Author: Texas Mattress Makers

We’ve put together our best mattress shopping tips to educate consumers on how to buy a mattress that lasts and won’t break your budget — or your spirit — in the process. If mattress shopping feels overwhelming but you’re ready to take the plunge, Texas Mattress Makers is well-known for providing an easier shopping experience than other mattress stores in Houston. 

Texas Mattress Makers was formed with the mission of helping people avoid common mistakes when shopping for mattresses, as well as providing them with mattresses that improve their sleep quality and quality of life. You can make 2025 the year of better sleep when you shop with us.

Planning to upgrade your mattress in the new year? Find your perfect mattress easily with our best mattress shopping tips for 2025!

• Shop for a mattress in person
• Avoid “smart mattresses”
• Invest in the components that work best for you
• Don’t focus solely on the price tag
• Protect your mattress
• Read the mattress warranty
• Seek guidance from mattress experts

What are the top aspects to consider when buying a mattress?

If you’re unsure what to ask when buying a mattress, here are some things to consider when selecting your forever mattress.

• Components: These are the materials that make up the comfort and supportive portions of the mattress. Different components provide different levels of comfort, support, and pain relief, along with other benefits.
• Comfort level: There is more than just “soft” or “firm.” Choose a mattress that feels comfortable for your preferred sleeping position so that you’re content all night. Texas Mattress Makers’s comfort levels range from ultra-soft to ultra-firm to provide you with a variety of choices and feels. 
• Cooling features: Invest in a mattress with cooling technology if you tend to sleep hot or live in a warmer climate like Texas.
• Motion isolation: If you share your bed, consider a mattress with good motion isolation to minimize sleep disruptions between you and your partner.
• Trial period: Make sure you have at least 30-60 nights to properly break in your mattress. This will let you know whether or not the mattress you bought will suit you long-term.
• Overall quality of construction: Mattresses that have been tested for their quality are more likely to last longer and be worth your investment. Texas Mattress Makers’s mattresses have all gone through rigorous testing procedures that proved their durability and longevity.

Tip 1: Shop for a mattress in person

This may be the most important of all of our mattress shopping tips: try out a mattress in person before you buy it. While browsing beds online is great for the research phase, you can’t know how a mattress will feel and perform through a screen. Is it comfortable enough? Does it support your body correctly? Does it feel high-quality? You won’t know unless you try it in person.

Shopping in person gives you as a consumer the following benefits:

• You will know exactly what you’re buying before you commit.
• You will save time and money.
• You can shop alongside an expert (more on this later).
• You’re more likely to get a mattress you will love.
• You’ll get better sleep for a healthier life.

Laying on a mattress for about 10-15 minutes in your preferred sleep position will give you the best idea of how that mattress will perform. The mattresses in our showroom are already “broken in” so you can get a better idea of how the bed will feel after it has been slept on frequently. Texas Mattress Makers offers multiple in-person showrooms in the Houston area where you can try various options of our top-quality beds.

Tip 2: Avoid “smart mattresses”

As technology advances, “smart mattresses” have made their way into retail stores. And while technology has improved some areas of our lives, smart mattresses — which often come with apps and sensors to monitor your sleep — don’t guarantee better sleep. 

As experts, we’ve noticed that these high-tech mattresses focus more on tracking and monitoring your sleep patterns and overwhelming you with data rather than helping you fix your sleep problems.

Instead of spending a fortune on features that are not directly related to comfort or support, focus on finding a mattress that meets your actual needs. A good mattress will promote restful sleep without unnecessary apps, gadgets, or gizmos.

Tip 3: Invest in the components that work best for you

No two mattresses are the same at Texas Mattress Makers. Each mattress that we manufacture has a unique combination of our top-quality components that cater to a wide range of sleep needs. In order to get the best sleep possible, it’s important to know which components will benefit you best.

• If you sleep hot, invest in a mattress with cooling technology that will regulate your body temperature throughout the night.
• If you need more support, our exclusive Quantum™ Coil component is the most supportive coil in the mattress industry and is built to last with unmatched durability.
• If you need optimal pressure relief, our all-natural latex component eases joint pain and provides soothing comfort while being breathable, hypoallergenic, and eco-friendly.
• If you prefer cradling comfort, our foam components, including memory foam and 100% foam mattresses, offer balanced, pain-relieving body support that helps you sleep soundly in any position without the sinking feeling.

Unsure which components would work best for your needs? Our experts will work with you to determine which mattress will suit you best overall for unmatched comfort and support.

Tip 4: Don’t focus solely on the price tag

For most buyers, the most stressful part of mattress shopping is the idea of spending a large chunk of change. This leads many people to purchase a cheap mattress that they believe will “get the job done.” However, buying a cheap mattress might save you money upfront, but it often costs more in the long run. A low-quality mattress may wear out faster, lack adequate support, and compromise your sleep quality, meaning it will need to be replaced more frequently. And that will add up over time.

Texas Mattress Makers carries the highest quality mattresses in Houston for the best prices available.  Although you should be mindful of your budget, go into mattress shopping with the goal of finding the best model for you. Focus on the components that make up the mattress and what feels best for your body and sleep needs — because that will be worth every penny.

Our experts can help you find a mattress that will suit you perfectly within your means so you won’t feel like you’re breaking the bank.

Tip 5: Protect your mattress

Your mattress can harbor irritants and other gross things over time, which can affect its lifespan. Some examples include:

• Stains
• Body fluids such as sweat and urine 
• Liquids and moisture
• Allergens such as pet dander, dust, and dirt
• Mold
• Bed bugs and other insects

If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, investing in a quality mattress protector will keep your mattress clean and shield it from any hazards that can seep into the materials. This will protect your bed from excessive wear and tear, and extend the lifespan of your mattress by years, allowing you to sleep comfortably on your bed for as long as you want!

Protect your investment in 2025 for better sleep that can last a lifetime.

Tip 6: Read the mattress warranty

This tip should be obvious, but you would be surprised how many customers skip over reading their mattress warranty before purchasing. Even though we pride ourselves on matching people with their perfect mattress, sometimes, it may not be the best fit, and that’s okay! If you want to avoid any hassle, read through our warranty and return policy carefully.

We offer our customers what we call our Comfort Guarantee: if you feel that your new mattress is not perfect after 30 – 60 nights of consistent sleep, you may call us before the 90-night deadline so that we can help you find a solution. 

See what our factory warranty does and does not cover. 

Tip 7: Seek guidance from mattress experts

Finding your perfect mattress match can be overwhelming, especially with many available options and information. So, how do I know what mattress is best for me? The best way to ensure that you are bringing home the best bed possible is to shop alongside a mattress expert from Texas Mattress Makers.

You mean like a salesperson? Nope. Better.

Because they are trained to understand our manufacturing processes, our mattress experts can help clarify the nuances between mattress types, materials, and sleep benefits, guiding you to a mattress that aligns with your needs and preferences. In short, they know more about our mattresses than any salesperson ever could. Their expertise allows them to recommend certain components and solutions that can aid in a variety of sleep issues.

At Texas Mattress Makers, our team is passionate about helping you find the best mattress for your unique sleep style and budget. We believe that everyone deserves a great night’s sleep and are here to ensure you get it.

Shop at the Best Mattress Store Houston Has to Offer in 2025

If you put off buying a new mattress in 2024, this is your sign to upgrade to a better mattress with Texas Mattress Makers. With these mattress shopping tips, you’re now well-prepared to make an informed decision when selecting a mattress that suits both your lifestyle and your sleep needs in 2025. 

When you’re ready to get better sleep, visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores today. Our showrooms are designed to make mattress shopping as simple and stress-free as possible. See you soon!

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How to Find a Good Quality Mattress
• How Much Does a Good Mattress Cost?
• Bad Pillow Symptoms: When to Upgrade Your Pillow
• Do You Need a Mattress Protector? Yes, Here’s Why.
• Do I Need a Foundation for My Mattress?

