When it comes to sleep, better support means better rest. We take an inside look at everything you need to know about finding your dream mattress. 

Waking up on the wrong side of the bed can do more than put you in a bad mood – it can lead to back pain, breathing problems, and quality of sleep. If you wake up with a sore neck and back more often than not, then it may be time to shop for a new mattress. 

Unlike many other purchases, it’s better to shop for a mattress in person. That’s because you need to test out mattresses before you buy one to make sure it is suited to your body type and preferences. That’s where the “comfort test” comes in. 

You’ve probably noticed an abundance of salespeople in mattress stores. These professionals are there to give you the personal attention you need, because purchasing a mattress requires a personal touch. The right mattress is different for everyone—what could be too firm for you could be too soft for someone else!  

Salespeople can help you conduct a comfort test to make sure you’re investing in the mattress of your dreams (ha!). 

What is a Comfort Test? 

While pressing down on mattresses with your hands seems like a quick way to gage how comfortable it is, this isn’t the best way to find one you’ll love. After all, how many of us sleep on our hands? Psst, the answer is no one! 

The best way to find a comfortable mattress is by taking a comfort test conducted by a mattress salesperson. 

A comfort test is when you lay down on a mattress in your usual sleeping position (don’t worry, we won’t judge) for at least 10-15 minutes. Before lying down on the mattress, remove clothing that can impact your comfort (think: oversized coats, clunky shoes). You’ll want to simulate your real sleeping position as much as possible to determine how it conforms to your body shape, supports your spine, and its overall feeling according to your personal preferences.  

Little known fact: Body weight distribution determines how much pressure you put on and mattress and where. When you lay down on a mattress, your body pushes down on multiple layers of material. For example, more weight on a soft, in-spring mattress, can sink quickly through the cushioned top layer to the coiling springs underneath (not so comfy)! Less weight on a firm mattress won’t sink into the top layers as much, meaning the spine won’t be as supported and you won’t have a comfortable rest. 

The goal is to find a mattress that conforms to your body shape, assuring proper alignment and support. Comfort tests can help you determine if you need a mattress that is ultra-firm or ultra-soft, or anywhere in-between.

So, Goldilocks, how do you know if the mattress is too soft, too firm, or just right? 

Stop by any AFW store to conduct your own comfort test and find the mattress that is perfect for you!