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Mattress Buying Guide

a publication of Handcrafting high quality, all-natural fabric , the one at a time, since 1929. COMPANY TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION

You will spend one-third of your life in . So it’s important to choose your mattress wisely. Most of us don’t put enough Introduction 3 thought into choosing the right mattress, especially | considering how much time we spend using it. The Importance of Quality Sleep 4-6

Understanding Your Sleep Needs 7-9 Did you know that the mattress you sleep on has a significant impact on the quality of sleep you get at night Tips for Better Sleep 10-11 and, consequently, how you feel throughout the day?

Selecting the Right 12-15 In this ebook, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right mattress for your sleep style, as well as what to look Mattress Basics 16-35 for in a mattress store. We’ll also take a look at the factors that Mattress Types 17-27 affect your quality of sleep and why it’s important to get good Comfort Levels 28-30 sleep in the first place. Mattress Sizes 31-32 Foundations & Frames 33-35

What Makes a Mattress Green? 36-38

The Importance of Accessories 39-40

What to Look For In A Mattress Store 41-43

Key Takeaways 44-45

Sleep Needs Assessment 46-47

About the Publisher 48-50 THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY SLEEP

Everyone knows that sleep is important. But do you know WHY sleep matters?

Sleep plays a critical role in good health and well-being throughout your life. Scientists have discovered that sleep plays a vital role in immune function, metabolism, memory, learning, and other vital functions. Getting enough good quality sleep can help protect your mental health, physical health, and quality of life.

How you feel, and how well you function during the day is di- THE IMPORTANCE rectly related to the amount and quality of sleep you get at OF QUALITY SLEEP night. Getting restful sleep increases your attention span during the day, helps you make better decisions, and enhances your learning ability and problem-solving skills. It also has a pro- found positive effect on your mood, impulse control, and social interactions.

Most people don’t get enough sleep. However, lack of sleep - more specifically, lack of quality sleep - can have severe conse- quences. Studies show that sleep deprived people have trouble making decisions, solving problems, controlling emotions and behavior, and coping with change.

Bottom line, people who don’t get enough sleep are less productive at work (or school), take longer to finish tasks, have a slower reaction time, and make more mistakes. PAGE #4 THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY SLEEP

Immediate effects of lack of sleep include: Poor judgement Irritable mood Difficulty learning and retaining information Increased risk of serious accidents and injury

Chronic sleep deprivation, or not Dangers of getting good quality sleep over a Sleep Deprivation sustained length of time, can contribute to serious health According to the National Highway Traffic Safety problems, including obesity, diabetes, UNDERSTANDING YOUR Administration, drowsy heart disease, kidney disease, high driving causes more than SLEEP NEEDS blood pressure, and even early death. 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries, and over 1,500 Sleep deprivation has also been linked deaths in the U.S./ yr. to depression, suicide, and risk-taking behavior.

PAGE #6 PAGE #7 UNDERSTANDING YOUR SLEEP NEEDS UNDERSTANDING YOUR SLEEP NEEDS

Did you know that, according to The Better When it comes to getting the right amount Sleep Council, nearly 50% of Americans are of quality sleep at night, there are three sleep deprived? factors you need to consider: HOW YOU SLEEP WHERE YOU SLEEP HEALTH FACTORS THAT For optimal health, most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per AFFECT SLEEP night. Moreover, recent research by Sleep to Live shows that • Your sleep position will • Your sleep environment influence what type of contributes greatly to Many different health simply “getting more sleep” will not suffice. You need to have mattress and pillow is your sleep quality. factors can affect the good quality, restorative sleep for optimal health and quality of best for you. • Is your mattress comfort- quality of your sleep. life. • Do you sleep on your able and supportive? For example, sleep apnea, side, your back, or your • If you sleep with a stomach? shift-work disorder, aller- In order to get that good restorative sleep, you must first partner, is your bed big gies, asthma, stress, anxiety, • Finding the right enough to provide you understand your physical and environmental needs. While your mattress for your sleep circulatory problems, aches, both room to move and and pains. own individual sleep needs will be unique to you, there are type will help tremen- stretch comfortably? dously in improving some general principles that apply to most everyone. • Is there clutter or other your quality of sleep. Moreover, distractions, like a pile of • Other sleep factors to unfinished work, in your poor sleep can consider are your bedroom that might be exacerbate these typical sleep and wake keeping you awake? conditions. times, when and how • Is your bedroom often you exercise, your environment conducive bedtime routine, the to good sleep? number of times you awake at night, how • It’s best to keep your bedroom clutter-free, The National you feel upon waking, Institutes of Health and your partner’s sleep and cool, dark, and habits. quiet at night. suggests that school- • All of these factors can • And keep electronic influence not only how devices, like TVs, com- age children need at much sleep you get at puters, and cell phones, least 10 hours of sleep night but also the out of the bedroom. The daily, teens need quality of that sleep. light they emit can 9-10 hours, and adults disrupt normal sleep need 7-8 hours. patterns. TOP TIPS FOR BETTER SLEEP

