Improving your overall well-being begins with good sleep. Not only does quality rest improve our performance, but also strengthens our immunity and relieves stress. Considering we spend a third of our lives in bed, a comfy mattress is a must. However, with so many mattresses around, it’s easy to miss the mark. So, how can you choose the perfect one? Why not start by checking out our buying guide for the best mattresses in Ireland? We'll show you how to choose a model that fits your requirements, preferences, and budget.
Experts suggest getting a new mattress every 8-10 years. If your current mattress is causing you back or joint pain, sags uncomfortably, or has simply seen better days, it's probably time for an upgrade. Do you feel that the shopping process might be too overwhelming? Fear not! We’re going to walk you through all the things to consider when you’re looking for the best mattresses in Ireland.
Mattress Sizes
The first step is selecting the right mattress size for your bedroom and sleeping habits. The standard mattress sizes available in Ireland are:
- Single (3’ x 6’3”) 90cm x 190cm;
- Small Double (3’11 x 6’2”) 120cm x 190cm;
- Double (4’6 x 6’3”) 135cm x 190cm;
- King (5’ x 6’6”) 150cm x 200cm;
- Super King (6’ x 6’6”) 180cm x 200cm.
Here, you should consider how much personal sleeping space you’d like to have and the dimensions of your bedroom. Couples usually prefer King or Super King, while singles and kids are okay with Singles and Small Doubles. Needless to say, before purchasing a new mattress, you need to measure your bedroom and existing bed frame to ensure it will fit the space.
Mattress Firmness
The next critical factor you need to take into consideration is mattress firmness Your comfort will depend on it. Softer mattresses provide more contouring and pressure relief, while firmer options offer enhanced support. Are you a side sleeper? Then you should take a closer look at softer mattresses. It is because they cradle hips and shoulders, thus reducing pressure points. Do you prefer to sleep on the back or stomach? In this case, firmer mattresses, which provide even spinal alignment, will be more beneficial.
Soft Mattresses
Best for side and light sleepers who tend to move in their sleep. They are also a great choice for those who want to sleep in the mattress as opposed to sleeping on the mattress.
- Good contouring paired with pressure relief;
- Reduce pressure on the shoulder and hip areas;
- Great for light sleepers who need that extra comfort to fall asleep.
Medium Soft Mattresses
They are a great option for most sleepers and a no-brainer for couples who both want different levels of comfort. We call them the compromise mattresses.
- Ideal for side sleepers;
- Pocket sprung versions provide good spine alignment;
- Not too soft, not too firm – a compromise solution for couples.
Firm Mattresses
Because they don’t sink in, firm mattresses are ideal for back and stomach sleepers. They are also a preferred choice for people who suffer from back pain.
- Keep the spine aligned;
- Prevent the pelvic area from dipping;
- Very supportive with no sagging at all;
- Comfortable for heavier sleepers.
Still not sure what mattress is best for you? It is a good idea to test out a mattress in person to determine your ideal comfort level. Lay on a mattress you’d like to purchase in your typical sleeping position for at least a few minutes to understand how it truly feels.
Mattress Types
Along with size and firmness, the mattress type plays a key role in sleep quality as well as joint and back pain relief. Here is an overview of the best mattresses in Ireland in terms of their construction:
Bonnell Spring Mattresses
Otherwise known as open coil mattresses, these are some of the cheapest options around. Inside, they have a single continuous coil responsible for support, as well as a padding layer for cushioning. Such a design comes with a number of drawbacks, namely increased motion transfer and noise. Most importantly, Bonnell spring mattresses tend to sag and lose support when used regularly. We recommend them only for spare rooms and rental accommodations.
- Increased motion disturbance;
- Can be noisy;
- Provide little to no support;
- Reduced durability since they tend to become saggy over time.
Pocket Sprung Mattresses
These models provide excellent motion isolation as each pocket sprung is individually encased to operate independently. This results in minimal partner disturbance.
