Some Like It Soft

Everybody needs a good night's sleep, but what it takes to achieve that isn't the same for all of us. Hot milk or hot buttered rum? Footsie pajamas or going commando? Night light or blackout shades? Soft music or earplugs?

One common area of disagreement for couples is mattress firmness. When there is a significant difference in height and weight, one partner will likely need stronger support than the other. The sleep position you prefer may require a particular level of softness. And if one person experiences back or leg pain at night, getting the wrong type of support can lead to misery.

The first time Hubby and I shopped for a mattress together, we found out that we had very different desires. The extra-soft was my preference, while he craved extra-firm. My choice made him feel like he was sinking into jello (and not in a good way), while his made me feel like I was lying on the sidewalk.

That was when we learned that you can order a customized mattress, with each side a different firmness. We each got what we needed and slept peacefully ever after. Well, almost. Sooner or later, mattresses need to be replaced. Our most recent acquisition is an air mattress with a number system. Not only do we have separate firmness settings, but if one of us feels the need for a change, either side of the bed can be adjusted up or down at any time. We sleep quite well most nights.

Firmness may be the most obvious attribute of a mattress, but there are other matters to consider. Heat retention, movement and squeakiness are only a few of the factors that can help tip the balance between dreamland and insomnia. For a surprisingly thorough analysis of mattresses by style and brand, I suggest the Sleep Like the Dead website. In addition to mattresses, there is extensive information about all kinds of sleep-related products: pillows, sleeping pills, sound machines, and more.