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The Science behind Edge Support and Why It Matters for Your Sleep Quality
If you’re in the market for a new mattress, you may have come across the term “edge support.” But what exactly is edge support, and why does it matter for your sleep quality?
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind edge support, how it affects your sleep, and what to look for when shopping for a mattress.
What is Edge Support?
Edge support refers to the ability of a mattress to support weight and pressure evenly across its surface, including the edges. A mattress with good edge support will maintain its shape and firmness even when you sit or sleep on its edges.
Edge support is especially important for people who like to sit or sleep on the edge of the mattress, as well as for couples who share a bed. A mattress with poor edge support ( The Surprising Truth About Edge Support and Its Impact on Your Sleep Quality ) can cause you to feel like you’re going to fall off the bed, or can cause sagging and uneven pressure distribution over time.
The Science behind Edge Support
To understand how edge support works, it’s helpful to know a bit about mattress construction. Most mattresses are made up of layers, including a support core, comfort layers, and a cover.
The support core is usually made of firmer foam or coils and is responsible for the mattress’s overall support and durability. The comfort layers are made of softer foam or latex and provide cushioning and pressure relief.
When we sit or sleep on a mattress, our weight and pressure compress the layers, creating a concave shape. The further away from the center of the mattress we are, the more our weight and pressure are concentrated and the more the mattress compresses.
Good edge support is achieved by adding extra support to the perimeter of the mattress. This can be done by using firmer foam or coils around the edges or by using a reinforced sidewall.
Why Edge Support Matters for Your Sleep Quality
So why does edge support matter for your sleep quality? There are a few reasons:
1. It prevents sagging: A mattress with poor edge support will sag over time, causing uneven pressure distribution and discomfort.
2. It increases usable surface area: A mattress with good edge support allows you to use the entire surface of the mattress without feeling like you’re going to fall off.
3. It promotes spinal alignment: A mattress with good edge support helps keep your spine aligned, reducing the risk of back pain and discomfort.
4. It enhances durability: A mattress with good edge support will last longer and maintain its shape and firmness over time.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Mattress
When shopping for a mattress, here are a few things to look for to ensure good edge support:
1. A reinforced perimeter: Look for a mattress with extra support around the edges, such as firmer foam or coils or a reinforced sidewall.
2. A sturdy foundation: Make sure your mattress is on a sturdy foundation, such as a platform bed or box spring, to provide additional support.
3. A high-density foam: Choose a mattress with high-density foam in the support core for durability and support.
4. Customer reviews: Look for customer reviews that mention edge support to get an idea of how a mattress performs over time.
Conclusion
Edge support is an important factor to consider when choosing a mattress. A mattress with good edge support will prevent sagging, increase usable surface area, promote spinal alignment, and enhance durability. When shopping for a mattress, look for a reinforced perimeter, a sturdy foundation, high-density foam, and customer reviews that mention edge support. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to find a mattress that will provide the support and comfort you need for a good night’s sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Edge Support in Mattresses
What is Edge Support in Mattresses?
Edge support is a mattress feature that reinforces the sides of the bed to prevent sagging or collapsing. It’s particularly important if you sleep on the edge of the mattress or if you share your bed with someone else, as it ensures that the mattress doesn’t cave in when pressure is applied to the sides.
Why is Edge Support Important in a Mattress?
Edge support is important because it makes your mattress more durable and long-lasting. It also prevents you from rolling off the bed and provides better support for those who sit on the edge of the bed, such as putting on shoes or getting in and out of bed.
What are the Different Types of Edge Support?
There are different types of edge support, including foam encased, coil encased, and border rods. Foam encased edge support consists of a foam-filled cavity surrounding the entire mattress. Coil encased edge support features a perimeter of coils that are stronger than those in the middle of the mattress. Border rods are metal rods that encircle the mattress to provide extra support.
What are the Advantages of Foam Encased Edge Support?
Foam encased edge support provides a more solid structure for the mattress, which enhances its durability. It also helps to reduce motion transfer, so you’re less likely to feel movement from your partner. Foam encased edge support also provides a more uniform sleep surface, meaning you can use the edges of the mattress without worrying about it caving in.
What are the Advantages of Coil Encased Edge Support?
Coil encased edge support provides a firmer edge to the mattress, which helps to prevent sagging or collapsing over time. It also provides a better sleep ( The Top 5 Mattresses for a Better Sleep Experience ) surface for those who prefer to sleep on the edge of the mattress.
What are the Advantages of Border Rods?
Border rods are the strongest type of edge support and provide the most solid and durable perimeter for the mattress. They also help to provide a uniform sleep surface and reduce motion transfer.
Can You Add Edge Support to an Existing Mattress?
It’s not possible to add edge support to an existing mattress as it’s a feature that must be built into the mattress during manufacturing. However, using a mattress topper or a bed frame with solid edges can help to provide some additional support.
Do All Mattresses Feature Edge Support?
No, not all mattresses feature edge support. It’s commonly found in higher-end mattresses that are designed to be more durable and long-lasting. Lower-end mattresses may not have edge support, which can lead to sagging or collapsing over time.
What Makes Edge Support Different from a Pillow Top or Euro Top Mattress?
An edge support mattress ( The Revolutionary Edge Support Mattress That Will Change Your Life ) provides additional structural reinforcement to the sides of the mattress. A pillow top or Euro top mattress, on the other hand, refers to a soft cushiony layer that’s sewn into the top layer of the mattress.
