Tips for Selecting, Buying and Maintaining Furniture: A Blog

« Back to Home

5 Key Considerations for Overweight People Buying Mattresses

Posted on

There are many different things that need to be considered when you're buying a new mattress, but anyone who is significantly overweight will need to be extra careful if they are to find an option that offers proper support.

Here are 5 important factors that you'll need to take into account.

1. Thickness

Probably the most important thing that heavier people need to think about is thickness. As a heavier sleeper, you're going to be compacting the mattress far more than the average sleeper. If you choose a thinner mattress, you might find that it compresses down so much that proper support isn't offered. Deep compression support is vital, so look for a mattress that is around 12-inches thick.

2. Firmness

The heavier your body, the deeper you're going to sink into the mattress. As you sink further into the mattress, your body is going to be put under more stress. For example, the spine can be pushed out of alignment when you're sleeping on your back due to the increased pressure. At the same time, you don't want a mattress that isn't firm enough to offer proper support against your frame. Try looking for a mattress of medium firmness; these will also hold up better over time than softer options.

3. Edge Support

One thing that people often forget to take into account when they're looking at mattresses is the degree of edge support provided. People frequently sit on the edges of their beds at different times during the day. If you're on the heavier side, the weight against the side of the mattress could cause sagging, so look for options with strong, stable edges. You can usually ask a salesperson for help with this.

4. Heat

If your body is larger, it will generate more heat. This is why many heavier sleepers tend to complain that they sleep hot. Nobody likes waking up at night feeling uncomfortably warm, so pick a mattress that will keep you nice and cool. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses work well in this regard; if you're looking at memory foam mattresses, make sure you find one that boasts an open cell structure or a cooling layer.

5. Structure

In general, coil spring mattresses should be avoided. These are usually the cheapest option, but they don't distribute weight very well. This can mean that heavier sleepers don't receive the right amount of support. Instead, try a memory foam mattress. They distribute weight evenly, relieving any pressure points and providing flawless support. Latex mattresses are also good, though not quite as supportive as memory foam.


Share