Mattresses provide cushioning and support for the body to promote restful sleep night after night. You might wonder when you should replace yours and what to keep in mind as you search for a new one. Since buying a mattress is a long-term investment, you'll want to feel confident about your decision, so consider the following as you contemplate making a switch. 

Do:

Factor in the age of your current model. 

Mattresses have a life span of about six to eight years. As they age, they typically begin to sag due to the repetitive weight of the body against the material. 

Sagging can cause you to sink too deeply into the surface, which may throw the spine out of alignment and lead to neck or back pain. A new product made from supportive materials, such as memory foam or a coil-foam hybrid, can properly align the body to prevent aches and discomfort.

Try out products in a furniture store. 

It's difficult to get an accurate sense of a mattress without trying it out in person. When you visit a furniture store, ask if you may lie down on their products to assess comfort and support. 

Try out different styles, such as innerspring and memory foam, to gauge which suits you better. Stay on each mattress for several minutes, giving the material time to adjust to your body. 

Don't: 

Assume firmer is better. 

The firmness level you need depends on your sleeping style. If you sleep on your side, a medium-soft to medium-firm product should sink just enough to comfortably contour to your body while relieving pressure on the shoulders and hips. Stomach and back sleepers typically require a medium-firm to firm product that prevents the torso from sinking deeper than the lower back and upper body, which can prevent back and neck pain. 

Forget to buy a topper. 

Made from latex, memory foam, or polyester, a topper fits around the entire mattress to provide additional cushioning and support. It also acts as a waterproof barrier that protects the material from spills and stains. A topper can boost comfort and prolong your bed's life span. 

When you need a new mattress that provides optimal support and comfort, head to WRC Furniture Gallery. This furniture store provides bedroom furniture, living room sets, accessories, and more to customers throughout Dothan, AL. Call (334) 699-7467 to ask about memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid products in stock, and visit the website to browse their inventory of high-quality discount furniture.