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What’s the deal with firm mattresses?
All your hard questions — answered People often debate about what type of mattress is the best. Should you get a firm mattress or a soft one? What’s the difference, anyway? And does it really matter? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. What’s comfortable for one person might not be comfortable for another. However, there are some things you should know about firm mattresses before you make your decision. You can get the very best of both worlds with a soft yet firm hybrid mattress, like our Australian Spinal Research Foundation-backed design. IS IT BETTER TO SLEEP ON A FIRM OR SOFT MATTRESS? The firmness or softness refers to the amount of sink between your body and the mattress. The more sink, the softer the mattress. There are pros and cons to both types of mattresses. A firm mattress is suitable for: People who want to avoid pressure points since there is less sink. Back pain sufferers. A hard surface like this can help alleviate pain because it isn’t as flexible as a soft mattress. However, a firm mattress might not be ideal for some people because it can cause pressure on their joints. It can also feel a bit stiff and uncomfortable, especially if you’re used to sleeping on a softer mattress. A soft mattress is suitable for: People who want to feel hugged and supported. Those with joint pain since, as it will contour to their body and relieve some of the pressure. However, a soft mattress might cause you to sink in too much, which can lead to problems like back pain, pores getting clogged due to moisture, and overheating. HOW CAN I SOFTEN MY FIRM MATTRESS? I CAN’T SLEEP ON IT. If you find that your mattress is too firm for comfort, there are a few simple ways to make it softer: Add more layers, such as a foam topper or a memory foam pad. Use a mattress pad that is made for softening mattresses. Put a pillowtop mattress topper on top of it. WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A FIRM MATTRESS? A firm mattress does not have a lot of sinkage or give when you lie on it. It is usually made of a more rigid material, such as latex or memory foam, sometimes combined with pocket springs for extra support and is suitable for people who want to avoid pressure points. DO FIRM MATTRESSES SOFTEN UP OVER TIME? Firm mattresses do not usually soften up over time, as they are made of a more rigid material. However, if you find that your mattress is too firm for comfort, there are a few simple ways to make it softer. Add more layers, such as a foam topper or a memory foam pad. Use a mattress pad that is made for softening mattresses. Lastly, you can put a pillowtop mattress topper on top of it. WHAT REASONS WOULD ONE HAVE TO SLEEP ON A HARD MATTRESS? There are a few reasons why you might want to sleep on a hard mattress. A firm mattress is suitable for: People who want to avoid pressure points since there is less sink. Back pain sufferers. A hard surface like this can help alleviate pain because it isn’t as flexible as a soft mattress. WHICH MATTRESS IS BEST FOR BACK AND NECK PAIN? In general, a hard mattress can be good for back pain sufferers, as it won’t sink in and cause pressure on joints. However, a firm mattress might not be ideal for some people because it can cause strain on their joints. It can also feel a bit stiff and uncomfortable, especially if you’re used to sleeping on a softer mattress. A soft mattress might suit those who want to feel hugged and supported. IS A FIRMER MATTRESS BETTER FOR BACKS? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as what is comfortable for one person might not be comfortable for another. However, generally speaking, a firmer mattress is often considered good for back pain sufferers, as it won’t sink in and cause pressure on joints. Additionally, a hard surface can help alleviate pain because it isn’t as flexible as a soft mattress. WHY DOES SLEEPING ON A NEW MATTRESS CAUSE BACK PAIN? Sleeping on a new mattress can cause back pain because it has not yet formed to your body. This means that you might end up with pressure points on your body, which can cause pain. Additionally, a new mattress is often quite stiff and uncomfortable, making it hard to get a good night’s sleep. Choosing a hybrid mattress often mitigates this issue as the combination of memory foam, latex and pocket spring coils simultaneously provides instant support and cushioning softness. WHAT ARE THE TOP QUALITIES THAT YOU LOOK FOR IN A MATTRESS? There are several qualities that people look for when trying to find the best mattress. Some qualities include: Comfort Supportiveness Durability and performance High-quality materials incl. natural latex, memory foam and high-definition pocket springs Pressure relief capabilities Heat dissipation and airflow Dynamic edge support WHY DOES MY BACK HURT WHEN I SLEEP ON A SOFT MATTRESS? A soft mattress can cause back pain because it can cause you to sink into the bed, putting pressure on your joints. Additionally, a soft mattress might not be as supportive as a firm mattress, leading to back pain. WHAT ARE SIGNS THAT MY MATTRESS IS TOO FIRM? There are a few signs that might indicate that you need a softer mattress. These include: You feel stiff and uncomfortable when you sleep on it You have back or neck pain when you wake up Your partner complains that you’re too loud when you move around at night You toss and turn a lot during your sleep because you can’t get comfortable You have trouble falling asleep HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED A FIRM OR A SOFT MATTRESS? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as what is comfortable for one person might not be comfortable for another. However, if you want the best of both worlds, you might consider a hybrid mattress, which often has a combination of memory foam, latex, and pocket springs. A medium-firm mattress like Sleep Republic’s award-winning design gives you all the soft, cushioning comfort you could ask for from the top layers of cashmere, memory foam and natural latex supported by high-density pocket springs. WHAT IS THE BEST MATTRESS FOR LOWER BACK AND HIP PAIN? It is important to note that every person’s body is different, which means that what one person finds comfortable might not be comfortable for another. It also depends on whether you have lower back pain or hip pain. However, the best mattress for lower back and hip pain probably has a medium-firm feel, as it will distribute your weight evenly across your body. Additionally, a hybrid mattress with a combination of memory foam, latex and pocket springs might be the best option, as it will provide both comfort and support. Sleeping on a firm mattress is often recommended for those who suffer from back pain, as it can help alleviate pressure on joints. However, if you find that you are waking with aches and pains when you sleep on a firm mattress, it might be too firm for you. Similarly, if you find that your new mattress is not supportive enough or don’t conform to your body correctly, then it might be time to consider buying a firmer mattress. IS A FIRM MATTRESS BETTER FOR YOUR POSTURE? No, a firm mattress is not necessarily better for your posture. A stiff new mattress can actually do more harm than good by causing you to have bad posture. This is because when you’re sleeping on a new, very firm mattress, it’s often quite uncomfortable, and you might find yourself trying to get comfortable by putting unnecessary strain on your neck and back. A firm mattress is typically more supportive than a soft mattress as it has less give, which means that you won’t sink as much as you would on a softer mattress. However, this doesn’t mean that everyone needs a firm and hard mattress; instead, your comfort is dependent on the quality of the materials and the construction used. If you’re looking for a more supportive sleep surface without sacrificing comfort, Sleep Republic’s award-winning design might be a good option for you. It has a medium-firm feel and is made with high-quality materials like cashmere, memory foam and natural latex. This will help distribute your weight evenly and properly support your spine while you sleep. HOW TO GO ABOUT CHOOSING THE BEST MATTRESS FOR MY BODY? It is important to note that what is comfortable for one person might not be comfortable for another. However, if you would like a product that provides both good support and comfort while also maintaining its shape over time, you might want to consider a hybrid mattress. Layers of cashmere, memory foam, latex and high-density pocket springs help ensure spinal alignment while sleeping on Sleep Republic’s award-winning hybrid design making it an excellent option for those looking for a mattress that’s not too hard and not too soft.
