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Choosing the right mattress
OK, out with it. Exactly how old is your mattress? Does it sag in the middle or have one errant coil that digs into your leg if you roll the wrong way? You may think you're being economical, but you're actually losing out big-time on quality of sleep.

Having a bad mattress or keeping one that has lost its spring can be seriously detrimental to your sleep. A mattress that is too firm or too soft for you (there's no "right" one, only the one that works for you) can cause you to toss and turn, leading to muscle soreness and keeping you from getting a good night's rest.

Whether you're in the market for a new bed or just looking to see how yours measures up, we've got tips from a pro on what to look for when buying a mattress.

"A long-lasting good-quality mattress should last about 10 years," says Chris Hotchkiss, manager of the Halifax Bedroom Depot. So what exactly qualifies a mattress as "good quality"?

"First, it should be a reputable brand," Hotchkiss says. "Next, look for the number of coils to be 640 or more. Finally, make sure it has a warranty of 10 years that is non-prorated. That's important, because a prorated warranty usually means you're only covered for a year."

As for price range, expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 for a decent mattress. "Anything above $1,200 is about luxury, not necessity."

To ensure you get the most out of your mattress, Hotchkiss says, there are a few extras you'll need, most of which your warranty will insist on. "You'll need a proper foundation for your mattress, either a wood frame with six cross-slates or a metal frame with centre support," he says. "You'll also need a mattress pad to protect your mattress against stains. Any mattress pad will do."

Think of your mattress as a vehicle for sleep. Test out several models, from names you trust. Find one with as many or as few bells and whistles as you feel you need. And as with any big purchase, don't let anyone talk you into something you aren't sure of.

In the end, the number of coils won't make any difference if the mattress doesn't feel good to you. Most importantly, Hotchkiss says, be sure to do the lie-down test. Choosing a firm or a soft mattress is entirely your preference. "Try a few by lying down on them," he says. Just keep testing mattresses out. Your body will know when it's found its place to rest.

Learn how to organize your bedroom properly.

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