• Make sure your bed is comfortable and that you have enough room to stretch and turn comfortably without bumping into your sleeping partner. • Find the right mattress for your sleep style. If you have an innerspring mattress, make sure you replace it every 7–10 years. • Create an ideal sleep environment. Your bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet. • If you can’t eliminate nighttime noise (like city traffic or barking dogs), try masking it with ambient noise, such as a sound machine or fan. • Keep a regular sleep schedule – go to bed at the same time each TOP TIPS FOR night, and wake up at the same time each morning. • Invest in a comfortable, supportive pillow. BETTER SLEEP • Keep televisions, computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices out of the bedroom. The light they emit can disrupt normal sleep patterns. • Exercise. Regular physical activity can promote better sleep. Just don’t exercise too late in the day, which may make you too energized to fall asleep at bedtime. • Avoid eating big meals, drinking too many liquids, and consuming alcohol within a few hours of bedtime. • Try to cut back on caffeine consumption throughout the day. • Get a bed with superb motion isolation, or an adjustable bed, if you and your partner have different sleep schedules and inadvertently wake each other up. • Engage in a relaxing bedtime routine, like reading a book or listening to calming music. • See a doctor if you’ve tried all the tips above and are still having trouble sleeping. You may have an undiagnosed sleep condition, like sleep apnea. PAGE #10 SELECTING THE RIGHT PILLOW

Once you’ve assessed your sleep needs, it’s time to start shop- ping. And it may come as a surprise, but you should start by selecting the perfect pillow.

If your head is not properly supported first, it will be difficult to tell if your body’s properly supported during your mattress rest tests

• Your ideal pillow should let your head rest so that it’s aligned with your shoulders, hips and heels. That means your body and head should form a straight line. SELECTING THE • If your head tilts back (or to one side when side sleeping), your RIGHT PILLOW pillow is too thin and might cause stiffness in your shoulders. • If your head tilts upward to disrupt a straight line, your pillow is too full or thick. This can reduce the size of your airway and result in snoring.

With so many shapes, sizes and types of , how can you narrow your choices before you rest test them?

PAGE #12 SELECTING THE RIGHT PILLOW SELECTING THE RIGHT PILLOW

First, the right pillow for you depends on your sleep position(s). Other types of pillows that solve specific needs include: • BACK SLEEPERS: Try thinner pillows or pillows with more volume in the bottom-third to your neck • Cervical pillows • SIDE SLEEPERS: Look for a firmer pillow that fills in the space • Oxygen-promoting pillows between your ear and shoulder • Anti-snoring pillows • STOMACH SLEEPERS: Opt for a very thin pillow to keep your • Positional pillows back from arching, or maybe even sleep without one. • Water pillows • And cool pillows, which claim to solve specific needs (however, they’re so new that PILLOW TYPES little feedback or evidence has been gathered to support the claims.) You’ll find even more pillow types than mattress types. You can find more comprehensive pillow reviews online. • TRADITIONAL: Filled with polyester, down, down alterna- But ultimately, you have to choose a pillow type that gives you tives, or . Combination and down pillows proper alignment and comfort. Also, experts suggest you consider provide support with a little spring. replacing your pillows every 6 months to a year, because over time the support and cleanliness is compromised due to normal use. • BUCKWHEAT OR MICROBEAD: Provide support and allow you to adjust the filling.

