Which is the best mattress? A comparison for Switzerland
Looking for a mattress that suits your needs? Comparis compares different models and explains what to look out for when buying a mattress.
20.08.2024
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1. How much does a good mattress cost?
Healthy sleep is affordable. You can get a mid-range mattress for a few hundred francs. Prices vary depending on the material, brand and size.
Bargain mattresses sometimes cost less than a hundred francs. In terms of comfort, quality and durability, however, they usually can’t compete with mattresses in the medium and higher price segment.
Luxury mattresses can easily cost several thousand francs. High-priced mattresses often have exceptional features, materials and technology.
2. What are the different types of mattress?
Should you choose a cold foam, memory foam, spring core or latex mattress? Here you can see the pros and cons of popular mattress types.
| Mattress type | Pros | Cons |
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Cold foam mattress |
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Memory foam mattress |
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Spring core mattress |
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Latex mattress |
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Box spring bed |
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Why choosing the right mattress is so important
We spend a third of our lives in bed. During sleep, the body regenerates. A high level of comfort when sleeping is important – so is the choice of mattress and slatted frame.
Cold foam mattresses are extremely popular. These mattresses contain layered polyurethane cold foam materials. The special sandwich principle results in high point elasticity. Plus, the body is optimally supported.
In most cases, there are air chambers and ventilation ducts for the dissipation of moisture. At the same time, the material and layering ensure lasting heat retention.
The material behaves like a spring system: if you change position while sleeping, the mattress returns to its original shape right away.
Pay attention to the density of the foam when shopping for mattresses. The higher the density, the higher the quality and durability of the mattress.
Memory foam is a special material that was developed by Nasa research. The material produces a memory effect for high pressure relief and soft lying comfort. Only the uppermost layer is made of memory foam – the lower layers are made of cold foam elements.
Spring core mattresses are made of metal springs. Manufacturers distinguish between two types: Bonnell spring mattresses and pocket spring mattresses.
In pocket spring mattresses, fabric pockets cover the springs. This system only yields at certain points and offers strong support. This makes the mattress feel stable – and your spine is well supported.
In the case of Bonnell spring mattresses, all the springs are connected to each other. The surface of the mattress feels elastic and soft. Body weight is distributed over a large area, which results in a slight sinking feeling.
What’s better: a Bonnell spring mattress or a pocket spring mattress?
Which spring model you prefer is a matter of personal preference. In general, pocket spring mattresses offer better support. Both models have a good climate balance. Heat and moisture are well regulated. This is why spring core mattresses are especially suitable for people who sweat more at night.
Latex mattresses are produced in a chemical process called vulcanization. This makes the latex resistant. These mattresses are based on natural and synthetic rubbers. The higher the proportion of natural latex, the higher the quality.
These mattresses offer good body support thanks to their balanced point and surface elasticity. When you move, the mattress quickly regains its original shape.
Latex mattresses usually cost a bit more than spring or cold foam mattresses. They are also very heavy, weighing up to 25kg.
Box spring beds are a popular type of bed with a spring base frame instead of a slatted frame. The mattress usually combines a spring core and foam elements. This layering allows uniform pressure distribution when you lie on it. This creates the pleasant feeling of floating.
A high-quality box spring bed costs around 1,500–3,500 francs, depending on the size and features.
Box spring beds offer a comfortable height for getting into bed, good air circulation and, when combined with a suitable mattress topper, high heat retention. They are suitable for people who prefer sleeping relatively warm.
3. How firm should my mattress be?
Soft, normal or firm? It’s important that your body is optimally supported with every movement. Your body weight and height play a central role when choosing a mattress. People who weigh more tend to need a firmer mattress.
If your torso sinks into the mattress, your spine will adopt a curved position. This can lead to back pain and sleep disorders. If your torso is higher than your head and legs, the mattress is too firm.
In addition to height and weight, you should think about your sleeping position. People who sleep on their side usually prefer softer mattresses. For those who sleep on their front or back, firmer mattresses tend to be more suitable.
Good to know: information about the firmness of a mattress is not subject to any standards. Each manufacturer has its own definition. Only by testing mattresses can you determine which degree of firmness is right for you. Lie on the mattress with your whole body and get into different sleeping positions. Testing the mattress with your hand won’t give you a good enough impression.
4. Choosing the right mattress for double beds
In the case of double beds, one person may need a different mattress to the other – for example, due to different body weights. In this situation, it might be better to buy two single mattresses. Depending on the size of the bed, a mattress width of 80 or 90cm may be suitable. Make sure that both mattresses are the same height. You can bridge the gap between the mattresses with what is known as a bed bridge.
5. Do I need a slatted frame?
A comfortable bed needs more than just a good mattress. A slatted frame is necessary – except in the case of box spring beds. Slatted frames have two key tasks: supporting the mattress and ensuring adequate ventilation.
Slatted frames with additional features
A flexible slatted frame offers special features. It helps to provide ideal support for individual parts of the body and balances out movements. With the help of slat sliders, up to seven individual zones can be set firmer or softer. A flexible frame makes sense for thin foam and latex mattresses.
An adjustable slatted frame offers additional comfort – either manually or electrically at the touch of a button. This allows you to adjust the head and feet zones exactly to your needs.
What is a plate frame?
Some frames have movable square modules instead of slats. These “plates” are made of plastic and are available in different degrees of firmness.
The modules yield elastically and are flexible in all directions. This means the frame optimally adjusts to your body. Module frames are also available in a combination of slats and plates.
6. Summary: which mattress should I buy?
There is unfortunately no universally applicable answer to this question. Everyone’s body is different and needs vary significantly.
A specialist can advise you on the choice of material, firmness, heat retention and climate regulation of the mattress. It’s also worth trying out the mattress in store. Depending on the retailer, you may be allowed to test the mattress and slatted frame for some time and, if necessary, exchange them within a certain period.
This article was first published on 05.02.2014
