When our beds are no longer providing proper support and comfort, it affects the quality of our sleep. People are often unaware that their beds may be one of the reasons why they are not sleeping well. Beds don't last forever - life span is affected by factors such as the quality of the bed, care, amount of use and sleeping each night versus occasional use of spare beds. Changes in lifestyle and in our bodies can also necessitate a change of bed. A mattress will need replacing if you start waking up with aches and pains which will usually wear off as the day progresses. Your sleep pattern becomes affected and your not sleeping as well as you used too. Other beds seem more comfortable and you prefer sleeping in these rather than your own. Wear and tear in your mattress can also play a big part in your sleeping comfort, Mattresses will generally start to sag or rip as the materials are worn down. Having a comfortable bed plays a very big role in having a good nights sleep and can help you feel refreshed and ready to face the world. There are hundreds of different types of beds on the market today and there is no specific type for a back problem etc. The best advice is to try out as many different types as you can and find the one you feel most comfortable lying on. below is a brief guide courtesy of the sleep council on how to choose a good bed Decide your priorities and concerns in advance. For example, is it :- price, storage, access to bedroom, turning the mattress, getting in and out of bed, overall size, shape, a health issue, etc If possible, try a selection of beds for comparison before you buy. Buy for correct support and comfort for your weight and build - not just firmness. Lie down in your normal sleeping position and make some turns, too. Wear comfortable clothing and remove any outdoor gear. Try it together, if the bed?s for two. Don?t forget a bed is a mattress and a base working together - don?t consider them in isolation. Think big - larger beds are more comfortable. You get what you pay for - both in product and service - so spend as much as you can afford. Remember, you?re going to spend over 29,000 hours on your bed during its (10 year) lifespan so it?s worth taking a little time and effort in the beginning to make sure you make the right choice.