The quality of your mattress and pillow may affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep. When you are uncomfortable, falling asleep is more difficult and can lead to restlessness.

Mattresses

There are many different mattresses on the market, made from a variety of materials. From metal springs and foam, to fabric, water and air, the type you choose can affect not only your body temperature but also your comfort. According to the Better Sleep Council, a new mattress can make all the difference in how you feel and function each and every day.

So what should you look for in finding the perfect mattress? To help alleviate the confusion of buying a mattress, the Better Sleep Council has developed guidelines to help you through the purchasing process. It’s called the EASE Method and has four steps:

• Evaluate your current bed to determine if it’s time for a new one: Your mattress can still feel comfortable long after it has lost its ability to provide your body with the proper support and comfort it needs. Signs that you may need a new mattress include waking up with stiffness, numbness, aches or pains; you are getting a better night’s sleep in a place other than your own bed; your mattress has visible signs of overuse; or your mattress is five to seven years old.
  
  
• Arm yourself with the knowledge needed to make the best purchase for you: Once you’ve decided it’s time to purchase a new mattress, it’s important to research your options before you buy. Discover what is available before you shop so you have a clear idea of what will suit your individual needs. You will be more satisfied with your purchase if you have made an informed decision.
  
  
• Shop to find the right mattress to suit your individual needs: The best way to ensure that you’re a satisfied customer is to shop at stores you trust will give you good information, good service and top quality products. Look for educated salespeople who can guide you through the many choices. Go to multiple stores and compare values, making sure you “test drive” your new mattress in the store by lying down on several different models in various positions. Pay special attention to the way the mattress supports your lower back, and make sure you feel plenty of comfort.
  
  
• Ensure that you get the most out of your mattress with quality care: Once you have made sure your mattress is properly installed in your home, there are simple steps you can take to care for your mattress: Rotate your mattress periodically from end-to-end and from top-to-bottom; use a protective mattress pad; be sure to use a high quality, sturdy bed frame; do not remove the tag; do not let anyone jump on it; never soak a mattress in any type of liquid; and do not put boards between the mattress and foundation.

Pillows

Just as your mattress should provide good support for your body, your pillow should give you the right cushioning to position your head and neck properly. According to the Better Sleep Council, when selecting a pillow, find one that holds your head in the same relation to your shoulders and spine as if you were standing with correct upright postures.

If you are a side sleeper, a firm pillow may be best for you because it will give your head and neck extra support. If you tend to sleep on your back, you may want to try a medium-firm pillow because it will cradle your head allowing it to sink in to the perfect level of comfort and alignment. If you are a stomach sleeper (although many physicians advise against sleeping in this position), you may want to choose a soft pillow in order to lessen the strain on your neck.

Sources: National Sleep Foundation, Better Sleep Council.