Martin Gemmola
Turning in for the night is one of life’s great pleasures, but a quality eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is merely a dream for most people. So what can you do to help yourself nod off?
The first step is choosing a mattress, arguably the most crucial step. You should buy the best mattress, and the largest mattress you can fit in your bedroom, says Rachel Beard, Sleep Wellness Manager at A. H. Beard. Buying the mattress is also the biggest investment, so you really need to do your research. We’ve made a start for you and have honed in on all the latest advice, innovations and inspiration to consider before you buy.
Choosing the best mattress for your sleep needs
Understanding your needs should be your prime consideration. If you have a bad back or suffer other aches and pains, you need to make sure you’re supported in all the right places, and make sure the comfort layers will relieve pressure.
“You could look for natural Talalay latex, as this has excellent pressure-relieving qualities, it’s supportive and derived from nature, so it is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic,” suggests Rachel. If you run hot at night, choose materials that will draw heat and moisture away from the body.
Tips for selecting the best mattress
- Take health issues into account
Do you have health issues? If you suffer from things like sleep apnea, get professional medical advice beforehand as to what mattress type (e.g. firmness) would be best for you. - You get what you pay for
Quality comes first. Purchasing a high-quality mattress may cost a pretty penny, but it’s an investment that is worthwhile. - Seek advice from a specialist
An outlet that specialises in mattresses is more likely to have specially trained staff than one where it’s only part of the business. - Count the springs
If it’s a spring mattress, investigate how many springs there are (the more, the better). Just make sure the comfort layers suit your needs. - Try before you buy
With all the different types of mattresses available, don’t be afraid to shop around in the form of free trials. If you’ve only slept on one type previously, you may find another type now suits you more. See if the brand offers a trial period for a new purchase.
What are the best quality mattresses to buy for 2023?
01
Emma Comfort II mattress, Emma Sleep
from $544 (usually $680)
If you’re familiar with Emma Sleep’s range of mattresses, you’ll know that the original Comfort mattress is praised for its incredible support, comfort (as the name suggests), and quality. Now, the brand has upgraded its best-seller with a second rendition with better airflow and comfort thanks to its edge-to-edge pocket springs. The Infinity pocket springs increase the size for maximum airflow, so reaching the ideal body temperature for a restful night’s sleep is easy. Combine that with breathable foam layers, and you’ll have yourself a humid-free sleep all year round, but especially in summer.
02
The Koala Plus mattress, Koala
from $1000
Koala’s most advanced mattress yet has arrived. The Plus mattress is made for the sweltering Aussie summer ahead. Boasting an array of cooling properties, such as the brand’s innovative CoolThread technology that provides improved ventilation, breathable cooling Kloudcell for advanced airflow, and a zip-off seasonal topper that can be flipped as often as the weather changes. Plus, if you’re planning to share a bed with a partner, its Zero Disturbance technology is built to isolate motion so you achieve uninterrupted sleep.
03
Celestial mattress, Freedom
from $3079
Designed and made in Australia and named to evoke the feeling of sleeping in heaven, the Celestial has a luxurious Tencel fabric cover, Warwick fabric sides and matching base and comes with a 10-year warranty. A full-foam edge and gel-infused memory foam topper provide extra comfort and support in three ‘feels’: firm, medium and plush, while the design – including vegan leather piping and handles – was inspired by architectural structures in our cities.
04
A.H. Beard Domino Sapporo plush mattress, Appliances Online
from $529 (usually $818)
Australian-owned mattress manufacturer A.H. Beard has been around for 120 years, so they know how to put together a good mattress. One of its highest-rated mattresses is the Domino Sapporo plush, which has been described by purchasers as “so comfortable”. The plush quilting design allows air to flow through the mattress, keeping you cool as you sleep.
05
Comfort Sleep Emporio Alto mattress, BedWorks
from $2024 (usually $2699)
Are you looking for a firm, Australian-made mattress that prevents partner disturbance? Consider your search over. The Comfort Sleep Emporio Alto mattress from BedWorks features a gel-infused memory foam layer that contours the mattress to your body, keeping you nice and cool all night long. Available for next-day delivery in the Sydney Metro area and comes with a 10-year warranty.
06
Cirrus mattress, Freedom
from $579
The Cirrus mattress is an affordable Australian-made mattress featuring a three-zone spring system and a layer of premium high-density foam that contours to your body. The edge of this mattress is also reinforced, so there’s more surface area to stretch out on, too.
07
Duo mattress, WowBeds
from $498 (usually $995)
WowBeds’ Duo Mattress is a boxed mattress with a difference. It comes with not just one but two layers of twice-tempered steel springs for the ultimate support and comfort. All mattresses come with a complimentary hybrid pillow made with luxury foam and responsive micro springs.
08
SD MACH II, Sleeping Duck
from $999
Sleeping Duck’s award-winning mattress is more comfortable than ever, with layers designed to help you sleep well. Each spring acts independently, tailoring the mattress to support specific parts of your body. The bamboo cover is soft and silky and is even removable and machine washable for easy maintenance.
09
Pure mattress, Ecosa
from $1360 (usually $1700)
Ecosa’s Pure mattress is 100 per cent carbon neutral. Made from three layers of latex foam combined with micro coils, pocket springs and recycled felt, this mattress will evenly distribute your weight across the surface, making you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.
How often should you replace your mattress?
How often should you replace your mattress? It’s a common question many ask. It’s recommended you change your mattress every seven to 10 years, according to Rachel Beard of A.H. Beard.
“Sometimes we can feel it in our body first before we can see the physical signs of having to replace a mattress,” says Rachel. “If you’re constantly waking up with aches and pains, your mattress may not be delivering the correct level of comfort and support. Or, if you’re constantly hot throughout the night.” Also, if there are significant body indentations, spills or stains, it’s probably time for a replacement.
New innovations in mattresses
A new mattress will give you the benefit of new technology, designed to give you a much better night’s sleep. “A new innovation has been the introduction of a second layer of pocket springs. This additional layer adds to the back support, improves airflow and assists in reducing partner disturbance,” says Wowbeds founder and sleep expert Gary Ginsberg, adding: “Mattresses are now using a variety of features working in parallel to reduce heat, ranging from ventilated sides to materials like cool gel memory foam.”
How to make a mattress last longer
A mattress is a big investment so you need to look after it. “A mattress protector is always the best way to keep your mattress clean, both from normal use as well as the odd drink spill,” says Gary.
“Rotate your mattress from head to toe every three to four months to ensure you get even wear.”
Rachel agrees: “Certain mattress protectors can also help with temperature regulation. Also, ensure you use a supportive base. This helps provide the best possible support for the mattress and will help prolong its life.”
