Sleep Systems: How to Choose a Mattress?

6. Air and Water Mattresses

Air and Water Mattresses
Air and Water Mattresses

Air

These are foldable inflatable beds that are used as a quick fix solution. They are light and comfortable to use. An air mattress has chambers filled with air that are covered by padding or upholstery materials for a support system. You can adjust the level of firmness. It is best suited for people with back, mainly lower pain, neck and shoulder issues. It is best used for camping and travelling.

Pros

Portable, light, do not suffer from sagging, do not absorb body heat, PVC material used in the manufacture of airbeds is odourless.

Cons

Vulnerable to punctures and leaks, can be noisy.

Water

Water beds are mattresses with a base which comprises of water for support and comfort. It is known to provide a comforting and a naturally calm sleep. It can be topped with foam or spring of your choice to make it more suitable to your purpose. Being a relatively new concept, water beds have higher price point as compared to other mattresses. It is the best choice for back sleepers. A waterbed consists of a rectangular chamber of water padded with upholstery material, such as foam or fibers. The two kinds of mattresses; free-flowing- ‘giving a wave feel’ and a limited-flowing ‘waveless’ differ on the basis of the state of water in the foam. Best choice for tummy sleepers.

Pros

Provides support, comfort, has a natural calm.

Cons

Vulnerable to puncture and leak, is expensive.