Posted on

Do You Sweat While Sleeping? We Have the Solutions

Woman with her arm over forehead can’t sleep.

Ever wondered why you sweat while sleeping? Do you wake up in the middle of the night feeling like you’re sleeping in an oven? Is this sleep disruption causing you to not get a full night’s rest? If any of these relate to you, keep reading this article. 

Sweating while you sleep can be a very normal occurrence for those of us who live here in Texas, especially during the summer months. However, experiencing night sweats on a regular basis could be a sign that something isn’t right. 

The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to discuss how you can combat sweat while sleeping and what exactly might be causing it. Here’s a hint: it could be your mattress!

Why do I sweat so much while sleeping?

10-40% of people identify as hot sleepers, or people that typically run warm during the night. Although this phenomenon isn’t abnormal, it shouldn’t be ignored. Waking up in a pool of sweat during the night can lead to sleep disruptions, and low-quality sleep can impact your daily life in tons of negative ways.

Here are a few reasons why you might sweat while sleeping.

Your room is too hot

This is one of the most common reasons that people sweat while sleeping. With your pajamas, blankets, and your own body heat, things can heat up pretty quickly! Your body goes into a natural temperature-regulating system when you’re asleep so that you can fully relax and get restorative rest. If your room is too hot, you’ll start to sweat, and the heat could cause you to wake up throughout the night. Try to keep your room temperature between 65-68 degrees Fahrenheit to create a comfortable sleeping environment.

Menopause

Hot flashes and night sweats are common side effects of going through menopause. The best way that you can sleep comfortably during menopause is to invest in a mattress that will provide you with temperature regulation and pressure relief while satisfying your personal needs.

You can find your best mattress for menopause with us in any of our showroom locations! We offer mattresses with cooling technology that can help to alleviate the discomfort of night sweats while providing you with the right amount of comfort and support that your body needs.

Your mattress is trapping your body heat

Can your mattress cause night sweats? Yes, it absolutely can. If you are a hot sleeper who is not sleeping on a mattress made of breathable materials, you’re going to wake up every morning feeling like you’re in a sauna…and that’s not anyone’s idea of comfort. Our founder, Youval Meicler, demonstrates how a mattress can trap your body heat in the video below.

When you’re asleep, your body heat will make contact with the surface of your mattress. Your mattress can either do two things with the body heat: repel it or trap it inside. If your mattress allows your body heat to penetrate into your mattress, your bed will feel warm and uncomfortable — but, if your mattress can somehow repel and disperse the heat, you can stay cool. How is that possible?

The key to finding the right mattress for hot sleepers is to find a mattress that is made up of breathable materials. For example, here at Texas Mattress Makers, many of our mattresses feature specific components that are created to keep you cool and comfortable all night long.

Can sweat ruin a mattress? 

In some ways, sweat can ruin a mattress. If your mattress is not protected with a mattress protector, excessive sweat and body oils can penetrate into the mattress and can cause an overgrowth of bacteria, and can even develop an odor. This is why getting a mattress with cooling properties is important if you are a naturally hot sleeper. 

If you want to prolong the life of your mattress can protect it from sweat, dirt, dust, and other elements, pick up a quality mattress protector.

Woman sleeping happily in bed.

Sleep Cooler and More Comfortably

Our components that combat sweat while sleeping

Here are a few of our top-of-the-line cooling components that we feature in select handmade mattresses.

Ice Blue cooling technology

One of those components is the best cooling mattress topper on the market: the Ice Blue cooling technology. While most manufacturers sell a topper infused with cooling gel that will just sit on top of the mattress and provide only a few hours of cooling time, we use the most innovative technology in our mattresses for optimal comfort.

Our Ice Blue cooling mattress topper is sewn right into the top of the mattress and provides cooling relief throughout the entire night. If you’re looking for a mattress with cooling technology, we have a whole line of cooling-compatible mattresses that will help you say goodbye to sweat as you sleep!

Graphite-infused memory foam

If you’re a hot sleeper, it would be wise to stay away from traditional memory foam mattresses that are known for trapping body heat. However, we carry a graphite-infused memory foam that promotes a cooler and cleaner sleep experience.

Graphite-infused memory foam’s open cell structure makes for a breathable surface as it wicks away moisture, keeping cool air flowing in throughout the night and promoting proper blood circulation for pressure relief. We also offer a graphite-infused latex component for those who would prefer a hypoallergenic mattress option!

Do You Sweat While Sleeping? Check Out Texas Mattress Makers’ Cooling Mattresses

If you’ve ever thought, “my mattress makes me sweat,” it may be time for a new mattress. Why sweat, anyway? When you can say goodbye to sweaty nights with a cooling, breathable mattress handmade by our in-house craftsmen. 

Our mission is to provide all sleepers with a mattress that will address all of their needs by making and selling mattresses made with innovative, top-of-the-line components. Our cooling technologies including our Ice Blue topper and graphite-infused materials can keep your body cool all night, resulting in fewer sleep disturbances and more restful sleep.

If you want a cooler, more comfortable night’s sleep, come on down to any of our showrooms in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook to check out our cooling mattresses for yourself or see our selection online!

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers: 

Posted on

Best Mattress for Kids to Improve Sleep Quality

Best Mattress for Kids to Improve Sleep Quality

Because the back-to-school season is just around the corner, we want to discuss how parents can find the best mattress for kids. If your kiddo is about to start school, no matter the age, it’s important to educate them on why getting the proper amount of sleep every night will set them up for success — especially if their summers were filled with late-night video game sessions or sleepovers.

In this article, we’ll be answering the question, Does mattress quality matter for kids? and discussing how sleep is crucial to your child’s success in school and in life.

Young girl with glasses falls asleep on bed.

Find the Best Mattress for Kids in Houston

Does mattress quality matter for kids? 

Absolutely! Some parents may see a kid’s mattress as a similar item to children’s clothes: the child may grow out of it soon, so why bother investing in something quality? This is not the correct mentality to have when it comes to your child’s sleep. A good mattress is an essential tool for your child’s health and development.

To put it simply, a high-quality mattress can help your child get the restorative, restful sleep they need to function (more on this later). If you decide to furnish your child’s bedroom with a cheap mattress, their sleep quality will suffer, and in turn, many areas of their life will be impacted. The good news is that depending on your child’s age and body type, a high-quality mattress is generally very affordable because these mattresses do not require as many different components as an adult mattress does. You can also buy your child’s mattress in a twin or full size which also makes the mattress more affordable.

Let’s discuss why sleep is important for children before we discuss the importance of choosing the right mattress for them.

Why is sleep important for children 

Parents: you know how important sleep is for us as adults. If we don’t get our full eight hours, or something close to that, taking on the day can feel impossible. Well, it turns out that kids also don’t respond well to lack of sleep. Children need even more sleep than adults do — depending on their age kids need around 10-12 hours — and getting quality sleep is essential for their growth and development. Sleeping on the right mattress can help them to achieve that restorative sleep that their brains need to function, especially for school.

