How To Choose The Right Mattress For a Sleigh Bed?
If you own or plan on buying a sleigh bed, the next item on your list will be a comfortable mattress. However, sleigh beds have a unique design, that makes shopping for a mattress more tricky.
A sleigh bed has a curved or scrolled headboard and footboard, which resemble the shape of a traditional sleigh or sled.
Their unique appearance adds a touch of timeless charm to any bedroom, making them a popular choice for those seeking a blend of aesthetics and comfort in their sleeping space.
What type of mattress should you get for a sleigh bed?
Generally, when you buy a sleigh bed, it doesn’t include a mattress, leaving the choice of the perfect mattress up to you.
Ideally, you should opt for a mattress that is slightly thinner than the space between the slats and the top of the footboard on your sleigh bed. This way the mattress will not be higher than the footboard, and the distinctive “scroll design” will be more prominent.
The average thickness of mattresses typically falls in the range of 20 to 30 centimeters (8 to 12 inches). However, mattress thickness can vary significantly, with some options as thin as 15 centimeters (6 inches) and others as thick as 35 centimeters (14 inches) or more.
7 Tips on choosing the right mattress:
Here are some tips on the things you should look out for when shopping for a new mattress:
1. Select the Right Size
Ensure the mattress size corresponds to your sleigh bed’s dimensions. A double-size bed frame, for example, should accommodate a double-size mattress.
You’ll be able to find mattresses in all standard UK sizes: single, small double, double, king and super king.
Additionally, check the dimensions, such as the length and width of the bed. Also, the height of the headboard and footboard are also important.
Here you can see the Castello Fabric Sleigh Bed. It’s king size has a length of 259cm (C) and width of 163cm (D). It fits a king size mattress: 150 x 200 cm.
It’s sold in double, king and super king. For all sizes it has these common dimensions:
- A – Headboard Height: 118cm
- B – Footboard Height: 66cm
- E – Floor Clearance: 11cm
- Slats to Headboard Height: 74.5cm
- Slats to Footboard Height: 36cm
The choice of mattress type is crucial for your comfort. There are various options available, including innerspring, memory foam, latex, hybrid, and more. Select a mattress type that aligns with your sleep preferences and needs.
Memory foam and latex mattresses often conform to your body shape, providing excellent support and pressure relief, while innerspring mattresses may offer a more traditional feel with added bounce.
3. Determine Firmness Level
Mattresses come in varying levels of firmness, from soft to extra firm. The ideal firmness level depends on your personal preferences, body type, and sleep position. Side sleepers may prefer a softer mattress for cushioning the shoulders and hips, while back or stomach sleepers might opt for medium to firm options for better spinal alignment.
4. Consider Thickness
The thickness or depth of a mattress can impact the overall look of your sleigh bed. While most standard mattresses are around 10 to 12 inches thick, consider whether a thicker or thinner mattress complements the bed’s proportions and maintains the desired aesthetic appeal.
5. Address Height Concerns
Some sleigh beds have a higher or lower profile, affecting the overall height of your sleeping surface. Ensure the chosen mattress height aligns with your bed’s design, making it easy to get in and out of bed comfortably.
6. Consider Edge Support
Sleigh beds often have a curvaceous design that can limit the support along the edges of the mattress. Look for a mattress with good edge support, so you can utilize the full surface of your bed without feeling like you might roll off.
7. Review Warranty and Return Policies
Before finalising your purchase, thoroughly read and understand the mattress warranty and return policies. This ensures you have peace of mind in case you encounter any issues with the mattress.
Account for Bedding
Keep in mind that the bedding you plan on using will also add to the height of the mattress. For example, if you’ll be using a winter duvet or blankets to dress your bed, they’ll impact the appearance.
Additionally, if you plan on using a mattress topper, that will also impact how the sleigh bed looks.
Here you can see the Hadley Velvet Sleigh Bed Frame. As you can see, the mattress appears to be higher than the foot-end. One of the reasons for this is the duvet and blanket.
It’s just a matter of personal preference if you want the mattress to be higher or lower than the foot-end.
Solid vs. Sprung Slats:
Solid slats and sprung slats are two common types of mattress support systems for bed frames, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Here is a summary of the pros and cons of each, so you know what to expect when sleeping on solid or sprung slats.
Solid Slats Pros include:
- Stability: Solid slats provide a sturdy, even surface, offering excellent support for your mattress. This helps prevent mattress sagging and ensures a more stable sleeping experience.
- Durability: Solid slats are often more durable than their sprung counterparts, as they are less prone to wear and tear over time.
- Cost-Effective: Solid slat systems tend to be more budget-friendly than sprung slats, making them an attractive option for those looking to save on bed frame costs.
Solid Slats Cons include:
- Limited Flexibility: Solid slats are less flexible than sprung slats, which can affect mattress ventilation and pressure relief. They may not contour to your body as well.
- Potentially Less Comfort: The reduced flexibility can lead to a firmer sleeping surface, which may not suit everyone’s comfort preferences.
Sprung Slats Pros:
- Improved Comfort: Sprung slats are designed to provide better mattress support and adapt to your body’s contours. They offer enhanced pressure relief and comfort.
- Ventilation: The gaps between sprung slats allow for improved air circulation, reducing the risk of moisture buildup and enhancing mattress longevity.
- Reduced Noise: The flexibility of sprung slats often reduces creaking and noise, ensuring a quieter night’s sleep.
Sprung Slats Cons:
- Cost: Bed frames with sprung slats are typically more expensive than those with solid slats, which can be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers.
- Less Durability: Sprung slats may require more maintenance and are generally less durable, as the flexibility can lead to sagging over time.
In conclusion, selecting the perfect mattress for your sleigh bed is a balance of aesthetics and comfort.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy both the visual charm of your sleigh bed and the comfort of a quality mattress for restful sleep.