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S T E P S T O C H O O S I N G T H E R I G H T M A T T R E S S

when looking for the right mattress, focus on your spine. it should stay in alignment when you're lying down — You'll want to consider the position you sleep in, your body type, and personal preferences. other factors such as budget, durability, and personal sleep issues are important — Are you a hot sleeper? Do you have joint or back pain? Are you easily woken up by your partner? Keep in mind, Choosing a new mattress is individualized, an investment in your health, and affects your everyday life. Mountain Mattress is here to educate and guide each customer through the testing process, and we want you to feel confident and informed, to ensure you make a decision that will keep you sleeping great for years to come

We'll break down all of these topics and more to help you decide

M a t t r e s s S t y l e s

I n n e r s p r i n g
An innerspring coil mattress is the oldest mattress construction that uses a classic “Bonnell” coil construction. It has an hour-glass shaped design that's tied together with a steel helical coil. This construction helps to transfer your weight across the bed. Soft upholstery layers encase the coil system and provides insulation and cushion. This classic innerspring construction is the most cost effective way of producing a mattress and this technique provides a very “bouncy” feel with general support, instead of targeted support.

P o c k e t e d C o i l
A pocketed "encased" coil mattress is constructed of individually wrapped springs that aren't connected to one another. This system lets each coil move freely from one another, decreasing motion transfer and specifically targeting areas of the body for support. With this mattress style, weight is individually supported, allowing heavier body parts to sink down while lighter parts receive “push-back” to help support the negative spaces of the body, such as the lower back and lumbar areas.

M e m o r y F o a m
Memory foam is a high-density, polyurethane composed material that is known for its slow recovery time and sensitivity to both body weight and temperature. These properties give it a delayed resiliency and allows it to conform to the shape of your body. This conforming element helps to reduce pressure points, in softer on the body's circulatory systems, and can help align the neck and spine. Memory foam molds to your specific profile, and feels like a gentle hug. It is available in varying thicknesses and densities, as well as levels of firmness. Another advantage to memory foam is there's virtually no motion transfer, which helps you and your partner get a full night of sleep, virtually undisturbed.

L a t e x
Latex is a spongy, springy feeling foam, that has pressure relieving properties, much like a memory foam. The main comparison from memory foam is that it's a more responsive foam, that goes back to its original shape much faster. It doesn't have the same "doughy" feel that memory foam does. Latex is produced naturally and derived from rubber trees.

H y b r i d
Hybrid mattresses contain coils in the core of the unit, and is fully encased with memory foam or latex foam. It's essentially the best of both mattress styles, put into one. The coils help to give extra support, while the foam adds those beneficial body conforming properties. The coils in the center not only give you support, but also helps to keep the shape of the mattress over time. They also help to eliminate that "sinking" feeling of a memory foam mattress. For those of you that "toss and turn", this is a huge selling point. The coils help keep your body set higher on the mattress, which makes it easier to maneuver and not feel stuck in your own body impression.

Beyond mattress style, you'll need to think about other factors when choosing a mattress

Here are some important topics to consider

M a t t r e s s S i z e

Twin: 39" x 74" - TwinXL: 39" x 80" - Full: 54" x 74" - Queen: 60" x 80" - King: 76" x 80" - CalKing: 72" x 84"

Consider the size of the room - Measure the overall room width and length, the door and closet openings, access to windows and heaters, and the existing or newly intended furniture. Measure the wall where you plan to place the bed. Do you want two nightstands? Bring the dimensions with you in case you need assistance in figuring out the best configuration.

Consider mattress height - Keep in mind that mattress height, which may vary from 7″ to 14″ and more, will affect the total height of your bed. If you're putting your new mattress on an existing frame that you already have, bring those measurements with you, so we can consider where you'd like your mattress height to be. If the height of your mattress is an important factor, you need to ask yourself the following questions: How high is it from the floor to the top of your current mattress? Is the current height comfortable for you to get in and out of bed easily? How high from the floor are the slats that your current foundation or box spring rests on? A good rule of thumb - pay attention when you're standing next to your bed. The top of the mattress should hit the crease on the back of your knee or a little higher, depending on your personal preference.

B u d g e t

Money is a sensitive topic. You work hard to earn it, and you want to be sure that you invest it wisely. When it comes to choosing the right mattress, you need to consider its purpose. Is this a mattress for yourself, that will be slept on every night? Is this a mattress for a kiddo, that serves the purpose of getting them through a particular stage? Is this a mattress for a guest bedroom, that needs to be comfortable but also cost effective? In the mattress industry, the quality of the product is directly connected to the price, so it's important to consider the purpose and frequency of use for each mattress. At the end of the day, we're here to find you a good fit for your comfort and your wallet.

Some factors that determine the price of a mattress

Consider the construction and materials used. Mattresses can be a complex product. You can't see what's inside, but what it's made of affects the quality. The inside of each mattress contains a support system, which delivers alignment to your body and a great night’s sleep. Memory foam, latex, natural materials (cotton, wool), thicker/stronger coils, cooling technology – all of these factors add to cost of the mattress.

Consider practical add-ons. Do you need a foundation, bunky-board, metal frame, or adjustable base? These products aren't included in the price of the mattress. These add-ons will be added to the total price and depending on your preferences or price range, we can work with you to determine the best fit for you.

T e s t i n g M a t t r e s s e s 

We suggest you plan ahead and come in when you have enough time. Picking out the right mattress can be a process and can sometimes take up to an hour. Don't let that deter you - We're here to help you determine what your preferences are and direct you to the mattresses that fit your needs. The goal is to eliminate options for the sake of trying, and get you on the mattresses that are the best fit for you personally. This cuts down on time and body confusion, from jumping from bed to bed, trying every mattress in the showroom. But, if trying every mattress sounds appealing or you're not too sure what your preferences are, we're here to help guide you along the way. That's what we're here for!

A few things to consider before coming in to test mattresses

Wear comfortable clothes - You'll be getting on and off of multiple mattresses. We want you to be able to fully relax and able to lay in your typical sleeping positions comfortably. Wearing comfy clothing will help you mimic your desired sleeping environment.

Be ready to spend some time - Choosing a mattress can be a process. Depending on the purpose of your mattress, it may take anywhere from 30-60 minutes to discuss options and allow you enough time to make the best decision.

Bring your partner - If the mattress is for two, it's always better to go shopping together. To save time and ensure the best decision and compromise is made, it's best if you go through this process as a couple, especially if you and your partner don’t have the same sleeping preferences and requirements.

Guest Bedroom - If the mattress is for a guest bedroom, consider a mattress that will satisfy a wide range of body types, weights, and preferences. Typically a safe bet for a guest room is something that's in the medium/firm category.

Choosing for a kiddo - Children are not always equipped to make a suitable choice and typically don't have aches-and-pains at their age. Choosing a child's bed can easily be based off of their personal comfort level, price range, or child's weight.

S u p p o r t v s . F i r m n e s s

S u p p o r t

Support is the ability of a mattress to keep your body in good posture with correct alignment in any sleeping position: back, side, stomach. Support is typically found in the core of the mattress. It's the part of a mattress that gives push back in order to hold your spine in proper position while you sleep, helping reduce pain and/or stiffness when you wake up. When looking for the best possible support, it's important to consider the gauge and thickness of coil when considering a mattress constructed with springs. The thicker the coil, the better the support. When looking at foam mattresses consider the ratio of the top "comfort" layer compared to the "base" layer of foam. The top comfort layer is the layer that provides cushion and helps to conform to the body. The base layer is a dense, firm foam that offers support and stops you from continuing to sink further into the mattress. It doesn’t matter what mattress type you prefer. Overall, the supportive core of a mattress should control how far your body sinks down into the mattress, keeping your body aligned in any and every position you sleep.

F i r m n e s s

Firmness is a term used to describe the softness or hardness of the mattresses surface. Firmness is felt by the construction of the arrangement of the layers on top. There are multiple layers that the top of each mattress consists of, often described as "comfort layers". These are typically comprised of fibers like cotton, wool, foam, synthetic materials. It's important to also consider the way the mattress is tufted. Tufting describes the stitching that holds these top padded layers of the a mattress in place. A tight tuft with dense top layers will result in a firmer, less lofty feel

C o n s i d e r a n A d j u s t a b l e 
This base is powered by an outlet and controlled by remote. It has the ability to bend and elevate the head and feet into upright positions. The head can typically be raised 65 degrees, for reading, watching TV, eating, or working on a laptop. Raising the head above the heart and lungs is also known as “the healing position”, and can make deep breathing less labored, help with sinus conditions, acid reflux, sleep apnea, and snoring. It also reduces stress on the neck and shoulders due to the support of the human head, which weighs between 8 - 12 pounds. The feet can typically be raised to 45 degrees, perfect for increasing circulation, and relieving hip pressure. Features can include massage, memory presets, snore relief, lumbar support, and zero gravity positioning.

What is Zero Gravity ?
When positioning your adjustable to "ZG" or Zero Gravity, it gives you a feeling of weightlessness. This helps to create an absence of stress and strain resulting from externally applied forces. Adjustable bases can provide individual personalized zero gravity positions, which mimics the position astronauts resume during liftoff. The position raises the feet to the same level as the heart, providing medical benefits

Medical Benefits of an Adjustable

Raised leg position relieves pressure on the heart, helping it to pump properly and circulate blood
Asthma, snoring and breathing is less labored when the head and torso are slightly elevated. Sleeping in a straight position can cause the tongue to fall to the back of the throat, blocking airways
GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) can be reduced with an elevated head and torso position, preventing acid or food that is present in your stomach from bubbling up into the esophagus
Increased circulation carries blood to the brain which helps to relieve lower back pain
Reduces leg swelling and edema in diabetic and high blood pressure patients
Makes getting out of bed easier for the elderly, injured, or pregnant
Relieves sinus pressure and pain
Improves blood circulation
Relaxes sore muscles

I f Y o u S l e e p o n Y o u r S i d e

The recommended mattress for side sleepers ranges from soft – medium/soft – medium/firm. The top layers of the mattress should accept the impression of the shoulder and hip. In this position, the body is resting on shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle. The majority of your body weight is transferred to your shoulder and hip. You'll want a surface that will support your body weight, but conform to your shape.The mattress should allow the shoulder and the hip to sink down into the mattress, distributing the weight and leveling the body and spine. It's best to stay away from really firm options, as these can lead to discomfort and cramping in the shoulder and hip area.

What to Focus on

Pressure points – When lying on your side, body weight is transferred to you shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. These are pressure points that you should focus on while trying each mattress.

Shoulder – Your shoulder muscles are absorbing a lot of your body weight. If not properly supported, by being recessed into the mattress, the pressure on this muscle will decrease blood circulation. The slightest hindrance of circulation or a pinched nerve can cause the arm to go numb or tingling sensations in your fingertips. Laying on your side for 5 minutes is equal to 2 hours on your back.

Hips - The hips absorb majority of your body weight and over time can begin to ache, if not properly supported. Be sure that you spend a decent amount of time on each mattress when testing, to ensure this isn't going to be an issue. 15 - 20 minutes should give you an idea of how your body is going to react to pressure on the hips.

Spine alignment – The goal here is to have the spine aligned in a perfectly straight line, from neck to tail bone. Misalignment will result in neck and back pain. A curved spine is the result of a mattress that is too soft or too firm.

The mattress is right for you if . . .
1. All pressure points are comforted ( shoulders, hips, knees, ankles )
2. Your spine is straight and aligned

3. Your shoulder is comfortable. The perfect mattress should allow your shoulder to slightly sink into the mattress

I f Y o u S l e e p o n Y o u r S t o m a c h

The recommended mattress for stomach sleeping position ranges from medium/firm - extra firm. The heaviest part of the body is the abdomen and hip area, so decent support is needed in these regions to prevent a concave position. You don't want the hips lower than the head and feet. The last thing a stomach-sleeper wants is to feel bending in the back. A firmer mattress will provide the best support.

What to Focus on

Lower back – The center portion of the body is the heaviest, and in turn, requires the most support. The mattress you choose should be on the firmer side. If the hips sink too far down into the mattress, an inverse “hammock” effect is the result. The feet and shoulders should never be higher than the hips. This position will cause unwanted pressure on the lower back.

Neck – The neck should be in a neutral position, keeping the head straight and aligned with the entire body. It's important to have a low loft pillow when trying a mattress when in the stomach sleeping position so your neck isn't strained.

Pressure points – Your rib cage and knees are absorbing your body weight. Pay attention to these areas when testing mattresses.

The mattress is right for you if . . .
1. The Mattress supports your body weight and shape
2. Your body is aligned from head to toe. Imagine a straight line going through your body
3. There shouldn't be any pressure or discomfort in your lower back area
4. Your shoulders and feet should never be higher than your hips
5. All pressure points are comfortable

I f Y o u S l e e p o n Y o u r B a c k

The recommended mattress for back sleeping position ranges from medium - medium/firm - firm. You may choose any mattress that comfortably supports body weight and shape. The right mattress will support your neck and shoulders, the lumbar area, and behind the knees. The body should come in contact with the mattress from head to toe. Most back sleepers are happy with a mattress somewhere in the middle of the firmness spectrum. A mattress with support, but offers a little cushion to ensure the spine is kept in alignment. You'll find happiness with any of the mattress types, but you should think like "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" and try a variety of mattresses to see what feels best.

What to Focus on

Be sure that the hollow of your back (lumbar area) is properly filled in. When you slide your hand between your back and the mattress, it should feel reasonably snug.

The area between the shoulder blades and behind your knees should be filled in. It is a very long-winded way of saying, that every part of your body should be supported, and you should be comfortable.

The stomach should be flat, and the hips and torso should not sink down lower than the feet, which would indicate a mattress that's too soft. The perfect mattress should conform to each body type, resulting in symmetry between body and mattress.

The mattress is right for you if . . .

1. The Mattress supports your body weight and shape

2. Your Neck, shoulders, and lumbar are are supported

3. Your body is aligned and you're comfortable

I f Y o u L i k e a B e d W i t h B o u n c e

Traditional innerspring styles have that familiar bouncy feel. Most innerspring mattresses these days are made with individually "pocketed" coils, that are encased with fabric, and aren't connected to one another to help reduce the ripple effect that happens when your partner moves.

I f Y o u r P a r t n e r T o s s e s a n d T u r n s

Motion transfer is important to consider if you're a light sleeper. We suggest trying a hybrid or memory foam mattress. Innerspring mattresses have the highest mode of motion transfer because of the bouncy nature of the springs. Hybrid mattresses have slightly less motion transfer, due to the memory foam encasing the coils, helping to absorb that motion. Memory foam mattresses have the least motion transfer, with foam being a material that easily absorbs the ripple effect of any movement.

I f P a r t n e r P r e f e r e n c e s D o n ' t M a t c h

There are options if you and your partner can't seem to get on the same page. We are able to do a split set up, that combines two Twin-XL mattresses to make a full King size bed. This allows you and your partner to shop separately and find the perfect fit for each of you, avoiding the dreaded compromise where no one seems to win. If you go the split mattress route, we sell Split Sheet Sets that have two Twin-xl fitted sheets and one King sized flat sheet. This ensures you don't have to go through the trouble of buying multiple sheet sets to accommodate your customized set up. We also suggest you take a look at hybrid mattresses. This style combines a classic innerspring core that is fully encased in memory foam. It's the "best-of-both-worlds" option that can often satisfy the needs of both parties.

I f Y o u S l e e p H o t

Sleeping hot is one of the biggest complaints in the industry. Luckily, manufacturers have come a long way with cooling materials and technology. Gone are the days of sweating through your sheets and waking up in a puddle. You can find cooling technology in a lot of mattresses and accessories to help alleviate these issues. If the mattress you choose isn't cutting it, we suggest a mattress protector with cooling materials, or a cooling pillow. We hold 80% of our body heat in our head and feet. A pillow with cooling technology can significantly help combat heat issues and help you sleep better.

Check this pillow out: CarbonCool® + OmniPhase® LT Pillow

I f Y o u H a v e A l l e r g i e s

Mattress protectors are a must. A Mattress protector is the simplest, fastest, and most effective way to protect and help you with your allergies. A mattress protector can prevent 99.95% of all the allergens from dust mites, animal dander, and pollen. We promise that once you cover your bedding you will get a great night's sleep. It's also smart to get a pillow protector. Allergens can get trapped in your mattress and pillow, getting agitated and recirculated into the air every time you lay down or move.

I f Y o u H a v e B a c k P a i n

In general, memory foam and latex mattresses are often considered the best options for back pain, as they conform to your body, cradling pressure points while supporting your spine and keeping it aligned. Foams are able to easily mold to your body, offering proper support in areas some traditional mattress material can't. If you prefer an innerspring mattress, opt for something with strong coils that will give optimum support.

C o n c e r n s A b o u t C h e m i c a l s

All of our foam products are certified by CertiPUR-US®. There are no harmful chemicals or off-gassing. You can feel confident about your purchase, especially for your little ones, when shopping with us. Your mattress may have that "new car smell" for a couple weeks, but that will dissipate over time. When you buy products containing certified foam, you can rest assured knowing that the polyurethane foam inside meets CertiPUR-US® standards for content, emissions, and durability, and has been analyzed by independent, accredited testing laboratories. Learn more here: CertiPUR-US®

I f Y o u J u s t C a n ' t D e c i d e

Try, try, and try again! Once you narrow it down to your top 2 - 3 mattresses, we suggest you spend at least 15 - 20 minutes on each one. Bouncing from mattress to mattress can lead to body confusion, and the mattresses can tend to all feel the same after a while. If you can, relax, take your time, and if you're so inclined - take a nap! If you're still stumped, it might be worth coming back another day, and starting fresh. Don't get discouraged. It's an important investment and can be a process. You want to be sure to choose the mattress that's just right for you. Sometimes it can take time.

W h e n t o R e p l a c e Y o u r M a t t r e s s

These days, mattresses last about 8 - 12 years, depending on wear-and-tear and varying factors. However, you should decide when it's time to replace your mattress based on obvious warning signs. Are you waking up sore or with back pain? Is your mattress feeling lumpy? Do you sleep better on other mattresses, like the hotel you recently visited? These are all signs that it’s time to start researching options and start testing some mattresses.

E x t e n d t h e L i f e o f Y o u r M a t t r e s s

We always suggest using a mattress protector, which keeps sweat, dander, dust, allergens, and spills out of the materials. Think of your mattress as a giant sponge - once something gets in, you're hard pressed to get it out. Also, remember to rotate your new mattress often (from head to foot) to ensure the top layers are compacting as evenly as possible. Materials are going to naturally compact over time.

We hope we've helped with answering some common questions and concerns

if you're wanting more information or guidance, just give us a call or stop by

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YOUR SLEEP SHOP