Do I Need Edge Support in My Mattress?
The need for edge support in a mattress varies depending on personal preferences and sleeping habits. If you sleep on the edge of the mattress or share your bed with someone, edge support can provide additional support and prevent uneven wear and tear. If you don’t have these concerns, edge support may not be necessary.
How Do You Choose the Right Mattress with Edge Support?
When choosing a mattress with edge support, consider your sleeping habits and preferences, as well as your budget. Look for a mattress with the type of edge support that best meets your needs, whether it’s foam encased, coil encased, or border rods. Test out different mattresses in person to find one that provides the right amount of support and comfort.
Is Edge Support Necessary for Memory Foam Mattresses?
Edge support is particularly important for memory foam mattresses, which are prone to sinking around the edges. Without proper edge support, a memory foam mattress ( This Memory Foam Mattress is Revolutionizing the Way We Sleep! ) can develop uneven wear and tear and require replacement sooner than expected.
Can Edge Support Cause Discomfort?
In some cases, edge support can cause discomfort, especially if it’s too firm. If you find that the edges of your mattress are uncomfortable, consider a different type of edge support or a different mattress altogether.
Is Edge Support Covered by Mattress Warranty?
Edge support is often covered by mattress warranties as it’s considered a manufacturing defect. However, it’s important to read the fine print of your warranty to understand what’s covered and what’s not.
Edge support in mattresses
1. Classic Brands Cool Gel Memory Foam 14-Inch Mattress with BONUS Pillow/CertiPUR-US Certified/Bed-in-a-Box, Queen, White
This mattress provides a high level of support around the edges, thanks to the advanced cooling gel-infused memory foam technology used in its construction. The edge support ensures that you can sleep soundly without worrying about falling off the bed.
2. Zinus 10 Inch Support Plus Pocket Spring Hybrid Mattress/Extra Firm Feel/More Coils for Durable Support/Pocket Innersprings for Motion Isolation/Bed-in-a-Box, Queen
This hybrid mattress ( Why Hybrid Mattresses are Taking the Sleep Industry by Storm ) from Zinus features an extra-firm feel that provides enhanced edge support. It contains pocket innersprings that maintain motion isolation, so if you move around in your sleep, your partner won’t be disturbed.
3. Sleep Innovations Shiloh 12-inch Memory Foam Mattress, Bed in a Box, Quilted Cover, Made in The USA, 10-Year Warranty – Queen Size
This mattress provides edge-to-edge support, ensuring that you can sleep comfortably without worrying about rolling over or falling off the bed. The advanced memory foam technology used in its construction conforms to your body and relieves pressure points, giving you a restful night’s sleep.
4. Sweetnight Ocean Blue 8″ Hybrid Mattress | Gel Memory Foam & Individually Pocket Springs | Full Size
The Sweetnight Ocean Blue mattress features a high-density foam that provides comfortable support around the edges, while the individually pocketed coils keep your spine aligned, ensuring a good night’s sleep. It’s hypoallergenic ( The Secret to a Great Night’s Sleep? Antimicrobial and Hypoallergenic Mattresses! ) and comes with a 10-year warranty.
5. Tuft & Needle Adaptive Foam Mattress, Queen, White
This mattress features a high-density foam layer that provides enhanced edge support, ensuring that you won’t slide off or roll over during the night. The adaptive foam layer conforms to your body and relieves pressure points, making it an excellent choice for people with back pain.
6. Linenspa 10 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress – Medium Feel – Queen
This hybrid mattress from Linenspa features memory foam and innerspring coils that combine to provide support around the edges and the center of the bed. The medium feel offers a balanced amount of support, cradling your body while keeping your spine aligned.
7. Olee Sleep 10 Inch Gel Infused Layer Top Memory Foam Mattress Blue, Queen
This Olee Sleep mattress is designed to provide edge-to-edge support, ensuring that you can sleep comfortably without worrying about falling off the bed. The gel-infused memory foam layer conforms to your body, relieving pressure points and reducing motion transfer.
8. Beautyrest Hybrid 12″ BRX1000-IP Medium Firm Mattress, Queen
This hybrid mattress from Beautyrest features a medium firm level of support, ensuring that you won’t sink into the bed while still providing adequate cushioning. The advanced coil technology used in its construction provides edge support, ensuring that you can sleep comfortably without worrying about falling off the bed.
9. LUCID 10 Inch 2019 Gel Memory Foam Mattress – Medium Firm Feel – CertiPUR-US Certified – 10-Year Warranty – Queen
This mattress from LUCID features a medium firm level of support that provides cushioning while still maintaining proper spinal alignment. The advanced memory foam technology used in its construction provides support around the edges, ensuring that you can sleep comfortably without worrying about falling off the bed.
10. Sealy Hybrid Essentials 12-Inch Medium-Firm Mattress, Queen
This hybrid mattress from Sealy features a medium-firm level of support that cradles your body while keeping your spine aligned. The advanced coil technology used in its construction provides edge support, ensuring that you can sleep comfortably without worrying about falling off the bed.
Pros and Cons of Edge Support in Mattresses
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, edge support in mattresses has its benefits and drawbacks. While it can provide better support and prevent sagging, it also increases the cost and reduces flexibility. It is up to individuals to determine whether edge support is necessary for their sleep needs and preferences.
