If you want to know how thick should a mattress be, it will depend on the user. This article will discuss the ideal thickness for every sleeper to ensure that you’ll get the best sleep. But if you need a quick range, aim to use a mattress that is around 10 inches.
Much like the height of the pillows we use, mattress thickness plays a significant role in the sleep quality we get. It affects our sleeping posture, and using something not ideal can cause body pain. Learn more about mattress thickness below!
What Is The Ideal Thickness For A Mattress?
The ideal thickness for a mattress depends on the type of sleeper. Much like with pillow lofts, you have to select the right mattress thickness for your sleeping position to avoid posture issues and discomfort. While a 10-inch mattress is a good baseline, different sleepers will gain more benefits if they use a specific range.
For example, those who sleep on their backs should use medium-firm mattresses around 12 inches thick maximum. On the other hand, side sleepers are best with thicker mattresses around 12 to 14 inches to maintain a neutral spine. And as for stomach sleepers, something firm at 10 inches is enough to avoid deviations in posture.
You should be familiar with your dominant position based on how you sleep. If you tend to toss and turn a lot in bed, identify which position you sleep in the most and use the ideal mattress thickness for it. Combined with the right pillow, you should maintain a good posture easily to avoid waking up with body pain.
Does a thick mattress base matter?
Now, let’s talk about the base layer of your mattress. When buying a bed, you can consider something with a thick base because it corresponds to the mattress’s overall durability. This layer can be at least half the percentage of your bed’s height, and you can expect your mattress to last longer than those with a thinner base.
How thick should your mattress topper be?
What about the mattress topper you use? There are different mattress toppers in the market, but something as thick as two inches should suffice. As long as it provides the ideal firmness for the user, the topper should improve the sleeper’s experience.
How Thick Is A Normal Mattress?
Now that you know the ideal thickness of the mattress you’re using, you must also be aware of what to expect in the market. An average bed can have a thickness anywhere from 8 to 14 inches. Depending on the brand, type, and materials, it could use a base around 6 to 8 inches thick and a comfort layer from 2 to 3 inches.
Some mattresses also have a transition layer that is one to two inches thick. Regardless, the overall composition of the bed will have a say in the durability and comfort you’ll experience. The thickness is critical, but it shouldn’t be the sole factor you consider in a mattress.
Is A 5 Inch Mattress Thick Enough?
A five-inch thick mattress might be underwhelming for most users. Aim to have a bed at least 8 inches thick to ensure that it will be useful in the long run without causing discomfort. A minimum of 5-inch thick base ad a 2-inch comfort layer would be ideal.
Is A 6 Memory Foam Mattress Thick Enough?
You want to use an 8-inch thick mattress to ensure comfort and durability. For memory foam mattresses, aim for a thickness between 10 to 14 inches to get the most of this material. Remember that memory foam is known for its contouring characteristic, and using something thinner might not provide this benefit satisfactorily.
What Is Considered A Thick Mattress?
The thickness can be subjective because some users might find some mattresses too soft while others don’t. However, if you consider the standard bed thickness, which is 9 to 12 inches, something higher than 12 inches will be thick. On the other hand, a mattress that is 6 to 8-inch thick will be thin.
Some manufacturers may even consider a 12 to 20-inch mattress as a medium, and products 20-inch thick or more are labeled as thick. However, 20-inch and thicker mattresses are uncommon because they will be challenging to transport and require a lot of space. You can’t compress such mattresses because you risk damaging the material.
What are the benefits of a thick mattress?
Perhaps the two main advantages of using a thick mattress are comfort and durability. These are especially appreciated by those sharing a bed or heavier individuals. And if you are quite limited with mobility, getting in and out of a thick bed should also feel more comfortable than using something thinner.
A thick mattress should stand wear and tear longer and maintain a supportive structure regardless of the compression and pressure. Because of its thickness, you’re less likely to sink and still keep the ideal level for a healthy sleeping posture. However, please remember that there are different mattress types, and their materials will also affect these advantages.
Conclusion
Did you know that you should also consider your bed’s thickness? If so, how thick should a mattress be? The answer depends on what sleeping position you use.
If you sleep on your back, then you should use a 12-inch thick bed. On the other hand, side sleepers should use something thicker than 14 inches, while stomach sleepers are better with a 10-inch thick mattress. Furthermore, consider the base and comfort layers of the bed you use to ensure that you’ll get the maximum comfort and durability you deserve.