September 8, 2021, 6:23 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
When purchasing a double bed, you can choose between two single mattresses or one large one. Both options have their pros and cons, but which choice leads to better sleep?
A large shared mattress is easier to make and doesn’t have a gap that can widen with movements during sleep. However, you can feel the movements of the other person in bed more easily and quickly. This doesn’t happen with two mattresses in a double bed. Each person has their own sleeping area, which is separated by the aforementioned gap.
Overview
One or Two Mattresses in a Double Bed–Which Is Better?
When choosing a mattress, factors such as body shape, weight, or sleeping habits should be considered. If one partner is much taller or heavier than the other, movements on a shared mattress in a double bed can be more noticeable than with two. If one person sinks deeper into the mattress due to their higher weight, the other may roll toward them, inevitably disturbing sleep. It’s similar if one person is a light and restless sleeper or an early riser, while the other likes to stay in bed longer.
To balance these body differences and varying sleep needs, two mattresses in a double bed are generally needed instead of one large one.
Also of interest: Firmness, Material, Size–How to Find the Right Mattress
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Firmness, Material, Size–How to Find the Right Mattress
Two Mattresses in a Double Bed with Different Properties
Besides the size or type of mattress, you can also choose between material and firmness. The demands on a mattress can vary greatly depending on stature, preferred sleeping position, sleeping habits, and personal preference. Here too, it’s better to choose two mattresses for a double bed, as different types and firmness levels can be selected.
Tip: The annoying so-called “visitor’s gap” can be easily covered with a topper on two separate mattresses.
If It Should Be a Shared Mattress
If there are no significant discrepancies in preferences and sleeping habits, there’s nothing against a shared mattress for the double bed. Sometimes, a suitable, individually adjustable slatted frame can compensate for less significant differences or slightly adjust firmness levels.