frustrated with size of a split king.

[phoenix]

Hi happyelmo,

We are in our late middle age and wanted to get a mechanical bed frame.

There is more information about choosing an adjustable bed in post #3 here and the main adjustable bed topic that it links to that can help you choose an adjustable bed based on price vs features comparisons and also includes some retailers that you can use as good sources of information about the features of the adjustable beds they carry and as pricing references as well (in post #6 in the main adjustable bed topic).

I lived in Japan for 20 years and they have a semi double size which is a in between size of the twin and a double. It would be perfect and I wish they made them here.

There is some information here about mattress sizes in different areas of the world and the closest size to this would be a “small double or three quarter size” which would be very difficult to find but a custom manufacturer will often make custom sizes in any dimensions that you wish.

Anyone else feel the same way about the divided kings?

You can see some comments about the pros and cons of a split king mattresses (two twin XL mattresses placed side by side) vs a single king size mattress in post #8 here and in this topic.

I have been looking for a mattress for about a month and been thinking about buying latex components and putting a mattresses together myself. I am waiting for samples from Phoenix.

If you are attracted to the idea of designing and building your own DIY mattress out of separate components and a separate cover then the first place I would start is by reading option 3 in post #15 here and the posts it links to (and option #1 and #2 as well) so that you have more realistic expectations and that you are comfortable with the learning curve, uncertainty, trial and error, or in some cases the higher costs that may be involved in the DIY process. While it can certainly be a rewarding project … the best approach to a DIY mattress is a “spirit of adventure” where what you learn and the satisfaction that comes from the process itself is more important than any cost savings you may realize (which may or may not happen).

If you decide to take on the challenge then I would either use the specs (if they are available) of a mattress that you have tested and confirmed is a good match for you in terms of PPP as a reference point (the same type and blend of latex in the same thickness and firmness levels and a very similar cover which can also make a significant difference to the feel and performance of a mattress) or use a “bottom up” approach (see post #2 here).

I have been in so many stores lately and am so tired of the games they play. Today I thought I found a great mattress and of course came home and checked it out on line only to find horrible reviews. Last weekend I though I found a great deal on a Justice Mattress out of Missouri. Supposedly the owner is letting his sons take over his business and selling everything half price just to get what he can out of his investment. Well we placed the order but it will not be ordered until we get into our new house. So I did some checking just to make sure this was truly the deal they said it was at $2800. I called three stores and their normal prices were $2300, $2500 and $2800. Needless to say this order will be cancelled and I am upset. I will be reported them to the BBB. So much dishonesty out there. It sure makes getting a new mattress and tiresome chore.

I would be very cautious about using other people’s experiences or reviews on a mattress (either positive or negative) as a reliable source of information or guidance about how you will feel on the same mattress or how suitable or how durable a mattress may be for you and in many cases they can be more misleading than helpful because a mattress that would be a perfect choice for one person may be completely unsuitable for someone else to sleep on (see post #13 here).

I completely agree that the industry as a whole has a lot of room for improvement but the first place I would start your research is the mattress shopping tutorial here which includes all the basic information, steps, and guidelines that can help you make the best possible choice … and know how and why to avoid the worst ones.

Two of the most important links in the tutorial that I would especially make sure you’ve read are post #2 here which has more about the different ways to choose a suitable mattress that is the best “match” for you in terms of PPP (Posture and alignment, Pressure relief, and Personal preferences) that can help you assess and minimize the risks of making a choice that doesn’t turn out as well as you hoped for that are involved in each of them and post #13 here which has more about the most important parts of the “value” of a mattress purchase which can help you make more meaningful quality/value comparisons between mattresses in terms of suitability, durability, and value.

Phoenix