Do you find it more difficult to sleep in the winter? If so, you may be experiencing winter insomnia. Winter insomnia is similar to regular insomnia, during which you experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and grogginess throughout the day; the only difference is that winter insomnia, because of its seasonality, isn’t a medical diagnosis, and may stem from other health issues or disorders. 

So, what is the issue with struggling to sleep in the winter? While many sleepers shrug off the possibility of having any form of insomnia, winter insomnia can be particularly problematic as wintertime is typically a busy season. With major holidays trailing one right after the other, it’s tough to feel in the spirit when you’re exhausted.

Luckily, winter insomnia can often be easily treated with a number of tips — and the right mattress.

Do we need more sleep in winter? 

Research suggests that humans require more and deeper sleep in the wintertime than we do in other seasons. Think about it: mammals, amphibians, and other animal species get to take the whole season off to hibernate — we humans, especially here in Texas, are forced to face the colder temperatures and shorter days head-on. And while it doesn’t get particularly freezing here in the Lone Star State (except for that one time), our southern bones aren’t built to brace the cold for too long. 

To keep ourselves healthy and strong, we need to get proper sleep each night. But those who struggle with insomnia, especially during the winter months, are constantly battling with themselves to have a peaceful night. 

How long does it take for someone to fall asleep? You should be able to fall asleep within 10-15 minutes of lying down, but insomniacs might take 30 minutes or longer to finally drift off to sleep. Less sleep causes a domino effect of mental and physical health issues that make life harder every day.

What causes seasonal insomnia?

Winter insomnia, also known as seasonal insomnia, is influenced by several factors that make falling and staying asleep more difficult. Some of these factors include:

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

SAD is a type of depression that lasts throughout the same seasonal patterns each year. Most people experience seasonal depression during fall and winter because there is less sunlight — and reduced sunlight exposure causes dips in serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain that regulates your sleep cycle, causing seasonal insomnia. This can also cause some individuals to oversleep (hypersomnia).

Seasonal affective disorder usually lasts around 4-5 months, with symptoms becoming more manageable as the spring season rolls around and the days get longer. If you believe that you are affected by seasonal depression disorder, speak to a professional to pinpoint which route of treatment is best for you.

Keep reading: Is oversleeping bad?

Increased stress

While the holiday season is portrayed as a very joyous time of year, it’s no secret that its demands can make even the jolliest individual stressed out. The stress of social obligations, traveling, family gatherings, presents to purchase, and food to make can lead you to feel overly stressed and burnt out. 

The effects of stress on sleep can be pretty severe for your sleep quality. When you’re stressed, your cortisol levels increase, which is meant to give you more energy to handle the tense task, and then melatonin will swoop in to help calm you down to get a good night’s sleep. Well, too much stress tells your brain that you need to stay alert and can result in insomnia. Combatting stress-induced winter insomnia will require you to prioritize relaxation and delegating your many tasks.

Holiday eating habits

The most wonderful time of year also brings some of the most wonderful food we eat all year — but we have to admit that it’s not always the healthiest. Many of us feel tired after eating a large holiday meal because the foods are typically high in sugar and fat and cause blood sugar spikes that result in fatigue. 

That after-meal nap you feel compelled to take after your second plate will throw your sleep schedule off-balance, making it hard for you to fall asleep at night. Not to mention that heavy, late-night meals can lead to discomfort and sleep disruptions throughout the night. 

Less exercise

Speaking of unhealthy holiday habits, it’s not uncommon for anyone to skip their weekly workouts during the busy holiday season. But what some of you may not realize is that working out and sleeping go hand-in-hand to provide restful sleep. Regular exercise promotes better sleep by reducing stress and regulating your sleep cycle. If you skip your workouts, you may notice that it is more difficult for you to fall asleep.

Consistent traveling

Whether you’re flying to visit family or packing the kids in the car for a road trip, if you can’t sleep when traveling, you’ll have a hard time getting the rest you need this winter. Traveling stress, uncomfortable guest beds, and late-night parties can all throw your sleep schedule off. If you know you’ll be on the road or in the air this season, try your best to reduce stress and prioritize relaxation to combat insomnia.

How do you fix winter insomnia?

Our expert tip for how to get more sleep in the wintertime is to invest in the best mattress for your needs. Sleeping on a bad mattress can cause unnecessary discomfort, leading to restless nights and even more frequent awakenings. If you want to address your winter insomnia, invest in the right mattress.

While there is not one best mattress for insomnia, a quality mattress that supports your body’s natural spinal alignment can improve comfort, reduce tension, and encourage deeper sleep cycles to help you sleep well each night. If the idea of mattress shopping stresses you out, then try Texas Mattress Makers. Our online and in-person shopping experience is designed to make finding your perfect mattress easier and more affordable.

Aside from purchasing a top-quality mattress, here are some other tips for treating winter insomnia:

• Exercise regularly for a minimum of 20 minutes
• Soak in the sunlight soon after waking up
• Limit naps to 10 – 20 minutes
• Invest in a SAD lamp for light therapy
• Keep your home around 65 – 68° during the night 
• Prioritize relaxation before bedtime
• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
• Seek medical help from a psychologist or sleep specialist

Don’t Let Winter Insomnia Ruin Your Holidays

Getting quality sleep in the winter and every other season is incredibly important, and you cannot get a good night’s rest without a proper mattress. If you need a new mattress, you should highly consider shopping with Texas Mattress Makers.

Unlike other mattress stores in Houston, we make all of our mattresses in our on-site factory in Downtown Houston. Buying directly from the manufacturer allows you to save money while receiving a top-quality product. 

We understand that the holidays can be full of stressful shopping — but you won’t have to worry about that with us. Visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores and shop alongside an expert who can help you find your best mattress match in no time. 

You deserve only the best of the best, and we guarantee that you won’t find a better quality mattress for a better price. Our gift to you is the gift of better sleep.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How Much Sleep Do I Really Need?
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• Why You Shouldn’t Invest in a Smart Mattress
• Pros and Cons of Taking Melatonin for Sleep
• 5 Unexpected Benefits of Sleep

9:00 a.m.: “I’m still a little sleepy from waking up this morning.” 

10:00 a.m.: “Waiting for the coffee to kick in.”

11:00 a.m.: “I still feel sleepy. Maybe I should get a second cup of coffee?”

12:00 p.m.: “I really wish I could take a nap.”

1:30 p.m.: “I really, really need a nap.”

2:45 p.m.: “I can barely keep my eyes open.”

3:15 p.m.: “Is it bedtime yet?”

Daytime drowsiness — also known as excessive sleepiness or hypersomnia — occurs more often than people realize. While it’s normal to feel a little sleepy during the day, falling asleep at work, taking excessive naps, or needing caffeine to stay awake is not normal.  

Daytime sleepiness is one of the most common signs you’re not getting enough sleep during the night, as it’s your body’s way of combating sleep deprivation. However, as you might have experienced first-hand, it causes disruptions in productivity, lapses in your ability to focus, and hurts your overall health if experienced consistently. 

Are you tired of experiencing daytime drowsiness? The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to share some tips on how to stay awake during the day and combat that sluggish state. 

What causes daytime drowsiness?

What’s the deal? Why am I sleepy during the day? Well, your need for a midday snooze could be attributed to many factors, including your own sleep habits and your overall health. Daytime sleepiness or hypersomnia can be a sign of:

• Sleep apnea
• Narcolepsy
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Sleep disorders
• Poor sleep hygiene  
• Restless leg syndrome
• Depression or anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Misuse of stimulants or alcohol
• Overall poor health
• Side effects of certain medications
• Idiopathic hypersomnia (which has no known cause)

Is oversleeping bad? Yes, it can be. If you need more than nine hours of sleep at night and still find yourself longing for a nap, you could be dealing with hypersomnia or chronic fatigue. If you believe you have any type of sleep disorder, speak with your primary care physician or consult with a sleep specialist to address the root of your daytime sleepiness.

