How many types of mattresses are there? There are generally seven types of mattresses in Singapore. Most commonly, the “type” of mattress is defined by the filling that makes up the mattress.
The right mattress should provide ample support for your back and respond to each section of the curvature of the spine.
7 Common Types of Mattresses
You’ll want to ensure natural spinal alignment while you sleep. Check out if the type of mattress you’re getting contains specific support zones to provide support for your back and to contour your shoulders.
Here, the seven most common types of mattresses you will find in Singapore and who they are most suitable for.
Mattress Type | Mattress Brand | Suitable for… |
Memory Foam | Tempur | Even weight distribution, back pain |
Latex Foam | Sleepyhead | Hypoallergenic, allergies |
Pocket Spring | King Koil | Durable, eliminates movement, light sleepers |
Waterbed | Aquaflex | Allergies |
Air Bed | Intex | Adjustable firmness, temporary bed |
Hybrid | Sleep Country | Allergies, durable support, back pain |
Pillowtop | Serta | Soft, hotel-like |
After you’ve decided, also read about:
Memory Foam
A memory foam mattress is made of polyurethane foam that conforms to the sleeper’s body, providing support and pressure relief. This type of mattress is often recommended for those with back pain as it distributes weight evenly and eliminates any pressure points.
In addition, a memory foam mattress can help regulate temperature as it absorbs heat and keeps the sleeper cool.
An example of memory foam mattress would be Tempur’s Original 21.
Latex Foam Mattress
A latex foam mattress uses natural or synthetic rubber as its main material, making it hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. They are ideal for those with allergies because they have good air circulation that prevents the growth of bacteria.
Latex foam mattresses are also bouncy and durable, making them a good choice for children and those who like to sleep on their stomachs.
An example of a latex foam mattress brand is Sleepyhead.
Pocket Coil Spring
A pocket coil innerspring mattress is made of metal coils that are individually wrapped in fabric. This type of mattress is known for its durability and provides good support, and eliminates movement from travelling across the mattress – making such mattresses great for light sleeper couples.
However, it can be quite firm and is not recommended for those who sleep on their side or back.
An example of a pocket coil innerspring mattress brand is King Koil.
Waterbed Mattress
A waterbed mattress uses a tank filled with water to provide support. These latex beds are often made of cotton or wool, making them resistant to dust mites and bacteria.
Since there is no metal in the bed’s structure, it makes moving around easier for those who find spring mattresses too rigid. However, waterbeds can be difficult to maintain.
An example of a waterbed mattress brand is AquaFlex.
Air Bed Mattress
Air mattresses use air chambers to provide support and keep the sleeper comfortable. The number of chambers determines the level of firmness, which can be adjusted depending on each person’s preference. This type of mattress is often used as a temporary bed or for guests.
They are lightweight and easy to store, making them a good choice for those who live in small spaces. However, they offer little support and can be uncomfortable for long-term use.
An example of an air mattress brand is Intex.
Hybrid Mattress
A hybrid mattress is a mix of two or more types of mattresses. They are often made of memory foam and latex foam, which makes them resistant to dust mites and bacteria.
They offer good support and are durable, making them a good choice for those who have back pain. However, they can be expensive compared to other types of mattresses.
An example of a hybrid mattress brand is Sleep Country.
Pillow Top Mattress
Unlike other types of mattresses, a pillow top mattress has an additional layer of padding on the surface. This feature makes it soft and comfortable to sleep on.
However, they tend to be heavy and difficult to move due to their bulky structure. Pillow top beds also require extra care as sagging can occur over time.
An example of a pillow top mattress brand is Serta.
How to prolong mattress lifespan?
Cover it
Allowing your mattress to get drenched in sweat can cause stains and promote mould and mildew growth – an especially gross thought, given that the average person spends one-third of his or her day in bed.
Invest in a mattress pad, cover or protector that’s machine washable to make it easier to clean regularly. If allergies are a problem for you, go with an encasing designed to eliminate pesky dust mites.
Rotate it
Rotating your mattress every few months allows it to wear evenly and last longer. It’s especially important for a brand new mattress, as this prevents it from developing lumps and bumps; new mattresses might even need to be rotated every two weeks – check with your consultant. Use the straps along the sides (which comes with most mattresses) to help you position it.
Check the frame
Homeowners tend to neglect the bedframe. In the same way that a house is only as strong as its foundation, your mattress – and your sleep – can be affected by it. Check the frame, legs, joints and castors every six months to see if anything needs tightening and cleaning.
Mattress Warranty, 30-day trial
When shopping for a mattress, be sure to check the store’s return policy. Many retailers offer a trial period of around 30 days, during which you can test out the bed and decide if it’s right for you.
If not, most stores will allow you to return or exchange the mattress for a different model.
A warranty is your guarantee of an item’s quality. Warranties are provided by the manufacturers to protect consumers from any defects or malfunctions during a specific period. Depending on the brand, warranties for mattresses vary; some extend beyond two years.
Part of this article first appeared on Singsaver.