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Everything you need to know about latex mattresses
The must-have, mattress material with softness and bounce Latex’s unparalleled rebound, softness and resilience make it a great, functional mattress material. As a comfort layer, it feels good and rebounds and recovers quickly from compression. Latex mattresses are often made of natural latex, which is harvested from rubber trees. Mattresses made from synthetic latex or a blend of natural and synthetic latex are also available. Latex is often used in hybrid mattresses like our Sleep Republic mattress, which is backed by the Australian Spinal Foundation and has won BedBuyer’s Best Overall Mattress in Box for two years in a row. ARE LATEX MATTRESSES COMFORTABLE OVER THE LONG TERM? Yes, latex mattresses are extremely comfortable over the long term. Latex foam is naturally dust mite-resistant and will not absorb body heat. Users of latex mattresses often report waking up in a cooler and more refreshed state in the morning. You could expect a latex mattress to last for up to 20 years — or even longer! WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF LATEX MATTRESSES? Pros: Latex mattresses are incredibly comfortable. Latex foam is naturally resistant to dust mites Latex will not absorb heat from your body, so you can expect to wake up in a cool and refreshed state every morning. Latex offers unparalleled rebound, softness and resilience, making it perfect for the comfort layer of mattresses. Latex mattresses have a longer lifespan than many other mattress types. Cons: Latex mattresses can be more expensive than other mattress types. Latex mattresses may not be suitable for those with latex allergies. ARE ORGANIC LATEX MATTRESSES DIFFERENT FROM NATURAL LATEX MATTRESSES? In most respects, organic latex mattresses are not different from natural latex mattresses. Both types of mattresses are made of latex foam derived from rubber trees. However, organic latex mattresses may be higher quality latex foam than natural latex mattresses. Additionally, organic latex mattresses may be certified to meet specific environmental and social standards. WHICH IS BETTER, A SPRING OR LATEX MATTRESS? Latex mattresses: Tend to be more expensive than spring mattresses Offer unparalleled comfort, better pressure relief and greater breathability compared to spring mattresses Are great for people who wake up hot or sweating as latex foam does not absorb body heat or moisture from your skin Have a longer lifespan than spring mattresses Are naturally resistant to dust mites Spring mattresses: Are often considerably less expensive than latex mattresses May not be as comfortable as latex mattresses, as latex foam contours and supports the body better than most spring types Are great for people who are cold at night as they tend to trap heat Unequalled at minimizing partner disturbance Provide exceptional edge support Have a shorter lifespan than latex mattresses Can be more susceptible to dust mites due to the greater surface area of material that latex mattresses cover Hybrid mattresses offer you the benefits of each with typically a latex comfort layer on a pocket sprung unit. Our Sleep Republic mattress, for example, blends natural latex with individually wrapped coils to give you the perfect sleep surface. HOW EXPENSIVE IS A LATEX MATTRESS? Latex mattresses can be more expensive than some other mattress types. However, latex mattresses provide a longer lifespan than most other mattress types, making them great value for the money. Prices range from $799 to more than $8000 per latex mattress. Additionally, latex mattresses are naturally resistant to dust mites. They will not absorb heat from your body, making them an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies or overheating during sleep. So, if you’re looking for an incredibly comfortable and long-lasting mattress, a latex mattress could be a perfect choice. WHAT IS IT LIKE TO SLEEP ON A NATURAL LATEX MATTRESS? Natural latex mattresses provide undeniable comfort and support. They are soft, resilient and bounce back quickly from compression, making them great for people who like to sink into the mattress surface. As latex is naturally elastic, some latex mattress owners may find that latex foam is a little bouncier than other types of foam mattresses. However, latex mattress owners often report loving this soft, cocooning feeling of being enveloped by their mattress. ARE NATURAL LATEX MATTRESSES FLAME RETARDANT? Yes, latex foam is a natural flame retardant. When latex foam is exposed to an open flame, it will char rather than ignite and spread the fire. This innate quality makes latex foam a superior mattress material as it greatly increases the safety of your sleep environment. ARE THERE ADVANTAGES TO BUYING A LATEX MATTRESS? Latex mattresses offer many benefits over traditional spring mattresses, including superior comfort, pressure relief, breathability and resistance to dust mites. They are also natural fire retardants. Latex mattresses are also particularly good for allergy sufferers as they tend to resist dust mites due to their latex foam construction. WHICH IS LESS TOXIC, LATEX OR MEMORY FOAM MATTRESSES? Latex mattresses are less toxic than memory foam mattresses. This is because the main component of latex foam is latex, a natural material derived from rubber trees. On the other hand, memory foam is made of polyurethane, which can release harmful chemicals into the air. These chemicals can cause respiratory problems in some people. Additionally, latex foam is biodegradable and recyclable, while polyurethane foam is not. WOULD A LATEX MATTRESS BE OKAY FOR SOMEONE THAT SLEEPS HOT? Yes, latex foam does not absorb body heat or moisture from your skin, making it an excellent option for people who often wake up hot. The latex in latex foam also makes it more elastic than other types of foam, providing a pleasant cradling effect, without trapping heat. CAN YOU BE ALLERGIC TO A LATEX MATTRESS? People can be allergic to latex itself or to the chemicals used in latex foam processing. If you are latex-sensitive, check with your doctor before purchasing a latex mattress. Hybrid mattresses like our Sleep Republic hybrid pocket spring design may incorporate a layer of 100% natural latex. We ensure our latex does not use any chemicals typically associated with latex allergy during the manufacturing process, making it a safer option for latex-sensitive sleepers. OVER TIME, DOES LATEX HOLD ITS SHAPE BETTER THAN FOAM? Studies show latex foam does hold its shape better over time than traditional foam mattresses. Latex gets firmer after extended use, while conventional memory foams can break down and soften with frequent use. Latex mattresses or hybrid mattresses with latex layers are a great choice for people who prefer a firmer mattress or plan to use their new mattress for many years to come. IS A LATEX MATTRESS GOOD FOR SUMMER? Latex mattresses are a great summer choice because latex foam is breathable and helps to regulate sleep temperature. Additionally, latex foam does not absorb body heat or moisture from your skin, making them a great option for people who often wake up hot or sweaty during the night. They are also more resilient under the weight of your body, so you won’t feel as though you’re sinking into hot or cold spots during temperature changes. If you’re looking for a latex mattress specifically designed for hot sleepers, you may wish to consider Sleep Republic’s hybrid pocket spring design. Our mattresses use 100% natural latex foam and do not contain any chemicals typically associated with latex allergy. Combining supportive pocket springs and soft, cushioning comfort layers of cashmere, memory foam and latex, our Sleep Republic mattress is a multi-award winner. Discover the enviable balance of softness and support delivered by this incredible hybrid mattress.
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White Noise: Does It Improve Sleep Quality?
Learn what white noise is and how it can finally help you get a good night’s sleep. The domino effect of a poor night’s sleep is a pain we’ve all experienced. A poor night turns into a poor day, which turns into a poor week until exhaustion turns into a lifestyle. And the catalyst that sets off the tumbling chain reaction isn’t always within our control. Perhaps a chronic illness is what’s stopping you from getting enough sleep or an injury. Maybe it’s your newborn wailing in the night or just the daily news. But unfortunately, you may not remember how your poor sleeping habit began. White noise might be a useful strategy for correcting your sleep habits and improving the quality of your sleep. WHAT IS WHITE NOISE? White noise is a blend of all the frequencies that the human ear can hear into a single tone. Typically, that range is 20 – 20,000 hertz. Each frequency is played at the same intensity, and what you hear is the characteristic shhh. The sound is often compared to fan sounds, TV and radio static or the gentle hum of an electronic device. Because it contains every frequency, white noise is often referred to as ‘broadband noise’. You may come across that term as you do further research into its benefits or as you shop for white noise generators. DOES WHITE NOISE WORK? Yes, but it’s important to understand why. White noise works by creating a stable background noise that all other night time sounds can blend into. This effect can create a more peaceful environment for deep, restful sleep. For those desperate for a perfect solution to their sleep deprivation, it’s worth noting that white noise is not a magic spell that instantly induces sleep. Instead, since it’s composed of all perceivable frequencies, it masks other sounds exceptionally well – that’s the key to its effect on sleep. Whether or not white noise will work as a sleep aid for you depends on what effect you want it to have. To help you discover that answer, let’s look at its advantages and disadvantages. THE BENEFITS OF SLEEPING WITH WHITE NOISE White Noise Machines Mask Other Noise If environmental noise is interrupting your sleep, you might find white noise extremely useful. For those living in metropolitan areas, white noise is adept at drowning out the monotonous din of pedestrians, traffic and even construction, to an extent. However, even in peaceful suburbs, the whistling wind, rustling trees and chatter of night owl housemates can frustrate light sleepers. A sound machine can drown out those irritating outside noises White Noise Can Aid Tinnitus Sufferers White noise can lessen the severity of tinnitus’ characteristic ringing through its masking effect. This is especially useful for sufferers trying to stay asleep. Keep in mind that white noise is neither a cure nor a tinnitus therapy — it’s only an aid to make the condition more bearable. White Noise Can Induce a Meditative State Whether you practice nightly meditation or simply like to clear your head, it’s good to practice stress relief before bedtime. The calm, steady tone of white noise can be a relaxing target for stressed, anxious and insomniac minds. Sleep ought to follow soon after. White Noise is an Easily Accessible Aid There’s a very low financial barrier to beginning using white noise. If you’d rather not buy a white noise sound machine (which we will discuss later), there are endless online white noise resources. YouTube and Spotify are excellent sources. You may even be able to fall asleep to the steady hum of your air conditioner or a small portable fan or air humidifier. The ease with which one can access a source of white noise makes it an excellent aid for anyone to try for themselves immediately. The Downsides of Sleeping With White Noise All sounds disrupt our sleep. But, even if they’re not enough to wake us, the most minor interruptions can rouse us from the deeper levels of sleep we require into a more alert state. The primary downside of using noise as a sleep aid is that, for some people, white noise can prevent deep sleep. However, this problem tends to occur when people use a noise source that’s too loud. The ideal volume for white noise is under 50 decibels. That’s approximately the ambient volume of a fridge or washing machine. As ideal as a silent