- Introduction
The 50th percentile average length for all Singaporeans was just over 1.7 m. Yet, it should come as no surprise that hotel managers generally prefer the longer 74-inch american size mattress in singapore normally offered when purchasing overseas as the imported mattress size caters mainly to the taller foreign market segment and also fulfills the task of ensuring that bedspreads are efficiently tucked away under the mattress. This paper seeks to make a start in investigating the potential of promoting the sales success of locally manufactured 74-inch mattresses in the Singapore market, the majority of the information provided being relevant to other regions or countries facing similar sleeping attire challenges.
In recent years, there has been a significant demand for exportation of all types, styles and sizes of mattresses from Singapore to countries located all around the world. Apart from the physical appeal, functionality has ensured that the size of a guestroom unit for use in hotels in Singapore can be maximized to allow sufficient space for optimal placement of guest accessories, blocking off accessibility for housekeeping staff maintaining guestrooms, and ensuring long lifespan and intrinsic value enhancing appeal for the end consumer. Currently available standard sizes supplied by local manufacturers are 36 x 75 inches, 42 x 75 inches, 48 x 75 inches, and 54 x 75 inches. Semico Industries’ property management attributes suggest that hoteliers strive for the differentiation of their product offering from those offered by competitors, giving themselves positive measurement in all five facets – germination, creation, imitating, decay, and duration within the hotel product life cycle. Take, for example, the provision of a slight variation from the norm, and guests of larger size will be a happy extension of hotelier product run. Results of a recent statistic published in Singapore cited that 52% of all Singaporeans suffered from cows! Specifically, 86% were suffering from sleep-related problems, with only 14% citing late sleep disorder.
1.1. Background and Significance
In this context, a comprehensive consensus and identification of the differences in selecting 7-inch and Double Mattresses in Singapore directly contributes to consumers’ confidence and satisfaction in buying a cost-effective product. Moreover, this study assists in building suppliers’ confidence and trust in promoting their products and enlarging sales prospects, as well as helps bed and mattress product suppliers better place their products in the market.
This research aims to identify the differences in characteristics of two mattress sizes currently available in Singapore, namely the 7-inch and American and Aussie Double mattress. Consumers aim to obtain cost-effective products when making purchases, comparing factors such as selecting a mattress size through advertisements, online searches, and store visits. However, publications providing comparisons of different mattress sizes are rather limited.
Background: A bed and mattress are staple items found in every household. The mattress is a crucial element of everyday sleep and rest. In addition to the mattress material, size is also an important selection criterion. For example, if a mattress is too big for a bed frame, it presents an aesthetic issue. Conversely, if it is not big enough, health problems may arise. A well-chosen mattress can help improve sleep quality, relax muscles, and combat body pain. However, many people, having little knowledge about the features of beds and mattresses, purchase them lightly or carelessly.
1.2. Research Objectives
Lastly, the study also attempts to find evidence for a hypothesis that 7-inch foamed mattresses are more durable and can withstand longer usage than American/Aussie double foamed mattresses. Would the price differences and quality justify the purchase of 7-inch foamed mattresses? So at select furniture stores, especially the inexpensive ones, customers usually have to purchase a 7-inch foamed mattress without testing rendition data for their preference if they like the mattress and do not wish for it. The answer can only be known after testing unto the mattress or after a return request placed to the furniture store after seeing the actual product.
Secondly, a comparative analysis between 7-inch and American/Aussie double foamed mattresses is conducted. The physical traits of the mattresses are very different. A 7-inch foam mattress, when delivered to your home, is packed (rolled) approximately the size of a kid’s chair; in other words, the volume is small. To our surprise, the mattress will eventually expand to a length of three feet x width of six feet and with thickness of approximately seven inches. This study focuses on the aesthetic and visual impact, comparison of the pros and cons of both mattresses, pros and cons from consumer experiences through word-of-mouth and traits found on the internet, and comparison of product knowledge and general information.
The main objectives of this research are threefold. The first objective is an in-depth analysis of the comparison in circulation of 7-inch and American/Aussie double foamed mattresses in the Singapore market. In recent years, sales volumes for 7Â inch mattresses have been growing more rapidly than for American/Aussie double foamed mattress. The same trend is found in many internet forums as well. A comparison of both mattresses poses consumer questions, which this study aims to answer.
- Understanding Mattress Sizes
One of the most common mattress sizes in Singapore is the 7-inch size mattress. This mattress size comes even cheaper than the American/Aussie double size mattresses. Because 7-inch mattresses are a type of foam mattress, they come in slightly smaller sizes, not to be confused with the standard size American/Aussie double mattress. There is often a misconception that these two sizes refer to the same thing. Interestingly, even in stores that offer both types of mattress, store owners have agreed that confusion can sometimes occur as some customers are not clear whether these two types of mattresses are actually the same size and whether the American/Aussie double sheets can fit onto the 7-inch mattress. Furthermore, with the growing popularity and exposure to the Western culture which may not necessarily be the most representative of the West, terms like Super Single, King Koil, Simmons, etc. are also sometimes used to refer to a mattress that is of the 7-inch size, further confusing customers. Yet, it is not unusual to see bedding products, including sheets and covers being marketed as America/Aussie/International size double. Thus, with such a variety of terms used in the market now, it is no wonder that many people, after much searching and asking, are finally so confused that they are uncertain of which mattress size can be considered a “standard one” or the appropriate or correct mattress for their needs.
