Sheets for Memory Foam Mattresses

So now that you have your new Memory Foam Mattress, you may be wondering about linens and sheets. A common question with many consumers ask is if they need special sheets for their new mattress or if there is one type that is better then another. Generally speaking, any sheets can work on a memory foam mattress. Here are a few pointers:

Material: Most sheets are cotton, or cotton/polyester blends. The 100% cotton are going to feel better and will usually breathe better. Most consumers agree that Egyptian Cotton is more durable and better wearing, which has made it a hot item recently. Silk and satin sheets will also work but tend to be less breathable. I have had many people tell me that jersey cotton sheets are a favorite with memory foam mattresses, as they stretch nicely and don’t pull up as much on the sides.

Depth: Make sure you know the depth of your mattress before buying sheets. Most memory foam beds fall within a normal range 10”-13” so sheets won’t be too hard to come by. If you have a low profile bed, like 8”-9” thick, you may want to look for sheets that have 11” or less pockets, as some sheets may be too baggy. If your mattress measures over 13” high make sure you get “deep-pocket” sheets designed to fit the required height.

Size: Know your bed size! Memory foam beds are available in a wide array of sizes and adjustable bed mattresses often use abnormal sizes, so it is important to know what you need. Here is a guide:
• Twin- 38-39” W x 74-75” L
• Twin XL- 38-39” W x 80” L
• Full- 54” W x 74-75” L
• Full XL- 54” W x 80” L
• Queen- 60” W x 80” L
• Expanded Queen- 66” W x 80” L
• Split Queen- (2) 30” W x 80”L units
• Eastern King- 75-76” W x 80” L
• Split Eastern King- (2) 38-39” W x 80” L units (2 Twin XLs)
• California King- 72” W x 84” L
• Split California King- (2) 36” W x 84” L units.

Thread Counts: The thread count of fabric determines how soft and luxurious it is and how well it will wear. Lower thread counts feel less silky and will show wear faster then high thread counts. Under 250 TC is typically considered “low”. 300-400 TC are suitable for most people. High thread counts would be anything over 500, and anything over 1000 should be of the most luxurious quality. Ultra soft sheets soothe the senses and can definitely add luxury to your bed. Definitely a worthwhile splurge.

What are the different mattress sizes?

First off, all mattresses in the US are made to standard sizes. The main mattress sizes that can be found in today's market are Twin, Twin Long, Full, Full Long, Queen, King, and California King. Mattress manufacturers make them to standard specifications, so the same size of mattress should not very more than an inch or so from place to place. Make sure to know what kind of bed you have or are looking for before shopping.

A regular or Eastern king measures 76" x 80" and is essentially two twin long mattresses. This is how you get "Split King" adjustable beds. A California king is 4" longer but 4" narrower (72 x 84"). So basically, if you want width, go with a regular king, if you are tall and need length, go with a California King.

Queen size is 60" x 80" and is usually sufficient for couples. Queen is the most popular size in America right now.

Full size beds are also recommended for single people. They measure about 53-54" wide and 75" long. There is also a full XL size that is 54" x 80".

For a single person, a twin or twin long will often provide enough space. A twin measures about 75 inches long and about 39 inches wide, which will work for an average size person under 5'7" or so. Taller individuals will feel more comfortable with the Twin XL length, which is 80 inches. A twin XL is half of a regular king size bed.

Also, you can order specialty sizes (like RV queens, or any other sizes)from many companies as well. Foam mattresses, like latex or memory foam mattresses, are great with custom sizes. Even Sleep Number beds and other air mattresses are available in special sizes, like RV queens.

Adjustable Beds for Couples with Different Needs

With many couples, it holds true that opposites attract. Often times, you will have partners that prefer to sleep in different positions partners that have different ailments, and partners that prefer different mattress firmnesses.

One of the best advances in bedroom comfort is proving to be the Adjustable Bed. It is helping many people manage symptoms of disorders such as fibromyalgia, sleep apnea, acid reflux, poor circulation, etc. Even those that are just looking for extra pampering can take advantage of the many features and benefits such as

-Being able put your feet up after a long day
-Sitting up and reading or watching TV without straining
-You can get a massage in bed
-Positioning your self in ways that aid comfort. For instance, those with acid reflux -prefer the head up slightly, whereas those with poor circulation prefer the feet up.
-You can experience the renowned Zero-Gravity position
-You can completely customize the way you sleep, and even live!

Since couples are two different people, usually with different needs, adjustable beds also come in split models. The most popular is the Split King Adjustable Bed. Two individual Twin-Long size units attach at the base and are able to move independently. For instance, if you have one partner with acid reflux and one with poor circulation they are obviously not going to be comfortable sleeping in the same manner. The person with acid reflux can adjust the head of the bed up and the person with poor circulation can adjust their feet upwards to promote circulation and even get a massage before bed!

This is also beneficial when you have one person that may prefer a firm latex bed, and one that prefers a soft memory foam bed. For maximum comfort, it suggested to keep mattress heights equal, but the materials and firmness of the mattress on each side can be personalized.