How sleep can affect academic performance

Because we’re talking about back-to-school season, we think it’s important to relay that sleep plays a big role in your child’s academic performance. While studying hard and turning in assignments on time is a commonly discussed key to school success, getting the proper amount of sleep every night is truly the only way your kid can bring home those A’s. 

Quality sleep allows their brains to properly store the information that they learned that day as well as help with memory function. If they have a test or a pop quiz coming up, they’ll be more likely to retain the information they learned in class and ace those assignments with a full night’s rest. 

Sleep deprivation in children can lead to stress, forgetfulness, crankiness, and other behavioral problems, meaning they’ll have a hard time focusing in school. Lack of sleep can also make your child more susceptible to illness, which can keep them out of the classroom and put them at risk of falling behind.

This also applies to children of all ages, not just the youngsters. Teenagers and college students all need proper sleep in order to succeed academically. If you want what’s best for your child’s development and academic success, it’s time to get them the mattress they truly deserve. 

How to choose a mattress for a child 

Wondering how to choose a mattress for a child? We have a few guides on our website including how to find the best mattress for teenagers and the best mattress for college students, but the main takeaways are to find a mattress that:

  • Supports your child’s weight (especially if they are younger and will be sleeping on this mattress as they grow)
  • Meets their comfort preferences 
  • Support their preferred sleeping position 

What type of mattress should I get for my child?

This is not a cut-and-dry answer as there isn’t one particular mattress that is perfect for all kids. Every child has different needs, so don’t treat their mattress as a one-size-fits-all solution. Many mattress stores will say they have the “best mattress for kids“ without catering to different types of children. This is not the case at Texas Mattress Makers.

We have a decent selection of mattresses for kids to choose from so that you can find your child’s perfect mattress match. All of our mattresses are made with top-of-the-line components to promote healthy, deep sleep.

Our expert recommendations for the best mattress for kids

Manhattan Kids Firm Mattress

The Manhattan Kids Firm Mattress is specifically designed for children aged 13 and under, offering the support and durability growing and developing sleepers need for years of healthy rest. The handmade performance pads are perfect for durability and support that lasts through early childhood. The Manhattan is also great for children who may sleep hot during the night and need a mattress that promotes healthy airflow. 

The Manhattan Kids Firm Mattress is a firm mattress that is perfect for children under 13.

Berlin Mattress

The Berlin Mattress is one of our most budget-friendly hybrid mattresses that is an excellent choice for adolescent kids. This mattress’ individually wrapped coils contour to the body and promote healthy spinal alignment, making it the bed for a developing child who can grow and still be supported properly by this bed for years to come. 

We love to recommend the Berlin mattress to parents because your kid can take this mattress all the way to college! The individually wrapped coils will not give out, meaning your child will have a healthy support system to sleep on throughout their childhood and into their adolescence and early adulthood. 

Investing in one great mattress for your child can help them get the quality sleep they deserve to grow and perform well in school for years to come. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!

The Berlin Mattress is a medium-soft mattress.

Find the Best Mattress For Kids At Texas Mattress Makers

Searching for the best mattress for kids can be easy when you have our experts on your side. We offer a variety of kids mattresses in Houston so you and your child can try out our beds for yourself! Starting off the school year with a quality mattress can guarantee a fun-filled and successful school year! And hey, if you’re looking to upgrade your mattress, we’ve got plenty of options for mom and dad too!

Your child’s comfort is our top priority. We are the best mattress store Houston has to offer because we create all of our mattresses with the highest quality and most innovative components, building them to satisfy your kid’s needs and help them get the sleep they deserve. And best of all, our prices are unbeatable for the quality!  

If you’re ready to get your child their dream mattress, check out our mattress selection online or come visit any of our Houston-area showrooms in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook! We’d love to be a part of your child’s healthy sleep journey! 

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers: 

Posted on

Benefits of an Adjustable Mattress Base

Young man sitting in bed with laptop, notebooks, headphones, and coffee.

If you’ve thought about purchasing an adjustable mattress base but aren’t quite sold on the concept, the mattress experts at ​​Texas Mattress Makers are here to give you all the facts so that you can make the right decision for your sleep.

Are adjustable bases on beds worth it? While most people associate adjustable bases with hospital beds (not the most relaxing thought), an adjustable mattress base can be a great addition to any bedroom for maximum comfort and versatility! These frames can allow you to customize your mattress to any position that you want for a personalized sleeping experience.

Here are a few of the benefits of an adjustable base.

Shop Adjustable Frames & Foundations

1. Perfect your sleeping position

If you are an individual who has trouble knowing how to align your spine in bed as you sleep — the best way to achieve healthy, deep, pain-free sleep — an adjustable mattress base may be just what you need.

You may have heard of people placing multiple pillows between their knees, under their legs, or behind their backs to achieve a certain sleeping posture. For example, a pillow under your legs close to your hamstrings can help back sleepers sleep more comfortably and side sleepers can hug a pillow to alleviate pressure in the top shoulder — but using a million pillows to achieve a healthy sleeping position can be inconvenient, and make you feel ridiculous.

With an adjustable mattress base, there’s no need for all of the nonsense. One of the main benefits of an adjustable base is that you can customize how the mattress lays to lift any parts of your body to help you sleep comfortably while providing proper support to your pressure points (your back, shoulders, neck, and hips) and alleviate any strain or pain. This positioning can also prevent tossing and turning throughout the night, resulting in deeper, more restorative rest. 

2. Medical benefits of adjustable beds

Many people see an adjustable mattress base as a great investment due to the many medical benefits of adjustable beds.

Alleviate sleep apnea to stop snoring

A common reason for sleepers not getting enough deep rest is sleep apnea, a disorder where breathing repeatedly starts and stops. Loud snoring can sometimes be the result of sleep apnea and can be an annoyance to everyone in the room. One of the best ways to combat disruptive breathing is to sleep at an angle — nose strips and mouth tape really don’t solve the problem. By raising your head and sleeping at a slight incline, your airflow will increase, resulting in better breathing and less snoring.

However, with a regular mattress that lies flat, this incline can typically only be achieved by piling pillows on top of each other, which can result in neck or back pain. With an adjustable mattress base, you will be able to easily modify your mattress’s positioning so your head can be propped up and your other limbs can be properly supported. 

If you’re the partner that snores, do yourself and your bed buddy a favor and buy an adjustable base. You’ll thank us later. 

Chronic pain relief

If you suffer from any type of chronic pain including arthritis or sciatica, you know how hard it can be to get a good night’s sleep. A flat mattress can oftentimes put unnecessary pressure on your joints that can worsen these painful conditions. 