room may be, it’s an impossibility for many of us. There are always ambient factors we can’t control. White noise is a tool that minimises the effects of other more disruptive noises. As long as it is used safely, it is worth trying. How to Use White Noise For a Better Night’s Sleep The best way to use white noise for sleep is in combination with a consistent sleep routine. If you’re having trouble with chronic poor sleep, a white noise machine may do the trick — but it simply cannot replace healthy sleep hygiene. We’ve got a fair bit of experience teaching people how to get a good night’s rest. So here are a few tips for developing your bedtime routine: Create a sleep schedule so you can go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Limit light and sound disruption in your bedroom as best you can. Create a calming pre-sleep routine. For example, you might consider meditation, stretching or curling up with a good book. Avoid stimulants, both chemical and electrical, before bed. That means giving up caffeine and your phone for at least 30 minutes before bed. Exercise, even if it’s a light walk. Whether you get some fresh air before bed or hit the gym during the day, regular exercise improves your ability to fall into a deep sleep quickly. There’s no shortcut better than a consistent bedtime routine. So turn these tips into habits, and give yourself the best possible chance at a deep slumber. Even if it doesn’t quite work, your new routine will only increase the effectiveness of your white noise machine. How to Choose a White Noise Machine One way to introduce white noise into your routine is with a white noise machine. These machines have several benefits to them. Although the only thing a white noise machine needs to do is create a steady tone, a good device is defined by the variety of its features — even the most basic ones. So here are some key questions for you to consider. Does it have volume control? Arguably the most important aspect a noise machine can have is volume adjustment. As we’ve established, white noise should not exceed 50 dB, and you must be able to monitor sound levels for your health. Does it have good sound quality? White noise machines typically create sound digitally (by playing a recording) or mechanically (through an internal moving apparatus). Each individual has their own preference, and you’ll need to discover yours. If you can’t listen to a particular machine’s sound in person, check its reviews to see how successful it’s been with other buyers. Does it create a clean loop? ‘Clean loop’ refers to how the machine ends and restarts its white noise audio. You should look for a seamless loop to avoid having your sleep disrupted by audio breaks. Does it have a sleep timer? Repeatedly listening to prolonged noise, night after night, can cause damage — especially if it’s too loud. With a sleep timer, you can set your white noise machine to turn off after an hour or two when you’re well and truly in a deep sleep. To find the right machine for you, make a list of all the best white noise machines on the market and look at all the features included. Then, when you know what you want out of the device, you’ll know which one is right. FAQs About White Noise & Sleep Does white noise help babies fall asleep? Yes, white noise can help babies fall asleep. As parents ourselves, we can assure you that white noise has rescued us several times. However, white noise will not be helpful for all babies and must be used very carefully to avoid damage to their sensitive ears. Oddly enough, white noise can aid babies by both masking sound and preventing silence. Some babies demand quiet while they sleep, which may be impossible during daytime naps, especially if you have older children running around; the soft static will silence those sounds. Other babies are soothed by the presence of others and can’t sleep in silence; white noise gives them something non-disruptive to help them fall asleep. But children, especially toddlers, have extremely sensitive ears that are still developing. Therefore, care must be taken with the volume and distance of the white noise to avoid hurting them. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that improperly used sound machines could harm developing toddler and baby ears. Based on those findings, here are some recommendations: For babies, never use your white noise machine at maximum volume, and always keep it at least 2m away from the sleeping child. Does white noise help adults sleep? Yes, white noise can help adults get to fall asleep faster. A 2017 sleep induction study found that white noise could reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep by 38% compared to ambient background noise. That is a significant difference. The study’s conclusion suggested white noise machines could be a helpful aid, especially for insomniacs in need of help falling asleep. Are machines better than white noise apps? The primary advantage white noise apps have over machines is their portability. With endless white noise apps available for smartphones, you can block out the world for a quick nap whenever you need it. Block out the world and enjoy a nap on the train commute, or lie down on the couch for 20 minutes after lunch. Another benefit apps have (over some, but not all, machines) is that many can offer additional calming sounds. Nature sounds are a popular alternative, with crashing waves and rain sounds offering the same effect as white noise. But smartphone audio may not be the best way to get a good night’s rest. First, the audio quality isn’t as good as a dedicated machine. If your app doesn’t feature a timer, you’ll expose yourself to continuous noise even after falling asleep. By keeping your mind alert, that sound can prevent you from entering deep, sound sleep. If White Noise Doesn’t Work For You, Try These Alternatives White noise isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Fortunately for those seeking sound therapies for better sleep, there are other options. Let’s look at some different noise colours, specifically pink noise and brown noise. Using Pink Noise for Sleep Pink noise is also a broadband noise in which the lower frequencies are loudest, with the amplitude tapering down as the frequencies increase. Listening to pink noise is like listening to the deep patter of steady rain or the thrum of a heartbeat. Pink noise has a much deeper sound compared to white noise. Studies have found that listening to pink noise in bed leads to a “significant enhancement in the percentage of stable sleep time” compared to those who slept in silence. Using Brown Noise for Sleep This is also referred to as red noise, though both names refer to the same effect; the ‘red’ title places it on the colour noise spectrum, while the ‘Brown’ title references the scientist Robert Brown. In Brown noise, the lower frequencies are given more power than the higher ones — however, the higher frequencies are cut off at a specific limit. Brown noise can sound similar to the rush of a heavy waterfall or rolling rumbling thunder. While there’s not as much research on the sleep-inducing qualities of brown noise, there is anecdotal evidence suggesting that it is effective. It has also developed a reputation for inducing focus, making it a possible solution for restless minds struggling to sleep. Hopefully, you are well on your way to establishing a consistent sleep routine, with the added help of a white noise machine to lull you off. But if that’s still not enough, nothing leads to better sleep quite like the right mattress. Have you considered the Sleep Republic hybrid mattress?
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Side sleepers’ guide to the best pillow for neck & shoulder pain
Relieve your aches and pains by choosing the right pillow for side sleeping Nobody should go to sleep dreading waking up. But when you know the first thing you’ll have to do in the morning is roll your stiff neck and stretch open your hunched shoulders, listening to the pop and crackle of your joints and vertebrae like marbles in a dryer, its only natural to get a little anxious. That’s life for far too many side sleepers. And we won’t stand for it. Fortunately, it’s a simple fix for most cases, because you’re almost certainly sleeping on the wrong pillow for your sleep position. We’re going to teach you how to choose the right pillow for side sleeping. What you’ll learn Why side sleeping causes joint pain Whether you should try other sleep positions instead How to choose the best pillow for side sleeping The best materials for side sleeping pillows Our pro tips Summary Why does side sleeping cause shoulder pain and neck pain? Side sleeping pain occurs when your pillow and mattress can’t support your spine, shoulder and neck alignment. When you sleep on your side on an unsupportive mattress and pillow, two issues inevitably occur. The first is that your spine will sink out of its neutral position and begin to bend, arch and curve. The second is that your shoulders, stacked one above the other, will misalign and slip, crumpling into each other. These joint misalignments occur subtly. Being fast asleep, you might not even notice them. But you’ll end up holding these stress positions for hours — you’ll feel them in the morning, as you well know. Side sleepers need pillows that can help maintain neck, shoulder and spinal alignment to provide shoulder relief and alleviate neck pain. Is side sleeping good or should you choose a different sleeping style? If sleeping on your side is causing you chronic neck pain, shoulder pain or back pain, you might think it’s time to just try something else — maybe stomach sleepers know the secret to shoulder pain relief, and what if those back sleepers know how to avoid a sore neck? We suggest you wait. The problem likely isn’t the position, so don’t give up on side sleeping just yet. Besides, sleeping on your side has a number of unique benefits: Side sleeping reduces snoring and the effects of sleep apnea by keeping your airways clear and open. Side sleeping improves digestion and gut health by allowing food to easily pass through your digestive system. Side sleeping promotes blood circulation to the heart, especially for pregnant women. Side sleeping relieves the pressure points on the back compared to other sleeping positions. While it’s possible to train yourself into a new sleeping position, your body knows what it naturally finds comfortable. And if sleeping on your side comes naturally, let’s try and make that work. The first step is finding the right pillow. How to choose the best pillow to alleviate neck and shoulder pain Make sure it has the supportive feel Firmness is a critical factor in choosing a pillow (and a mattress, for that matter). It can be a tough balance for side sleepers. A softer pillow can cause neck pain by being too plush to support the weight of your head. A firm pillow can be too hard to provide enough pressure relief for your muscles and joints. We recommend side sleepers use a medium/firm pillow. This balance between softness and support will keep your joints and spine aligned. Check it has the comfortable shape There’s no such thing as a generic standard pillow. The shape of every pillow varies by material, design, manufacturing process and a dozen other factors. It may take a little exploring to determine what shape works best for you. But the factor you’re looking for is support. Side sleepers benefit from pillows with a wide, flat sleeping surface that can fully support the head. Neck pain sufferers also benefit from contour pillows, which have a double-peak design that provides extra neck support for the neck. Ensure it’s the right height A pillow with the right feel and shape support the joints and muscles of the neck, but the height of a pillow, also known as the pillow loft, plays a major part in supporting your shoulders. If you have narrow shoulders and sleep on high-loft pillows, you’ll stretch the muscles in the side of your neck, shoulders and shoulder blade. If you have broad shoulders, a low-lift pillow, your unequally supported shoulders will slip and collapse. Look for a brand or design that comes in a range of heights, so that you can test them and find a supportive pillow. You can