What's "Better"? A Hard or Soft Mattress?

There's an age-old question among sleepers – whether to buy a hard mattress or a soft one. Either side hosts strong allegiances, and will claim that their version is better for the back, more comfortable, and a clear choice all should make. They also claim that their version is better for the muscles, as well as for posture in general. But which type of mattress is actually better? And what type of surface should you be sleeping on? 

The answer might actually be somewhere in-between. In a recent report of mattress softness ratios, where 1 is extremely firm and 10 is as soft as it gets, results showed the least amount of back pain came with mattresses measuring at 5.6.

Additional research shows that when a mattress is too firm, it puts unnecessary pressure on joints and bones, especially those that are more likely to sit unevenly, like the hips and shoulders (when sleeping on the side). Additionally, when sleeping on the back, a surface that's too firm won't let the body "settle" and properly displace weight. 

Meanwhile, a mattress that is too soft won't offer up support at all. It will let the rear and lower back sink, rather than holding them upright. Though these mattresses might feel comfortable at first, as a long-term solution they can actually cause more harm than good. This is also true of mattresses that are too worn, even if they are firm (or were initially). 

When mattress shopping, consider a version that's in-between normal soft and firm standards. This in-between version can provide plenty of ongoing support, while offering back posture right where it's needed. Additional pain prevention can be found with toppers or support pillows that are specially designed for body posture. 

Start browsing available options on ContourLiving.com today.

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Are you at Risk for Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs have become an ever-growing threat across the U.S. And nothing sounds less pleasant than an infestation of bugs that bite and crawl through our resting places each night. Not only does it make it impossible to sleep, there is an entire round of critters that must be dealt with. Making all the more important to ensure that you haven’t been exposed – or won’t be exposed – to these living nuisances. 

If you’ve stayed in a hotel or traveled within recent weeks, it’s a good idea to check your bed for signs of bugs. You’ll also gain bites or rashes once coming in contact with these pesky creatures. After checking for bites, look in your sheets, and in nooks and crannies on the mattress, including seams, bed skirts, box springs, etc. Though small, each bed bug is about the size and color of an apple seed, meaning they can easily be tracked down if you know what to look for. If no signs are found, you’re likely safe! When locating bug feces, exoskeletons, or bugs themselves, however, will call for an at-home treatment or the help of an exterminator. 

How to Avoid Bed Bugs

In the future, be sure to check for signs of infestations when traveling. Check mattress corners when checking in, while strong musty scents can also be a warning sign. Finally, keep your luggage off the bed and floor. Instead, opt for a hard surface (such as provided dressers), or suitcase stands. These surfaces will be harder for bugs to climb, and ensure an extra level of protection, no matter how long your stay.

When traveling, there’s always an added fear of bringing critters home, especially with growing numbers of bed bugs taking over our vacation plans. But by being aware of what to look for, and taking precautionary measures, you can greatly reduce the chances of bed bugs taking hold. 

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Rave Reviews for the Flip Pillow … and it’s on Sale!

For a limited time, the Flip Pillow is on sale. Stock up now for access to plenty of your favorite transformable, flip-able pillows while they’re at their best price yet! This Back to School offer comes in plenty of time for college students to stock up before moving to the dorms, while the post-school crowd can simply take advantage of a great deal. Whether moving into a new location or just looking for an affordable way to gain comfort throughout the night, the Flip Pillow works as a great solution for the entire crowd. 

Not only is it a great way to add comfort to any couch or bed, you can save some funds while doing so. Best of all, there’s even free shipping – no need to worry about extra or add-on costs. Simply order your Flip Pillow(s) during our Back to School Special, and start earning the benefits of ongoing neck and back support. 

Here’s what some of our past customers have had to say about the product. 

“So far, so good. Bought this pillow for my partner who just had her tonsils and adenoids removed and it is doing the job. So thankful I had it shipped just in time to arrive for her recovery.” July 2014

“I have developed a chronic cough and find that I sleep more easily with my head raised. I had tried several foam wedges that were not comfortable and then the Flip Pillow.”   May 2014

“Love my pillow … offers great support yet very soft. Would highly recommend for reading and watching TV.” March 2014

And this is just a scratch on the surface! Plenty more satisfied customers have shared their experiences with the Flip Pillow as well. To read more reviews, or to take advantage of this incredible sale today, head to the Flip Pillow product page. 

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