• : Conform to cradle your head and neck while minimizing pain.

• LATEX AND ORGANIC COTTON AND/OR WOOL: May make ideal choices if you suffer from allergies or asthma since they are naturally hypo allergenic. MATTRESS TYPES

When you first walk into a mattress store, at first glance, it may appear that all the mattresses are the same. After all, they’re just a bunch of white rectangles that you sleep on, right?

How different could each one be?

The fact is that not all mattresses are created equal. There are several different types and sizes of mattresses. Mattresses are made of different materials and are constructed using different methods. MATTRESS TYPES The key to getting a good night’s sleep is to find the mattress that best suits your sleep style and that best meets your sleep needs.

Most of us don’t put enough thought into choosing the right mattress, especially considering how much time we spend us- ing it. When selecting a mattress, you need to take into account the mattress type, firmness, foundation, materials, mattress size, and more.

The most common mattress types include:

INNERSPRING MEMORY FOAM LATEX HYBRID ADJUSTABLE +

PAGE #16 MATTRESS TYPES MATTRESS TYPES

Mattresses are made of two main layers: INNERSPRING

Support Layer – Also called the mattress core, the support layer Innerspring mattresses gained widespread use in the U.S. in the is the bottom layer of the mattress. It helps keep your spine in 1930s, and they are still the most popular mattress type sold alignment while you sleep, by controlling how far different parts today. of your body sink down into the mattress. The traditional innerspring mattress, typically sold with a box Comfort Layer – The comfort layer consists of the upper few spring, features a core made of steel coil springs that are inches of the mattress. It helps provide pressure relief by cra- connected by a strong border wire, or encased in fabric, and dling your body while you sleep. topped with an upholstery comfort layer.

When we refer to the mattress type, we’re generally talking Coil counts, gauge, and tempering aren’t considered major about the primary material that makes up the mattress support factors like they used to be when choosing an innerspring. layer. However, as in the case of hybrid mattresses, the support layer is not the only defining characteristic. But at a minimum, select 300 coils for a full, 375 for a queen, and 450 for a king mattress.

What matters more when buying an innerspring mattress is whether the mattress has edge support, which will help the mattress retain its shape by reducing sinking on the outer edge. Innerspring mattresses still account for 80% of mattress sales (Source: The BiOH® Experience) Greater body conformance = greater motion isolation =

Shown: Heirloom Pillow better, undisturbed sleep. Tuft Top MATTRESS TYPES MATTRESS TYPES

INNERSPRING MEMORY FOAM

There are four basic types of innerspring: There are 2 main types of foam mattresses:

POLYFOAM: This type of foam is made to compress under pressure. It BONNELL COIL: An hourglass-shaped coil that is spring-knotted will not conform to your body in the way that memory foam does. That’s at each end, usually less expensive than other coil systems. This why it’s primarily used as a mattress support layer rather than a comfort is the oldest type of , and is generally used in more layer. economical mattresses. MEMORY FOAM: Designed to soften under Memory foam pressure or heat. Memory foam responds to the OFFSET COIL: An hourglass shaped spring with flattened edges has a reputation weight and heat of your body, offering excellent at the top and bottom. This type of coil is similar to the Bon- for “sleeping body conformance. Memory foam is often used as hot.” nell coil, but it has a hinging action that is designed to increase both a mattress support layer and comfort layer. body conformance. However, memory When it comes to buying a foam mattress, density is foam was the key consideration. The firmness of the foam has CONTINUOUS COIL: A system of coil rows made of continuous revolutionized in the nothing to do with the quality of the foam. When 90s with the infusion wire that run head to toe. This type of coil is durable and offers shopping for a foam mattress, you need to ask what of cool gel after some firm support, but it provides poorer motion isolation. the density of the foam is. Denser foam mattresses sleepers protested will typically feel firmer and last longer, but they will that the mattress retained too much POCKETED COIL: A grouping of independent coils that are in- also cost more. dividually encased in fabric pockets. Pocketed coils allow inde- heat. For high-quality memory foam, look for density levels pendent coil movement, decreased motion disturbance, and over 4 lbs. per cubic foot, with 2 lbs. being low density If you prefer a foam enhanced body conformance. mattress but tend to and 6 lbs. being high density. For standard polyfoam, sleep hot, you may a density of 1.8 pounds or more is considered a high- want to consider a density foam, and less than 1.8 pounds is a foam mattress Use our Mattress Match system to find the low-density foam with a gel-infused perfect mattress type for specific body needs. memory foam comfort layer. MATTRESS TYPES MATTRESS TYPES