The ability to raise and lower your mattress’s position is one of the greatest benefits of an adjustable base for those with chronic pain. Certain positions that mold to the curves of your body can promote healthy oxygen and blood flow to the body, alleviating pressure and pain from your joints and muscles.

Lessen acid reflux

Acid reflux or heartburn can be an annoying obstacle when you’re trying to sleep. Lying flat on your back, as most do on a typical mattress, can make it easier for stomach acid to creep into your throat. 

Similar to sleep apnea, keeping your head elevated will reduce symptoms of acid reflux as you sleep. While some customers try to use piled pillows as a way to elevate their heads, they don’t feel supported for long. The support and comfort you need can be achieved through an adjustable base or our Acid Reflux Box Spring for that desired incline.

3. Make your bed multi-purpose

For some people, a bed is just for sleeping — but for others, a bed can be a place to relax or to work! On a standard mattress, doing the activities that you love such as watching a movie, reading a book, or scrolling on your laptop can become uncomfortable very quickly. Your back starts to ache or your shoulders become stiff because you’re not properly supported while sitting on a mattress. 

Well, we have the solution!

An adjustable mattress base gives you the ability to adjust your mattress to the exact position that you want! You can prop your feet up for ultimate relaxation or raise your head and neck to read or work more comfortably. Your bed can become a movie theater seat or your very own office! For those who work from home or prefer to use their bedroom as their chill spot, you will reap all of the benefits of an adjustable base.

Can any mattress be put on an adjustable base?

Unfortunately, not every mattress ever made can be compatible with an adjustable mattress base. So, what type of mattress is best for an adjustable base? Typically, non-innerspring mattresses, such as an adjustable memory foam bed, tend to be best for adjustable bases due to the flexibility of their components. 

The good news is that as the mattress manufacturer and retailer, we can create mattresses that can pair beautifully with an adjustable mattress base! If you need an adjustable-friendly mattress that is compatible with an adjustable base, here is our selection of the best mattresses for adjustable beds! These top-selling mattresses can give you the best sleep of your life while allowing you to customize your bed positioning to satisfy all of your sleep needs.

Looking to Invest in an Adjustable Mattress Base? Texas Mattress Makers Has What You Need!

Are adjustable bases on beds worth it? Absolutely! There are so many benefits of an adjustable base that can elevate (pun intended) and improve your sleep quality. As the mattress manufacturer, we can say with confidence that we make the best adjustable beds Houston has to offer! 

Our adjustable-friendly mattresses are made with some of the highest-quality components and materials on the market to address a wide variety of sleep needs. And, all of our products are made right here in Texas at our Downtown Houston factory! 

If you’re looking for adjustable bed frames in Houston, TX, come on down to any of our showrooms in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook to check them out for yourself or see our selection online!

Better sleep could be one click or visit away!

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers: 

Posted on

Reasons You May Be Waking Up in the Middle of the Night

Woman lays awake in bed unable to fall asleep.

Wondering why you are always waking up in the middle of the night? Are you constantly waking up sleepy? Unfortunately, this is a phenomenon that many sleepers can relate to. Waking up in the middle of the night can be a frustrating experience that can result in many unpleasant side effects.

If your body is saying “rise and shine” but the clock reads 2, 3, or 4 a.m., you may be experiencing sleep disruptions. Constantly tossing and turning and not sleeping soundly throughout the night are indicators of poor sleep quality, which can have negative impacts on your health. In order to get good quality sleep, you need to figure out what is (literally) keeping you up at night and get to the root of the problem. 

According to our mattress experts here at Texas Mattress Makers, here is a list of reasons why you may be waking up in the middle of the night.

Get the Quality Sleep You Deserve

1. You’ve been exposed to too much heat

Texas is currently experiencing record-breaking temperatures, and it is HOT! Although Houstonians may be used to blazing summers, the heat can have negative impacts on your health and body, including your sleep quality. Excess heat can come from the temperature outside your home or the temperature inside your bedroom.

Why does being in the sun make you tired?

Have you ever come back from a day at the beach or the pool and just felt spent and ready for a nap? Even if you didn’t partake in any vigorous physical activity, days spent underneath the sun can drain you due to a little thing called “sun fatigue.” 

When it’s hot out, our bodies use a lot of energy by sending blood and fluids to the surface in order to keep our bodies cool to avoid overheating. This process of depleting your body’s resources can leave you with sun fatigue symptoms which include fatigue, day-time tiredness (also known as an afternoon slump), and dehydration, which can make the body feel weak.

Why can’t I sleep in a warm room? 

Conversely, if your bedroom is too warm, it will make it very difficult for you to fall and stay asleep. When our bodies are ready to go into a deep sleep, our body temperature drops so that we can achieve restorative rest. However, if the room is too hot, we can’t fully relax and the discomfort will have us tossing and turning or waking up at all hours of the night.

In order to combat this, we recommend checking out our innovative Ice Blue mattress cooling technology, which regulates your body temperature all night long so you can get cooler, more refreshing sleep. The cooling technology is sewn right into the mattress topper and releases your body heat so that you don’t feel like you’re sleeping in an oven. Cooler temperatures equal a better night’s sleep!

2. You’re feeling stressed

Phrases like “work or school are keeping me up at night” actually have some truth to them. Stress is a very common reason why we don’t get enough quality sleep every night. When we experience stress our bodies release a hormone called “cortisol” that keeps our mind and body alert, resulting in sleep disruptions. 

If you feel stressed, you can’t sleep — and if you can’t sleep, you feel stressed. Sleep and stress get you caught up in a vicious cycle that can only be broken through stress management and making your life a bit more zen.

Need tips? Check out our article on how stress affects sleep to get the full scoop on how to reduce stress before bed.

3. You’re struggling with a sleep disorder

If you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night on a nightly basis, you could be dealing with a sleep disorder. The most common sleep disorder that keeps people awake at night is insomnia, which makes it difficult for you to fall or stay asleep. 

Many people who struggle with insomnia are unable to produce melatonin — the sleep hormone — and turn to supplements to improve their sleep. However, there are pros and cons of melatonin supplements, with one being that it may stunt your body’s ability to naturally produce melatonin in the future, which can lead to poor sleep quality.

People who don’t follow a consistent sleep schedule are at risk of developing sleep disorders or other health issues by not giving their bodies the proper rest they need every night. If you think you may be struggling with a sleep disorder, speak to a specialist who may be able to help you.

4. You’re sleeping on a bad mattress

Did it ever cross your mind that a reason why you may be waking up in the middle of the night is because you’re sleeping on a poor-quality mattress? Weirdly enough, when we experience sleep issues on a regular basis we tend to overlook our mattress as part of the problem. Our mattresses are the literal foundation of our sleep — if that foundation isn’t strong or doesn’t cater to our needs, we won’t get the deep, good sleep that our bodies need to function and thrive.