How to fight daytime sleepiness

If you’re someone who is searching for “how to get rid of daytime sleepiness instantly,” you have to know that combating sleep deprivation is not so simple. However, you can implement these tips on how to stay awake during the day and how to get more sleep at night to fight fatigue.

How to stay awake during the day

• Try healthier caffeine products: Instead of refilling the coffee pot or cracking open a soda, try a cup of green tea, matcha, or Earl Grey to perk you up without the excess sugar.
• Soak up the sun: Being out in the daylight for little bits every day can help you soak up that good Vitamin D and expose yourself to light. Take a little walk, check the mail, or simply step out for a moment of fresh air when you’re feeling sluggish.
• 20-20-20 Rule: If you’re working at a computer, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away. This can reduce eye strain and mental fatigue.
• Eat an energizing snack: Sugar may be a stimulant but it won’t keep you alert for long. Opt for low-sugar, high-fiber snacks to help you maintain more energy: peanut butter, yogurt, berries, carrots with dip, etc. Make sure you’re hydrating as well!
• Take a short nap: A 10 – 20 minute nap can recharge you without making you groggy. Avoid napping longer than 30 minutes to prevent disrupting your nighttime sleep.

Getting better sleep at night

• Manage your caffeine intake: Even if you’re not drinking coffee at night, caffeine can linger in your system for hours after consumption and can make it tougher for you to fall asleep. Avoid caffeine at least six hours before your bedtime. 
• Stick to a sleep schedule: Establishing and keeping a consistent sleep schedule means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This will help your body regulate your circadian rhythm, which tells you when it’s time to go to sleep and wake up.
• Be wary of sleep supplements: Sleep aids like melatonin can help you to fall asleep faster, but they can also have negative side effects that lead to daytime drowsiness. Read our blog on melatonin pros and cons to get the full story.
• Invest in a top-quality mattress: The true answer to how to get more sleep is to find a mattress that will help you fall asleep and stay asleep to get a full night’s rest. Think of a mattress as the foundation of your sleep quality. When you wake up refreshed, you’ll experience less daytime sleepiness. 

The right mattress for you can be the solution to many sleepless nights. Each of our mattresses in Houston is crafted for optimal support and comfort, helping to reduce nighttime tossing and turning and improve morning energy. 

Say Goodbye to Daytime Drowsiness

The solution to daytime drowsiness includes a top-quality mattress (from Texas Mattress Makers, of course), establishing healthy habits during the day, and prioritizing good sleep hygiene at night. When you get the rest your body needs, you will be able to limit daytime sleepiness and maintain energy throughout the day. Say goodbye to falling asleep at work!

We can create the best mattress Houston has to offer you due to our on-site manufacturing team, our top-quality components, and our lower factory-direct prices. Mattress shopping with our experts is simple, stress-free, and straightforward. We take the guesswork out of finding the perfect mattress for your needs.

Visit any of our mattress stores in Houston to begin your journey to better sleep today.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How Much Sleep Do I Really Need?
• 5 Unexpected Benefits of Sleep
• Benefits of Shopping for a Mattress in Person
• How Long Does it Take to Fall Asleep?
• Tips for Adjusting to Daylight Savings Time

While the idea of sleeping with pets can feel comfortable and cozy, it’s important to recognize that the reality of letting your pets sleep in your bed has both benefits and drawbacks. Now, when we’re talking about sleeping with pets, we’re mainly referring to housebroken pets like dogs and cats. If you want to sleep with your pet snake or chinchilla… that’s another conversation. 

As members of your family, your furry friends are more than welcome to stay in your bed with you; however, sleeping with dogs and cats can negatively impact your sleep quality — and bad sleep will not make you feel warm and fuzzy. 

What are the pros and cons of having your dog sleep with you? If you’re still deciding if Fluffy and Spot should share your bed with you, here are the pros and cons of sleeping with your dog or cat.

Pros and Cons of Sleeping with Pets
Pros	Cons
Emotional comfort	Allergies and germ exposure
Bonding	Sleep disturbances
Security	Hygiene concerns
Increased immune system	Space and comfort issues

Pros of sleeping with pets

Do pets help you sleep better? In some cases, they can make falling asleep a simpler task. Here are some of the benefits of sleeping with pets in your bed:

1. Emotional comfort

Many pet owners adopt a furry friend because they want a companion that helps them feel less alone. Dogs and cats can provide emotional comfort and affection, which releases endorphins like oxytocin in our brains to help us stay calm and happier. Studies have shown that snuggling with a pet you love lowers your blood pressure and calms your mind. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress — which makes it difficult to fall asleep — sleeping alongside your pet can help you to relax and fall asleep faster. 

2. Bonding

Our beds are our safe places where we go to relax, unwind, and be comfortable. Sharing your bed with your pet can deepen the bond you and your pet share. Because many pets enjoy being close to their humans, especially dogs, this time together can reinforce trust and affection. This emotional connection can help some individuals feel safer and more relaxed at night, leading to a more peaceful sleep. Also, if you tend to get cold at night, dogs and cats typically radiate a good amount of body heat, keeping you cozy all night long.

3. Security

Sleeping next to someone you love has many benefits for your sleep and your well-being. However, for single individuals or those who may live alone, a pet’s presence in bed can help them feel more secure and safe as they fall asleep. For those who struggle with conditions that make sleeping difficult, an emotional support pet can bring a sense of comfort that makes sleeping easier for the individual. 

4. Increased immune system and overall wellness

It’s no secret that having a pet, especially a dog, keeps you active. If you own a dog, you likely spend more time outside taking them on walks, playing with them, and training them. Because of this activity, dogs have been proven to improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure, making falling asleep easier. Many sources also document that dogs and cats change the makeup of bacteria that is found in our homes — and researchers hypothesize that being exposed to different types of bacteria can strengthen your immune system over time. 

Sharing a bed with your pet can increase your emotional wellness and make it easier to fall asleep. However, there are many drawbacks to sleeping with a pet in your bed that may outweigh the benefits. 

Cons of sleeping with pets

Should I let my dog sleep with me? Making the decision to let your animal into your bed every night is one that you should not rush. While there can be some nice benefits to sleeping with pets, it can have negative impacts on your sleep quality. Here are some reasons why your dog shouldn’t sleep with you.

1. Allergies and germ exposure

If you suffer from allergies, sleeping with pets is a huge no-no. In short, a bed with pet fur covering it will cause allergy flare-ups. Pets naturally shed dander, which is a combination of dead skin cells and hair, substances that are also incredibly common allergies. When your pet sleeps in your bed, this dander can accumulate in your bedding, pillows, and mattress, causing allergy flare-ups such as sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes. If you don’t want to ruin your sleep quality with late-night sneezing and difficulty breathing, it’s better to keep Spot and Fluffy out of your bedroom for the night.

One way to avoid allergy flare-ups in general is to invest in a mattress protector. Do you need a mattress protector? Absolutely! A mattress protector shields your bed from wear and tear, extending its lifespan while keeping your sleep environment clean and comfortable. If you absolutely MUST have your pet sleep in your bed, the least you can do is protect you and your mattress from dander, dust, bed bugs, and other hazards.

Keep reading: Best mattress for allergies

2. Sleep disturbances

Picture this: you and Spot are snuggling soundly, fast asleep, when suddenly you feel a kick. Spot rolls over, and his paws hit you in the face. He decides to take up the entire bed and pulls off your blankets — and he snores like a chainsaw. You wake up in the middle of the night multiple times because your pet cannot lay still or keep quiet, causing you to get less sleep. 

