Hello. After trying everything from extra firm to soft I found I prefer medium- ish beds. I’m 5’6 and 130 lbs and struggle with lower back pain. I also tend to overheat at night.
I’m not sure where to begin with material and type.
Are you taking about medium firm or medium plush mattress?
I’m confused
Hi Kcamacho,
Welcome to TMU. Choosing a mattress can be a frustrating proposition for some and for others they nail it on the first try.
Finding the right mattress will employ matching your PPP’s (Posture and alignment, Pressure relief, and Personal preferences) as described in the Mattress Tutorial on TMUTMU Mattress Tutorial. You certainly do not need to become a mattress and material expert, but learning a little about the product you are about to purchase can be a valuable tool in making best educated guess you can with the information and mattresses being presented.
Most folks find that natural fibers, cotton, wool, horsehair, along with natural foam, Dunlop or Talalay processed latex are materials that offer a cooler sleeping experience.
The recommendation would be to start there. As far as the medium-ish mattresses go, that is a very personal thing. At 6’ 220 what I find as a medium or firm, you may find even firmer due to you size and weight.
Deciding on the type of feel you like. Sleeping on top of the mattress, sinking into the mattress, sleep position, will have some influence on what you might select.
Several of our trusted members Trusted Members have mattress systems that offer exchangeable layers for such an issue.
I can assure you if you contact any of those trusted members who offer mattresses that have changeable comfort layers, they are really good at nailing it down on the first shot.
Some even have website body profile analysis that will build a mattress combination that favors your preferences. For example Custom Sleep Technology offers and online profile and a no charge charge 1 hour consultation CST Performance Mattress and Profile Analysis. Others offer mattresses that are all latex, to hybrids, and some that are all natural fibers and or foams for long lasting comfort.
I think you will find many in a variety of prices ranges as well.
I always advise folks when shopping for a mattress, look at the price last. You need not feel obligated to buy on your first trip to a store if you choose that route. Find what you like first, that matches your PPP’s and then compare what is in your budget. You never want to eliminate a winner! Even if it is out of your budget. Some folks here can easily duplicate winners out there in the market!
Good luck and I hope you find that perfect fit. I am sure there will be a couple of Trusted Members who may chime in on your quest.
Norm