There's nothing like snuggling up in a warm bed on a cold winter night. The extreme cold weather and crisp air outside make the coziness of a warm bed even more inviting. But this doesn't always come easy to everyone. For some, the cold weather and lower temperatures make it uncomfortable to sit or sleep on their mattresses. So they end up tossing and turning for the most of the night. This, in turn, decreases sleep quality and quality of life.
This guide will discuss the impacts of winter temperatures on mattress performance and how different materials hold up during extreme temperatures. We'll also provide general tips on selecting the right mattress for optimal comfort and support during winter.
How Cold Weather Affects Mattress Comfort
The ideal temperature for a good night's sleep can vary from person to person but generally falls within the 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 to 20 degrees Celsius) range. That is because our body temperature drops naturally to help slow the metabolic processes as we sleep. Thermoregulation, which is the process of internal temperature regulation, is strongly linked to sleep. A mattress that's too cold disrupts or interferes with sleep because it affects thermoregulation.
Frigid temperatures affect mattress comfort in a range of ways. It can reduce elasticity and responsiveness and cause firmness or contraction, among other things. Let's have a look at how different mattress materials hold up during extremely cold temperatures:
Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses are temperature sensitive, so their feel is influenced by the bedroom's temperatures. If your room is freezing, which is expected with the cold weather gripping the nation lately, your memory foam mattress will feel firmer and cooler. That's because the cells in the foam material respond to the lower temperature by contracting, making the bed feel more rigid.
On top of that, the firm mattress may take longer to respond to changes in body positions. This, in turn, affects the ease of movement on the mattress, and it may feel less adaptive to your body's contours.
Innerspring Mattresses
Spring mattresses respond differently to cold weather than memory foam mattresses. They don't get firmer like memory foam but weaken primarily due to their construction. Innerspring mattresses have a network of springs that may shrink with cold temperatures. As a result, you may feel less support because the support system becomes less responsive with temperature drops.
You may also notice sagging in some areas of the mattress because shrinking may hinder the even distribution of weight. Other impacts may include discomfort, increased noise, and wear and tear.
Tips to Select the Right Mattress to Keep You Warm and Cozy in Winter
Your mattress can mean the difference between a good night's sleep and a restless, uncomfortable one during winter. So, if you have been uncomfortable lately, it is time to upgrade your bedding. Follow these tips to get the best mattress to ensure you sleep well all year.
Choose the Right Bed Size
The additional layers of cozy blankets take up considerable space on your bed. So it's crucial to choose a mattress that offers ample room to accommodate the plush winter beddings comfortably. Selecting the right bed size caters to personal space and considers the comfort of sharing the bed with a partner or children.
Prioritize Temperature Sensitivity
Combatting the cold winter nights goes beyond just having warm blankets; your mattress's temperature sensitivity plays a pivotal role. Consider advanced options like Tempur Pedic, renowned for their ability to adapt and conform to your body's changing needs throughout the night. These mattresses excel in relieving pressure points, reducing motion transfer, inducing relaxation during sleep, and rejuvenating you for the day ahead. A mattress with temperature-sensitive features ensures a comfortable and cozy sleep environment, addressing the specific demands of winter nights.
Go for circadian rhythms
Hybrid mattresses are recognized for their temperature-neutral properties. This means they effectively balance warmth and coolness, providing a comfortable sleep surface regardless of the season.
Hybrid mattresses typically combine memory foam, latex, and innerspring coils. This diverse composition improves airflow, preventing the mattress from becoming excessively cold. A hybrid mattress ensures you can enjoy a consistent and pleasant sleeping temperature throughout winter.
Explore Innovative Technology in Mattresses
Some modern mattress brands have built-in temperature-controlled advancements that actively regulate sleeping temperatures. This can be a great option if you struggle to fall asleep due to mattress firmness or responsiveness. It can also help with night sweats.
Temperature-controlled mattresses use innovative materials and designs to create a conducive sleep environment. They incorporate features like phase change materials, gel-infused foams, or breathable fabric covers that work cohesively to manage and balance temperatures throughout the night, preventing discomfort caused by excessive cold or heat.
Tips on Sleeping Well in the Winter Months
Beyond investing in high-quality mattresses, there are several additional tips to ensure a restful and comfortable night's sleep during the winter months.
Place Extra Pillows on Your Bed
Pillows on your bed serve multiple purposes. You can use them to create a layered and cozy atmosphere or provide extra support for your sleep position. Or to elevate your legs, promote better circulation, and reduce discomfort. Experiment with different pillow arrangements to find the most comfortable setup for your winter sleep.
Sleep Hygiene for Your Circadian Rhythm
Create a relaxing bedtime routine, reduce screen time before sleep, and ensure your sleep environment is conducive to rest. These practices contribute to a more restful sleep experience, especially in the winter. They also support your circadian rhythms, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
Use Base Layers and Mattress Protectors
A base layer, like flannel or thermal sheets, provides an additional insulating barrier between you and the mattress. A mattress protector guards against spills and stains and contributes to maintaining a warmer sleep environment. Look for protectors made from materials that offer protection and insulation.
Don't let your mattress be the reason you compromise on a restful and cozy night's sleep. Invest in the right mattress that combines comfort, insulation, and advanced features. If you need help figuring out where to start, we've got you.
The Bedding Mart offers a curated selection of high-quality mattresses ideal for the winter months. Browse our selection to find one that will improve your sleep quality regardless of the weather outside.