Sleeping with pets in your bed can cause sleep disturbances that leave you feeling unrested, groggy, and with aches and pains. Your sleep quality shouldn’t suffer for a mere few hours of cuddling.

3. Hygiene concerns

Truthfully, pets are gross sometimes. Dogs and cats spend time outdoors or in environments where they may come into contact with bacteria, parasites, or dirt. Imagine what kinds of contaminants they bring with them when they hop into your bed! Fleas, ticks, and other parasites, along with dirt and dust, can compromise the cleanliness of your bed, which could lead to health concerns for both you and your pet.

Even if your pet and sleep environment stay clean, there’s still a risk that you and your pet can make your bed an unhygienic place to be. Remember how we mentioned earlier that pets naturally radiate a lot of body heat? If you’re a hot sleeper already, sleeping with a pet will only exacerbate the problem, leaving you a sweaty mess. Sweat and other fluids, such as drool from your pet’s mouth, can seep into the mattress and damage it — and this will only get worse if you don’t own a mattress protector.

4. Space and comfort issues

Co-sleeping with a pet can become a burden to your comfort while you sleep. Pets can take up a significant amount of space on your bed, especially larger dogs. They may sprawl out, leaving little room for you to move around comfortably. Additionally, some pets like to sleep pressed up against their owners, which can make it difficult to shift positions or maintain a comfortable sleeping posture throughout the night. 

Poor sleep posture (or sleeping with your spine out of alignment) can result in aches and pains that affect your sleep quality. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t sleep well. If you’re someone who needs extra space to stretch out or moves a lot in their sleep, sharing your bed with a pet could become more of a burden than a benefit. 

Keep reading: Best mattress for co-sleeping 

Tips for sleeping with dogs and cats

If after reading the risks you are still determined to snuggle with your fur child, here are some ways to make sleeping with pets easier.

• Get a mattress protector. If there is one thing that you take away from this blog, let it be that you need a mattress protector. This will shield your mattress from dander, pet fur, and other hazards to keep your bed clean and durable. 
• Invest in a larger bed. Getting a king-sized bed or larger can help ensure enough room for you, a partner, and your pet to have space while sleeping. Note that this doesn’t always fix the issue, but it’s a good start.
• Look into cooling technology. Cooling mattresses are a great way to keep hot sleepers comfortable throughout the night, especially if your pet is warm like a furnace. 
• Provide your pet with their own bed in the bedroom. This way, they can still be close to you without sharing your personal sleeping space.
• Designate a specific sleeping spot for your pet on the bed. Giving them a specific spot on the bed can reduce their chances of disturbing your sleep.

If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, it’s important to invest in a mattress that will suit your needs. We have the best mattress store Houston has to offer with great prices, great products, and great deals for you to take advantage of.

Expert Tip: If you want to protect your living space from pet fur and dirt, try adding performance fabrics like Crypton to your upholstery furniture! Your sofas, sectionals, chaises, and chairs can be a comfortable place for both you and your pet to lounge. Our sister company Living Designs Furniture allows you to upgrade your furniture fabric for less. 

Mattresses that Every Family Member Will Love

While the idea of sleeping with pets can bring comfort, security, and relaxation, it’s important to recognize the potential drawbacks. From sleep disturbances and allergy flare-ups to hygiene concerns, sharing your bed with pets can impact your sleep quality and health. Your quality of rest should be your top priority. 

However, with the right precautions — such as investing in the right mattress for you and a good-quality mattress protector — you can enjoy the benefits of having your furry friend in bed while getting the quality sleep you need. 

Ready to find your perfect mattress? Visit any of our Houston mattress stores to browse our top-quality mattresses, cooling technology, and mattress protectors. We can also make your pet their own custom bed! The possibilities are endless at Texas Mattress Makers, Houston’s best mattress store.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• 5 Reasons Why You’re Waking Up Tired
• Signs You Aren’t Getting Enough Sleep
• How to Find a Good Quality Mattress
• Solutions for the Most Common Sleep Problems
• Do I Need a Foundation for My Mattress?

Oversleeping: we’ve all done it. We forget to set our alarm for the morning. A 20-minute power nap accidentally turns into two hours of deep slumber. We decide that weekends are for “sleeping in,” and before we know it, our day is gone. 

Besides causing us inconveniences, is oversleeping bad? Surprisingly, yes, oversleeping can be bad for you. Here at Texas Mattress Makers, we always preach the importance of getting enough sleep — but did you know that too much sleep can be just as concerning as too little? People always say too much of a good thing isn’t that great after all, and the same applies to sleep.

The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to discuss how much sleep is too much sleep, the dangers of oversleeping, and how to stop oversleeping. If you’re on the hunt for a new mattress, we have been voted the best mattress store in Houston for the past few years because of our amazing customer service and wide mattress selection. Stop by a showroom today! 

How many hours is oversleeping?

Whether you’re fighting off an illness or catching up from an all-nighter, oversleeping every once in a blue moon is not a big deal. However, if you notice that you are oversleeping consistently, it can be a sign of a larger issue. 

How much sleep do adults need? On average, an adult needs 7 – 9 hours of sleep each night for the body and brain to perform their necessary restorative functions. If 7 – 9 hours is just enough sleep, how many hours is oversleeping? If you need more than nine hours of sleep every night to feel completely rested when you wake up, this is a red flag.

Why am I sleeping so much?

Aside from sleeping for more than nine hours every night, oversleeping symptoms can include:

• Daytime drowsiness
• Excessive or frequent napping
• Headaches and muscle aches
• Feeling groggy or lethargic when awake
• Difficulty with memory, concentration, or decision-making
• Having trouble waking up 
• Decreased appetite

We want to note that oversleeping symptoms can vary from person to person, but if you happen to notice any of the following scenarios above occurring frequently, it’s best not to hesitate and seek professional help. A psychiatrist, sleep specialist, or doctor can run tests to pinpoint the causes of your oversleeping and recommend personalized treatment plans.

Why does oversleeping occur? 

Oversleeping can be a result of certain health factors and habits:

• Sleep disorders, including insomnia, hypersomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy
• Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD
• Feeling overwhelmed or stressed consistently (Learn more about the sleep-stress cycle)
• Conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and chronic pain
• Frequent alcohol consumption
• Inconsistent sleep schedule 
• Sedentary lifestyle (poor diet, little to no exercise, staying inside too often)
• Certain medications

Similar to the effects of sleep deprivation, too much sleep can negatively impact your daily life and ability to function. It can also be the cause of long-term complications, including diabetes, obesity, and can make you more prone to strokes.

Ensuring that you are getting the correct amount of sleep each night is crucial for your overall health and well-being.

Keep reading: How does sleep affect your mental health?

How to stop oversleeping: Our expert tips

If you want to get your sleep schedule back on a healthy track, here are some tips for how to stop oversleeping.

See a health professional

If you believe your oversleeping stems from a health issue, your first step should be addressing the source with a healthcare professional. Whether you see a psychiatrist, sleep specialist, or a primary care physician, obtaining a diagnosis, medicine, or other treatments can help you sleep a healthy amount each night.

Establish (and stick to) a regular sleep schedule

Consistent sleep schedules will vary from person to person depending on their specific needs and daily routines but getting 7-9 hours of sleep per night is the goal. The gist of it is to try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. Your body will become accustomed to these times and you will have an easier time falling asleep and waking up at the appropriate times. 

Create a relaxing sleep environment

To limit sleep disturbances throughout the night and get a full night’s rest, make sure your bedroom is a calming environment for sleep. 