Wondering if you have a bad mattress? Here are common bad mattress symptoms or “mattress red flags”:

  • You toss and turn throughout the night: This is an indicator that you’re not comfortable. Your mattress may be too soft or too firm or you’re not getting the right amount of cushion or support.
  • You wake up with aches and pains: Your mattress is likely not supporting your pressure points (lower back, neck, hips, and shoulders) properly causing you to feel achy when you wake up.
  • Your mattress is sagging: Mattress sagging causes large indentations (exceeding two inches) in a mattress that don’t conform to your body properly and cause discomfort. Sagging is not to be confused with natural body impressions
  • Your mattress is making noises: This is a clear indicator that the components in your mattress are breaking down and not providing the support and comfort you need for quality sleep.

If any of these symptoms seem familiar to you, it’s time to replace your mattress. We understand that mattress shopping can be a bit of a chore and you might be tempted to settle for a cheap bed-in-a-box or a bed from a big box store. 

Don’t

You should never settle or compromise when it comes to your sleep. If you buy another bad mattress, you will eventually experience all of the same bad mattress symptoms again and the problem won’t be solved. If you want to stop waking up in the middle of the night, get a high-quality mattress made for your needs with Texas Mattress Makers.

Get a Mattress That Will Help You Sleep Soundly Through the Night with Texas Mattress Makers

Let’s be honest: there’s a high chance that you’re waking up in the middle of the night because you’re sleeping on the wrong mattress. Whether you’re sleeping on an old bed or you thought you’d save a little money with a bed-in-a-box, these low-quality mattresses are costing you your sleep. 

With the right mattress made with quality components, you can sleep throughout the night and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on your day. No more “afternoon slump,” no more poor sleep, just blissful rest and sweet dreams. Doesn’t that sound nice?

Your perfect mattress is here at Texas Mattress Makers. Our showrooms are full of handmade-in-Houston mattresses that are made with innovative technologies that can suit any sleeper’s needs. Whatever your needs and preferences are, we can pair you with a bed that will help you to fall and stay asleep every night.

What are you waiting for? Come visit our mattress stores in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook, TX to find your dream mattress today.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers: 

Posted on

Sleep Accessories: Helpful or Hoax?

Sleep Accessories: Helpful or Hoax?

If you’re waking up tired regularly, you may turn to sleep accessories to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. But do eye masks, noise machines, supplements, and pillow sprays actually improve your sleep quality? That’s what we’re here to discuss. 

What products help you sleep better? 

The truth is that while certain types of sleep accessories have benefits that are backed by science, others fall flat. We’re here to tell you which is which so that you can save your money and get the rest you need. 

The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers know a lot about what you can do to get your best night’s sleep. Here are some popular sleep accessories, some of which can actually help you to get good sleep, while others are hoaxes that should be avoided at all costs. 

Eye mask: Helpful

Also known as a sleep mask or eye cover, an eye mask has become one of the most popular sleep accessories on the market. Images of women in their silky eye masks grace mattress ads and sleep-related billboards, but it begs the question, does an eye mask actually help you sleep better?

The answer is, in most cases, yes! 

While some may see them as a “feminine or frivolous” accessory, an eye mask can block out excessive light, allowing you to fall into a deeper sleep faster with fewer disruptions. Consistent darkness as you sleep allows you to enter and stay in your REM (rapid eye movement) sleep cycle for longer — this is crucial for feeling rested the next morning as well as your brain’s ability to store memories. 

Some people find that an eye mask helps them to keep their eyes closed as they drift off to sleep. We would recommend finding a mask with a protruding or goggle-like design that doesn’t apply any pressure to your eyelids for maximum comfort. 

Magnesium supplements: Undecided 

Magnesium supplements for sleep have become all the rage on TikTok lately, with users sharing their “sleepy mocktail” recipes. This recipe or magic sleep potion, as one user called it, typically consists of tart cherry juice, prebiotic soda, and — most notably — magnesium powder. 

The science of magnesium’s effects on healthy sleep quality is widely underdetermined. While magnesium can relax muscles, making you feel a bit more calm, there is no evidence to prove that taking magnesium is linked to getting better sleep. It may work for some, but not for all.

Similar to taking melatonin supplements, specialists say that you should avoid taking magnesium supplements daily and instead focus on eating magnesium-rich foods including fish, legumes, and cashews to name a few.

Noise machine: Helpful

For those living in the city, investing in a noise machine for sleep can be beneficial in helping you get some much-needed shuteye. Unfortunately, we’re constantly surrounded by sounds — car horns, barking dogs, or (if you’re really unlucky) a partner who snores like a chainsaw. A noise machine’s job is to block out all of those sounds to aid your brain in relaxation with less distraction. 

There are many types of sounds that can help with sleep, the most common being white noise, but studies have shown that pink noise is becoming a more popular and effective soundtrack for snoozing. Pink noise (often found in nature-related sounds) is proven to help people relax and fall asleep faster due to its less-distracting and calming frequencies.

Having a noise machine for sleep in your bedroom can assist in stabilizing your sleep and overall improving its quality so you can feel well-rested!

Pillow sprays: Hoax

Pillow sprays can help transform your bedroom into a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere with the help of their pleasant aromas — but do pillow sprays really help you sleep better? In our expert opinion, pillow sprays are more of a gimmick than an effective sleep aid. 

Although popular pillow spray scents like lavender and chamomile have been proven to help with relaxation, no studies have been conducted to prove that pillow sprays improve sleep quality. In fact, at most, essential oils containing lavender, chamomile, or jasmine can assist in helping you to fall asleep faster but may not help you achieve deep, restful sleep. 

If a brand is charging you $30 for lavender-scented water to spritz your pillow with, run. Many sleep brands sell overpriced sleep accessories by promising they will provide you with “your best sleep ever.”  

However, the secret they don’t want you to uncover is that you won’t reap the benefits of even the best sleep accessories if you’re sleeping on a bad mattress. 

What can I do to sleep better at night?

If you want to invest in bettering your sleep quality, first look at your mattress: the literal foundation of your sleep. If your current mattress is low-quality, old, or not complimentary to your body and its needs, then you will not get the quality of rest you need…and spending hundreds of dollars on sleep accessories won’t fix the problem.

Those who toss and turn during the night or wake up with aches and pains are likely sleeping on a mattress that is not right for them. For example, the firmness level may be too hard or too soft or the mattress’s components may not accurately support the sleeper’s body. But, how do you know which mattress is right for you, specifically?

That’s where we come in. 

Need Help Choosing Your Dream Mattress?

Get Your Best Mattress for the Best Price with Texas Mattress Makers

Let’s be clear: the only tool you need to get the best night’s sleep is a quality mattress made for your needs, and even the most helpful sleep accessories should be considered just a bonus. However, there are some mattress accessories that you may find useful! For example, if you’re looking for the best adjustable base bed to reduce pain and enhance circulation as you sleep, we sell a variety of adjustable bases that can meet a wide range of needs!  