LATEX LATEX

Made by processing naturally DUNLOP existing rubber, latex mattresses offer A FEW THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT LATEX: a naturally supportive, breathable, and more eco-friendly In this traditional technique, which • Because it’s a natural substance, the purity and quality of latex core. has been in use since 1929, liquid may vary between manufacturers, and even between mattresses. latex is “whipped” with air until it be- • Latex mattresses made with “fillers,” or tiny particles of clay and Latex relieves pressure points much comes wet foam. Then it is poured other materials mixed into the foam, will cost less but will also like memory foam, but air moves into a mold, hardened, and be stiffer and less durable. The term “pure latex” often indicates through latex better than through vulcanized. Dunlop latex feels firmer higher quality latex without fillers, but it may be made from ei- memory foam, making latex much and may be slightly more durable ther synthetic or natural latex. cooler to sleep on. than Talalay latex. • Most latex mattresses contain 1 to 4 layers of materials. Some- times the layers contain polyurethane foam or memory foam NATURAL LATEX too. TALALAY • No latex mattress can be 100% natural because minimal Natural latex provides optimal A newer process that has a couple amounts of sulfur or other additives must be used to process the elasticity, softness, and biodegrad- rubber. Always ask what percentage of the latex is natural versus more steps than the Dunlop tech- ability, but is less commonly used synthetic. and more expensive than synthetic. nique. With the Talalay process, wet latex foam is poured into a mold, SYNTHETIC LATEX leaving air or space at the top of it. The mold is sealed and vacuumed Synthetic latex, or blended latex, to remove the air, causing the foam combines natural latex for elasticity to expand and fill the space inside. and synthetic latex for consistency The mold is then frozen and quickly and durability. vulcanized to lock in the expanded foam structure. Talalay latex has a MANUFACTURERS UTILIZE TWO softer, springier, more elastic feel PROCESSES TO PRODUCE LATEX: than Dunlop latex.

MATTRESS TYPES MATTRESS TYPES

HYBRID + ADJUSTABLE

A hybrid mattress combines multiple mattress types in order to offer Unlike a box spring, an adjustable folds in two places to their benefits in one mattress. For example, amemory foam hybrid form three distinct sections that can be elevated or lowered to a mattress may have a pocketed coil support layer combined with a desired position. For example, the zero gravity position where your head and feet rest higher than your heart, which can be helpful for gel-infused foam comfort layer to offer the support of an innerspring relieving back pain and improving circulation. mattress with the pressure relief and motion isolation of a memory foam mattress. Many adjustable beds have dual controls that allow each partner to adjust the sleep surface elevation on their side of the bed to meet Another latex hybrid model may contain a latex core topped with a their individual needs. memory foam comfort layer to give you firmer support that still While many Innerspring, conforms to your body while you sleep. Memory foam, Latex or Air Among their many benefits, mattresses may be used with For many people, hybrid mattresses offer the perfect combination of adjustable beds can help: an adjustable frame, always verify with the manufacturer mattress type and are quickly becoming our best sellers. Be aware, or salesperson before selecting however, that some manufacturers like to throw around the “hybrid” • Reduce swelling in the legs by your mattress to avoid abnormal term without actually producing a true hybrid bed. elevating the foot position mattress wear or voidance • Provide customized comfort for of your warranty. When shopping for a hybrid mattress, be sure to ask for details so reading in bed or watching TV you know exactly what you’re getting. • Decrease acid reflux symptoms and snoring by elevating the head position • Distribute pressure evenly over the sleep surface • Release tension in muscles and joints by providing customized support • Make it easier for older adults, pregnant women, those Shown: recovering from surgery, and anyone with limited mobility Hybrid to get in and out of bed Rejuvenate • New adjustable base designs today are much lighter in weight 90th Anniversary MATTRESS TYPES MATTRESS TYPES

