A properly selected orthopedic mattress for the bed is the key to not only high-quality, but also healthy sleep. Such a mattress will allow you to relax and fall asleep quickly, relieve the tension accumulated during the day in the joints and muscles.
An orthopedic mattress is one that supports the spine of a sleeping person in a physiologically correct position and maintains a beautiful posture. It means that sleeping on it strengthens health.
Main Types
All products are divided into two main groups: spring and springless. Let’s figure out what each category is and how the mattress is built from the inside.
Spring Mattresses
Classic spring mattresses appeared more than a century ago. The main type of mattress used to be the simplest – with a single system of springs on a wire frame. It did not have pronounced orthopedic properties – it was easily squeezed and did not cope well with non-standard loads: for example, over the years of use, a wave effect occurred on it. Such mattresses are still produced, but they are not orthopedic. A modern variation is considered to be a block of independent springs.
A mattress with an independent spring block is each mechanical element in a separate cover, due to which their independent operation is ensured.
Mattresses with an independent spring block. This is a modern type of spring mattresses. Here it is based on springs (each in an individual case) that work autonomously, independently of each other. Due to their design, models with an independent spring block provide correct weight distribution and point support for each part of the body. The level of rigidity in the products is regulated by the filling layers. Since the springs in such a block are very adaptive, there are no hammock and wave effects – this is important for couples, especially those with a significant difference in weight.
Springless Mattresses
Springless models do not have any metal elements inside. What are they made of in this case? Inside there are only fillers in the form of a monolithic slab or several layers of various materials. The orthopedic effect of such products is no worse than that of spring counterparts. At the same time, the level of hardness directly depends on the composition of the filler. The products are very practical and durable.
Springless Mattresses Have The Following Advantages:
- Optimal orthopedic indicators;
- Do not accumulate static electricity;
- Suitable for people with medium and low weight;
- Do not have the effect of a wave and hammock;
- Soft versions are supplied rolled.
- They are even used for newborns and children.
Features Of The Mattress: How The Orthopedic Effect Is Achieved
Let’s talk about the mattress, for example, of a spring mattress. What does the mattress look like from the inside? How is the orthopedic effect achieved?
Independent springs in the center of the model respond to the load and take the shape of the human body. Thanks to this structure, there are no points of tension when a person presses with all his weight on the points of contact between the body and the mattress. The more springs, the better orthopedic support the spine receives. In springless models, this function is performed by a mono block filler located in the center.
A layer of coconut coir on top of the springs evenly distributes the weight of the sleeper and gives the necessary rigidity. The mattress does not collapse under the weight of a person. The top layer with a relief surface has a slight massage effect (not available in all models).
As you can see, the orthopedic mattress bends under the natural curves of the spine and supports the back in the correct position. Elastic fillers do not bend under a light neck and shoulders, so the posture becomes straight.
Popular Fillers
The orthopedic properties of spring and springless mattresses largely depend on what materials are inside. The filler can be artificial and natural. So what does a mattress consist of? The composition usually includes:
Natural latex. High-quality high-strength material that can withstand significant loads. It is characterized by excellent elasticity and wear resistance. Despite the fact that it belongs to the premium category, it is also included in inexpensive mattresses in combination with other materials. This material has such versatile properties that orthopedic pillows are also made from it.
Natural latex is one of the most environmentally friendly and comfortable materials.
PU Foam (polyurethane foam). In other words, “artificial latex”, since it reproduces the structure and properties of a natural material. Hypoallergenic foam filler, which is usually used in mattresses with a medium to moderately soft level of firmness. It has excellent elasticity, increased elasticity. It is used in almost any mattress, regardless of their design.
In the case when you need a hypoallergenic mattress, you should take a closer look at mattresses with polyurethane foam.
Memory Foam. It is an artificial material, very elastic and pliable. Its main feature is the ability to “remember” and repeat the contours of the body. Mattresses with this filler are suitable for the elderly and pregnant women due to the soft top layer.
How To Use
- How to use a mattress to make it last longer? Does he need special care? There are a few rules:
- A mattress topper is a must. The sheet is not airtight, it allows moisture, sweat and grease to pass through, over time they accumulate in the mattress. It is most often impossible to clean it to a new state. The mattress topper worn on top is easy to remove, washable in a regular washing machine and dries quickly.
- Turn the mattress over periodically (if it is not one-sided, of course). When you sleep on one side, the fillers on the opposite side are restored. As a result, the entire product lasts longer.
- Choose the right bases. Which are considered the best? Lamel, they enhance the orthopedic properties of the mattress. But there are subtleties here as well. If your mattress has an increased number of springs, choose a base with narrow slats (and a small gap between them) so that there is support under each spring.