tell it’s the right loft if your chin and sternum are aligned when you’re lying on your side. Side sleepers need a taller pillow to align their neck and spine and support their shoulders equally. The best material for a side sleeper pillow When picking a pillow based on its construction materials, there are several factors to consider. Every material has its benefits — some overlap and some don’t. By now, you know you need a medium/firm, tall pillow, preferably wide and flat or contoured for extra support. But there are questions of hygiene, heat management, airflow and even sustainability that might be important for you to ask. When you know what matters to you, you’ll know which pillow to pick. This is a great time to consider the value of a good pillow protector. If you fall in love with a particular pillow, pairing it with the high-quality pillow protector can add to its benefits and overcome any shortcomings it might have. Having a machine washable cover will also help you maintain hygiene and keep your pillow clean after any spills and accidents. So, what qualities should you look for in pillow materials? Is the material breathable? Breathability is a matter of airflow and determines whether pillows sleep hot or cool. It also affects the hygiene of the pillow, as a stagnant pillow is a breeding ground for bacteria. A latex pillow is an excellent choice for side sleepers seeking breathability. They’re also quite firm and mould to the contours of the head and neck naturally. Latex for pillows can be produced naturally or synthetically. For those with health issues, an organic latex pillow is hypoallergenic and antibacterial, making it great for asthmatics and those with eczema. Memory foam pillows can also be a great choice, depending on the quality of the foam. It’s an extremely popular material because its ability to gently conform to the head and neck in any position at any angle makes it extremely comfortable. But lower quality memory foam pillows aren’t very breathable, absorb body heat and sleep hot. However, a high-quality memory foam pillow can deliver cooling breathability while maintaining its firm support. Covering it with a breathable quality mattress protector will make it even better. A great choice for side sleepers to consider. Are the materials natural and organic? Wanting natural materials might be a matter of personal values. Of course, it always feels good to do good. But organic materials also make for a comfortable and hygienic pillow, too. We’ve already mentioned the benefits of latex, but cotton, bamboo and cellulosic fibres (refined wood pulp) are great elements to look out for. Each of these materials is hypoallergenic, breathable and extremely soft. Can the pillow wick moisture and stay odour-free? Moisture-wicking is a vital quality for warm summer nights, or for those who sleep hot generally. For side sleepers, whose faces are pressed against their pillows all night, having a pillow that’ll stay dry and cool and disperse odours is a pretty big benefit. Bamboo and Tencel have great moisture-wicking properties, as does polyester. This quality also inhibits bacteria growth, and hygiene is always a major plus. Side sleepers should consider a pillow with a firm, supportive core and a breathable, cool and hypoallergenic pillow protector. Final tips Always check the trial period Whether you buy it online or test it in-store, the true value of a pillow reveals itself over time. The only way to be sure that your pillow is giving you support your side sleeping demands is to take the time to settle into it. That takes at least a month. The trial period allows side sleepers to test if their new pillow contours to their neck, supports their shoulders and wicks away odours and stays cool through the night. A strong trial period is also an indication of quality. Reputable manufacturers are always confident in their products, after all. Side sleepers should consider pillows with a 100-night trial period, minimum. Get a pillow for your knees While we’re trying to solve the problem of neck and back pain, we cannot afford to overlook the hips. The hips are just as susceptible to misalignment and slipping as the shoulders are, and you can’t keep your spine aligned if your hips are askew. Side sleepers with hip pain and misalignment should consider getting a medium/firm hybrid mattress. That will give their entire body the support their sleep position needs to alleviate pain. But, barring that option, you could make do by tucking a pillow between your knees. You’ll need a pillow that’s thick enough to keep your knees and hips neutral and aligned. This simple trick can make a huge difference to your comfort. Still, the only long-term solution is to get yourself the right mattress for side sleeping. In summary: what is the best type of pillow for a side sleeper? The best pillow to help side sleepers overcome their back and neck pain: has a medium/firm feel to support the neck, shoulders and spine in a neutral position has a wide, flat surface to evenly support the head, or is contoured for added neck support is the right height to keep the shoulders comfortable stacked is breathable and sleeps cool is hypoallergenic With a pillow that meets these criteria, a side sleeper is well on their way to a better night’s sleep and pain-free morning. Our recommendation is the Sleep Republic memory foam pillow. It has a medium/firm feel and comes in two heights for side sleepers to choose from. Plus, it has a 6-year warranty and a 100-night trial. Give it a try and say adieu to shoulder and neck pain.
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Your complete guide for choosing a queen mattress
Tips for selecting Australia’s most popular size mattress If you’re in the market for a new bed, chances are you want a queen mattress, the most popular size mattress in Australia. Around 61% of Australians slumber on a Queen size mattress, but with so many styles, materials and comfort levels to choose from, narrowing it down can be tricky. A perfect choice doesn’t just feel good; it’s good for you too. That’s why Sleep Republic have created this guide to help you through your queen mattress journey. Are you waking up sore? Thinking of an upgrade? With our queen bed mattress, you’ll get the royal treatment with an impressive 1,850 pocket springs and luxurious comfort layers like gel-infused memory foam. What does a regular queen size mattress weigh? A queen size mattress from Sleep Republic weighs 49kg compared with the average weight of 35kg from most other brands. The added weight is due to our cutting-edge hybrid design – pairing pocket springs with specially designed layers of foam and gel means added weight, durability, performance, support and most importantly, comfort – night after night. Which mattress is bigger, queen or king? Our queen size mattress measures 203 × 152 × 31 cm Our king size mattress is bigger at 203 x 183 x 31 cm Can you move a queen mattress by yourself? Consider the weight of queen mattresses if you’re thinking about purchasing a new queen bed or upgrading your current mattress. The Sleep Republic Queen Mattress weighs 49kg, making it one of the largest queen mattresses available. Its weight reflects the quality, durability and long term performance and comes with a solid 12-year warranty. The mattress is effectively compressed and packed using our technology for shipping, ensuring that it arrives in excellent condition. Each mattress is then vacuum-sealed and wrapped in a protective plastic sleeve before being placed in a strong cardboard box. Everything is packed in a sturdy, heavy-duty outer box with wheels and a handle for easy transportation. So, with the help of a buddy, you should be able to accept delivery and unpack it quickly. What is the difference between king and queen beds? The difference between king and queen beds is simply width. The king-size mattress measures 183 cm wide (compared to 152cm on the queen), making it ideal for couples. In addition, if you share your bed with a loved one or a furry friend or two, you could find that your sleep improves significantly when you invest in a larger-sized bed like our King Mattress. The King Mattress and Queen Mattress are both parts of our Hybrid range, which combines spring technology with memory foam to create an unrivalled comfort level. The mattresses also use Quilted Gel Memory Foam in the top layers to help you sleep cool and avoid sweating when the weather is hot. Is it okay to use king fitted sheets on a queen bed? If you’re looking for the best way to fit your king sheets onto queen mattresses, try tucking about 20cm of sheeting under each corner of the bed. The sheets should then be able to glide over the mattress with ease – just like you’d expect from a mattress that’s bought brand new! Keep in mind that if you’re sharing your bed with someone, you may need to tuck more of the sheet under the mattress. If you’re still struggling at this point, don’t stress! Sleep Republic has a beautiful range of silky smooth sheets at reasonable prices that will perfectly fit your new queen size mattress. What is the best queen size bed? If you’re looking for a new queen-sized bed, it all comes down to personal preference. So first, think about the style of mattress you’ve had before and if there was anything you particularly liked or disliked about it – this will make your decision a lot easier! The Sleep Republic Queen bed mattress is a popular choice due to its exceptional comfort, premium-quality materials, environmentally-friendly design and affordable price tag. We’ve even been voted Best Mattress in a Box by BedBuyer for two years in a row! Endorsed by the Spinal Foundation and loved by hundreds (check out our reviews!), we’re pretty confident that if you like a medium-firm mattress, then you’re going to love the Sleep Republic Queen Mattress. The mattress is also available in a wide range of sizes, so whether you’re looking for extra length or width or something smaller for the kids, we have the perfect sized bed for you! Is a queen size bed big enough for two people? If you’re having problems deciding whether a queen size bed is big enough for two people, have no fear! The Queen Mattress from Sleep Republic will certainly be big enough to sleep two people comfortably. A queen-size bed is a hugely popular choice among couples because it creates a feeling of intimacy and closeness. The standard queen-sized width is about 60cm, which provides plenty of room for two people to sleep without being too crowded or leaving you feeling alone! How much does a queen bed cost on average in Australia? Queen-sized beds in Australia vary a lot depending on what mattress you purchase. However, if it’s within your budget, the Sleep Republic Queen Mattress costs $699, representing excellent value for money and backed by a 12-year warranty. This is much cheaper than other premium quality mattress retailers, which can cost upwards of $1,000! Can you use queen sheets on a king bed? While there are many queen sheets on the market, you can use them on a king bed without any issue. However – you may find that they don’t fit as well as some king size sheets. If this happens to be your case, it’s not a big deal! Just try a different set of queen fitted sheets and see if they fit better, or head over to our accessories page, and you’ll discover our great range of bedding designed to fit your new queen mattress perfectly. What is a good coil count for a queen mattress? The number of coils or pocket springs within your mattress greatly effected how much support your mattress will provide. Too few and you’ll likely wake up sore, with aching pressure points. This is particularly important for taller or heavier sleepers and those who may suffer from bad backs, necks and hips. The Sleep Republic queen sized mattress has 1,850 pocket springs. In an industry where the average coil count is 300-450, just imagine the feeling of lying on a bed with 1,850 perfectly positioned coils supporting and cushioning your sleep from head to toe. So there you have it, all you need to know about choosing a queen mattress! A new queen mattress is an excellent investment if you want something that will fit perfectly into almost any room and is ideal for sharing.
