Take your time when selecting a mattress, since you’ll spend a third of your life on it over the next eight to 10 years. There are three main types to choose from:-
Innerspring construction (steel coils topped with layers of padding) is the most common. One good measure of how well it will support
your body is the number of coils it contains.
Foam mattresses come in latex (made of natural or synthetic rubber), polyurethane (which varies in density), and viscoelastic. Foam retains heat well, so if you get hot while sleeping, look for open-cell construction for maximum breathability.
How to care for It
Every few months, flip and rotate it for even wear, and vacuum the surface. Once a year, air it out by opening a window for a few hours.
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The Bedcovers
Not sure which material to choose? Cotton is breathable.
Fleece is plush (and often composed of polyester fibers made from recycled plastic bottles).
Wool is dense, warm, and a natural insulator. (Virgin wool, which has never before been processed into a textile, is especially supple.)
Down is warm. Opt for a lining that’s downproof, meaning it has a weave tight enough to prevent feathers from poking through.
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How to care for them
Wash duvet covers weekly, once a month if you use a top sheet. Launder down comforters twice a year, or every three to five years if covered.
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The Pillows
If you’re a back or side sleeper: Pick a dense foam pillow, which is more stable. It will keep your neck in a neutral position, maintaining its natural curve. Without that support, neck muscles can tense up, leading to headaches or even migraines.
If you tend to sleep on your stomach: Opt for a down pillow. Density isn’t as important here, since lying on your stomach requires less neck support. –www.realsimple.com
