The Bed and Mattress Buying Guide – All you need to know!

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Are you in need of a new bed?

A good night’s rest is the first step to a great day. Tossing and turning, or lying awake staring at the ceiling will leave you feeling groggy, out of sorts and confused. But being well-rested contributes to a clear mind, higher energy level, and increased happiness. So how do you ensure that you are getting the best night’s rest that you can?

Well, it all begins with comfort. If you have a comfortable mattress and a high-quality bed to support it, you are off to the right start. An uncomfortable mattress can keep you from the slumber that your body needs for rest and recovery, and a poor quality bed frame won’t support you properly, leaving you feeling fatigued. Research shows that sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress can deplete your sleep by up to an hour. With the fast pace of everyday life, every hour of sleep that you can get is important.

The biggest problem, though, is knowing when you are in need of a new bed or mattress. The quality of your mattress deteriorates slowly over time, and it can be hard to know when it has passed the point of no return. You might look for other factors to blame for your poor sleep when the real culprit is right beneath you the entire time. You should consider your bed as the reason for your unrest or poor sleep, even if it appears to still be of good quality. Often times the degradation of your mattress is invisible, and even if it looks alright to you, it might not be offering the kind of comfort and support that your body needs to get a good night’s sleep.

Did you know that the lifespan of your mattress can vary due to a number of factors?

These factors include the quality of the mattress at the time of purchase, the level of care that you give it throughout its use and the amount of time and frequency with which it is used. A bed that is only used once in a blue moon in a guest room will age more slowly than one that is used for sleep each night or used to lounge while reading or watching television. Lifestyle changes like gaining or losing weight can affect the lifespan of a mattress, as can changing the size of your family through marriage or having children, adding more bodyweight to the equation. So with so many different things to consider, how do you know when its time for a new bed or mattress?

Here are some questions that you can ask yourself to help you determine if it is time to shop for a new mattress:

  • How long have you had your mattress? If it is more than seven years and you find yourself getting less and less restful sleep, it may be time for a new one.
  • How does the quality of sleep you are getting on a regular basis compare to the quality of sleep that you got a year ago, or in another bed while on vacation or visiting a friend or family member?
  • Are you waking up with body aches and soreness? That could be a sign that your bed is no longer as comfortable as it should be for a good night’s rest.
  • How does your mattress look? While not all mattresses will show visible signs of wear and tear, if you can see lumps or sags in the mattress, it is definitely time for a new one.

If you’ve asked yourself those questions and determined that it’s time for a new mattress or bed, you may be overwhelmed by the seemingly endless options available on the market today. A bed or mattress are not one size fits all- there are thousands of options out there, and no one individual brand or style will work for everyone. Buying a new mattress is a very personal experience. What works for one person’s specific needs might not work for another’s. A respectable and reputable seller will provide you with information, details and advice for purchasing your new bed or mattress, but even then the decision isn’t always an easy one to make. Be sure that you take your time, do some research and gather as much information as you possibly can before you make your decision. Remember- you’re purchasing a new mattress to improve the quality of your sleep and restfulness. You don’t want to rush the decision and choose a suboptimal product or one that is not right for your individual needs.

What to know before you go shopping:

Whether you choose to shop for a new bed or mattress online or in a store, you should have a general wish list for what you are looking for before you begin your quest. This will help you narrow down an extremely wide field. Of course, every mattress and bed that you consider will have its own special features and those will likely play into your final decision. But you can filter your search by knowing things like price range, size, and type before you start looking at specific models. Start by answering these questions to give yourself a good base to start from:

  • What type of bed or mattress are you looking for?
  • Do you like a foam or spring-based mattress?
  • Do you prefer your mattresses firmer or softer?
  • Do you like a wooden or metal frame?
  • What do you like or dislike about your current bed or mattress that you would like to avoid or improve on in your new purchase?  Knowing what you do not want is sometimes just as or more helpful than knowing what you do want, as you can tell this information to the salesperson or customer service representative that you are working with, and they can help steer you in the right direction.
  • What size are you looking for? One reason that you’re not getting the best night’s sleep in your current bed could be that it is too small. Whether you share a bed with a partner or sleep alone, you should have enough space to stretch out comfortably. You should be able to lay completely stretched out with your hands behind your head and elbows bent, with at least half a foot of space from your feet and the edge of the mattress. If you share a bed, you should be able to both lay this way without touching. Choosing to cuddle is nice, but it shouldn’t be forced due to a lack of space! You should also be sure to check the dimensions, especially if you are only replacing the mattress or the bed and not purchasing both new at the same time. Bed sizes are not standard, even if they are called (i.e. King, Full, Twin) the actual measurements may vary depending on the manufacturer. Some companies also provide custom sizes, so you should have an idea of the size you’re looking for. Also, if you are in the market for a new bed, consider the height from the floor. Some models and types of bed frames will be lower to the ground while others are lofted slightly.
  • What is your price range? Having an idea of your budget for your new bed or mattress can help immensely. While you should always be on the lookout for the best price, you should not sacrifice quality. Remember, you’ll likely be sleeping on this bed for the next seven years, and one of the factors in how quickly a mattress or bed deteriorates is the condition it is in to start with. Also, comfort is a key factor in getting a healthy, restful night’s sleep, so it should not be sacrificed to save pennies. There are acceptable options in all price ranges, so no matter what your budget is, you will be covered. You should never go for a second-hand mattress, even if you know the person that is giving or selling it to you. Used mattresses can be unhygienic, but even if they are perfectly clean they have already conformed to someone else’s body. This brings us back to the fact that “one size does not fit all”.
  • What are the practical matters? When do you need your new bed or mattress? Can you wait, or have you already waited too long? While most mattresses will need to be ordered and delivered to your home in a truck, there are some options available that you may be able to take home sooner. Some mattress stores keep a small stock of their more popular models so that you can get your mattress sooner. Recent developments in packaging have also allowed for compact, vacuum-sealed roll-up mattresses that fit in containers that are roughly the size of a mini-fridge. You can often take these home the same day that you purchase them, and they generally do not require setting up delivery. Another practical matter to consider is maneuverability. Know the route that your bed or mattress will have to take through your house to get to the room it will be in. Are the door frames wide enough? Are there stairs involved? While many models can be split into two or more pieces to make delivery more feasible, some beds and mattresses are solid pieces that simply cannot fit through all doors, hallways or staircases. Make sure that you discuss the practical matters of delivery and go over the terms and conditions for delivery with the supplier that you are purchasing from.
  • Some factors that can help you choose: If you find that you’ve narrowed it down to a few models that are just too similar to choose between based on the product features, you can start looking at things like availability and service options. If you are looking for both a bed frame and mattress, consider whether you can purchase them at the same time from the same retailer. This makes delivery more convenient for you and can help prolong the life of your mattress. A new bed frame will support your new mattress more efficiently than your older, used bed frame will. Service factors such as availability, delivery time, warranty or disposal of your current mattress or bed frame may also set one option apart from the herd. You may also just have a better rapport or feel more comfortable with one customer service representative over another- building a relationship with the salesperson you will be dealing with is important as you may end up dealing with them again in the future. 

Buying in-store vs. buying online:

So if you’ve made your wish list and you’ve considered the tie breakers, you’re ready to dive into the shopping pool. Your next choice is whether you will be purchasing your new mattress or bed in-store, or on the internet. Like all aspects of shopping for your new bed or mattress, there are pros and cons to both methods. Here are a few things to consider when you are ready to begin your sleep zone search:

Buying in-store:

Going to a store in person is a great way to shop for a new bed or mattress. Nothing beats physically touching or lying on a mattress in terms of getting a good grasp of how it will feel. Seeing, feeling and experiencing the mattress is like taking it for a test drive. You may see a model in an advertisement or hear stunning reviews, but then when you test it out in-store you may find it is too firm or too soft. You might think you’ve made up your mind to choose against a certain model based on what you’ve read or heard, but then getting a chance to try it might cause you to change your decision.

