Remodel the Master Bedroom: Mattress Choices

You want a master bedroom that looks like a magazine photo, but there are a few things standing in the way, and a remodel is the only way to get there. Maybe hardwood floors are in order, the walls need new paint and that old light fixture has to go. Velvet drapes will frame the windows, and you’ll bring in a luxurious rug. Your vision also includes new furniture -- a chaise lounge, an elegant ottoman, and a stunning king-sized bed.

In fact, the bed is what lies at the core of your vision and motivation for remodeling the entire master suite. And now that you've hired the remodeling contractors, it's time to start shopping. Researching and shopping for mattresses is the perfect thing to do while contractors are undertaking your master bedroom remodeling project.

The bed is undoubtedly the most important part of a master bedroom. It’s where you sleep at night, forgetting all your cares in exchange for deep dreams and that feeling of complete refreshment when waking up in the morning. According to the Sleep Foundation, all adults need at least seven hours of sleep every night (but nine hours is even better). 

Falling asleep and staying asleep at night requires a comfortable bed and a serene environment throughout the master bedroom. Getting the sleep you need starts, of course, with the bed. 

Plush or Firm Mattress?

Older mattresses are a primary cause of tossing and turning throughout the night, so any new mattress will likely improve your sleep quality. But when shopping around for your new mattress, also consider health conditions like allergies, arthritis, sleep apnea, or indigestion.

You’ll need to decide between a plush mattress, which is sink-in soft, or a firm mattress, which is more supportive. If you have back pain, experts often recommend a firm mattress. However, testing mattresses on your own is the best way to determine what feels right to you. Deciding between plush and firm mattresses is one of the most important choices you'll make. 

Mattress Dimensions 

Once the area where your bed will sit is opened up and ready to go, you can move on to ordering your new dream-maker. But first, measure the area to determine exactly how much space you have. At 72 by 80 inches, a king-size bed is wonderful and roomy, but not every master bedroom can easily accommodate one. If you’re short on space, a queen-sized bed can be ideal for one person or for a couple that gets along at night! Another option, the “California King” is 72 by 84 inches.

Once your research and shopping help you land the perfect model, make sure to record the mattress dimensions in your phone or on paper, making sure to note any additional depth caused by pads or toppers. You’ll need it from time to time when ordering sheets, blankets, and comforters. Besides the mattress, luxurious and high-quality linens are the most important aspect of sleeping well at night. 

Remodeling the Bed Area

During the master bedroom remodel, take advantage of the chance to tweak the area where the bed is positioned. One very important factor is the lighting. Is the bed near windows that bring in sunshine early in the morning? If so, you might need black-out drapes or shades.

Electric light from lamps and fixtures is another consideration. If you love to read in bed or watch TV, adjustable ambient lighting makes the experience even more relaxing. If your room is very large and spacious, a magnificent light fixture like a chandelier over the bed or elsewhere provides grandeur and elegance and gives you that “magazine perfect” look that makes the whole project worthwhile. 

A sound system is another way to upgrade your master bedroom. Listening to nature noises like ocean waves or thunderstorms can send you off into blissful sleep, and you can program them to fade out after a couple of hours. Other room upgrades that add to your sense of luxury and good living include walk-in closets, room dividers, and wall murals. 

Mattress Recycling

During the remodeling process, you’ll need to dispose of your old mattress so you can enjoy your new one. Since mattresses are very large and not exactly easy to drag out to the street for the trash service, you should know where to take an old mattress. 

If you’re interested in recycling the mattress, you’ll need to contact your local recycling center to ask if they accept the mattress wholly. Most often, they will instead ask you to take the mattress apart. You might be able to find bins for the cloth sections, the wood, and any metal pieces, but much of the mattress will need to be thrown away. 

A more realistic way to recycle the mattress is to donate it to charity. Many thrift stores will take used mattresses that have been professionally cleaned. You can also find groups that collect household items for special projects like inner-city home rehabilitation. Selling your used mattress on an online forum like Facebook Marketplace is another way to recycle it. 

Mattress Disposal 

If your mattress is in very poor condition or you just don’t feel comfortable selling or recycling it, it’s pretty easy to have it taken away. Ask your mattress retailer about having your old mattress taken away when the new one is brought in. This service is increasingly common today and sometimes is provided for free. Also, inquire with your city commission about having the mattress picked up by your trash service. Many towns designate special days for large items, and you’ll only need to take the mattress to the curb. 

Sweet Dreams 

With your new bed set up in a freshly remodeled master bedroom, your vision is now a reality. Caring for your mattress means providing the proper covering and turning it from time to time to distribute the wear. Most mattresses will last nearly a decade when they are properly tended to. That’s a lot of good rest!