One in Three Newlyweds Likely to Purchase Sleep Sets Within a Year of Marriage,Better Sleep Council Offers Important Mattress Shopping Tips

(ARA) - Newlyweds are rushing straight to the bedroom -- when furniture shopping that is. Mattress and foundation sets are two of the most-purchased furniture items by engaged and newlywed couples. Recent research shows nearly 1 in every 3 newlyweds purchase one within a 12-month period. However, before investing in this important piece of furniture, the Better Sleep Council offers a few basic guidelines to help ensure newlyweds are getting the right sleep set for both bride and groom.

"In order to make comfortable sleep a reality for newlyweds, it's important that they carefully try out new mattresses by taking a 'rest test' together, visiting mattress retailers, and comparing the comfort and support of new sleep sets with their old sleep set at home," said Andrea Herman, Director, Better Sleep Council. "A mattress that meets both partners' needs for size, comfort and support will make comfortable sleep a reality for both the bride and the groom."

The "Rest Test": Getting Started

Prior to starting your quest for the perfect mattress and even stepping into the store, the BSC recommends keeping these simple tips in mind:

First, think about your needs. Determine ahead of time what your new bedroom can handle. Your room may be able to accommodate a king-size mattress and you never even knew it.

Second, plan enough time to try out mattresses. Because comfort is a matter of personal preference, couples will want to lie down on several mattresses to find the one that feels the most comfortable. Take the time to evaluate a variety of mattresses and then discuss which one feels the best and meets both your needs.

Third, wear comfortable clothes. Be sure to wear clothes that allow you to move freely when trying out mattresses. Women may want to consider wearing slacks or shorts.

Fourth, be sure to shop with yourfiancéé or spouse. It's important to choose a sleep set that both bride and groom feel comfortable with. Otherwise, there's a chance only one of you will sleep well at night.

Two Easy Steps

Once in the store, take the following "rest test" to help ensure that the mattress you purchase meets both you and your spouse's comfort preferences and needs. It's easy. Here's how:

Step One: Lie Down on Your Back.

Ask the following questions: Do we feel comfortable? Does the mattress gently support all points of our bodies?

Contrary to popular belief, a mattress does not have to be hard to be good for you. In fact, some people may prefer a plusher feel. When selecting a mattress, your body should be able to relax, with your spine supported in the same position as good standing posture.

Step Two: Get Into Your Usual Sleep Position.

Ask the following questions: Do we have enough room to move around easily while we sleep? Do we feel comfortable? Do we feel gently supported?

The mattress you select should give both you and your spouse enough room to move freely during the night. You should also feel comfortable regardless of the position both of you sleep in.

"The hard part is over -- you've already found the person of your dreams. Now finding the mattress of your dreams is easy -- it's the one that makes your body feel relaxed and comfortable," concluded Herman.

For more information on getting a good night's sleep or to download a copy of the "Better Sleep Guide," visit the Better Sleep Council's Web site at www.bettersleep.org.

Courtesy of ARA Content