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Do you have back pain? Take
comfort: The industry standard for a basic orthopedic mattress is 312 coils. (A
higher coil count means a higher quality.)
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Here are industry standard
mattress sizes to keep in mind:
| Size |
Measure |
| Twin |
39" x 75" |
| Twin Extra Long |
38" x 80" |
| Full (Double) |
54" x 75" |
| Full Extra Long |
54" x 80" |
| Queen |
60" x 80" |
| King |
76" x 80" |
| California King |
72" x 84" |
| California Queen
|
60" x 84" |
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A top of the line mattress with
the best support has more than 600 coils based on a full size mattress made of
a heavy gauge wire. You want a high number of coils and a thicker, heavier
gauge of steel for firm support and durability.
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You can tell how thick coils are
by observing this rule: The lower the steel gauge number, the thicker the gauge
of steel (eg 14 gauge steel is thicker then 15 gauge).
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A Foundation without steel working
parts are less durable than those with. A quality Boxspring or Foundation
(since at times in the bedding industry the terms can be interchangable)
supports the mattress to extend the mattress life. Mattress Manufacturers do in
fact design the boxspring to work in conjunction with the mattress it matches
so it is a good idea to invest in a matching set. It is not just a gimmick, in
fact most Manufacturers will void the product warranty if the mattress is
sitting on a boxspring that is not the original match.
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You should replace the mattress
and the box spring at the same time. The newer mattresses are heavier and need
the correct support in order to be durable.
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Queen and king sets require a
frame with a center rail to give the units proper support.
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King sets always have a split
two-piece box spring. You can also get a split box spring for your queen set.
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Support comes from the innerspring
unit, and the comfort level comes from the type of padding. You can choose from
an extra firm, firm, or plush cushiony feel and request good firm support to go
with it. It depends on your personal comfort level.
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Padding in a mattress is as
important as the number of coils. The more layers of padding and the higher the
quality of the padding, the longer your mattress will keep its shape and
firmness.
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In padding, you should always
select richer materials and denser foams for top quality.
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The quality of the mattress cover
will determine the mattress's resistance to wear and tear, and will also
determine how it feels against your skin. The better the quality, the better
the feel.
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Edge support in the mattress
enhances and expands the sleep surface. It also protects the sides of the unit.
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Do not lift the mattress by its
handles if your mattress has cord handles. The mattress handles help you turn
and maneuver the mattress only. Cloth sewn handles are designed to lift
mattresses, always remember to lift carefully, never tug on the handles.
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"Special features" are not always
the best buys. Often, mattress retailers will advertise a special brand of
foam. But buyer beware: The special foam is most often a 1/4 piece substandard,
cheaper variety. This gives you no added benefit, but helps the retailer sell
mattresses.