Mattress

[AndrewLewis]

You mentioned you like the purple mattress. How would you characterize what you like about it compared to other mattresses you’ve had?

I’m in the market for a new mattress, and I’m comparing options.

I typically prefer a softer mattress with good air flow, if possible, because the contact between my back and the mattress makes my back too hot.

[Mark Rippetoe]

The Purple is much cooler than any other mattress than I've owned. First thing I noticed about it.

[zft]

You can get water-cooled mattress pads/covers that will transport away excess body heat and even actively cool (or warm) the water. I have one and it has vastly improved my quality of sleep here in dystopian AC-free Europe. Mine was cheap(ish) too, about $350.

[BareSteel]

As long as this doesn’t derail Andrew’s original question, I’m curious how a consumer should discern good mattresses from the rest of the pack. There are many options out there and a visit to the showroom can only provide so much feedback.

I brought one five years ago and it took about three visits and a good amount of research.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Stay in a lot of hotels, and when the bed is good, ask who made it. The front desk will know.

[gadders]

I spent a good few months moaning about my mattress after waking up with lower back ache every day. You know what fixed my mattress? Losing 15kg/33lbs. Same average mattress, no back pain.

[Mark Rippetoe]

A new mattress would have been better.

[Yngvi]

I sleep on the floor.

[Mark Rippetoe]

I sleep on the floor.

In a prison cell, no doubt.

[gadders]

A new mattress would have been better.

Yeah, but I just like telling people how much weight I lost.