a traditional product will have to be washed and dried for a long time (and the “filling” of the mattress does not tolerate contact with liquid very well).
— Case with zipper. A protective cover that fits over the mattress and closes with a zipper. It serves to protect the mattress from dust, dirt, stains and accidentally spilled liquids. The zippered cover is usually easy to remove and wash, making the mattress easier to care for and extending its lifespan.Height
Overall height (thickness) of the mattress.
This parameter is selected by the manufacturer, taking into account the general purpose and design features of the product, so in most cases it is not fundamental when choosing. We only note that traditional type mattresses have a thickness of
10 – 15 cm to
30 cm or more. And products with a thickness of less than 10 cm belong to the category of so-called
futons, or toppers. Most often, such models are not used separately, but as additional overlays on another sleeping surface. For example, you can add a topper to an existing classic mattress — if it is not soft or hard enough, or if its properties have deteriorated due to wear — or lay the topper on a sofa, making the sleeping place on it more comfortable. Due to their thinness, futons are relatively inexpensive, and buying such a product is often more profitable than replacing an existing mattress.