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Your complete guide to choosing a king size mattress
Define your needs, and discover a mattress that meets them The mattress is a major investment. It’s not just about cost, either; you and your loved ones will be sleeping on that mattress for years, maybe even a decade. It’s vital you pick the right one. But there are so many factors to consider — the easiest part of mattress shopping is getting overwhelmed. We’ll make things easy. Let’s go through some of the key considerations to picking the right king size mattress for you and yours. What is a king size mattress, and why do you need one? The basics: a king size mattress is 203 centimetres long by 183 centimetres wide. To give you a quick comparison: A king is the same length as a queen mattress, which is great for couples. But the king mattress’ greater width allows more room for a child, or even a pet. A king size mattress is perfect for couples who want more space to sleep comfortably. If you often find yourself cramped and sleeping on the edge, or if you feel like you’re not getting enough support, a king size mattress may be the solution for you. When you should get a new king mattress and why it’s important to take care of your current one Mattresses typically last 10 years before showing significant signs of wear. While a quality mattress can last longer with appropriate care, you should consider a new mattress after a decade sleeping on your current one. You should also consider a new king mattress if you regularly wake up sore. That’s a sign your current mattress isn’t giving you the support you need. Poor support could be a matter of a worn out mattress, or you might have the wrong type of mattress entirely. We’ll talk about that below. One of the most important things to do to take care of your king size mattress is to rotate it. We recommend that you rotate your mattress every few months. Some mattresses need to be flipped as well — Sleep Republic mattresses do not need to be flipped. Caring for a Sleep Republic mattress is actually quite easy. How to choose the right king size mattress for your needs When it comes to choosing the right king size mattress for your needs, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. 1. Sleeping position What position do you regularly sleep in? It’s important to know, since that will dictate the ideal feel of your king mattress. Side sleepers This position places stress on your hips and shoulders. A soft/medium feel would be ideal for side sleeping, since it would contour to your weight in this position. Back sleepers Sleeping on your back distributes your weight quite evenly. The goal here is to maximise support for your spine. A medium/firm mattress would be ideal for back sleepers. Front sleepers When you sleep on your front, your lower back and pelvis aren’t as supported as well as if they were flat against the mattress. So, they’ll start to sink, which over time can lead to lower backaches. You’ll need a medium/firm or firm mattress to give you that added support. 2. Materials Now you know the feel you’re after for your king mattress. Let’s talk about the types of mattresses that are out there. Latex mattresses Latex makes for extremely soft mattresses. But the material is also famed for its ability to dissipate heat, and therefore keep your bed cool on hot nights. While a small percentage of people are allergic to latex, it is dust resistant, making it a good choice for anyone with other allergies. Memory foam mattresses Early versions of memory foam had a tendency to collect heat and trap it, making them rather uncomfortable. However, more recent developments have improved the material’s ability to breathe, reducing any heat buildup. Memory foam mattresses are also known for their soft contouring feel that relieves pressure on the hips and shoulders, making them a very popular choice for side sleepers. Innerspring mattresses This is the most common type of mattress. The coil springs at the core of these mattresses allow for firm support, and absorb each sleepers’ weight to prevent them from disturbing each other. Standard spring mattresses do have a tendency to wear out faster than other types. But you can avoid that problem by asking about the quality of the springs. Gel memory foam mattresses These mattresses are composed of the same materials as traditional memory foam, but also include gel, which helps to dissipate any heat that may build up during the night. This makes them especially good at keeping you cool in the Australian heat. 3. Hybrid mattresses The best of both worlds, hybrid mattresses marry the support of innersprings with the comfort foam and the breathability of latex. That’s the exact thinking behind the Sleep Republic hybrid mattress. We have also put great care into developing our mattress technology. If you’re after a breathable, comfortable and supporting king size mattress, we have just the one for you. 4. Space Think about your bedroom space. A king size mattress may be spacious enough to give you a great night’s sleep, but you may have to compromise on the layout of the room. This may seem like a question of whether you should go with a king size mattress at all — but compromise can open new opportunities for creativity. That’s especially true if you’re set on a king size mattress. Consider alternative storage, like wall-mounted shelves, which also make great nightstands. You could also mount your TV to the wall, cutting the need for even a small entertainment unit. 5. Budget Price is a major factor in every purchase, but it should be weighed against the benefits of the mattress you’re getting. Take into account the make, materials and the feel of the mattress, as well as the craftsmanship and care that went into its build. Then you’ll understand whether your investment is worth it. 6. Warranty & Returns Check the warranty information. As we mentioned earlier, the average mattress can serve you for 10 years or so. The more of that time your mattress is covered by warranty, the more confidence its manufacturers have in it. The Sleep Republic mattress comes with a 12 year warranty. 7. King mattress reviews If you’re struggling to decide whether a particular mattress is right for you, who better to trust than the people who actually sleep on it? Read as many reviews as you can, both from professional third-party experts, and from actual buyers. Reviews highlight the pros and cons, but they can also reveal solutions and help you evaluate how relevant those pros and cons might be to you. 5 final tips on picking your king size mattress Some of these tips may seem obvious, and some may seem small — but they are all important. You need to sleep on your new king size mattress for at least 30 days to be able to determine whether the mattress is supportive and comfortable enough.If the mattress was vacuum packed or rolled up for delivery, it may take at least a week to fully decompress into its optimum state. Buy a king size fitted sheet for hygiene and protection. Fitted mattress protectors and bed sheets will keep your bed hygienic and comfortable, and aid in keeping it clean. Don’t confuse thickness with support. Many people feel the thicker the mattress, the more supportive it will be — but that is not necessarily true.Ask for details on how the mattress has been constructed, so that you can understand if it can reliably deliver on its promises. Don’t be immediately swayed just because a mattress is inexpensive or on sale. You’re always better off going by the construction, and whether the details of the mattress match your needs. Despite all the details we’ve covered, try not to overthink it. With so much to consider, it’s easy to get paralysed by the choices. If a mattress meets your needs, it’s likely to be the right one. The only way you’ll know for sure is once you’ve tested it out.Remember, this is why it’s important to make sure your mattress comes with a healthy warranty and a clear returns policy. The Sleep Republic hybrid king mattress is a multi-award winning mattress endorsed by the Australian Spinal Research Foundation.
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Sleep Republic has been endorsed by the Australian Spinal Research Foundation!
Experts agree that our mattress is the key to blissful sleep Sleep Republic is one of only two companies that have received an endorsement from the Australian Spinal Research Foundation. The Foundation supports research into vertebral subluxation, one of the main concerns of the chiropractic discipline. The endorsement related to the Sleep Republic mattress reads as follows: “This product has been assessed by licensed Chiropractors as being of high quality in relation to ergonomic design, function, and for its proposed use.” To understand the relevance of this endorsement, it’s important to understand just how important the chiropractic discipline is to our health. In this piece, we will take a look at the mission of the Australian Spinal Research Foundation, their work in addressing vertebral subluxation, and how the Sleep Republic mattress offers better support. What is a chiropractor? A chiropractor is a health professional who treats patients with disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractors use spinal manipulation as well as other manual medicine techniques such as massage, stretching, exercise, and rehabilitative therapy to restore function, improve mobility and relieve pain. What is the Australian Spinal Research Foundation? The Australian Spinal Research Foundation is the largest association of chiropractors in the Southern Hemisphere. Their mission is to fund and facilitate research into chiropractic disciplines, and to educate chiropractors, communities, and other organisations on the benefits of chiropractic care. Their goal is to develop a clearer understanding of vertebral subluxation — the misalignment of the spine that causes interference between the brain and body. They aim to achieve this by maintaining their standing as a world leader in funding quality research in key areas. Since the Foundation’s inception in 1977, they have: Continually contributed to chiropractic research Funded over $2.7 million of research across 210 projects Create a panel of experts from all over the world to contribute to the review process What is a vertebral subluxation? The term vertebral subluxation is used to describe a few different clinical entities. At one end of the spectrum, it means asymptomatic radiographic changes seen on an x-ray. At the other end of the spectrum, it refers to a severe multi-level disease that requires surgical intervention or high doses of medication to control the symptoms. The subluxation component of this term simply means displacement or misalignment — the term vertebral subluxation means displaced or misaligned vertebra. The entity is chiropractic because it can be found and diagnosed by a chiropractor. Another term — chiropractic subluxation — represents one end of the spectrum of vertebral subluxations. Chiropractors use this term to describe a condition that they believe may cause interference with the nervous system and lead to disease or other health problems. Vertebral subluxation implies that there may be interference with the nervous system and the potential for disease or other health problems. What are the symptoms of vertebral subluxation? The symptoms of vertebral subluxation are the same as the symptoms of any vertebral misalignment. They can vary from one person to another and depend on which levels of the spine are displaced and how much they are displaced. A chiropractic subluxation can cause or contribute to a large variety of health problems. For example, the same subluxation may cause back pain in one person and ear ringing in another. Varying symptoms have been observed by many chiropractors over the years. It is reasonable to accept that there is some association between vertebral subluxations and other health problems. How does this relate to mattresses? Spinal alignment is an important part of sound sleeping. Having a bad mattress can negatively contribute to spinal conditions, including vertebral subluxation. There are many things that can contribute to mattress back pain, including: The age of the mattress Poor design or construction Faulty springs or comfort layer No edge support Sleep Republic mattresses have been designed to promote the absolute best in spinal pressure relief. Our mattress has been engineered from the ground up to offer more support in more areas, from the centre to the edge. We use quality, natural materials to ensure that they last their full 12-year lifespan. As always, it’s up to you to decide whether the mattress is a good fit for you. Fortunately, you can do so with ease. Sleep Republic mattresses come with a 100-night risk-free trial, allowing you to test the mattress for over 3 months. If at any time, you are unsatisfied, you can return the mattress for a refund. Also, our mattresses come with a 12-year warranty. Not yet convinced? We get it! Awards can only go so far. We recommend checking out what our customers are saying. Our reviews are fully transparent, and can give you great insight into our products. Ready for a better mattress, now officially endorsed by the Australian Spinal Research Foundation? Check out Sleep Republic’s range today and try risk-free, with fast delivery around Australia.