ADJUSTABLE COMPARING MATTRESS TYPES

Know Your Adjustable Bed Options: TYPE PROS CONS

• Adjustable bed frames typically come in dual king, king, queen, and twin INNERSPRING • Allows more motion disturbance • Typically costs less • Lacks body conformance which extra long size. Some models are available in full and standard twin. • Provides adequate support may lead to pressure points and comfort • Most newer base designs are split-deck so you can move half at a time (Pocketed coils will help this issue) (weight and moving are no longer an issue).

• Dual controls allow each partner to achieve their desired sleep position. MEMORY FOAM • Generates body heat (may be This feature requires special sheets. combated with cool gel-infused • Flush wall design maintains your alignment with bedside tables, even as • Reduces pressure points memory foam in top layer) • Reduces motion disturbance • May off-gas from chemicals used you change positions, by shifting the bed backward toward the wall as the • Resists bacteria and dust mites • Poses risk for Sudden Infant head is elevated. Death Syndrome (SIDS) and is not recommended for infants • Backlit wireless remotes with pre-programmed features make adjusting even easier. • A whisper-quiet motor lessens noise during adjustments. LATEX • Promotes natural sleeping • experience • Restorative massage features ease muscle tension and help you relax. • Offers greatest durability • Costs more • Minimizes body impressions • Variable height options let you choose the bed height that is most • May irritate people with latex • Naturally maintains a more com- sensitivity comfortable for you. fortable temperature • Resists mold, bacteria and dust mites

• May put off-gas HYBRID* (*models will vary) • May allow body impressions • Provides support • May pose risk for Sudden Infant • Reduces motion disturbance Death Syndrome (SIDS) and is • Provides a cooler sleep surface not recommended for infants • Lacks user feedback due to + newness

ADJUSTABLE • Offers optimal pressure & pain relief • Accommodates different sleeper positions (dual-adjustment) • Added costs but worth the • Eliminates motion disturbance investment (dual-adjustment) • Newer designs are lighter weight. COMFORT LEVELS COMFORT LEVELS

While the mattress core provides the bulk of your support, the comfort layer will ultimately determine how comfortably you FIGURING OUT YOUR LEVEL USING 4 FACTORS. sleep.

Granted, some mattresses contain one or more transition layers. Consider these factors to help determine your ideal comfort level:

But on top of the core or transition layers, where you actually 1. SIZE - Heavier bodies may need a firmer mattress for added sleep, is the comfort layer. support to maintain proper sleep posture. Lighter bodies may want some plushness to help fill in any gaps. The comfort layer provides a variety of comfort 2. CRADLING SENSATION - If you love to feel fully cradled, try a levels, as follows: plusher comfort level. If you prefer more mobility or tend to sleep hot, start by sampling a firmer mattress. FIRM FIRM PLUSH ULTRA PLUSH

A firm, yet com- A firm sleep sur- A soft sleeping A deeper, plush- fortable sleep face with an ad- surface with su- er sleep surface surface with ditional layer of perior body con- that’s supportive multiple layers quilted materials formance and while offering a of materials for for greater com- deep down “down-like” support, durabil- fort and body support. comfort. ity and comfort. conformance.

So, how do you know which comfort level you need? COMFORT LEVELS MATTRESS SIZES

Did you know that when two adults share a full-size mattress, they are each sleeping on the equivalent of a crib mattress? 3. SLEEP POSITIONS: That definitely won’t lead to a good night’s sleep.

SIDE SLEEPER – Choose a comfort layer with some No matter how much homework you do to select the best mattress type, plushness (like cushion firm) so you get adequate pres- if a mattress is too small, you won’t sleep well on it. A mattress should be sure relief in your shoulders and hips. Start with this level wide enough and long enough to accommodate all potential sleepers – and add one level of firmness to support heavier body including kids and pets – while allowing you space to stretch and weight, or subtract one level for lighter body weight. comfortably move around in bed while allowing you space to move in and around your bed comfortably.

