This guide is meant to explain some differences and terms used to help you make the right choice and to be aware of some major differences in bed types. It is not meant to be a fully exhaustive description. If you have any questions please feel free to call me on 07999 007 000 or mail me with your questions.
What is Orthopaedic?
In bed terms this simply relates to the firmness of the mattress. The spring system in an orthopaedic bed must be 12.5 gauge - this is the usually the strongest used and creates a very supportive foundation
However..
It does not mean the bed will be rock hard. Although the spring used will be strong and supportive the layers of felts and waddings used to make up the mattress can make it medium to firm or indeed, firm
The Benefits..
If you are of a large build, say 15 to 18 stone you will be getting the support you require of a strong and supportive foundation. A spring with a lighter tension (13g or 13.5g) may not be able to give you the support you require.
Over 16stone?
Choosing the correct bed becomes really important. If you are not supported correctly then you will, without doubt suffer with your back. Consider a high count pocket sprung mattress or an orthopaedic mattress that will give you the extra support but also the cradling effect that your spine requires.
Ortho Care..
This is a term used when a thinner spring is used in conjunction with an orthopaedic pad. This is a very firm layer of highly compressed wadding used to 'firm up' the springs with other layers of padding to create a relatively firm mattress. Other terms used for this type of mattress is Back Care or Ortho Support. Although not really suitable for the bigger person who requires the spring system to be strong - it is a good choice for people who prefer a firm mattress.
Tufted or Deep Quilted?
Hand Tufted means a mattress that has several 'buttons' or 'tufts' sewn completely through the mattress to keep the fillings stable.
Deep Quilted is where the surface of the mattress is quilted to a layer(s) of the uppermost wadding to provide a more flatter surface.
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Hand tufted and Deep Quilted examples
What is better?
Neither. It is all down to a personal preference. However, a mattress with a tufted surface is usually slightly firmer than one that has been deep quilted as a greater surface tension is created. Some sensitive people can actually feel the tufts even underneath a protector.
Customise your bed...
Out of all the mattresses that are available it is highly unlikely that you will ever find the perfect one for you. Once you have the spring system you require it is easy to customise the sleep surface by use of toppers - either memory foam, foam or indeed just a quilt underneath your mattress protector.
Hotels and Guest Houses
I highly recommend you use a mattress with an orthopaedic spring system or indeed a high count Pocket Spring mattress. The mattress will no doubt be used as seating as well sleeping and the spring will be able to take this additional use.