At the end of the day, choosing your perfect mattress does not have to be difficult or stressful. When shopping with Texas Mattress Makers, you can get an incredibly good mattress price on a bed that will tick all of your boxes. Your days of settling for less are over! 

Visit any of our mattress stores in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook, TX today to find your perfect mattress match.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

Posted on

Best Truck Mattress: A Guide for Truck Drivers

Best Truck Mattress: A Guide for Truck Drivers

Calling all truck drivers: looking for the best truck mattress? Truck driving is an incredibly demanding job, one that often requires drivers to sleep on the go, on tight schedules, and in tighter spaces. Whether you are out on the open road for work or for play, your sleep health is essential to keep you alert, healthy, and happy. Texas Mattress Makers can help you get the best quality sleep possible with a custom truck mattress.

Driving a truck all day can be a dangerous task if you are not properly rested. Studies have shown that 40% of big truck accidents happen as a result of drowsy drivers. Sleep deprivation and fatigue not only put you, the truck driver, at risk, but also everyone else on the road around you. Because of this, it is crucial that you get the best rest you possibly can every night, and to do that you need to sleep on the right mattress for you. 

For those who turn their trucks into a sleep sanctuary every night, Texas Mattress Makers can customize the best truck mattress that will not only fit perfectly into your truck, but will also give your body the support and comfort necessary to give you the best night’s sleep possible.

Customize Your Dream Truck Mattress

When to replace your current truck mattress

If you are constantly tired after waking up in your vehicle or experience constant aches and pains, there is a high chance that you are sleeping on the wrong mattress. Most truck drivers opt to sleep on cheap air mattresses out of convenience due to their portability, but we all know that air mattresses are notorious for being incredibly uncomfortable and lacking in support. 

For most drivers, their truck is not just a means of transport, but a home away from home — and just because you’re not sleeping in a true bed does not mean that you have to sleep on a mattress that doesn’t benefit you. While some mattress retailers might claim that one specific model is the best mattress for truckers, we believe that mattresses, even for trucks, are not one-size-fits-all and should cater to your needs.

Texas Mattress Makers is a Houston mattress retailer and manufacturer that can create fully customized, high-quality mattresses for your truck at the best price. Our customers have raved online about how we can produce a custom RV mattress for outdoor enthusiasts, and we can certainly create your perfect mattress for a semi-truck. Here’s how.

How can I customize my perfect truck mattress?

With the help of our mattress experts, here is how they will guide you to customize the best semi-truck mattress for your needs.

Step 1: Choose your components

Finding your perfect mattress is all about choosing the components that will benefit your unique body and needs best. When you shop with our mattress experts, they will recommend certain mattresses or components based on the following criteria:

  • Your body type 
  • Your preferred sleeping position (side, back, stomach, combination)
  • If you sleep hot or cold*
  • Any health conditions (arthritis, sciatica, pain, acid reflux, etc.)

After we learn more about your sleep preferences, our experts will hand-select which of our high-quality components would suit you best in order to create the best truck mattress for you — and we mean you specifically. 

*Because there is a chance that you can get overheated when sleeping in your truck, especially in the summer heat, we recommend looking into our line of cooling mattresses. Our Ice Blue cooling technology is sewn right into the quilt of the mattress which promotes healthy airflow to keep your body temperature cool and comfortable all night long. 

Step 2: Select a size

What size mattress do truckers use? Because truck mattresses typically don’t fit into the standard mattress size range, we can provide custom mattress sizes to ensure that your mattress fits perfectly into your truck. Before you meet with one of our experts, measure the sleeping area in your truck and jot down the dimensions so that we know exactly what shape and size your truck mattress needs to be. Be sure to take into account the height of the mattress as well as this oftentimes will be what determines the types of components that will be used as well as the overall cost.

Step 3: Sleep comfortably 

Typical mattresses marketed to truckers prioritize portability and price over comfort and support. With a custom mattress from Texas Mattress Makers, you can get the best truck mattress for the best price that will allow you to sleep well and wake up refreshed so you can get back on the road. 

Custom mattresses can improve sleep quality because they are made with you in mind. No matter where you choose to sleep, your body needs to be supported properly and your joints need to be cushioned. On top of that, your spine needs to be in proper alignment to avoid aches and pains. None of this is possible on a bad mattress. 

It’s possible that a truck driver can go through multiple air mattresses within a year because they tend to be low-quality and therefore susceptible to wear and tear. Replacing cheap mattresses is more expensive than investing in a high-quality mattress that will satisfy all of your needs for years to come — trust us. Put your sleep into the capable hands of our mattress experts who will customize your dream truck mattress for an affordable price.

Get the Best Truck Mattress for the Best Price at Texas Mattress Makers

Truckers, it’s time to throw away the cheap air mattress and invest in the best truck mattress for your needs. Getting a good night’s sleep is the best way to end every day on the road, keeping your body happy and your mind alert for miles and miles. 

Your sleep health is important to us, no matter where you choose to snooze. If you want to find the perfect mattress for a semi-truck, visit any of our mattress showroom locations in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook, TX, and speak with an expert about customizing your mattress. We’re family-owned, we’re local, and we’re here to help you get the best night’s sleep possible. 

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

Posted on

Does Sleep Help Heal Injuries?

Does Sleep Help Heal Injuries?

Athletes and active folks alike have probably wondered, does sleep help heal injuries? After stepping off the field or ending an intense workout session, we’ve always been told to “cool down” with stretches and deep breathing to benefit our bodies — or, in the case of serious injuries, undergo physical therapy to restore our strength and hopefully get off the bench. 

Well, it turns out that physical therapy, medications, and stretching aren’t the only helpful forms of injury recovery. Sleep and injury recovery go hand-in-hand, and the mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to explain why and how a supportive mattress can help you bounce back from injuries faster. 

Is sleep important for healing injuries?

In our article “Is Beauty Sleep Real?”, we explain how sleep is essential for your body’s organ functionality. Just as your brain needs sleep to operate, your muscles, bones, and tendons also need that resting period to perform properly. 

The science behind sleep and injury recovery

Sleep is a crucial part of the injury recovery process. Throughout the night, our bodies go into different stages of sleep where certain processes take place. 

  • Stage 1: Stage 1 of NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, the stage in which we fall asleep, our muscles begin to relax. 
  • Stage 2: Also known as N2, in stage 2 of NREM sleep our body temperature drops and our heart rate slows. 
  • Stage 3: Also known as N3, the final stage of NREM is when our bodies begin the restorative process. 
  • Stage 4: REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, while REM sleep is not linked to increased energy or healing, it is important for cognitive function. 