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What is a mattress in a box?
Everything you need to know about buying a bed in a box The mattress in a box phenomenon is sweeping the world. Everywhere you look, companies and people are singing the praises of this brand new thing: a mattress, in a box. You might have seen ads and considered buying one but want to know more. Or you could just be a huge mattress enthusiast with a lot of spare time. Either way, we’ve compiled this handy guide for you. Read on to learn everything you wanted to know about the mattress in a box revolution. Sleep Republic makes buying our award-winning mattress in a box simple and straightforward. Get started on your journey to improved sleep. What is a mattress in a box? A mattress in a box is just the same as a regular mattress, only in a box. A bed in a box is simply compressed in a bag, rolled tight and air-sealed before shipping. And because they are compressed down to the size of a small cabinet, boxed beds are a lot easier and cheaper to transport than regular mattresses. Which is the best bed in a box? This really depends on you and your needs. We encourage everyone to read online reviews and think about what you want from a mattress in terms of price and calibre. Of course, we believe that Sleep Republic’s mattress in a box is clearly the best. It offers super comfortable sleep that hundreds of people are raving about. People are actually writing reviews about how much they like our mattress in a box! Our high-quality mattresses feature both gel-infused memory foam and pocket springs, and feature knitted cashmere and anti-allergenic natural latex. They are medium-firm, comfortable but still supportive, offering the perfect balance between soft and hard. Our mattresses have a 12-year warranty, and we provide free same-day delivery on orders received before midday throughout metropolitan Australia. What sizes of mattresses come in a box? Thanks to advanced compression technology, our boxed mattresses come in a huge range of sizes: Single Long single King single Double King Queen How do you transport a boxed mattress in a sedan? Quite easily! When we say a mattress in a box, we literally mean an entire mattress in a little box. The box fits in any vehicle that isn’t a clown car, and even comes with wheels to make it easier to transport. Where should I buy a mattress in a box online? This will depend on what you need from a mattress in a box. Some customers are looking for the most affordable option, while others are more focused on mattress quality. Ultimately, it will come down to your personal preference shaped by research and word-of-mouth. We encourage everybody to do their due diligence and read widely before making a purchase. Here at Sleep Republic, we naturally believe we sell the best boxed mattresses. But we would say that, wouldn’t we? However, many of our satisfied customers are saying the same thing. What are the advantages of buying a mattress in a box? There are several advantages to buying a mattress in a box instead of a traditional mattress. 1. Cost Savings Bed-in-a-box mattresses are significantly less expensive compared to conventional mattresses. Many companies frequently offer deals and discounts, so you can secure a heavenly new bed for less than what you’d pay at a typical bedding store. These cost savings are a result of only selling online. Costs are reduced by not having a physical location with associated expenses. Plus compressing the mattresses into small boxes keeps shipping costs down, allowing savings to be passed on to customers. 2. Convenient delivery When you buy a mattress in a bedding store, it often needs to be ordered from a warehouse and scheduled for delivery days or weeks later. Sometimes your mattress is available on the day of purchase, but you have to pay an expensive delivery fee or lug it home yourself. Mattress in a box companies, on the other hand, typically offer same-day delivery to your door, making the process so much easier. 3. Risk-free trials Since you can’t try out a mattress in a box before you buy it online, companies offer trial periods. During this time you can return the mattress free of charge and either receive a refund or request an exchange. Sleep Republic offers our famous 150 Night Free Trial. Contact us within 100 days of your purchase and we’ll collect your mattress free of charge, refund you and recycle the mattress or donate it to charity. The Sleep Republic mattress in a box has won multiple awards and the Australian Spinal Research Foundation endorses it. If you’re ready to take the next step towards a blissful night’s sleep, browse our range..
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What can you buy to get a better night's sleep?
Some incredible products to help you sleep through the night There are lots of tremendous products that help us with our lives. Shoes, for example, protect our soft and sensitive feet from jagged rocks and shards of broken glass. Meat thermometers take the guesswork out of cooking chicken, and preserve us from dreaded food poisonings like salmonella. But products aren’t just there to help us in the waking hours, from aforementioned activities like walking and preparing poultry. There are also products to help you sleep. But, we hear you asking, “What can I buy to help me sleep?” It’s a devilishly tricky question; the market is full of phoney products that promise blissful slumber but actually don’t help you sleep at all! It takes an expert in the field to separate bonafide sleeping products from cheap imitations. At Sleep Republic, we’ve got years of experience helping people sleep soundly. To help you get the most out of your REM cycles, we’ve assembled the following list of things you can buy to help you sleep. If you’re having trouble dozing off, try some of these handy, sleep inducing products. There are many products to help you sleep, but most will be ineffective if you’re still using the wrong mattress. Read on to find out more about Sleep Republic’s incredible hybrid mattress. Vitamins to help you get to sleep Having deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can make it harder to function and thrive while you’re awake, but did you know that it can also make it more difficult to sleep well? If you’re at low levels of any of the following, you might need to purchase some supplement products to help you sleep: Vitamin C Vitamin D Calcium Iron Magnesium Vitamin B12 Tryptophan Melatonin Omega 3s Relaxing things you can buy to help you sleep Getting in the right state of mind before bedtime can make a world of difference to your sleeping. If you’re feeling anxious, or are being kept up by loud noises, that can make an effective night’s rest seem impossible. Thankfully, there are many products to help you sleep like: Herbal teas A weighted blanket A white noise machine Black out curtains Dress for success if you want to sleep better As the old saying goes, clothes maketh the man. As the slightly newer saying goes, good pyjamas maketh the man have an easier time getting to sleep. Is it time to update your nocturnal wardrobe? There are thousands of quality pyjama manufacturers, ready to adorn your resting body in silks and soft cotton. If you’re finding that even your most comfortable pyjama pants are an imposition, try a loose fitting nightshirt instead. Alternately, if you’re the sort of person who finds even the most comfortable pyjamas to be an imposition, consider investing in an additional blanket. This will help to keep you warm at night, and compensate for your nakedness. Medicine to help you sleep If you’ve tried everything else, it might be the case that there is a medical reason that you’re having trouble with your sleep. When people are suffering from acute insomnia, there is sometimes an underlying disease or disorder at play that requires treatment by a doctor. There are remedies, medicines and treatments that can assist with an assortment of sleep-related ailments. However, it is important to be aware that taking medication for sleep can be extremely dangerous, and fatal if done incorrectly. Only take prescription medication if advised to do so by a qualified medical professional, and follow the instructions to the letter. Sleep inducing mattresses The wrong mattress can seriously compromise the integrity of your sleep. There are a number of ways that an inappropriate mattress can make sleeping difficult. The most immediate issue is that a mattress isn’t comfortable, and that you have trouble dozing off. The secondary issue, which can be even more serious, is that the mattress doesn’t provide enough support, and over time you find yourself suffering from back, shoulder, hip and neck pain. The #1 thing you can buy to help you sleep is a mattress that provides both comfort and ample support. That’s why at Sleep Republic we’ve created a hybrid mattress. It has all the comfort of foam, with the added support of pocket springs. If you’re looking for things to help you sleep, start with the right mattress. Check out Sleep Republic’s multi-award winning mattress, and see if it doesn’t help you race off to the land of nod ASAP.
