Beds, pillows and sleeping. These three topics are so troublesome to people that a discussion is needed. In general firmer is better and sleeping on your side is better than your back and never on your stomach. Using a long body pillow gives you stability and support for your upper shoulder. While discount stores may be cheaper in the short run you will often get better quality bedding from department stores.
Bedding
Traditional
Spring and coil based beds are difficult to purchase because the manufacturers play games with names and models to keep the consumer from making an informed decision. Some have complained to me that they are not even sure they are getting what they paid for. In this type you may make a better choice by asking questions about the components of the beds. The number of coils on the bed size you have chosen, the gauge of the steel in the coils will reflect firmness, layers of padding.
Memory type foam
The main issue with this type is the fact that they can be quite heat producing and if you tend to be hot in your sleep you may find this a negative. People tend to sink into it and some have difficulty maneuvering around or out.
Air based
I have received mixed reviews, the negatives have been that when two people have a large size differential between them the system does not work well. Others have complained about the noise.
Latex rubber
Yes folks latex rubber is my favorite. These are well known in Europe but I have been an advocate here. I find them to be firm enough and have a bit of that memory foam feel without the sinking in and heat issues. Not much more expensive than a high end traditional mattress.
Pillows
Finding the right pillow can be worse than the bed. I do not repeat do not like the pillows with the dip in the middle or so called orthopedic beds. Firstly, for many people 40 and above, extending their neck causes compression of the spine and if you sleep on your side you want your head neutral and not dipping one way or the other. When buying a standard pillow at the store, look for a firm pillow that will fill the space between your neck and tip of your shoulder. Recently I found the company which actually customizes pillows to the individual specification. The measure you in the office and a very nice firm pillow is returned which cost no more than the space age pillows sold in the store.