During N3, the deep NREM sleep, there is an increase in oxygen and blood flow to your muscles as well as the release of growth hormones that work to repair the muscle tissue and promote cell regeneration. This can only be achieved during a deep sleep due to your brain’s dormancy during this time. Our brains are kind of energy hogs during the day, so the body takes advantage of sleep in order to give other resources to other organs and muscles. 

Without proper sleep, your body won’t be able to send the proper nutrients to your muscles which can result in a slower recovery from your injuries or muscle damage. 

Why your mattress matters for injury recovery

Does sleep help heal injuries? Yes, but only if you are sleeping on the right mattress. We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again, no other sleep habits matter if you do not have the proper foundation. In other words, sleep and muscle recovery cannot happen if your mattress is not properly supporting your body or providing the right amount of cushion for your pressure points. 

Therefore, it is crucial that you invest in a mattress that is high-quality and made with you in mind. 

What is the best mattress for muscle recovery?

Contrary to what other online retailers will claim, there is not one best mattress for muscle recovery. The mattress that will help you heal and recover properly is a mattress that has the proper comfort and support components suitable for your unique needs. 

Your perfect mattress will depend on your body type, your sleep preferences (sleeping position), and any other circumstances that can affect your sleep quality. If you are an athlete or someone who is active on a daily basis, we would recommend certain components to help aid in both your sleep and muscle recovery. 

For example, our Comfort and Individually Wrapped Coil components are made with innovative technologies that add durability and softness to the mattress so that your injuries won’t keep you up at night. The individually fabric-wrapped coils move independently and respond with more accuracy to different areas of your body for muscle relief and motion isolation, making them a great choice for those who lead active lifestyles.

If you’d like to see our selection of these mattresses, visit the link below. You can also view our expert mattress recommendations that our mattress experts have hand-selected.

Sleep Better, Recover Faster

Find Your Perfect Mattress for Injury Recovery With Texas Mattress Makers

So, does sleep help heal injuries? Yes, it absolutely does. Quality sleep and injury recovery cannot exist without one another, so take a look at your current mattress and ask yourself if it is helping you get the best sleep possible to help you maintain peak performance.  

Whether you’re searching for the best mattress for lower back and leg pain or wondering if mattress coil count matters, our experts are here to help you find your perfect mattress match. With our expertise and wide selection of handcrafted mattresses, you can sleep better and recover faster. 

Visit our mattress stores in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook, TX for the best mattress deals in Houston.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

Posted on

The Importance of Proper Spine Alignment While Sleeping

The Importance of Proper Spine Alignment While Sleeping

The importance of proper spine alignment while sleeping cannot be ignored. As mattress experts, we have repeatedly seen that an improperly aligned spine can lead to a multitude of sleep and health problems. 

Over the years, we have heard medical professionals or other experts spread misinformation regarding sleep health and proper spine alignment online, saying that it doesn’t really matter and that you should only be concerned with finding a mattress that is comfortable. The mattress experts from Texas Mattress Makers are here to challenge the notion that spine alignment doesn’t matter and explain exactly why proper spine alignment as you sleep is crucial for a good night’s rest.

Mattresses Made With You in Mind

Why is proper body alignment important?

Before we jump into the details of how to achieve proper spine alignment while you’re sleeping, let’s first discuss the importance of good posture overall. 

Growing up, did your parents or teachers ever tell you to sit up straight and not slouch? Well, they’re not encouraging proper posture just for fun. Practicing proper posture puts less stress on your spine, the structure that supports your entire body, while encouraging healthy blood flow and muscle support. 

Your spine, or backbone, is responsible for allowing your body to sit, stand, move, and bend. If the spine were to be damaged, your body’s mobility would be seriously compromised, causing issues ranging from inconveniences to serious, life-altering injuries. 

Your spine has natural curves that help it absorb shock — in your neck, lower back, and middle back — but certain positions can make it easy for your spine to come out of alignment, such as laying down in bed.

Proper spine alignment and sleep: Why it matters

Picture this: you crawl into bed after a long day. After adjusting your pillows and making sure your blanket covers your toes, you toss and turn for a bit just trying to make yourself comfortable. Soon enough, you land in a position and find yourself dozing off to sleep — and you wake up with painful sensations, soreness, and stiffness in your neck, shoulders, and back. 

Why did this happen? Why am I in so much pain? Think about it: if you fall asleep with your spine in a painful position, it might have to stay that way for 7+ hours! 

How do you know if your spine is out of alignment?

When your spine is out of alignment during sleep, your muscles and tendons have to work overtime to ensure that no significant damage is done to your backbone. 

When we’re not consciously aware of our body’s positioning during the night, we can contort our spine in all sorts of ways that result in sleep disruptions during the night and discomfort the next morning. Poor sleep posture equals bad sleep, and bad sleep equals a lot of health concerns with lasting impacts. 

What is the healthiest position to sleep in? Any position that promotes proper spine alignment. Here’s how to be more aware of how to keep the spine neutral while sleeping. At Texas Mattress Makers, our mattress experts will work with you to ensure that you get the right mattress for your specific sleeping position preference. 

How should I align my spine when I sleep?

What is proper sleep posture? Proper spine alignment can be achieved by keeping your head, shoulders, hips, and ankles all in one line. The best way to know how to keep spine neutral while sleeping is to determine your preferred sleeping position and adjust accordingly. 

Expert Tip: Be sure that the mattress that you are sleeping on is both a comfortable and a supportive mattress for pressure point relief and muscle relaxation. 

Spine alignment for side sleepers

Side sleeping is a position where most of your body’s pressure points are in direct contact with the mattress and is the easiest way to achieve proper spinal alignment while sleeping. To alleviate pressure in your knees and hips and keep your spine aligned, place a pillow under your waist and another between your knees, and then bring your knees closer to your chest in a fetal position. 

Make sure that the pillow underneath your head is not propping up your head too much, as this can result in neck pain. Your pillow should support your head in a neutral position. If you are someone that tends to sleep hot, check out our innovative Cooling Pillow that provides a long-lasting cool sleep surface.   

Spine alignment for stomach sleepers

Unfortunately, stomach sleeping is one of the hardest positions to maintain proper spine alignment in, especially if you are sleeping on the wrong mattress. If you’re sleeping on a bad mattress that does not support your back, your lower back and neck will feel a lot of pressure, and your muscles will be working tirelessly to alleviate the pressure. And, you guessed it, you’ll wake up with aches and pains. 

Place a pillow under your hips to take some pressure off of your back and if possible, try to sleep with a very thin pillow or no pillow at all to maintain a straight line. 

Spine alignment for back sleepers

Sleeping on your back provides the best weight distribution and is therefore great for your sleep posture if done correctly. For extra support, you can place a small pillow under the arch of your back to eliminate space between your body and the mattress or place a pillow underneath your knees for joint relief. 