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Trouble falling asleep? Meditation can help
Learn how to calm your mind to sleep with this handy meditation guide Being in the business of sleep, as we are here at Sleep Republic, we’ve done a deep-dive (under the covers!) to discover the impact of meditation on relaxation and how to calm the mind before sleep. Now that we’ve had our beauty sleep (and rather reluctantly out of our pj’s), we’re back to work and here to share with you our findings. So, if you’ve tried all the herbal teas, books and baths before bed to no avail, read on! Find out how to clear your mind to sleep using meditation and discover some of the highly successful people that have turned to meditation to get a good night’s rest. It’s part of our discussion on everything you want to know about sleep. Why can’t I “switch off”? A racing mind is the top complaint patients report when it comes to sleep, says Dr Judson Brewer PhD, a professor and researcher at the Mindfulness Center at Brown University. We’ve all had that feeling – desperately tired and ready for sleep – but when your head hits the pillow, your mind seems to ramp up with worries about work and family, half-recalled to-do lists and a niggling feeling you’ve forgotten something really important… Did you leave your Facebook open at work?! Anyway, it seems we’re not alone with about one in ten Australians unable to fall asleep or stay asleep at any given time. In our information-saturated, ever-changing, complex world, it seems there are more things to keep us awake than ever. So, how do we begin to quiet our minds to help us sleep better? Meditation and sleep Research into the new science of sleep shows our circadian rhythms, those internal clocks that keep our bodies functioning at their peak, can be adversely affected by changes in our daily routines including how much sunlight we receive during the day, when we eat and how we relax before bed. Meditation has been practised for centuries around the world and offers a natural, safe way to fall asleep for people of all ages. Originally a practice for spiritual enlightenment, meditation has evolved to offer a variety of benefits depending on the specific technique used and desired goal. How do I get started? Beginning a meditation practice is easier than you might think. But it’s worth noting that, when it comes to mindfulness practices, what works for one person may not work for another. Dr Rusch. PhD, a research fellow at the National Institutes of Health, suggests introducing one of the following techniques into your daily routine can help make sleep come easier. Breathing meditations Breathing meditation is a simple technique for learning how to calm the mind before sleep. To use the 4-7-8 breathing meditation technique, seat yourself in a comfortable sitting position and place your tongue on the roof of your mouth, close to the front teeth. Focus on the following breathing pattern: Empty the lungs of air Breathe in quietly through the nose for 4 seconds Hold the breath for a count of 7 seconds Exhale forcefully through the mouth, pursing the lips and making a “whoosh” sound, for 8 seconds Repeat the cycle up to 4 times Walking meditations With its origins in Buddhism, the walking meditations technique has a multitude of benefits including: Boosting blood flow Improving digestion Reducing anxiety Improving blood sugar levels and Improving sleep quality Research suggests this technique, involving slow paces in methodical patterns has a strong influential effect on our ability to sleep by reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, particularly when practised in the mornings. Clearing the mind in this way has been proven to better the quality of your sleep, even more so than more vigorous exercise. So there’s no reason to rush out and renew that gym membership, people! Slow and steady, it seems, does win the race. Mindful movement This type of meditation practice is perfect if you’re the sort of person who may find it difficult to remain still for an entire seated meditation. Mindful Movement allows you to get the benefits of meditation with slow sequences of movement. Tai Chi and yoga are just two ancient techniques founded on the concept of mindful movement. Should I try an app? There is an increasing number of guided meditations now available to download providing a great resource for those new to meditation. The Calm app, the #1 App for sleep, meditation and relaxation, offers a great introduction to those learning how to meditate. Guided meditations from a panel of experts and notable celebrities can be downloaded covering a wide range of topics that keep us up at night. HeadSpace is another fantastic resource, and the preferred platform of Bill Gates, amongst others. Once a sceptic, Gates now extols the benefits of meditation. “For me, it has nothing to do with faith or mysticism. It’s about taking a few minutes out of my day, learning how to pay attention to the thoughts in my head, and gaining a little bit of distance from them.” Like Calm, you can choose from an extensive library of guided meditations, bedtime stories, articles and music to help you to relax and get a better night’s sleep. Both apps provide content specifically designed for children struggling to sleep and might just be your saviour at the ‘witching hour’ tonight. To sleep, perchance to dream! Shakespeare was obviously big on sleep too. And, why not? With sleep affecting everything from high blood pressure and mental health to weight control and concentration, a daily meditation practice could really change your life. You can find out everything you need to know about getting a good night’s sleep.
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What tea is good for sleep?
Picking the perfect sleep tea for you We all know how important sleep is for your physical and mental health and wellbeing. However, sleeplessness affects a lot of people, with over 30% of Australians suffering from some degree of insomnia. The inability to fall asleep and stay asleep is a critical issue facing society today, and is only made worse by the stimulation of technology. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help. Herbals teas have been used all around the world for centuries for their wide array of helpful properties. One of the most common properties possessed by teas is the ability to treat insomnia. Others are great at addressing root causes of insomnia, like stress, anxiety, abdominal discomfort, and nasal congestion. In this article, we cover what tea is good for sleep — part of our wider discussion around how to get the best possible sleep each night. For more articles about the science of sleep, visit our blog. Does chamomile tea help sleep? Chamomile tea — one of the most popular and prevalent sleep teas — has been used to help sleep problems for centuries. It contains an antioxidant called apigenin, which works on specific receptors in the brain to bring on feelings of sleepiness. It is especially helpful for elderly people and women who have recently had children. While the research around the effects of chamomile tea on sleep is inconsistent, it is widely regarded to offer a range of benefits, including: Mild tranquillisation Reduced inflammation Lessened anxiety Does peppermint tea help sleep? Peppermint tea is a popular inclusion for the nightly routine because it distinctly lacks any caffeine. It is also highly favoured in warmer climates like India, due to the fact that it contains around 20 per cent menthol, which cools the mouth. Studies have proven that peppermint tea can help mice sleeper for longer hours, and wake up less. Some other potential benefits include: Reduced muscle tension Energy restoration Eased digestive issues Does earl grey help you sleep? Earl grey tea is another great sleep maker. Earl Grey features an ingredient called bergamot which has a raft of natural aromatherapeutic properties. It’s a key mood stabiliser and stress reliever, perfect for knocking off after a stressful day at work. It can also help with a range of insomnia-adjacent issues, like acid reflux and an upset stomach. While there isn’t much in the way of scientific, peer-reviewed studies into the benefits of ear grey tea as a sleep aid, users often report benefits of: Energy boosting Immunity boosting Oral health benefits Does fennel tea help you sleep? Fennel teas is an antioxidant-rich liquid with both antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It forms a core part of ancient European home remedies to treat sleeplessness. It also works as a mild muscle relaxant, which can help you get ready for bed. With an aniseed-like taste, fennel is incredibly common, and can be found in basically any supermarket or health food store. The jury is out whether fennel tea has benefits for sleep, breastfeeding, and other cycles. However, people attest that is works wonders in: Improving digestion Easing sickness Relieving constipation Does green tea help you sleep? You may be aware of the popular myth that suggests green tea actually contains more caffeine than coffee. However, green tea only contains about a third of what you’d find in your morning cup of joe. You might want to avoid caffeine all together before bed — althought there is some evidence to suggest that the antioxidant theanine may counteract the effects of the caffeine. Green tea can potentially help with sleep duration and quality. Theanine can help by reducing stress hormones and neutron excitement in the brain. It also offers a range of other benefits, including: Improved mood Improved brain function Improved reaction time Does milk help you sleep? Does warm milk help sleep? It wouldn’t be an article about tea without mentioning one of the most popular tea additives. Milk and other dairy products contain a range of chemicals that can help with sleep. The most important of these is melatonin — the sleep hormone. Tryptophan — an amino acid that induces sleep — is also prevalent in milk. In fact, there are even special brands of milk available taken from cows milked at night. This “night milk” does not yet have any scientific backing. However, both warm and cold milk before bed can help with: Relieving stress Reducing anxiety Promoting healthier sleep cycles There are many different kinds of teas and additives that can potentially help you sleep. However, it is important to understand that tea is not a silver bullet for sleep. You should consider a holistic sleep strategy, balancing good diet, moderate exercise, stress relief, and less screen time, to name just a few. while many of the teas listed above can potentially help you get to sleep, there has been very little research completed in this field. Looking for more ways to get to sleep? Here’s everything you need to know about getting the best possible sleep, each and every night.
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Sleep Republic named best pocket spring mattress by CHOICE
The only mattress to win top awards from both Bedbuyer and CHOICE CHOICE is trusted by millions of Australians. Run by the Australian Consumers’ Association, CHOICE has an uncompromising methodology for testing mattresses. In exciting news, CHOICE has named Sleep Republic the highest rated pocket spring mattress in the country. This honour comes hot on the heels of Bedbuyer — another quality consumer advocacy organisation — naming Sleep Republic Best Overall mattress in a box for two years running. From fluid resistance to durability, the CHOICE team found lots to like about the Sleep Republic mattress. Read on to discover some of the key features about the Sleep Republic mattress that CHOICE found to be particularly impressive. Independent experts are raving about the Sleep Republic mattress, but don’t take their word for it. We’ve got a 150 night free trial, with a full refund if you don’t love the mattress. Find out more about what makes the Sleep Republic mattress special. The Sleep Republic mattress is incredibly resistant to sagging Some mattresses sag over time. To test mattress, CHOICE uses a cask-shaped roller over a mattress again and again, simulating eight years of use. The mattress’s height and firmness are measured before and after the experiment. On the CHOICE sagging test, Sleep Republic’s mattress achieved a near perfect score. That means when you buy a Sleep Republic mattress, you’ll be able to enjoy the extraordinary support and cushioning night after night. Perfect sweat repellant People sweat when they sleep, and smelly, yellowing mattresses get to be that way because they absorb sweat. The exception? Sleep Republic’s sweat repellent mattress. Lower scoring mattresses on the CHOICE sweat repellent test tend to absorb moisture. The mattress quality will deteriorate over time as a result, and become odorous. The Sleep Republic mattress, on the other hand, gets a perfect score from CHOICE. The CHOICE testers discovered that the Sleep Republic mattress did not retain any fluids, meaning that even the sweatiest sleepers can use the Sleep Republic mattress without fear. Easy to transport The CHOICE team also noted that our mattress in a box comes with wheels, making it easy to transport. So, not only is the Sleep Republic mattress comfortable and durable, it’s also conveniently packaged and easy to move. It’s just one of the many small and delightful finishing touches that makes our mattress stand out. Very high scores for comfort retention As well as the aforementioned sag resistance, the Sleep Republic mattress was also tested for comfort retention. This test subjected the mattress to regular wear and tear equivalent to years of use, and then evaluated whether the mattress retained a high level of comfort. The results were outstanding. In both the male and female categories, where comfort is tested for different body types and shapes, the Sleep Republic mattress was demonstrated to stay very comfortable. It’s official, with Bedbuyer and CHOICE recognise the Sleep Republic mattress as one of the best pocket spring mattresses in Australia, and will stay great for years to come. Find out more about our mattress and start sleeping better ASAP.