COMBINATION SLEEPER – Note the thickness for your “plushest” sleep position, and select a comfort layer slightly firmer than this to accommodate other positions. Then choose a support layer that allows you to sink in a little when needed.

STOMACH SLEEPER – Choose a thinner comfort layer that fully supports your lumbar so your back does not arch while sleeping.

BACK SLEEPER – Consider a thinner, firmer comfort All mattresses have layer to adequately support your entire backside. a + or - .5” tolerance.

The Beloit Mattress Company can make you ANY SIZE 4. HEALTH CONCERNS: mattress you need. If you have health issues like chronic back or joint pain, asthma or sleep apnea, for example, seek your doctor’s advice first for any recommendations about your mattress choice. MATTRESS SIZES FOUNDATIONS AND FRAMES

TWIN: Twin beds are best used for children. For most teenagers and adults, they Foundations and bed frames protect your mattress from unusual wear are simply too small. while elevating it to a height that’s ideal for getting in and out of bed easily. TWIN XL: Five inches in longer than the standard twin (and the same length as a queen or king mattress), the twin XL is a better option for a taller teenager or adult sleeping alone. Always work with your sales consultant, or contact the manufacturer if needed, to make sure you choose a foundation that’s appropriate for FULL: Though full beds were the standard for couples 40 years ago, they are a bit your mattress. crowded for an adult couple sharing a bed today. Full beds work best for a single (shorter) adult sleeper or two children sharing a bed. A box spring absorbs 70% of your energy compression as QUEEN: The most popular mattress size sold, queen beds are ideal for couples who you use your innerspring mattress, adding years of life to it. may not have the space to accommodate a king bed.

KING: A king mattress is the same length as a queen but 16 inches wider. The widest bed available, it is the best choice for couples who like their space STANDARD FOUNDATION REDUCED HEIGHT FOUNDATION SPLIT FOUNDATION and for families who bed share.

CALIFORNIA KING: The longest mattress available, a California King is the best choice for the very tall.

9” HEIGHT 30” WIDE 30” WIDE 5” HEIGHT

IDEALLY: Also remember: • Your mattress should be 6 inches longer than the tallest • Your mattress must fit person sleeping in it. through any doorways and stairwells leading to your • Partners should be able to rest bedroom. both hands behind their head (elbows sprawled) without • Your foundation or bed bumping into each other. frame will take up some additional space in your bedroom. FOUNDATIONS AND FRAMES FOUNDATIONS AND FRAMES

A proper bed frame and foundation extends the life of your WHICH FOUNDATION TYPE IS BEST FOR YOU? mattress, while keeping your warranty valid. Most mattresses come with a suggested foundation. For example, an • BED FRAME – A steel support system on wheels that innerspring is paired with a box spring, and a memory foam or latex accommodates a only mattress is paired with a slatted, steel grid, or platform foundation. • RAILS – A steel support system between the headboard and Be sure to choose the manufacturer’s recommended foundation or footboard box spring; otherwise, you may void your warranty. If you prefer an • BED BEAM – A steel and composite system with wooden slats alternate foundation or box spring, it’s a good idea to call the and side rails to accommodate a headboard and footboard manufacturer to make sure your desired foundation will work with your new mattress. For any mattress larger than a full size, the To choose a foundation height, first measure your current bedroom arrangement. manufacturer recommends getting a bed frame with a center support rail. Do you want your new bed to be the same height off the floor and relative to your furniture as your previous one? If so, measure the cur- rent height from the floor to the top of your mattress, and buy a mat- tress and foundation combination to match it.

Just remember, experts recommend a bed height that allows your feet to rest flat against the floor while sitting at the edge of your bed.

A few things to keep in mind when selecting a foundation:

1. If you want to create under-bed storage, consider a standard foundation. Shown: 2. Kids and older adults may find it easier to get in and out of beds with reduced height foundations. Classic Glideaway 3. If you’re moving your new bed through tight stairwells, you may need a split Steel Bed Frame foundation. you’re moving your new bed through tight stairwells, a split foundation may be necessary. WHAT MAKES A MATTRESS GREEN?

