I’ve seen beds without the benefit of a mattress cover. Most of these mattresses still look new, except that the holes and stains are dead give-aways to the fact that the mattress isn’t given care. Mattresses are big investments, and as such, they need to be protected and properly cared for.

The top layer of the mattress is the most vulnerable part. It takes everything — bodily sweats and fluids, dust, wear and tear. Providing a decent cover somehow cushions it, making its quality last longer.

Having a mattress cover is also hygienic. If you are sleeping in the same mattress sans the cover for years and years, think of how much bacteria, dust mites, microorganisms and allergens remain and thrive there.

In choosing the right mattress cover, it’s best to go for materials or fabrics which are most absorbent, as it also helps in providing you quality sleep.

Mattress covers could be anything from mattress protectors, bed sets, bed linens, bed sheets, quilts and other types of beddings.

With mattress covers, you get to enjoy your mattress better and longer.

Photo: Pottery Barn Sheets

Why is it that sleep feels a lot better at hotel rooms? Aside from the fact that this service industry does make an effort to make your room feel inviting, they do have to adhere to certain guidelines in choosing the type of mattress they have to have in the hotel. Such guideline was outlined in a study conducted by Cornell. Maybe you could pattern after this very same guideline yourself the next time you shop for a new mattress or pillow.

In choosing the right mattress and pillow it must be…

Ergonomic Mattress:

• Designed to conform to the spine’s natural curves and to keep the spine in alignment when you lay down.
• Designed to distribute pressure evenly across the body to help circulation, decrease body movement and enhance sleep quality.
• Designed to minimize the transfer of movement from one sleeping partner to the other.

Ergonomic Pillows:

• Designed to keep the spine in natural alignment.
• Designed for maximum adjustability.
• Designed with the ability to be fluffed to fit the unique contour, shape, and sleeping posture of the user.
• Designed to support different sleep positions.
• Designed to support the head.
• Designed to provide tactile softness.
• Designed to eliminate pressure points.
• Designed to increase facial air circulation.
• Designed as hypoallergenic.

Via Cornell University Hotel Ergonomics