Ever try sleeping on an old mattress? Chances are, you didn’t feel rested in the morning.

Sleep deprivation will affect your mood, health and job performance. A good night’s sleep is sometimes all it takes to wake up the next day feeling ready to conquer the world.

A new, quality mattress that provides you with a restful night’s sleep is well worth the price. Investing in a mattress is one way to improve your quality of life.

Don’t be confused by the choices available. Take it a step at a time and you will find the perfect mattress. Ask your friends and family for recommendations, and then start browsing. Or you can scour the Internet for information and start narrowing your choices.

Purchasing a mattress is a long-term investment in your health and self-esteem. Don’t be afraid of looking at pricier options. Often, expensive mattresses may be on sale or part of a closeout event. Quality mattresses last longer, so you will not have to go through the trouble of buying another mattress in a year or two. Or worry as much about the mattress sagging and breaking down.

Consider your bed size. Is it time to buy a bigger bed? Perhaps you would like to sprawl out and relax.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

• Do you need a firm or soft mattress? People with a bad back, neck or leg pain, or other circulatory problems might require firm support to keep their spines aligned. Other people prefer flexible support that fits the contours of their bodies.

• Do you sleep with another person? Mattresses made of memory foam might be beneficial, as it will give you a personalized experience without disturbing the other person’s sleep.

• Standard mattresses can exacerbate allergies if you are sensitive to lint, cotton, dust or dust mites. If you, or your partner, have allergies, consider getting a latex, foam or water mattress. You might also think about getting a hypoallergenic mattress cover.

When you are looking at actual mattress options, the following are popular choices:

• Pillowtop mattresses are famous for their softness; however, they do have levels of firmness. They also require a larger bottom sheet because the pillow top adds to their extra thickness.
• Coil spring construction is a great choice for people who want a firm mattress. This option has the ability to keep your spine aligned. Most mattress stores can show you samples of their product lines. Choose the best construction you can afford.

• “Memory” or high-density foam, or latex mattress, is helpful if you have physical issues, such as skeletal pain or circulatory problems. This mattress conforms to the shape of the body. It also minimizes pressure points from the head, shoulders and hips.

• Adjustable air mattresses allow each person to change the firmness through electronic and mechanical devices that control air chambers. It is an ideal choice for partners who need to have different mattress preferences. You can also alter firmness for yourself, depending on your physical condition.

When shopping for a mattress, don’t be afraid of lying down and trying it out. Roll over and pay attention to how your body feels. Are you comfortable?

Inquire about the mattress guarantee or warranty. A standard warranty is 10 years. If the warranty is shorter or non-existent, look elsewhere.

Remember, your mattress is a long-term investment. Choose wisely and you will be rewarded with years of restful nights and energetic days.