A mattress is considered “green” if it uses minimal or no synthetic ingredients or chemical additives.

Technically, there are no true organic mattresses because there is currently no government organic certification standard for the mattress industry. However, it is possible to find a mattress that is both eco-friendly and healthy.

Most conventional mattresses are made of petroleum-based polyester, nylon, and polyurethane foam, which can all emit WHAT MAKES A potentially harmful VOCs. Green mattresses, on the other MATTRESS GREEN? hand, are made from natural, earth friendly materials such as:

• COTTON • ORGANIC COTTON • BAMBOO PRACTICALLY • JOMA WOOL GREEN • NATURAL LATEX

Green mattresses, just like all other mattresses, must still meet all federal fire resistant standards. While most conventional mattresses are treated with flame-retardant chemicals, such as boric acid, silicone, and phosphates, green mattresses use naturally fire-resistant materials, like wool. PAGE #36 WHAT MAKES A MATTRESS GREEN?

When shopping for an eco-friendly mattress, don’t be fooled by terms like green and all natural.

Anyone can label a mattress green, even if it contains only 10% natural materials. Instead, ask the salesperson or manufacturer about the specific materials used to make the mattress.

Look for mattresses that are made with:

• Natural, untreated wool, which is naturally fire-resistant THE IMPORTANCE and, dust mite–resistant • Organic cotton, or natural, untreated cotton OF ACCESSORIES • Natural latex, which is derived from rubber trees

PAGE #39 THE IMPORTANCE OF ACCESSORIES

No matter what mattress you choose, make it even more comfortable by selecting your accessories carefully. The right acces- sory will help keep your warranty valid and possibly save you big dollars down the road.

MATTRESS PROTECTORS & ENCASEMENTS Most manufacturer warranties do not cover damage caused by spills or bed-wetting accidents. Protect your investment with a waterproof . Zip- pered encasements also help prevent dust mites and bed bugs.

PILLOWS You now know that the right pillow will help maintain proper sleep posture, and alleviate aches and pains. Be WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN sure to pick a pillow type that supports your mattress A MATTRESS STORE choice. And for kids especially, pillow support develop- ing brains and bodies.

SHEETS Top off your perfect new mattress with supple sheets. Similar to why mattress size matters, if your sheets feel even slightly itchy or too warm, your mattress will not help you sleep better!

THINK ABOUT IT! Sheets can make a bed at any price point feel either less comfortable, or more luxurious. Which do you prefer? Accessories can make or break even the most luxurious mattress. Take some time to find a protector, pillows and sheets to give you a complete and ideal sleep system. PAGE #41 WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A MATTRESS WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A MATTRESS

Now that you know what to shop for, you should also learn When walking through a mattress store, immediately head for what to expect when mattress shopping. the front door if:

Many people dread shopping for a new mattress, but it doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience. Not when you find the • The showroom feels cold and unfriendly right store, with salespeople who care more about helping you get better sleep than about making the sale. • The salesperson jumps right into the current deal they are running on a specific mattress In most cases, trust your • The salesperson focuses solely on your mattress budget and first impressions! not on your sleep needs

• The salesperson cannot provide manufacturer-recommended Ideally, the store should provide up-front pricing and foundations or bed frames mattress specifications, and the salesperson should: • The salesperson does not offer • Greet you warmly into a clean showroom information about sleep trials • Consult with you about your sleep needs or exchange policies

• Show they are listening and understanding by offering • The salesperson does not know how solutions for your specific needs to answer your questions about the products they sell • Encourage you to test out their mattresses • Inform you about sleep trial offers, exchange policies, and financing options • Preferably salesman went through Geek-U (University) and are Sleep-Geek certified (advise on sleep and well-being) A good night’s sleep will make a difference • Offers a warranty that ensures long-term comfort and peace of mind in your health and how you live each day. KEY TAKEAWAYS

Quality sleep plays a critical role in your overall health and quality of life. You need – and deserve – good sleep, night after night. And while mattress shopping may at times be overwhelming or intimidating, it doesn’t have to be. We hope this eBook has helped simplify the process for you.