• Keep the room cool by turning on a ceiling fan or lowering your thermostat to about 66-69 degrees.
• Have soft and comfortable bedding and a quality pillow suitable for your sleep position.
• Limit as much excess noise and light as possible with an eye mask, a noise machine, or blackout curtains.
• If you are a hot sleeper, invest in mattress cooling technology to keep you cool and comfortable

Practice healthy habits

Eating a healthy diet, limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, and exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes a day will keep your body and brain in top shape which aids in establishing healthy sleep habits. Working out allows your brain to release endorphins that reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to relax and fall asleep at night. These hormones also reduce stress which can cut out any tossing and turning throughout the night, allowing you to get the deep sleep your body needs. 

Find a mattress that is right for you

Your mattress could be the reason that you are oversleeping consistently. If your mattress is low-quality or is simply not addressing your needs, your sleep quality is likely suffering, resulting in tossing and turning all night or making it difficult to obtain that deep sleep. If you don’t sleep well throughout the night, your body is trying to make up for it by making you sleep longer. Investing in a top-quality mattress that meets your needs is the best way to get the rest your body and brain need to be healthy.

Luckily, we can help with this step.

Get Quality Sleep Every Night with Texas Mattress Makers

So, is oversleeping bad? Yes, oversleeping can have negative effects on your health and can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed. While seeking professional help should be a priority, you also need to have a quality mattress to get quality sleep every night. Think of your mattress as the foundation of your sleep: if your foundation is weak, your sleep quality will be weak and you will be more susceptible to less and excessive sleep.

Deciding when to get a new mattress is not always easy for some people, but Texas Mattress Makers makes the shopping experience simple and stress-free. After learning about your preferences and sleep habits, our experts let you try out mattresses that they believe are great options until you find your perfect match. 

Our locally manufactured mattresses are top-of-the-line in terms of quality and are sold for lower, factory-direct prices, so you don’t have to break the bank to get great sleep. If you’re searching for a mattress sale in Houston, we always have amazing deals you shouldn’t sleep on! 

When you’re ready, visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores to find your perfect mattress and put oversleeping to rest.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• What is the Relationship Between Sleep and Exercise?
• How Long Does it Take to Fall Asleep?
• Signs You Aren’t Getting Enough Sleep
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• How to Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule

It’s almost that time of year again! Sleep enthusiasts and deal hunters alike all rejoice, because Black Friday mattress sale season is coming. With every mattress retailer putting on their own sale, how do you choose where to shop? It can be overwhelming sifting through all of the sales information from multiple stores, making you vulnerable to many mattress shopping faux pas.

The slashed prices and holiday chaos can make any shopper “mattress blind” to the bed they’re buying on Black Friday. This means that Black Friday mattress deals can actually trick you into buying a mattress that you won’t be happy with. 

Texas Mattress Makers makes Black Friday shopping simple and efficient so that you can enjoy our amazing deals and leave with a mattress that you’ll love for a lifetime. Our mattress experts have put together this list of Black Friday do’s and don’ts to help you avoid common mattress shopping mistakes.

1. Do visit a showroom to try out mattresses in person
2. Don’t blindly buy a mattress online
3. Do buy from a trusted mattress manufacturer
4. Don’t settle for the cheapest option
5. Do check the mattress warranty

Is Black Friday a good time to buy a mattress?

There’s a reason that Black Friday mattress deals are so popular. Many brands tend to slash their prices to the extreme around this time to stay competitive with other retailers. So, in theory, yes, Black Friday is a good time to buy a mattress.

However, the thrill of a Black Friday mattress sale can lead people just to buy a mattress because it’s cheap without knowing if it’s right for them or not. And a bad mattress can seriously damage your sleep quality, resulting in health problems down the line. Don’t risk a lifetime of fatigue and pains for a few dollars off.

You wouldn’t have to worry about any of these hypotheticals at Texas Mattress Makers. On top of our Black Friday sale in Houston, we offer amazing mattress sales all year round to continuously give our customers the best prices possible. In the end, we just want everyone to get the sleep they deserve for a price they’ll love. 

1. Do visit a showroom to try out mattresses in person

If there’s one piece of advice that you can take away from this list, it’s this: try out a mattress in person before you buy it. This is the best way to guarantee you will enjoy sleeping on the mattress long-term. 

There are many factors that you need to consider when purchasing the right mattress for you:

• Your body type
• Your sleeping position 
• Your sleeping habits 
• Any health conditions (snoring, aches and pains, etc.)
• How many people are sleeping in the bed
• Your room dimensions

In order to find a mattress that meets all of your needs, you must try before you buy. Our experts will walk you through how to test a mattress properly so you can really feel the components. It’s such a fun process — you get to lie down on a series of comfy beds and judge them like royalty!

2. Don’t blindly buy a mattress online

In short, you can’t feel a mattress through a screen. You won’t know exactly what you’re bringing into your bedroom until it arrives on your doorstep. For a purchase as important as a mattress, you want to be 100% confident that the bed you bought is right for you.

Think about it: if you buy a shirt online and it doesn’t fit, you can easily return it, donate it, or even get it altered to fit your body. However, a mattress is a different story: if it’s not the right fit, you’ll either pay more money to return and replace it or live with discomfort forever. Neither of those is fun. To avoid mattress shopping regret, try the bed out in person before committing to the purchase.

Mattress brands often claim that shopping online will save you more money, but that is not always the case. At least at Texas Mattress Makers, our amazing deals are the same in our showroom and online. 

You can try out our beds in person and buy one online afterward, or call a showroom and have one of our mattress experts guide you online to help you find the perfect mattress match.

3. Do buy from a trusted mattress manufacturer

Here’s an industry inside scoop: You can get the most luxurious mattress for an affordable price if you purchase directly from a manufacturer like Texas Mattress Makers. Why is this?

When a regular mattress retailer sells mattresses, the mattresses are produced by a separate manufacturer, shipped, stored, and then sold to the consumer. Many third-party vendors are involved in this process, which can raise prices and cause delays. This is not the case when you shop with Texas Mattress Makers.

As the mattress manufacturer, we know our expert craftsmen will make a good quality mattress that surpasses industry standards — and we can sell it to you for a better price since we don’t have to pay third parties. Cutting out any middlemen decreases costs for us and saves you more money. 

Every mattress we sell in our showrooms has surpassed industry standards after going through a vigorous mattress testing process. So, if you want to take home a top-quality mattress that will last you a lifetime — and for a great price — check out our Black Friday mattress sale.

4. Don’t settle for the cheapest option

We understand how tempting it is to buy a mattress purely based on how cheap it is. But what can seem like a great deal will only cause you a great deal of suffering. Look past the price tag and focus on what type of mattress will suit you best in the long run. 

We understand that in these tough financial times, a mattress can seem like an “unnecessary splurge.” However, since sleep is crucial to your overall health, a mattress is essential in helping you live a healthy and happy life. Therefore, the investment is worth it, but you still don’t have to break the bank.

The average cost of a mattress can vary depending on where you shop, and a high price tag does not always equate to high quality. If you want to get the most bang for your buck, our mattress experts can recommend a top-quality mattress that is within your budget. Even our most affordable mattresses are still of incredible quality that you can’t find elsewhere.

Remember, a cheap mattress will cheapen your life, but a quality mattress can still be affordable.

5. Do check the mattress warranty

Any good mattress brand will offer a trial period after purchasing a mattress. Ours is called our 90-Night Comfort Guarantee.

Mattresses need to be fully broken in before they feel perfectly comfortable for you. While the break-in period varies from mattress to mattress, the break-in process should not take more than 60 nights. If after 30 nights your bed is still uncomfortable, please call our showroom within 90 days from your purchase, so that we can help fix what is making you uncomfortable. Please visit the link above to read our entire mattress warranty and familiarize yourself with what is covered and what is not.

We want to ensure that whatever mattress we provide for you is perfect. That’s what we’re here to do.

Texas Mattress Makers Has the Best Black Friday Sale in Houston

No other Black Friday mattress sale will offer top-quality mattresses for our low, factory-direct prices. We offer so much more than just a mattress on sale, we offer you the best sleep of your entire life.

