How to pick the optimal mattress for side sleepers
Personal preferences are very important when selecting a new mattress. The way we sleep is a relevant factor that should orientate the search for the perfect mattress. Along this article we are going to focus on the needs of side sleepers, and explore which are the most appropriate options for this particular sleeping style.
Soft options
In general, the best mattress for side sleepers is a soft to medium alternative. This is because when the user lays on its side, it needs to have pressure relief at the shoulders and hips. The cushioned surface provides the comfort and the contour to promote a proper spinal alignment. This can reduce the stress on the shoulder and hips, and alleviate the pain.
Medium mattress
For side sleepers that also enjoy or need an extra bit of support, medium firm options could be an optimal choice. A medium mattress has an extra level of firmness that offers a more responsive surface. It's beneficial to experiment with both alternatives to discern which one best meets your needs. Medium mattresses are usually recommended for couples, as its steadier structure will prevent premature wear due to the extra weight.
Other options
For couples who don't share the same sleeping styles, a medium firm mattress will provide the proper support from most of the sleeping positions. This is because a medium level of firmness has the ability of having a bit of both, enabling a proper spinal alignment across all positions.
Which types of mattresses are most suitable for side sleepers?
One of the most recommended options for side sleepers, is the memory foam mattress, this is because it has one of the most pressure relieving features of the market. Memory foams will mold and contour the body. This will allow the user to relax in its preferred position avoiding stress on the shoulders and hips.
The memory foam option may not be the best for hot sleepers, its components make it prone to retain heat. Although new technologies provide a solution to bypass this issue, the gel foam models have cooling qualities that can favor heat dissipation.
What side sleepers should avoid
As we mentioned at the beginning, the sleeping style is very relevant when selecting a new mattress, hence there are options that are not recommendable for specific positions. In the case of side sleepers. Individuals with this sleeping preference should avoid most of the spring mattress options. These models usually come in a range that goes from medium to extra firm.
The innerspring options provide a more responsive surface, which will not contour the body and it would stress the hips and shoulders when sleeping on the side. Side sleepers need an appropriate spinal alignment that can only be achieved if the mattress contours the body and allows it to sink in.
In conclusion, side sleepers will benefit more from a soft mattress, the particular sleeping position requires specific type of support that can only be achieved in softer surfaces. Memory foam is one of the most recommended types of mattress for side sleepers, these mattresses also come in a different range of firmness, but in general they provide a more adaptive surface than the innerspring models.
