How to Choose the Right Mattress for Your Bed
Choosing a mattress isn’t only about comfort or firmness. The mattress thickness also needs to match your bed frame design. A mattress that is too thin or too thick can affect the appearance of the bed, sitting height, and even how comfortable the bed feels to use.
Here are a few simple things to check before purchasing your mattress.
1. Measure the mattress thickness correctly
Remove all bedding. Lay the mattress flat on a firm, hard surface (bed frame or floor). Let it rest for 10 minutes so the filling layers can settle naturally before measuring.
Use a rigid straightedge. If unavailable, a broom handle can be used. Place it horizontally across the center of the mattress. Avoid measuring at the edges or corners, which may curve upward and cause inaccurate results.
Keep the tape measure close to the mattress edge and measure vertically from the underside of the straightedge down to the bottom of the mattress. Keep it perfectly straight, like measuring height against a wall.
Repeat Steps 02–03 along the mattress diagonal. Measure 2–3 times and use the average for a more accurate and reliable result.
For the most accurate measurement, place the mattress flat on a firm, level surface with all bedding removed. Allow it to fully expand and return to its natural shape.
Place a straight edge across the centre of the mattress, then measure vertically from the bottom of the mattress to the straight edge.
For better accuracy, measure the mattress in 2–3 different locations and use the average measurement. A difference of around 1–2 cm is generally normal, especially with padded or quilted mattresses.
Avoid measuring while the mattress is still compressed, only measuring one corner, or using a soft measuring tape without a straight edge.
2. Match mattress thickness to your bed frame
Different bed designs work better with different mattress thicknesses.
Platform or standard beds usually work well with a thicker mattress. Before purchasing, check the height of the bed slats or mattress support from the floor and consider the total finished height once the mattress is installed.
Beds with upholstered or recessed headboards require a little more attention. Measure from the mattress support/slats to the recessed edge of the headboard. This gives you a good reference for the appropriate mattress thickness.
A difference of approximately 2 cm normally will not affect everyday use, but a significantly thicker mattress may cover too much of the headboard, while a mattress that is too thin may leave an unwanted gap.
3. Consider your final bed height
Mattress thickness also determines how high the finished bed will be.
Before choosing, consider:
- The height of the bed frame or slats from the floor
- The mattress thickness
- Your preferred sitting and getting-in/out-of-bed height
- Whether the mattress will cover decorative parts of the headboard
As a general reference, a comfortable finished bed height is often around 50–62 cm from the floor, although personal preference should always come first.
Final Tip
When choosing a mattress, don’t look at the mattress alone. Your bed frame and mattress should work together as one system. Checking the bed structure, mattress support height, headboard design, and mattress thickness before purchasing can help you achieve a more comfortable fit and a better overall appearance.
If you are unsure which mattress thickness works best with your Home Quarters bed, our team can help you check the bed dimensions before you make your selection.