Whether you want to check out our mattresses before or on Black Friday, we’ve got the best deals waiting for you. Visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores to find the bed of your dreams. We specialize in sleep, so let us help you get the best rest.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How We Make Shopping for a Mattress Less Scary
• Why Your New Mattress Feels Different Than In-Store
• Where to Find an Affordable Queen Mattress
• Mattress Reviews: What Our Customers Love About Our Mattresses
• How Long Does it Take to Break in a Mattress?

It’s that time of year again when Americans have a lot of amazing holiday meals to look forward to. Juicy turkey, hearty stuffings, and decadent desserts are all highlights of the fall season — but they also lead many of us into a food coma shortly after our meal. Whether you desperately need a post-Thanksgiving meal nap or find yourself falling asleep on the couch after dinner, you may be wondering, “Why am I tired after eating?”

Feeling tired after eating is actually a very normal occurrence that most people experience every day. We usually refer to this as the “post-lunch dip” or a time after lunchtime when our bodies and brains become more fatigued. However, it’s important to note that while it’s normal to feel sleepy after eating a meal, extreme fatigue after eating is not normal.

We’re not sleep doctors, but we are snooze and mattress experts. If you want to understand more about why we feel tired after eating and how to avoid a painful food coma this holiday season, let’s get into it.

Why am I tired after eating?

Now that we’ve established that post-meal drowsiness is normal let’s discuss why it happens. Postprandial somnolence is a fancy scientific term for a “food coma” or fatigue we experience around 30 minutes to an hour after a meal. The causes of postprandial somnolence can be a result of:

• Changes in blood flow to the brain: It’s theorized that your brain conserves energy during digestion to help move the process along, slowing down brain activity, which can make you feel sleepy. If you’re overeating, the discomfort you’ll feel can lead you to feel sluggish and lethargic for more than just a couple of hours, which can impact your sleep schedule.
• Reactive hypoglycemia: A drop in blood sugar levels after eating, aka a sugar crash.
• Insulin resistance: Your body becomes less effective at using insulin to manage blood sugar, which can result in a drop in blood sugar levels.
• Meal-induced oxidative stress: Eating causes stress on your cells.
• High fat intake: Eating too much fat can make you feel lethargic and drowsy.
• Alcohol consumption: Having an alcoholic beverage with a meal can make you feel sleepy.
• Metabolic endotoxemia: Toxins from your gut enter your bloodstream and cause problems.
• Chronic inflammation: Long-term swelling and irritation in your body.

As we mentioned earlier, it’s normal to feel tired after eating, but if you experience extreme fatigue after eating to the point where you can’t stay awake, your body may notify you of a larger issue. For example, digestive problems cause your body to use more energy, depleting you of your energy after meals. Or, in many cases, falling asleep after a meal can point to signs that you’re not getting enough sleep.

Why do I get tired after I eat turkey?

The age-old myth reads that the reason we feel so tired after eating Thanksgiving dinner is because turkey contains an amino acid called tryptophan that regulates your sleep cycle. So, does tryptophan actually make you sleepy? Not really. It promotes the production of serotonin, which can help you feel happier and more relaxed, but it should not make you sleepy.

The truth is that turkey does not contain more tryptophan than any other food that does; in fact, it contains less of the amino acid than chicken. In summary, turkey is not the sole reason you feel sleepy on Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving dinner and other holiday meals are a recipe for food comas: Consuming large portions of high-calorie foods like potatoes, stuffing, and pies paired with wine or beer is sure to end in a long, long nap. Unfortunately, a food coma nap can mess up your sleep schedule if you’re not careful.

How to stop feeling tired after eating

Although feeling sleepy after eating cannot be completely avoided, here are some tips to reduce the feeling of fatigue after a meal.

1. Eat smaller meals

Instead of having large meals at lunch or dinner, try eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This can help prevent the sluggishness that comes from digestion and keep your energy levels steady, avoiding the post-lunch dip.

2. Limit carbs and sugar during the day

Avoid large portions of sugary or highly processed foods, which can cause a quick spike and crash in energy. Instead, include a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs in your meals to keep your blood sugar levels stable. 

3. Get enough sleep

It’s no secret that the holidays wreak havoc on your sleep schedule. Whether you can’t sleep while traveling or enjoy drinking coffee at night after dinner, getting quality sleep every night is the best way to ensure that your body is functioning properly every day. We understand it can be tempting to cut back on sleep in favor of socializing or getting ahead on prep, but this can leave you feeling drained after meals. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to help your body process food better and maintain energy throughout the day.

Waking up every morning feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day is only possible with the right mattress. Our mattress stores in Houston have been voted the best of the best by our customers in the community. You can trust us to find your perfect mattress match!

Keep reading: How long does it take to fall asleep?

Quality Sleep Is Easier with Texas Mattress Makers

In summary, there are many reasons why you might feel tired after eating, but if you’re experiencing daytime sleepiness or insomnia often, something needs to change — and it’s most likely your mattress. Having the right mattress is crucial for getting the deep, quality rest your body and brain need to function properly.

If you’re planning on hosting or traveling this holiday season, prioritize your sleep schedule, do your best to reduce stress, and enjoy your time with your loved ones. And if you’re searching for the best mattress for guest rooms, we have affordable, top-quality beds that will be perfect for a Thanksgiving nap. See our Hotel Comfort Mattress and our Guest Foam Mattress.

Visit any of our Houston mattress stores to get the best deals on Houston’s best mattresses!

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• Solutions for the Most Common Sleep Problems
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• How Much Sleep Do I Really Need?
• Great Gifts for Sleep Lovers
• How To Get More Sleep During the Holidays

If you have encountered any of our content on our website or social media, then you are probably well aware of the many benefits of sleep. But have you ever wondered, “What benefits can I get from sleeping that are not as obvious?” We have. 

The importance of sleep goes far beyond feeling refreshed when you wake up. Getting quality sleep touches many aspects of our health and daily lives, affecting everything from our mood to our physical appearance. 

What does sleep help with? 

The benefits of sleep that may be more unexpected include:

• Helps you relieve stress naturally
• Boosts your memory and other brain functions
• Boosts your creativity
• Helps your muscles recover faster
• Improves the appearance and health of your skin

To reap these sleep benefits, you need to make sure that you are getting enough sleep each night. How much sleep do I really need? You should be getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep every night to allow your body enough time to go through its many regenerative processes. Sleep deprivation can have countless negative side effects on your body’s ability to function, so be sure to prioritize getting healthy rest every night. 

If you’re ready to improve your quality of life, let’s discuss five unexpected benefits of sleep that you may not be aware of.

1. Natural stress reliever 

Sleep and stress affect each other greatly and can create a dangerous cycle. When we experience stress, our body releases a chemical called “cortisol” (the stress hormone), temporarily increasing our blood sugar for a boost of energy to get through a stressful situation. In a healthy cycle, cortisol and melatonin (the sleep hormone) work together to help us fall asleep each night and wake up each morning. 

However, if you’re not managing your stress levels well, the cortisol in your body will keep you awake because it thinks you’re in danger. Even if you do manage to fall asleep, you’re more likely to toss and turn and experience other disturbances. 

In other words, if you’re stressed, you can’t sleep — and if you can’t sleep, your body becomes more stressed. See our blog on how sleep affects mental health for more information. Quality sleep allows your body to regulate stress hormones, which in turn helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels, which will become more important to manage properly as you get older. Sleep well, and stress less.

2. Memory booster

When you don’t sleep well, do you notice how difficult it is to focus? You drag yourself to work or school the next morning, and no amount of caffeine is able to sharpen your mind. This is for a reason.