Is a firmer mattress better for your back? Not necessarily. Some mattresses that are too supportive for your specific body’s needs are incapable of forming healthy mattress body impressions that are essential to accommodate your body’s natural curves. It’s important to find a mattress with the correct firmness level for your needs so that you can have the comfort and support levels you need for healthy sleep.

Our Founder and President, Youval Meicler, demonstrates how mattress body impressions are made and why they are beneficial to your sleep quality. 

Achieve Proper Spinal Alignment Every Night With a Bed from Texas Mattress Makers

The key to a good night’s sleep and pain-free mornings is to sleep in a position that promotes proper spine alignment and on a mattress that aligns (get it?) with your needs. Our mattresses are handcrafted with innovative technologies and high-quality components that deliver the proper amount of comfort and support for a luxurious sleeping experience. 

For those who want to maintain proper posture in bed at any time, we would recommend looking into an adjustable base. Our adjustable foundations are perfect for those who work from home or love to lounge in bed but don’t want to put any excess stress on their spine.

Your spinal health and your sleep health go hand-in-hand. Don’t let anyone tell you that “comfort” is all that matters. You need a mattress that will promote proper posture and keep you comfy all night long. To find your dream mattress, visit our incredible mattress stores in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook, TX for a mattress shopping experience you’ll never forget. 

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

Posted on

Best Mattresses for College Students

Best Mattresses for College Students

If you’re looking to graduate from your old mattress, here is our guide to finding the best mattresses for college students. Whether you’re a parent shopping for your grad or a college student-to-be, finding the right mattress for this next chapter is crucial to making sure you’re rested up and ready to take on any challenge!

Parents, it can be very tempting to send your child off to college with the same bed they’ve slept in since childhood, but the impacts of that decision can have negative effects on their overall health and academic performance. We understand that the thought of buying a new mattress for your college kid can seem perplexing. Instead, think of it as an investment tool to help them succeed in both school and in life.

Why quality sleep is important for college students

College, while an exciting time, can also be a stressful experience. With late-night study sessions and a social life to balance, many students deprioritize sleep and deprive their bodies and minds of the rest they need to function properly.

In our article discussing how stress affects sleep, you can read about the correlation between how stressed you feel and how much adequate sleep you are getting. Sleep deprivation and stress both can impact your daily life and functioning ability in a very negative way with numerous side effects. Lack of sleep will make it difficult to focus on your schoolwork and can make you more susceptible to illness, among other things. 

As a student, if you want to perform well in school and have enough energy to spend time with your friends, adequate sleep is non-negotiable. And in order to get adequate sleep, you need the right mattress. 

Should you get your own mattress for college?

Yes, we recommend that every student get their very own mattress before the start of the school year. Most dorms will provide a mattress to each resident, but we can promise you that it won’t be quality. Similar to the dangers of buying a used mattress, sleeping on a mattress that has possibly been slept on by a plethora of former students will lower your sleep quality over time. 

The bottom line is that a dorm-provided mattress is not made for you and your needs. Even if you buy the best mattress topper for college, you will not reap the benefits of a high-quality mattress. 

Texas Mattress Makers can match you with a handmade, high-quality mattress that is crafted with your body and needs in mind. If you walk into any of our showrooms, you will walk out with an affordable mattress that will give you the best quality sleep possible, so that you can start college off on the right foot.

Get $100 Off Your Dream Mattress

What size bed is best for college students?

The answer to this question depends on the student’s living situation. A Twin XL mattress is the standard size for a dorm room as it won’t take up too much valuable space. However, if the student is living in a single dorm room or in an apartment complex, anywhere from a Twin XL to a King (in some scenarios) can work. 

The best mattresses for college students will be whatever size fits best in their space, and to make sure that this is the case moving forward, our experts would likely recommend a queen-size mattress so that the student can continue to sleep on the mattress regardless of any space they move into in the future. 

Keep reading: Best mattress for teens

How much should a college student spend on a mattress?

How much should you spend on a mattress for college? At Texas Mattress Makers, we believe that you can’t put a price on superior sleep — but you also shouldn’t have to break the bank to achieve it. 

Because we are a mattress manufacturer and retailer, our prices are lower and our products are better. Meaning, you can get an affordable mattress that will last you a lifetime, providing just the right amount of comfort and support for a healthy night’s sleep. 

Our wide selection of mattresses can suit any budget and any sleeper. We are Houston’s #1 destination for the best mattresses for college students. 

Our expert recommendations for the best mattresses for college students

London Plush Top Deluxe Mattress

Handmade to suit any need, the London Plush Top Deluxe Mattress delivers an unparalleled relaxation experience that is just what every stressed-out college student needs. Whether they’re sleeping in hot dorm rooms or their first apartment, the London’s graphite-infused memory foam will keep them cool and refreshed all night long. 

The individually wrapped coils also contour to their bodies and promote healthy spinal alignment which leads to better sleep — and better sleep leads to better academic performance and an overall better quality of life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pdmnK6yReY&ab_channel=TexasMattressMakers
The London Plush Top Deluxe Mattress is a medium-feel mattress.

Monte Carlo Mattress

Ideal for all sleeping positions, the Monte Carlo Mattress can give almost any sleeper the comfort and support they need for a great price, making it a great pick for college students. Say goodbye to cheap beds-in-a-box and hello to a mattress made with a premium individually wrapped coil support layer and a cloud-like Euro top comfort layer. No matter how much you evolve throughout college, the Monte Carlo will be able to accommodate your body’s needs for healthy, restorative sleep that is crucial for strong academic performance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CxSfKTkOUs&ab_channel=TexasMattressMakers
The Monte Carlo Mattress is a soft mattress.

Berlin Mattress

If you’re looking to upgrade your basic dorm mattress for a great price, meet the Berlin Mattress! The Berlin is a budget-friendly mattress that will give you a great amount of support and comfort for a very good price. Getting up for morning classes will be a breeze when you sleep on a mattress that will give you a good night’s sleep every night! The individually wrapped coils provide your body with the support it needs while keeping your body cool all night long.

The Berlin Mattress is a medium-soft mattress.

Find the Best Mattresses For College Students at Texas Mattress Makers

In summary, the best mattresses for college students are mattresses that suit the individual’s body type, sleep preferences, and unique needs. This is the best way to ensure that they will get the best quality sleep possible for peak academic performance and overall health. If you need help picking a mattress, see our expert mattress recommendations so that you can select the right mattress for your budget. 

If you’re going to invest in a mattress that they can enjoy for years to come, a great way to protect the mattress and extend its lifespan is to also invest in a mattress protector, especially if the student is going to live on campus. If you’re searching for the best mattress protector for a college dorm, Texas Mattress Makers has you covered. 

Stop by any of our mattress stores in Katy, Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Rosenberg, Humble, and Baybrook, TX to find your college student a mattress that will make these next four years the best of their life! 