Here are some tips that you should keep in mind when shopping in-store for your new mattress:

  • Lay down. Don’t just rely on a press or a squeeze to judge a mattress’ firmness or feel. When you sleep you’ll be lying down, so you should try to mimic that when you go shopping. Try to assume your normal sleep position when you test out a mattress, so that you can get the best idea possible of how comfortable it is. Be sure to lay there for a few minutes so you can get a feel for how the mattress will support you after you’ve settled in.
  • Shop as a team. If you will be sharing the mattress with a partner, it’s important that you shop together. This way, both parties can test out the mattress, and you can judge the size. Making sure that you are both happy with your purchase will ensure that both of you get the restful sleep that you need. One uncomfortable person often turns into to, so nip that in the bud by finding a mattress that makes you both happy. Secret tip- if finding a mattress that suits both of your needs is seemingly impossible, some manufacturers sell “split” beds, where two mattresses are used instead of one. This is done primarily if there is a large size difference, but could also be helpful for those with certain medical conditions.
  • Compare firmnesses. Even if your current mattress is soft or medium, try mattresses in all different firmnesses. As you grow or age, you might need different levels of support or comfort from your mattress. Don’t count out a firm one just because you’ve never had one in the past. Try as many different firmnesses as you can instead of just going with what you’ve been using as a force of habit.
  • Don’t rush. Going back to spend at least a few minutes in your sleep position when you try each mattress, you want to make sure that you give yourself ample time to shop for your new mattress. It shouldn’t be an errand that you try to squeeze in between other things, and you shouldn’t just buy the first one you try. You should also avoid trying to shop for a bed when you are feeling tired or if you’ve been running around all day because every single one you try will feel good at that point and it will be hard to make an objective decision. 
  • Know the support that you need. Everyone’s needs differ when it comes to support. Your height, weight, sleeping position, build, health and other factors will come into play when determining the level of support that you need to look for. The mattress should conform to your body while still supporting it, instead of just swallowing you and giving you that sinking feeling. When you lay on your side, your spine should remain straight and you should be able to easily and comfortably roll over and turn. A quick way to judge whether the mattress that you are testing is too soft, too firm or what you need, is to lay on your back and tuck your hand under the space near the small of your back. If it slides very easily, meaning that there is a large space between your back and the mattress, it is likely too firm. If you have to try too hard to wedge your hand there, the mattress is probably too soft. Like Goldilocks, you’re looking for “just right” territory.

To sum up, when you are shopping in-store for your new mattress, don’t be afraid to try as many as you can. Don’t rush your decision, and don’t just go for the take-home option or the cheapest sale. Find the mattress that not only gives you comfort but also supports you as you need it to.

Buying Online:

These days, there isn’t really anything that you can’t find online. You likely do a lot of things on the internet- pay bills, communicate, book reservations, work, and shop. It provides you a plethora of options without having to drive all over town, or fight crowds at malls or plazas. When it comes to comparing prices, there’s no easier way to do it. But there are things that you need to be wary of when it comes to purchasing a mattress over the internet, despite how simple it may seem. That isn’t to say that you can’t get a quality mattress for a great price by doing some online sleuthing, because you absolutely can! You just need to remember a few things when considering purchasing your mattress:

  • Delivery. Unlike shopping in stores where you may have an option to take your mattress home that day, you will need to set up delivery for your new mattress when you purchase online. Keep in mind that delivery also adds to the cost, and returns could be trickier to set up as well.
  • Inability to test. While you’ll have reviews and ratings at your fingertips to help you make your decision, you won’t be able to actually lay on the mattress and get a good understanding of how it feels. Some retailers may offer samples, but they are small squares that really cannot give you a true sense of what sleeping on the mattress would be like.
  • Are they reputable? While there are many online retailers that put out high-quality products and give excellent customer service, there are also quite a few that are the exact opposite. One way that you can check their credibility is to search for them on www.shopsafe.co.uk. This is a directory of all online retailers in the UK that have been deemed safe to shop on. This means that you can be sure that they offer secure credit transactions, list their return policies clearly, and post all delivery prices. Check the company’s privacy policy and be sure that you feel comfortable that they will keep all of your information private. You should also make sure that the website clearly lists the contact information so that you can call the customer support line if necessary, or send an email.
  • Don’t fall for the drastic savings. Remember that if the price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Sure, some online prices can be lower because there is not as much overhead for online businesses as there is for storefront shops, but the bottom line is that if they are selling the same product, the price difference can only be so much. If the price tag looks exceptionally low, remind yourself that you get what you pay for. Be sure that you are clear on the quality of the product that you are purchasing to avoid being dissatisfied with what you recieve.
  • Look online after visiting the store. One way to know that you’re getting the quality that you are looking for is by testing the mattress in a store and then purchasing it online if you have found a better price. That way, as long as it is guaranteed to be the same brand and same model that you tested, you will know that you are getting exactly what you want. This may sound like it defeats the purpose of online shopping, as you would still need to make a store visit, but if it saves you some money, and you can be sure that the product is the same, then it is worth it.

Don’t be afraid to shop online, despite the aforementioned warnings. As stated above, there are thousands of reputable online retailers for you to choose from. You just need to know that the website can be trusted before you trust them with your payment information. You also need to know that they won’t disappear should you need to contact them for any reason after your purchase has been made. It can be a very convenient way to shop, a simple way to compare prices and deals, and an easy way to gather a lot of information on the product that you are looking to purchase. In many ways and for many people, shopping online is preferable. You just have to ask yourself if it is the right shopping method for you.

Let’s talk details…

 Okay. We’ve gone over the importance of having a high-quality mattress in ensuring that you get a good night’s rest. We’ve talked about the pros and cons of shopping for mattresses in-store versus shopping online. Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty details that make mattresses different. After all, it’s just a mattress, right? How different can one really be from another? The answer is: Very different. From covers to springs, thickness to foam, there are many ways that mattresses can differ.

Starting on the outside:

We evaluate everything with our eyes first, so the first thing you are likely to notice on a mattress is the cover, also known in the mattress industry as the ticking. Mattress manufacturers spend lots of time choosing attractive ticking with intricate material, decorative embroidery. This is to make the mattress more appealing to the eye and to draw the buyer to that model. Keep in mind that the decorative ticking rarely has much to do with the quality of the mattress, and you will hardly ever see it as it will be covered with sheets and blankets most of the time. The real reason that the ticking is important isn’t to look nice; it’s to be able to endure the wear and tear that a mattress will receive. Good ticking should be tear-resistant. High end, durable ticking is generally woven in cotton yarns, while cheaper ticking will be made from thinner fabrics.

A recent trend in ticking has been to give the mattress cover special qualities. Waterproof or stain-resistant ticking is very popular. Other newer options include: allergen-free, antibacterial or antimicrobial, breathable, fire retardant, or anti-dust mite. The newest and perhaps most popular trend in ticking is in the fabric that allows for temperature control with moisture-wicking abilities. These mattresses are fitted with ticking that pulls perspiration away from the body as you sleep, and into the fabric where it is efficiently absorbed or effectively evaporated. This is especially helpful to people who are generally very hot while they sleep. These high-performance fabrics make it more cool and comfortable.

You have likely noticed that most mattresses are either quilted or tufted, and you may be wondering what the difference is.

  • Tufted mattresses have the ticking sewn directly through to the stuffing at regular intervals. This ensures that the insides don’t shift. The points where the needle had passed through is often covered by a button, and the overall topography gives the “hills and valleys” effect.
  • Quilted mattresses will have a flatter, smoother surface than tufted ones. They have patterns stitched or quilted into the top layer of the stuffing but do not reach all the way down into the inner portions like the stitching on a tufted mattress does. 

The difference isn’t just visual. Quilted and tufted mattresses do have a rather different feel, which is why it is important to compare and test them to see which you prefer. One is not necessarily better than the other, it is all about personal preference and making sure that you choose a mattress that is most comfortable and supportive to you.

Moving to the inside:

Time to talk support

The outer cover or ticking of the mattress is important, and pillow-topped or ticking with special features are nice and can certainly add to the pros of a particular model, but the real support comes from the inside. There are two main types of innards for mattresses. They can have springs, or they can be springless. Just like differences in ticking, there are pros and cons to both forms, and it will ultimately come down to preference. Within each category, there are different options, and this is where the majority of the differentiation comes into play.

Let’s start with mattresses that have springs, as the majority of mattresses sold in the UK fall under this category. The springs make up the “core” of the mattress and are where the support comes from. Manufacturers can achieve varying levels of support by changing the number, tension or shape of the springs inside the mattress. There can even be different tensions or types of springs within the same mattress to achieve different “zones” of extra support.

There are three main types of mattresses that have springs:

  • Open Coil/ Open Sprung otherwise known as Bonnell spring mattresses are the most common. These have rows of individual springs that are connected at the top and bottom with a spiralized wire and reinforced by a hefty rod frame around the sides. Most models have around 325 springs on average, but depending on the spring size, some have more and some have fewer. These types of mattresses are generally on the lower to mid-end of the budget spectrum. 
  • Continuous Spring mattresses are exactly what they sound like: instead of rows of individual springs, these are constructed using one continuous wire that is “woven” or “knitted” into a series of springs. These are generally linked vertically instead of horizontally, due to the nature of the design. The wire gauge is generally thinner and the resulting coils are usually softer than the open coil versions. These types of mattresses may feel more responsive when you rest your weight on them because the coil count is higher, meaning that there are more points of contact and support for your body. The price ranges from mid-level to high end.
  • Pocket Spring mattresses are again what they sound like: small, individual springs that are encased in their own pockets and can work independently of one another without being strung together by wires. These are the best spring style mattresses when it comes to conforming to your body’s curves because the springs can flex more freely. You can get pocket springs in a variety of tensions. Springs can be arranged in straight rows, or staggered in a “honeycomb” pattern, and can be encased in various types of materials. Pocket spring mattresses are generally on the higher end of the budget scale.

Sprung mattresses also require stuffing or filling. This layer of stuffing fills in the spaces around the wire springs and provides padding from the hard coils or woven wires. There are a wide variety of different fillings that are used for their ability to absorb moisture and provide comfort.

  • Cotton filling is often used for the surface or top layer of filling and is generally chosen because it is a breathable material. Cotton has been used for its softness.
  • Wool filling is a fiber that is known for its natural resilient properties, luxurious feel, and its breathability.
  • Foam filling is injected in and around the springs to cause a cushioning effect. There are a variety of foam types that are used including memory foam, polyurethane, and latex.
  • Silks, cashmere and other fine fibers are used for their softness and luxurious feel.

The second main type of mattresses are the unsprung type. As the name suggests, these mattresses are made without wire springs or coils and are instead comprised of layers of foam. Different tension and support is achieved by varying the density and thickness of the layers of foam. Foam mattresses generally don’t require a box spring and can be used with slatted or base style bed frames. There are three different types of foam that are typically used.

  • Viscoelastic/Memory foam conforms to your body’s weight and is the most responsive style of foam. It comes in different densities for varying levels of firmness and support.
  • Latex foam is a natural substance derived from rubber trees. Its natural elastic properties make it very reflexive, meaning that it snaps back to its original shape easily. It is very durable and has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that make it a good option for those who suffer from allergies.
  • Polyurethane foam is a synthetic foam substance that is petroleum-based. Because it is a synthetic material that is widely used, it is one of the preferred foams and is found in all budget ranges.

Other options for mattress fillings include gel, which has become popular for its cooling properties and can be combined with other types of fillings, floatation beds, which are filled with water to give a gentle rocking feel, and futons, which are comprised of fiber and can be rolled or included in sleep sofas for easy storage.

The mattress is just the cherry on top.

So now that we’ve discussed the many different types of mattresses, let’s delve into the differences in bed frames. The bed frame or base is what holds your mattress off of the floor, and the type of mattress that you choose may dictate what type of bed you need, or vice versa. There are a few different styles of bed base for you to choose from.

  • Divans are the most commonly used bed base in the UK. They are essentially boxes that are upholstered and are attached to legs or could even have drawers or storage space beneath them. There are divans with springs attached to the top that offer another layer of support beneath the mattress, and there are also solid base divans without springs. The springs act as a shock absorber and will contribute to the durability of the mattress. If you are looking for something firmer, go with a divan with a solid or platform top.
  • Slatted bases are bases that are not solid but instead are comprised of slats that stretch from one side of the bed frame to the other. The mattress sits atop the slats, and the slats can be rigid for a firmer experience, or they can have some give to offer a softer base for your mattress.
  • Adjustable bases have become increasingly popular. These allow you to raise the mattress so that you can sit up in bed to read or watch television, or to better support yourself in a specific position. These can be offered as single or double adjustable options, so that either the entire mattress lifts at the same angle, or you can choose two separate angles for those who share a bed with a partner.

Some bed manufacturers give suggestions on the type of mattress that works best with their products, and the same goes for some mattress manufacturers. Make sure that the bed and mattress are part of the conversation when purchasing either so that you can be sure that your bed and mattress are compatible.

One last thing…

One last thing to consider when it comes to finalizing your mattress or bed purchase to better your quality of sleep is your pillow. You can have the perfect mattress with a sturdy base to support it, but if your pillow is not up to snuff you’ll still find yourself suffering.

Here are a few things to remember when it comes to replacing your pillow:

  • A good pillow should support your head and shoulders in line with your spine. When you stand upright, your head is in line with your spine. It should be the same when you lay vertical or on your side. Keeping your posture correct while you sleep can help avoid neck and back aches.
  • Do you need more than one pillow? This depends on your body type and shape, as well as your sleeping position. If one pillow isn’t doing the job of holding your posture in the correct position, consider adding a second pillow, or opt for a thicker, more firm choice.
  • Pillows, like mattresses, have a lifespan. They should be replaced every two years, or if you start to notice a degradation in their quality or ability to support you. Replacing your pillows will help to ensure that you get good, restful sleep and that you wake up feeling refreshed.

If you’re still not sure how to go about making your decision, fear not! We’ve done some of the hard work for you and have compiled a list of some of the best mattresses, beds, and pillows with descriptions and where to go to purchase them.

Let’s start with our top picks for mattresses…

Pure Relief Memory Foam Mattress for Extra Support: This model provides excellent back support and helps keep your spine in line while you sleep. It has a hand quilted cover and two layers of foam for springless support. While the trial and warranty periods for this mattress aren’t very long, it makes for a comfortable, supportive and affordable option. Read what customers have said on Amazon!

  • Starlight Beds Luxury Double Memory Foam Mattress: Like the name suggests, this one has two layers of memory foam to conform to your body and support you in comfort. If you are an allergy sufferer, this one is for you due to its hypo-allergenic and anti-dust mite qualities. It would work best with a bed with a solid base, as a slated based will cause dips in the mattress due to the memory foam filling. This one makes for an excellent foam option and most customers are very happy with it. Read the latest reviews, on Amazon!
  • Vesgantti Multilayer Ergonomic Orthopedic Memory Foam Mattress: This one is a cross between memory foam and pocket springs. The pocket springs offer localized support, and memory foam provides comfort. The breathable material helps prevent odors from building up over time. The one downside to this mattress is that it cannot be flipped to prolong the lifespan, however, the warranty extends to ten years- longer than the average lifespan of a mattress which is seven. Click here for user reviews, on Amazon!
  • 9-Zone Orthopaedic Mattress and 3D Breathable Fabric Mattress with Memory Foam: This mattress has pocket springs for localized support in nine zones. The breathable fabric offers a comfortable night’s sleep with firm support from the dense memory foam filling. This one has some of the best reviews on the market and is our top choice. Check our more features, on Amazon!

That’s a great start on mattresses, but what about beds and mattress combos? 

  • Happy Beds Divan Bed Set Ortho Royale Orthopaedic Mattress: The hand-tufted mattress sits on a supportive divan base for solid support and excellent posture control. While there is no option to add a headboard with this model, it’s modern design is appealing and the comfort is something special. This bed and mattress set is a great bang for your buck, too, as it sits below market value for the level of quality that you get. Read the full product review here!
  • Grey Suede Memory Foam Divan Bed with Mattress: The mattress has memory springs, and the divan boasts drawers for storage making this one a comfortable, supportive and convenient choice. The divan splits into two halves making moving and positioning a breeze, especially if your home has a lot of narrow hallways and tight corners. No matter what size you’re looking for, you’ll be covered as this model is available in five different sizes. The memory foam is firm yet comfortable and keeps the movement from waking a sleep partner. If you’re looking for an affordable, sturdy bed for a great night’s sleep, look no further. Read the full review here!
  • Happy Beds Contour Divan Bedset with Spring Memory Foam Mattress: Enjoy medium tension with this memory foam mattress on rebound springs. Fitted with stretchable, breathable, jersey fabric, you’ll get a comfortable night’s rest while keeping cool and getting support where you need it most. Available in five sizes, this model comes with a headboard and has drawers below for extra storage. Though the price tag is a bit higher with this model, consumers who purchase it are not sorry for paying a little extra for the quality that they receive. Check out more features here!

Last but not least, let’s take a closer look at some of the available pillow options.

  • Homescapes White Duck Feather Pillow: Like feather pillows but hate when the feathers spill out all over? This one is for you! Filled with more, smaller whole feathers, they are less likely to come out of the casing. Not only does this help to keep your home cleaner, but it helps to lengthen the life of your pillow as it maintains its shape for longer. The side stitching does more than keep the feathers in, too- it also keeps dust mites out, making this a good choice for those with dust allergies. If you like a soft pillow that you’ll sink into, this is a perfect option. Purchase this model on Amazon!
  • Viceroy Fine WhiteGoose Feather and Down Pillow: It’s a good thing this pillow comes with its own reusable bag for transportation because you’re going to love it so much you’re going to want to take it everywhere. The bag is also great for convenient storage. This model is comprised of 85% goose feathers and 15% down feathers, making it as soft and luxurious as can be, while providing a medium level of support. You’re almost guaranteed to get a good night’s sleep with this pillow. Read what customers are saying, on Amazon!
  •  Panda Luxury Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow: With three levels of memory foam, encased in a soft bamboo case, this is the ultimate option for comfort and support. Its hypoallergenic and has cooling properties, meaning that you’ll get a good night’s sleep at the right temperature without sacrificing support. If you normally use two pillows, you may no longer need to with this one as it is firm even while it’s soft. Click here for customer reviews, on Amazon!
  • Aohayo Memory Foam Pillow Hypoallergenic Material Comfortable Pillow with Removable Soft Case: Soft to the touch, this memory foam pillow is hypoallergenic with a curved design to contour your neck and shoulders, offering comfort and support. The cover is machine washable making caring for this pillow as easy as falling asleep with it. Give this one a bit longer to get used to due to the shape, but once you’re used to it you’ll be happy to have it. Click here to read the full review!

You’re all set, now get that rest!

Now that you know what to look for, what’s available, and what matters most, you’re ready to pursue the best night’s sleep you’ve had in years. Knowing what to look for, knowing how to shop, and knowing the top rated options available is half the battle. Everyone needs different levels of support and comfort out of their mattresses, beds, and pillows, so keep in mind that you can’t rely too heavily on ratings- but the ones with high customer satisfaction are good to keep in your sights. These are the “people pleasers”, the models that work well for many different body types, and are good for those who aren’t quite sure that they know what they’re looking for.

Armed with the knowledge of what to look for, go out there and get the best night sleep you’ve ever had!