As we sleep, our brains are working hard to clear out all of the unnecessary information and properly store the important information. Think of it like this: there are little secretaries in your brain using a filing system every night. Without proper sleep, those secretaries can’t do their jobs correctly, resulting in misplaced information and memory problems. 

Sleep plays a crucial role in memory consolidation, the process by which short-term memories are transformed into long-term ones. With a clearer mind, you’ll be able to remember the new skills that you learned for any new information you acquired. If you’re preparing for a big presentation or an important exam, try to prioritize getting quality sleep instead of pulling an all-nighter.

3. Creativity booster

During sleep, we experience a sleep stage called REM (rapid eye movement), where our brain is the most active. For example, dreams typically occur during the REM cycle. Because the REM stage is closely linked to creative thinking and problem-solving, your brain makes connections between seemingly unrelated ideas and experiences. In other words, when you wake up, your brain will be able to think more creatively during the day.

Sleep deprivation can seriously affect your creative thinking because your brain can’t focus or process information properly. If you enjoy creative endeavors like writing, music, or art, you may find it harder to perform at your best on little sleep. 

To keep those creative juices flowing, be sure to head to bed at a reasonable time and get the rest your brain and body need.

4. Muscle builder

If you have fitness goals, you’ll want to prioritize your time sleeping just as much as your time in the gym. Working out and sleeping go hand-in-hand. Quality sleep helps you to get the most out of your workout and exercising helps you to sleep better. Sleeping doesn’t just help with your energy levels, it is also crucial for muscle growth and recovery.

When you’re experiencing deep sleep, your body releases the growth hormone that helps to repair and strengthen your muscles. Sleep also helps to reduce inflammation in the body which will aid in preventing injuries and excessive soreness post-workout. 

Without proper sleep, your workouts will suffer, and your body will have trouble repairing from your workouts. Imagine putting all of that effort into your exercise routine and not being able to reap any of the benefits! 

Whether you’re an athlete or a health enthusiast looking to build muscle, your sleep schedule should be just as important as your workout schedule. 

5. Ultimate skincare 

Did you know that beauty sleep is real? When it comes to skincare, quality sleep may be more important than your serums, moisturizers, and cleansers. Not to mention it’s cheaper. All jokes aside, the benefits of sleep for skin health are numerous, yet often overlooked. Good sleep: 

• Reduces breakouts
• Reduces inflammation and irritation
• Reduces sun spots and scarring
• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
• Helps your skincare products better absorb into your skin
• Makes your skin appear brighter and plumper

So, how does it do this? During the night, the skin repair cycle is at its peak performance. Your skin is working hard to repair cell damage, initiate cell turnover, and produce new cells and collagen (the protein responsible for maintaining your skin’s elasticity). 

Without proper sleep, your body can’t carry out these processes to help improve your skin, meaning all that time, money, and energy spent on skin regimes is fruitless. If you want healthy, glowing skin, add “quality sleep” to your skincare routine. Plus, products can cost a pretty penny, but sleep is always free.

Prioritizing good sleep habits isn’t just about avoiding the negative effects of sleep deprivation — it’s about unlocking your body’s potential for better health, creativity, and performance. So, you may be thinking, “How can I get the best sleep possible?”

The answer is simple: invest in your perfect mattress.

Reap the Full Benefits of Sleep with a Texas Mattress Makers Mattress

Here’s the truth: nothing that we listed above matters if you’re sleeping on a bad mattress. Your sleep quality depends highly on what you decide to lie on every single night. A good mattress is the foundation of your sleep quality, meaning it should be a top priority if you’re interested in improving any area of your life.

We take the importance of sleep seriously; so seriously, in fact, we’ve spent decades helping countless customers find their perfect mattresses for a better night’s sleep. Our mattresses are made right here in our Downtown Houston factory using only the highest quality materials we can source locally. The quality of our components, combined with the expertise of our craftsmen, allows us to provide you with a selection of mattresses that will give you all of the benefits of sleep and more. Plus, our low, factory-direct prices can’t be beaten.

Invest in your health and quality of life by visiting any of our Houston-area mattress stores today. Our experts are ready to match you with the right mattress for your needs.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How to Find a Good Quality Mattress
• Solutions for the Most Common Sleep Problems
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• Signs You Aren’t Getting Enough Sleep
• 4 Signs You Are a Hot Sleeper

With thousands of pillows on the market claiming to be “the best pillow for back sleepers,” it’s no wonder shoppers feel overwhelmed. The sheer amount of options back sleepers have to find their perfect pillow, all claiming to be their perfect pillow, can actually make it feel more out of reach.

So, why does finding the right pillow for back sleepers matter? Does it really impact your sleep quality? Yes, in fact, it does. 

Although back sleeping is said to be one of the better sleep positions due to proper weight distribution across the mattress, there is still room for the curves of your body to be unsupported. A lot of myths exist about sleeping on your back, including that a firm mattress is better for your back, back sleepers experience more back pain, and so on, but one thing is for sure: your pillow quality matters.

If you’re sleeping on a bad pillow, (check out our blog on bad pillow symptoms), your sleep quality could actually be lowered due to discomfort. The experts at Texas Mattress Makers will discuss how you can find the best pillow for back sleepers that suits your needs while sharing some tips and suggestions from our selection.

Read our guide on how to find the best mattresses for back sleepers or the best mattresses for back pain

What kind of pillow should a back sleeper use?

Unlike searching for the best pillow for side sleepers or stomach sleepers, back sleepers actually have a little more flexibility with their choices. As long as you have a pillow that keeps your spine in a neutral position and is high-quality, you’ll be able to sleep soundly on your back. 

When you lie down, you need a pillow that is going to support the base of your spine while also providing adequate support to the back of your head, neck, and shoulders. You’ll want to focus on the pillow’s height, materials, and supportive properties. 

• Height: How high should a pillow be for back sleepers? To avoid straining your neck, your pillow should be a medium profile (3-5 inches). This will ensure that your head is not titled too forward or backward which can cause discomfort.
• Firmness: Because you’re sleeping on your back, the firmness of your pillow can be determined by preference. However, we do recommend a medium-firmness pillow to keep your head and spine in place as you sleep. 
• Materials: Memory foam, shredded foam, high-density foam, or latex are great options as they are all supportive, mold to the shape of your head, and in the case of shredded foam and foam inserts, can be adjustable. If you tend to sleep hot, latex pillows or pillows with cooling properties can be a great investment. 

Best pillow for back sleepers: Our expert recommendations

We asked our experts what their top picks for the best pillow for back sleepers would be if they had to choose. These best-selling pillows from our selection are designed to mold to the head, support the neck and shoulders, and keep your spine properly aligned all night for your most comfortable sleep yet.

The Cooling Pillow

Sleeping on your back can trap a lot of heat underneath your body and head, making proper airflow a top priority. The Cooling Pillow is a breathable and hypoallergenic pillow that is made with Cool Touch fiber technology to disperse your body heat as you sleep. 

Although this pillow is considered low-profile, The Cooling Pillow comes with a removable two-inch high-density foam insert so that you can adjust the height and feel of your pillow to your liking. This will make sleeping on your back cooler and more comfortable.

The Comfort Rest Pillow

As a back sleeper, having a pillow that cradles the back of your head while supporting your neck is crucial for healthy rest. If you’re wanting a pillow for neck pain, BedTech’s Comfort Rest Pillow is a hybrid pillow that is made of thousands of embedded micro cushions that conform to the head and neck to keep your spine neutral. The inside layer is made of shredded memory foam that allows you to customize the height and firmness of the pillow while not sacrificing comfort or support. 

Can a back sleeper use a side sleeper pillow? Although side sleepers need a little more height and firmness in their pillows, a back sleeper could absolutely be comfortable with a side sleeper pillow. However, if you change positions during the night, it would be wise to find a pillow that can accommodate multiple sleeping positions, like the Comfort Rest Pillow. That way, you won’t experience any neck strain in any position. 