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

Posted on

How To Check If You Have Bed Bugs

How To Check If You Have Bed Bugs

Knowing how to check if you have bed bugs, especially after traveling, can save your mattress and your home from horrible infestations. As summer vacation is nearing closer and closer, the desire to travel to beautiful destinations grows even stronger, and hotel bookings skyrocket. But upon returning, your dream vacation suddenly turns into a nightmare when you realize that you’ve brought home more than just your souvenirs. 

Bed bugs are, no exaggeration, the worst. As mattress experts, nothing gives us the creepy crawlies more than the idea of sleeping on thousands of tiny insects. Yuck! In order to avoid this ever happening to you, we will be discussing how you can get bed bugs, how to check if you have bed bugs, and how to get rid of bed bugs if you do end up with an infestation. We’ll warn you, though, it’s not pretty or cheap.

Why are bed bugs bad for your home?

Bed bugs are brown, tiny, oval-shaped insects that feed on the blood of mammals, similar to mosquitos. Unfortunately, bed bugs love to live in warm environments that give them easy access to their food source, making your cozy mattress their perfect home. 

Although bed bugs do not carry any harmful diseases and are not considered dangerous insects, their bites can result in irritating skin infections or allergic reactions. Not to mention, having bed bugs in your home can come with mental health consequences including increased symptoms of anxiety and, more notably, insomnia. If you’re losing sleep over the fear of these little critters, you won’t be able to live your daily life properly.

Needless to say, bed bugs are a serious problem that should not be overlooked. Knowing how to prevent an infestation in your home is crucial information. 

How do you get bed bugs?

The most common way bed bugs get into your home is through an accidental transferral — meaning you unintentionally brought them home with you from a place that was currently infested.

Let’s say that you go on vacation, stay in a luxury resort, and sleep on a hotel mattress — unbeknownst to you, that hotel mattress is infested with bed bugs. While you’re lounging by the pool, these little insects are making their way into your luggage, just waiting to be brought home with you. It’s that simple and, unfortunately, the most common source of an infestation. 

Because they love hiding in upholstered surfaces such as furniture, bags, luggage, and most notably, mattresses, it is crucial to be aware of your surroundings and ensure that any new residential space that you enter is clean and bug-free.

From the Expert: It’s important to note that having bed bugs is not a sign of poor hygiene. These little bugs will reside in even the most immaculate of homes, meaning that anyone can get bed bugs. An infestation is not a reflection of your personal cleanliness.

How to check if you have bed bugs

Here are some warning signs that you may have, or have been exposed to, bed bugs.

  • Small, itchy bites on your skin: Bed bug bites will often be clustered together or form a linear or circular pattern on exposed areas such as your arms and shoulders.
  • Dark spots on your sheets or mattress: These tiny flecks of dark spots could either be droppings (the size of a period) or blood stains leftover from their feeding.
  • Shed bug skin: Bed bugs often shed their skin and leave it behind. The skin will resemble the bug itself, making it a clear indication of an infestation.
  • Actual live bugs: Can you see bed bugs with the naked eye? Yes, despite the small size of these bugs, you can easily spot them without the help of a magnifying glass (though it might make the process easier!)

Here are some tips for how to properly check your mattress for signs of bed bugs:

  • Step 1: Put on disposable latex or rubber cleaning gloves to protect your hands and wear full-coverage clothing to protect your skin.
  • Step 2: Pull your bed away from the wall to expose any bugs that may be hiding between your mattress and the wall. This will also give you more room to do a thorough inspection.
  • Step 3: Check every crevice of your mattress. Bed bugs like to hide in the seams, near the tags, in and around the box spring, and even in cracks in your bed frame! Inspect every area in and around the mattress. A flashlight may make it simpler to spot them. 

Do note that finding one single bed bug is not a sign of an infestation. If you happen to only locate one bug during your search, kill it and wait a few days to see if more appear. If they do, call an exterminator, and if not, simply use our tips for how to clean a mattress at home. Although, it is always nice to get an inspection done to put your mind at ease.

How to get rid of bed bugs

So, you found bed bugs in your mattress. Now what? 

  • First, carefully remove any bedding that seems to be bug-free and wash them in hot water. 
  • Second, turn up the heat — literally. Bed bugs cannot survive in hot temperatures. Now, we understand that turning your thermostat to 113° in the Texas heat is just not an option, so if you are willing to buy a special heater or even use a hair dryer to complete this task, you may be able to kill some of the bugs. 
  • Third, deep clean your entire home. We know, but you really need to, because bed bugs get in everywhere. 

PSA: DO NOT, under any circumstances, throw away a mattress that has been infested with bed bugs.This will only increase the likelihood that others will bring bed bugs into their own home. Because people often do this instead of dealing with the problem properly, we heavily warn against buying or interacting with a used mattress.

Unfortunately, if you want to ensure that your home is bed-bug free, it’s best to call a professional extermination company to do a thorough inspection and home treatment. This can be costly, but it is your bet for beating the bed bugs. The best thing that you can do in this scenario is to let the professionals do their job and look into ways to protect your mattress, and in turn, your home with a mattress protector.

What to do if your hotel mattress has bed bugs

How do I know if my hotel bed is clean? Use all of the same steps for how to check if you have bed bugs above. Keep in mind that the mattresses hotels use don’t often have mattress protectors on them, so you can’t ever be certain that they are 100% clean. To be safe, place your bag or luggage on a suitcase stand rather than on the bed or floor and keep them closed when not in use. This will decrease the risk of bed bugs getting into your bags.

If you are staying in a hotel and happen to notice bed bugs, alert the front desk and ask to be moved into a different room. When you return home, immediately wash all of your packed belongings — and we mean everything (bag included) — in hot water.

How to Protect Your Mattress

Protect Your Mattress to Extend Its Life

Protect Your Home and Your Mattress With the Help of Texas Mattress Makers

We hope that our expert tips for how to check if you have bed bugs are helpful for you in the future and that you are able to enjoy your vacations without worrying about bringing home unexpected souvenirs. But when it comes to your own mattress, protection and prevention are key.

The best way to protect your mattress against bed bugs or any other hazard is to purchase a mattress protector. Texas Mattress Makers offers a 3D mattress protector that fully encases the mattress as well as the box spring for full coverage protection. Mattress protectors shield your mattress from any harmful hazards or substances that could come into contact with your mattress, extending its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.

Although bed bugs mainly reside in mattresses, mattresses are rarely the origin of the infestation. If you shop at a Texas Mattress Makers showroom, you will be pleased to know that we take our sanitation processes very seriously. Our factory is treated on a weekly basis by an exterminator, our delivery trucks are sanitized after every trip, and our suppliers’ factories also operate with a high level of quality control to ensure that your mattresses are safe to sleep on.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers: