'Bigger is better' when it comes to mattresses

Where mattresses are concerned, consumers conclude that bigger is better, according to retail reports.

Research by the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA) found that purchases of single and double-sized mattresses declined between 2002 and 2007, while sales of queen and king-size mattresses increased.

The trend towards bigger beds is led by baby boomers with higher disposable incomes, larger homes and desire for comfort as they grow older.

Extra-large mattresses that go beyond king-size measuring as big as 108 square inches (274 cm squared) are being sold in the US.

Arvid Huth, head of PM Bedroom Gallery, said that oversized mattresses are no longer the domain of celebrities and sports stars, and that new homes with spacious bedrooms create the need for bigger furniture.

"The population is growing taller and wider, and a lot of people share their beds with children or pets. Still others simply want the comfort that comes from stretching out on a roomy mattress," he said.

In addition to a comfy mattress, sleep gurus recommend regular exercise and a winding down routine of reading or drinking decaffeinated tea before bed as key to achieving a good night's sleep.

Classic Bed Company is the UK's premier bed store for ultimate comfort and luxury offering Tempur, VI Spring, Willis and Gambier, French sleigh beds and contemporary beds online.