Where should a pillow be placed for back sleepers?

The best pillow position for back sleepers is to have your head and neck fully on the pillow. Your shoulders should not be on the pillow. This will help to alleviate any neck stiffness, straining, or pain when you wake up. Stacking pillows on top of each other is not recommended, as you don’t want the distance between your head and the mattress to be too tall.

Some websites may recommend that back sleepers should lie down with an additional pillow underneath their knees so that their lower back can be pressed into the mattress to avoid back pain. However, if you have the right soft or firm mattress for lower back pain, this won’t be necessary. A mattress that is selected specifically for your body type and needs will support your back properly. 

Find the Best Pillow for Back Sleepers at Texas Mattress Makers 

While there might not be one “best pillow for back sleepers,” you can find the right pillow for your personal needs at Texas Mattress Makers. Selecting the proper pillow to accommodate sleeping on your back can help you wake up every morning feeling well-rested and pain-free. 

Texas Mattress Makers is in the business of matching you with your dream mattress and providing you with the proper tools to get your best night’s rest — including pillows. Investing in a high-quality pillow can transform your sleep quality by alleviating aches and pains for deeper sleep.

Visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores to upgrade your pillow and mattress today. Experience our incredible customer service and stress-free shopping experience for yourself! Better sleep is just one visit away.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• The Importance of Proper Spine Alignment While Sleeping
• Best Mattress for Stomach Sleepers
• How to Find a Good Quality Mattress
• The Expert’s Guide to Mattress Accessories
• Expert Guide to Mattress Firmness

Recently, whether for aesthetic preferences or minimalist needs, more and more people have decided to put their mattress on the floor. No bed frame, no foundation, nothing. Just the mattress and the floor. In fact, the idea of a “floor mattress” is becoming a trend among young adults and teenagers who like the simplistic look and don’t want to spend money on mattress accessories that “might not be worth it.” As mattress experts, we shudder at this statement. 

Why shouldn’t you put a mattress on the floor? While having your mattress on the floor might seem simple and inexpensive, we strongly advise against it for many reasons including that it:

• Increases wear and tear
• Prevents proper airflow
• Exposes you to bugs, dirt, and allergens 
• Causes difficulties getting in and out of bed

The mattress experts from Texas Mattress Makers dive deeper into the reasons above to explain the importance of elevating your mattress off of the floor and investing in the proper accessories. If you want your mattress to last, keep reading!

Why is it bad to have your bed on the floor?

Although some mattress owners may assume that placing their bed directly on the floor won’t come with any consequences, they are wrong. We recognize the appeal of the minimalist aesthetic or the desire to save money by forgoing a foundation or bed frame. However, these factors are not worth the decline in your sleep quality.

Let’s discuss why you shouldn’t put a mattress on the floor in greater detail.

Learn more about the differences between a box spring vs foundation

1. It increases wear and tear

Although the materials that make up a quality mattress are durable, the entire mattress itself is still a soft surface. Mattresses are made to rest on a supportive surface, such as a foundation or adjustable foundation, to keep the components intact. Without something underneath it to properly support it, your mattress is at risk of early wear and tear which can lead to the development of dips, dents, or sagging that can render the mattress useless. 

Is sleeping on a mattress on the floor bad for your sleep quality? 

Very much so. Sleeping on a misshapen mattress will only lead to discomfort and bad sleep, which will impact your daily life. The floor cannot support your mattress properly, but a foundation and bed frame can.

The importance of foundations and bed frames

A foundation evenly distributes weight and promotes structural integrity, which means it can prevent the development of soft spots and maintain the mattress’s form over time. A bed frame will help in hoisting your mattress off of the ground and supporting the mattress and your body at the same time. When these two items work in tandem, you will notice a difference in the longevity of your mattress and how well you sleep.

So, do I need a foundation for my mattress? Yes. Do you need a bed frame? It certainly helps! Sleeping with your mattress on the floor will only lead to disfigured components and a less supportive mattress.

A note about our warranty: Please note that if you choose to place your mattress on the floor without a bed frame or foundation, you are choosing to void your warranty at most mattress stores, including Texas Mattress Makers. Visible dips and sinking-related issues with your mattress caused by a defective foundation or bed frame that was supplied by another manufacturer are also not covered in our warranty. Learn more about our warranty.

2. It prevents proper airflow

This is a big one, so read carefully: putting your mattress on a floor can lead to moisture buildup and mildew over time. Ew. 

When a mattress sits directly on the floor, the airflow underneath it is restricted. Mattresses absorb heat and moisture from the air but also from your body as you sleep. If the moisture has nowhere to go, this increases the chances of mold and mildew developing in the mattress. Bed frames and foundations keep your mattress off of the ground, promoting proper airflow and reducing the risk of moisture breaking down your mattress.

Hot sleepers beware

If you sleep hot, this is something you may need to know. The lack of airflow from sleeping on the floor can also cause you to get hotter while you sleep, resulting in a sweaty mess. And believe us, no one needs to be waking up hot in this Texas heat!

Having your mattress hoisted up by a frame or foundation can keep your body cooler as you sleep. We also offer mattress cooling technology that regulates body temperature for those who want to sleep comfortably all night long. 

3. It exposes you to bugs, dirt, and allergens 

If you thought moisture and mildew were gross, what about bed bugs and dirt? That’s right, putting your mattress on the floor exposes you and your mattress to bed bugs, other insects, dirt, dust, allergens, and other hazards.

But my floor is clean! Floors — even ones that appear clean — often collect dust, dirt, and other debris over time. Unless you clean thoroughly under your mattress every single day, it’s hard to prevent these things from getting into your mattress and wearing it down. Not to mention that bugs are drawn to the warm, dark environment that a floor mattress creates. So unless you want to wake up to little critters sharing your bed, it’s best to invest in the proper protective mattress accessories.

Is a mattress protector necessary? Just as a bed frame and foundation keep your mattress safe and supported, a mattress protector will shield your mattress from anything attempting to get trapped inside. Mattress protectors don’t impact the comfort or feel of your mattress.

4. It causes difficulties getting in and out of bed

An elevated mattress makes it easier for a person to get in and out of bed with no problems. If you sleep with your mattress on the ground, not only will you wake up with aches and pains from the lack of support, but you may strain yourself even more trying to stand up. If you have mobility issues or are older, this could cause you to lose balance and fall. 

Starting off your day with an ache in your back and a crick in your neck is enough to make anyone feel cranky. All in all, sleeping on the floor is just not worth it. If you want to get the sleep that you deserve and need every night, you need to:

1. Purchase a high-quality mattress from Texas Mattress Makers
2. Buy the right foundation for your mattress
3. Invest in a quality bed frame
4. Pick up a mattress protector

All of these things can be found at any of our mattress stores in the Houston area or online! We have everything you need to get the best sleep possible. 

Invest in Your Sleep Quality with Texas Mattress Makers

In summary, can you put a mattress on the floor? Sure, you can. But should you? Absolutely not. Your precious sleep quality is not worth putting your mattress on the floor for whatever reason.

Simple investments in the right mattress and accessories will help preserve the quality and support of your mattress for years to come, ensuring you get the restful, rejuvenating sleep you deserve. If you’re worried about budget, Texas Mattress Makers has the solution: all of our mattresses and accessories are sold for fair, factory-direct prices. As the manufacturer as well as the retailer, we can offer you discounts that other mattress stores can’t. 

If you’re ready to begin your journey to better sleep (not on the floor), then visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores today or browse our online selection to get an idea of what we can offer you.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How to Store a Mattress 
• How Long Does it Take to Break in a Mattress?
• Is a Firm Mattress Better for Your Back?
• How Much Does a Good Mattress Cost?
• Signs You Aren’t Getting Enough Sleep