Above all, remember these key points:

1. Assess your sleep needs before shopping so you can find the best mat- tress for you. KEY TAKEAWAYS 2. Determine if you have a preferred mattress type first. 3. Then rest test different mattresses in that mattress type. Fifteen- minute rest tests are key to making the best choice. 4. Selecting the right mattress size is critical so your mattress can do its job. 5. Selecting the right foundation for your mattress can help safeguard your investment. 6. When shopping for a green mattress, pay attention to the materials used to make the mattress than to the “green” label attached to it. 7. Be sure that you’re long-term comfort will be guaranteed with a comfort assurance policy. 8. If you get a negative vibe, a discussion that begins with your budget, or a salesperson who can’t answer your questions, say good-bye and opt for an informative and supportive buying experience at The Beloit Mattress Company. the MATTRESS COMPANY PAGE #44 SLEEP NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Once you’ve assessed your sleep needs, it’s time for shopping! Take the following steps to choose your mattress and accessories wisely!

Use this worksheet to help zone in on your sleep needs prior to shopping.

Circle the mattress type(s) that appeal to you: +

Circle your ideal comfort level:

SLEEP NEEDS ASSESSMENT Circle your sleep position(s).

Circle desired mattress size:

List any mattress must-have features or options (motion isolation, cool gel, adjustable base).

Your current bed calculations:

LENGTH WIDTH HEIGHT SPACE NIGHT STAND ROOM OTHER from floor to top between wall & bed height dimensions door frame, etc

Misc notes: PAGE #46 ABOUT THE PUBLISHER

In 1929, a small family-owned mattress factory began producing handcrafted mattresses in Beloit, Wisconsin. Today, The Beloit Mattress Company is one of the most complete, state-of-the-art mattress factories and showrooms in the Midwest.

The Beloit Mattress Company has been owned and operated by the Poppie family since 1954. It truly is a family the business, and we take great pride in MATTRESS COMPANY the products we produce and sell. ABOUT THE PUBLISHER We still make our mattresses the old- fashioned way – by hand, using only American-made materials. And we’re proud to say we “make them like they used to.”

At The Beloit Mattress Company, we are the mattress designers, the manufacturer, and the retailer. Our sleep systems are sold directly to the public from our factory showroom. This gives us the flexibility to provide you with innovative sleep solutions you won’t find anywhere else. And to offer them at factory-direct prices you can afford.

Every handmade mattress is backed with a 60-night comfort guarantee. PAGE #48 WHY CHOOSE US?

Now that you have an idea of what goes into buying a new mattress, we encourage you to find the right place to make your purchase - a welcoming place that provides friendly the customer support and high quality products. MATTRESS COMPANY So what are the benefits of shopping at Beloit?

• We use the best in mattress innovation, integrating Handcrafting high quality, all-natural fabric the latest Leggett and Platt Comfort Core technology. mattresses, one at a time, since 1929. • We believe in hand tufting, which is the longest lasting, most durable way to construct a mattress. • Our standard polyfoams are CertiPUR-US certified, meeting all standards for content, emissions & durability. Save on factory-direct • When you buy a mattress from us, you can feel proud mattresses & bedding knowing that your bed is 100% American made. • Our “Practically Green” option offers a safe, eco-friendly accessories today! bedding solution for those who are more natural minded. • We’re bed makers. We don’t just sell mattresses, we make them ourselves - by hand and one at a time. GRAB A DEAL

THE BOTTOM LINE We’re the mattress designer, manufacturer and retailer. There is no middle man which allows us to offer customers the best-in-value • Consumer Reports “Mattress Buying Guide” handmade mattresses. American made out of Beloit, WI, every • Goodbed.com™ “The Guide for Smart Mattress Buyers” mattress is backed with a 60-night comfort guarantee. REFERENCES • Mattress Discounters® “Learn about Foundations” • Sealy “Mattress Guide” Information in this guide was extracted & created by: • Created by Studio C5 in partnership with The Beloit

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