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Everything you need to know about getting a good night's sleep
Sleep better, and make yourself happier, by finding out about the science of sleep It was E. Joseph Cossman who once said “The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep” — which happens to be the 53rd most famous quote about sleep. It might, however, be 1st for importance. Sleeping well can revolutionise your life, and help you face the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune that are sure to come your way. At Sleep Republic, we know a thing or two about sleep. We’ve spent years researching sleep technology and engineering to bring you an award-winning mattress. Read on to reap the fruits of our labour, and find out more than you ever wanted to know about the sensational science of sleep. See for yourself why the Sleep Republic mattress has won multiple awards, and helped countless Australians reap the reward of restfulness. Find out more about our mattress, which can be ordered online and delivered directly to you. How do you improve your sleep? Across the country, there’s an epidemic of bad sleep. Many people aren’t getting enough sleep, and what little sleep they do manage to get is broken, light and ineffective. How do you sleep better? The answer is multifaceted. In this article, we will tackle some of the common problems people have with their sleep, and also suggest some remedies for those issues. We’ll focus on things like: Getting to sleep quickly, and spending less time and effort trying to fall asleep Getting the right amount of sleep for your age, and also for you as an individual Rejuvenating your body and mind with deep, REM sleep Putting sleep patterns in place to make great sleep part of your everyday routine Finding the tools you need to banish discomfort and maximise quality sleep time Is it possible to get to sleep more quickly? You lie in bed, tossing and turning, yearning for Mr. Sandman to pay you a visit and send you to the Land of Nod. Must it be thus, or is it possible to get to sleep more quickly? Here are a few tips we’ve found for hastening the deepening of your sleep. Turn off your screens Although the information contained within this article is, no doubt, vital for helping you sleep well, reading this article on a screen probably isn’t helping you to fall asleep. Looking at a screen can keep you awake for as long as an hour. So, if you’re in bed, trying to get to sleep while intermittently checking your phone and/or reading articles about going to sleep, a good first step is to switch off your device. Relax The more relaxed you are, the more likely you are to fall asleep swiftly. So, if you’re having trouble dozing off, do something relaxing. Take a bath, listen to some soothing music, go for a walk, or drink a cup of tea. Get a better mattress Potentially, we’re biased on this point. As a mattress manufacturer, we put a pretty high emphasis on the importance of having a quality mattress. A mattress is by no means the only worthwhile piece of somnus paraphernalia — sheets, pillows and a bed base all have their part to play — but a mattress might just be the most important component of all. If you’re not comfortable on your mattress, you’ll have trouble falling to sleep quickly. It’s as simple as that. And, mercifully, there is a convenient solution: a 150 Night Trial on a Sleep Republic mattress. How much sleep do I need? This might seem a straightforward question, but it’s actually a deceptively tricky one. There’s a difference between how many hours a person needs to sleep each night, and how much effective, restful sleep they actually achieve. To further complicate matters, we need different amounts of sleep at different times in our lives. And to make it even more complicated, some people seem to need more sleep than others, and the causes for this are often unknown. People of different ages need different amounts of sleep Studies indicate that the amount of sleep a person needs will vary over the course of their life. Here is an approximate guide to the number of hours of sleep a person needs to be based on their age: 0-3 months old: 14-17 hours 4-11 months old: 12-15 hours 1-2 years old: 11-14 hours 3-5 years old: 10-13 hours 6-13 years old: 9-11 hours 14-17 years old: 8-10 hours 18-64 years old: 7-9 hours 65+ years old: 7-8 hours Some people need more sleep than others Some people seem to function well on almost no sleep at all. There are many anecdotal cases of politicians, military leaders and billionaires who thrive professionally and sleep as few as four hours a night. Most people, however, need to slumber for far longer, and it is well established that not getting enough sleep can be detrimental to your health. The important thing is to find out how much sleep your body comfortably requires, and to ensure you sleep effectively by getting enough good, deep REM cycles. What is REM? Often, when people talk about REM, they’re referring to the American rock band known for hits like Losing My Religion and Shiny Happy People. But in the context of sleep, REM almost always stands for ‘Rapid Eye Movement’. There are several stages of sleep, and the deepest and most restorative of these is REM. During REM, people experience: The eyes moving rapidly Increased heart rate Irregular breathing Raised blood pressure Higher levels of oxygen being consumed by the brain Twitching in limbs and the face REM tends to happen while a person has their most intense dreams. Although much is still unknown about REM sleep, it is believed to help people improve their mood, capacity for memory, and learning abilities. How much REM sleep do you need? REM makes up a surprisingly small portion of the average person’s sleep each night. Within 7-9 hours of sleep, a normal amount of REM sleep might only be 90 minutes. The normal amount of REM sleep you get tends to decline with age. Older people might experience very little REM sleep, while some infants experience greater than 50% REM sleep. A lack of REM sleep can cause emotional and cognitive problems, and is linked to a host of different medical issues. If you’re not getting enough REM sleep, this is likely because you’re not sleeping very deeply through the night. There are a number of remedies you might like to pursue. Why can’t I sleep? Sleep, as we have outlined, is absolutely necessary for your health and happiness. And being unable to sleep? It’s wretched. The medical term for this awful state of affairs is ‘insomnia’ which is Latin for ‘without sleep’. The remedy for not being able to sleep will differ, depending on the root cause of the problem. Here are a few common issues people tend to have with their sleep, and what to do to remedy those issues. Poor sleep patterns Human beings are creatures of habit and routine, and having a disjointed sleep pattern can make getting to sleep extremely difficult. Issues getting to sleep are common with people who work irregular hours, like doctors, nurses, employees in the hospitality industry, and performers. It’s not always possible to set regular, healthy sleeping patterns. But as much as it is within your power, try going to sleep and getting up at a similar time each day. This should help with your sleep. A guilty conscience When Midnight Oil front-person Peter Garrett sang “How do we sleep/ while our beds are burning?”, he wasn’t necessarily referring to the actual, literal fire consuming his bed. Rather, he was referring to the metaphorical burning of a guilty conscience. Emotional and intellectual problems can have a terrible impact on your sleep. Even a spiritual crisis can cause poor sleep, and this is what the Spanish mystic St. John of the Cross was referring to when he wrote about ‘the dark night of the soul’. At Sleep Republic, we partner with The Salvation Army to either donate or recycle all returned mattresses. Also, all of our foam is CertiPUR-US® certified, which is better for you and better for the planet. That’s just two of the ways we ensure we’ve made an ethical mattress, to help you get to sleep. The wrong mattress An uncomfortable mattress, or one that has too little support, can be just as disruptive to your sleep as those other problems. However, unlike an unstable routine or a guilty conscience, it is easy to find a convenient solution to having the wrong mattress. Just get yourself the right mattress instead, and start improving your sleep. Can you buy anything to help you get a better night’s sleep? There are many sleep aids and supplements on the market, and countless products which cite improved sleep as one of their benefits. Prospective sleep-aids include: Magnesium Lavender Vitamin D Chamomile tea Warm milk Earl grey tea Fennel tea Green tea Some people swear by these purported sleep-cures, while other people have no such luck. Whether or not they work for you will probably be a matter of personal taste; if you love the taste of warm milk, you may find it to be a relaxing and effective catalyst for getting to sleep. However, if you’re lactose intolerant, that glass of milk is rather more likely to cause you digestive problems and keep you awake all night long. One sure-fire item to help you sleep better at night is a quality mattress, with a high level of support. Even if you find a kind of tea that helps you get to sleep, if you’re nodding off on a bad mattress then the aches and pains you’ll feel the next morning will still encumber you throughout the day. Try the Sleep Republic mattress for 150 nights, and if you’re not fully satisfied, send it back for a full refund. Read more about the Sleep Republic mattress, and get yourself a great night’s sleep ASAP.
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