- Individual pocket sprung units adjust to body shape and sleeping position;
- Reduced partner disturbance since weight is distributed across individual springs;
- Allow more consistent support and firmness across the mattress;
- Complete body support while you sleep.
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam conforms closely to the body to relieve pressure points. While using this type of mattress, it feels contouring rather than bouncy. Moreover, memory foam is great at absorbing motion. On the downside, they can lead to heat build-up. That being said, plant-based and gel-infused options feel cooler.
Pros:
- Excellent pressure relief and contouring;
- Great motion isolation;
- Work well for side sleepers;
- Available in a range of firmness levels;
- Less bouncy.
Hybrid Mattresses
Some of the best mattresses in Ireland have the best of both worlds. The Sleep Shop hybrid mattresses combine pocket-sprung support systems with latex or high-density foam to provide sleepers with great comfort and support. Such a design results in a number of benefits, namely, responsive support and pressure relief.
- Pocket sprung foundation provides great support;
- Foam layers contour to the body;
- Promote airflow;
- Excellent durability;
- All our mattresses have edge-to-edge support.
Latex Mattresses
Natural or synthetic latex feels springy and responsive. It contours to the body like memory foam but with added bounce. Apart from that, latex sleeps cool and is naturally antimicrobial. If you have allergies, natural latex is an excellent choice due to its hypoallergenic properties.
- Great support with a slight bounce;
- Naturally hypoallergenic;
- Prevent heat build-up;
- Good motion isolation;
- Dense and quite durable.
Orthopaedic Mattresses
Designed to promote spinal alignment and ease pain, orthopaedic mattresses are typically firm with targeted support zones. Thanks to their construction, they help relieve pressure points, which makes them suitable for back and stomach sleepers. All our orthopaedic mattresses have edge-to-edge support to ensure great support. In addition, they provide an increased sleeping area with no sagging around the edges.
- Designed to promote spinal alignment and correct posture;
- Can provide targeted support to the back, hips, and shoulders;
- Often made with firm materials offering stability and minimizing sagging;
- Helpful for people with back pain, arthritis, injuries, or other conditions;
- Provide increased support along the edges to make getting in and out easier;
How to Choose the Best Mattresses in Ireland
Now that you know more about the various types of mattresses, you can focus on the ones that really meet your needs. Still, there are a few more factors left that can affect your choice.
First and foremost, you should consider your body type. Lightweight people often prefer soft mattresses that allow more sinking in. At the same time, heavier individuals require the support of a firmer model to keep the spine aligned.
Additionally, your regular sleeping position plays a role. Do you prefer to sleep on the back? Then it is important that your spine remains straight. Hence, a medium-firm to firm mattress will help keep everything aligned. Are you a side sleeper instead? Then you can benefit from a softer surface providing pressure relief at the shoulders and hips.
Think about your personal preferences as well. Do you like sinking deeply into a mattress or floating lightly on top? Your answer will determine whether you’ll benefit from contouring memory foam or buoyant latex. Also, you need to decide if you prefer bounce or motion isolation.
Last but not least, any medical conditions should factor into your decision. If you suffer from back pain, you’ll do best on mattresses that cushion pressure points while supporting proper posture. For example, memory foam, latex, and orthopaedic options are excellent at easing aches and pains.
Where to Buy the Best Mattresses in Ireland
By keeping all these criteria in mind, you’re sure to find your perfect match. Investing in the optimal mattress tailored to your body and sleep preferences will result in higher-quality sleep and waking up recharged.
Are you looking for the best mattresses in Ireland but not sure where to start? Look no further than The Sleep Shop! We're your ultimate destination for all things sleep-related. Our extensive selection of mattresses ensures you'll find the ideal mattress for your peaceful slumber. Contact us today to start your journey to better health. Our knowledgeable staff is here to walk you through all the options to help you discover that perfect match. Your path to the perfect night's rest begins with The Sleep Shop.
