5 Mattress Myths Debunked

When it comes to mattresses, there are some pretty crazy myths flying around these days, and I’ve decided enough is enough. Too many people are losing sleep over mattress myths that might actually be making their night of sleep worse! If you’re in the market for a new mattress and you’re trying to sort out fact from fiction, we’re here to help.

Here are five common mattress myths and why they’re totally bogus.

Mattress Myth #1: Mattresses Need to Be Regularly Flipped to Keep Their Shape

Mattress Reality: This might have been the case a century ago, but mattress technology has come a long way since then. Modern mattresses are much better designed, and shouldn’t start to sag for many, many years, regardless of which side you sleep on. Most mattresses only have one usable side these days anyway, so flipping them over will only leave you in a world of hurt.

Rotating your mattress, however, is never a bad idea, especially if you share your bed with a partner. Turning your mattress from end to end can help it wear more evenly, and keep you both sleeping soundly for longer.

Mattress Myth #2: Memory Foam Mattresses Always Sleep Hot

Mattress Reality: While some people do report uncomfortable heat retention in their memory foam mattresses, this is a myth that’s gotten blown way out of proportion to the problem.

Only about 8 percent of memory foam sleepers say their mattresses hold in too much heat, compared to 5 percent in spring mattresses. Although, we suspect that extra 3 percent might have just mixed up the air conditioner with the heater again…

Many memory foam mattresses also include layers of cooling gel that keep temperatures down and comfort up. If you’re sleeping hot, most of the time the blame lies with some other element of your nightly routine, like your bedsheets, fan, or the weather.

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Mattress Myth #3: Firmer Mattresses Are a Must-Have for Anyone with Back Problems

Mattress Reality: Everybody and every body are different. There’s no universal rule that can be applied to everyone’s needs, so it’s simply not true to say that firm mattresses are always the right choice to battle back issues.

Rather, people with chronic back pain should be extra careful to find a mattress that offers the right amount of support for their individual needs. A mattress that’s too firm can cause aches and pains at sensitive pressure points and can actually push your spine further out of alignment.

If you’re not sure how to find that goldilocks balance of not too soft and not too firm, talk to one of our sleep experts. We can help you get on track to a good night of rest and recovery in no time!

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Mattress Myth #4: You Can Sleep Just as Well on an Old Mattress as on a New One

Mattress Reality: Not so. The Better Sleep Council says it’s best to replace your mattress every seven to 10 years, but every year past that recommended time frame is going to give you worse nights of sleep than the one before.

Of course, some types of mattresses last longer than others (latex and memory foam tend to be more durable than coils), but ultimately, if you put off getting a new mattress too long, you won’t be doing your back or your bedtime routine any favours.

Mattress Myth #5: There’s No Need to Try Before You Buy

Mattress Truth: That’s a dangerous game you’re playing there, friend! Falling in love with a mattress and taking it home that very same day is one thing, but ordering a mattress without taking so much as a catnap on it can make for big problems.

No matter what the reviews say, it’s important to test out your mattress for yourself and see how it suits you. At our store, we’ve got tons of mattresses in stock for customers to peruse and snooze on, so visit us and be sure the mattress you bought is the mattress you want, every time.

Now that these myths are laid to rest, you can start your mattress-buying journey with open eyes and a clear mind! We know there are plenty of other myths floating around out there though, so if you have any questions, come ask our staff of sleep experts. We’re happy to help you get a better night’s rest, starting with a new Sealy Posturpedic mattress.

Angela, Your Sleep Expert