Bed expert's 10-minute rule you need to follow when picking a new mattress

Finding the perfect mattress, duvet, and pillows, is easier said than done, which is why a salesman has issued a step-by-step guide including his handy 10-minute rule.

With over 20 years of experience under his belt, Strictly Beds & Bunks’ Andrew Buchan knows that the first step is understanding what kind of sleeper you are. While most people understand the difference between back, front, and side sleepers, other factors worth noting include weight, sleep temperature, and bodily pains.

Step one: Choosing a mattress

Choosing the right mattress can be a daunting task, largely because of the heavy price tag that comes attached to most mattresses. But if you’re going to be bed rotting in it, you’re going to want the best possible quality you can find.

“It’s Not Either/Or – A mattress should provide both comfort and support. Support keeps your spine aligned while you sleep, and comfort helps you to relax and enjoy your sleep,” Andrew told us.

When it comes to materials, there are a few things to keep in mind. For instance, foam is great a relieving pressure but can trap heat, leading to sweaty and restless nights during the summer. That also means you need to wash your bedding more, and we all know how controversial that topic is.

How you sleep will also factor in, as side sleepers will typically get on better with a softer mattress for shoulder and hip comfort. Meanwhile, back sleepers will do better with a medium-firm mattress, while stomach sleepers require a firm mattress.

“You should always try out a mattress if at all possible before making your choice. The best way to do that is to lie on it in your usual sleep position for at least 10 minutes,” he added. “This gives you a clear indication of whether it’s comfortable for you.”

Step two: Picking your pillow

Now you’ve shelled big bucks on a mattress, it’s time to turn our attention to your pillows. One thing to consider is the loft of the pillow as side sleepers usually prefer a higher loft, back sleepers a medium loft, and stomach sleepers prefer a lower loft to avoid strain.

The material of your pillow is largely down to personal preferences, though it’s worth noting that each comes with its own set of positives and negatives. Down is a great choice for a luxurious feeling, it is not very supportive and can trigger allergic reactions.

For the perfect head hold, you’re going to want memory foam, though this can become incredibly hot during the warmer months. On either end of the scale, you have polyester with its cheap price and latex with its considerable price tag.

Andrew explained: “Take your favorite pillow with you when trying a mattress, so you get a clear sense of how they work together.”

Step Three: Buying the right duvet

The last, and arguably the most important step, is finding a duvet that is warm, comforting, and breathable. To better understand this, take a look at the “Tog” rating, which is how warm it’s going to make you feel.

Tog per season:

Ultimately, Andrew concluded: “Try not to be led by price alone. A cheap product will probably be short-lived, and a mattress, duvet, or pillow with a very high price tag could leave you disappointed. Go mid-range and be prepared to test out products before you find the perfect fit for your sleep.”