2.1. Standard Mattress Sizes Globally
The bed sizes in Australia are different from that used in Europe, ones that are termed as Single, Super Single, Double, Queen and King. The bed sizes used in Europe is similar to that of the United Kingdom standards and their bed sizes are termed as Single, Large Single, Double, King, and Queen. For the Southeast Asian countries, there is a slight differentiation in the bed sizes, even though there is already a commonality in the mattress sizes, i.e., for the Singapore market the recognized sizes are Single, Super Single, Double, Queen, King, and Cal King. Even though Indonesia uses all the sizes including the Super Single, and the Philippines which utilizes Twin and Twin XL, the same range of American bed sizes is even present with what is commonly used by condominium owners.
The bed sizes recognized globally are from the United States, Australia, South East Asian countries, Europe, and United Kingdom. In the United States and some parts of South East Asia, Canada and Mexico, the mattress sizes recognized are referred to as Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, and California King where the characteristic feature of the bed sizes are the width which comes before the bed size, that is King/Cal King means a bed with King and California King sizes side-by-side. For the sizes in Australia and Europe, the length becomes the characteristic feature of the bed sizes, e.g., Single or Super Single. This is also the same in weight training when discussing about weight lifting for males and females.
2.2. Specifics of 7-Inch Mattresses
The Super Single Comfort (also known as Single Queen outside Singapore) is defined to be around 6 inches or 15 cm thick, and which generally retails as a set-in-a-carton or carton-rolled product. Relatively hard polyethylene (PE) protective films safeguard this mattress type in the waters of shipping and handling roughness. The cardboard material functions as another cushion layer. In contrast, the 7-inch Double Comfort or 7-inch Queen Comfort (also known as Double Comfort, 7-Inch Comfort, Queen Comfort, 7-inch Queen or 7-Inch Queen outside Singapore) and actually other 7″ super-single, queen, and king versions (in the sense of the standard definitions of Singapore) are oftentimes simply wrapped in plastic and temporarily protected in storage with another layer of further of the same. Some rear pulls may have a non-slip cover to prevent slipping and increase the safety of the product. A notable property relevant to the organizational operations of this time: 9-inch mattress marketing frequently involves mattress ensemble attractiveness for presentation goal that is synonymous with a more bedroom premium look. 7-inch comfort was more of an industrial elegance.
In the local Singapore retail market, a category of 7-inch mattresses or approximately 18 cm thick has been coined. In terms of product attributes, they resemble both the very common 4-inch thick mattress as well as the more premium 9-inch thick mattress. 7-inch thick mattresses, however, are aimed at serving the mass market that may be open to a balanced offering of comfort and affordability. The 4-inch and 9-inch thumbnails are dominated by super-budget and expensive mattresses respectively. Even for kids’ mattresses, the market lacks the availability of foam made thick enough to be comfortable for more joyous play, while at the same time cushion enough support for crucial executive functions.
- American and Aussie Double Mattresses
American and Australian double mattresses are comparably the same. This mattress is two inches larger than the regular single mattress. It is designed for two slender sleepers or for one wider build person who likes a bed with loads of rolling space. In the constraint styles and sizes of bedrooms, a double is popular for single sleepers. A double mattress of 7-inch or 9-inch thickness is very suitable for couples who love the luxury of space and storage with a sliding-door wardrobe that is L-shape or with a long track, or with a 54-inch/1.4-metre dresser. For two active and large dogs, a 7-inch double mattress is equally interesting to consider.
Many customers often confuse the characteristics of mattress sizes of other countries. For example, some customers often ask for a “double”, but have difficulty explaining the origin. The store person can only guess and offer “double deck”. An apology and GPS (I mean “good personal service”) should, however, be given immediately or better still, understanding more by studying our sales sheet. This is a very unfortunate dilemma, if not a taboo. In fact, single is smaller than the double, queen, or king sizes. In England, a single is also confusingly referred to as a twin. The double is known as the king size. Although a queen mattress looks bigger in size, especially the thickness, this is the popular style among customers.
3.1. Dimensions and Characteristics
Ironically, there are foreign workers working in Singapore who have to sleep within a confined area and continue working soon after their night shift ends. These foreign workers usually consider purchasing a 6-inch or 7-inch innerspring mattress as they can save some money to send back to their developing country. Non-fussy buyers sleeping separately at home or for a camping trip may also select these cheaper 6-inch or 7-inch innerspring mattresses from hypermarkets or retail stores in Singapore. The following sub-sections present the dimensions and various characteristics concerning each of the long and short mattress sizes.
3.1. Dimensions and Characteristics Mattresses are generally offered in various qualities and styles, including innerspring mattress, foam mattress, hybrid mattress, latex mattress, and air mattress. The innerspring mattress is the most common type in the market. For example, the popular sizes of the innerspring mattresses in the USA market include the Twin/Twin XL/Full/Queen/King/California King sizes. Furthermore, some individuals may purchase a platform bed, box spring, and bed foundation to complement the mattress used.
The general understanding of mattress sizes is that a bigger bed costs more. But what about the size that comes to mind when someone says ‘standard bed’? The general perception for some mattress sizes, such as the Single, Queen, or King, may vary with the bed sizes available in the Singapore market. It is acknowledged that the market differs from one country to another in terms of available bed sizes, and it is necessary to establish what product sizes are important to the consumer. The following sections explore the dimensions and characteristics of longer bed sizes, as well as the dimensions and characteristics of these short bed sizes in the Singapore market.
3.2. Popularity and Availability in Singapore
In the offline shops well distributed in the different states of the USA, the Australian shop, and the Singapore mall directed and owned by the American and Australian mattress retailers, and virtually online-only retailers had ease in research and locate the double-size beds in their respective platforms. These included those of the same brands like Beautyrest, Stearns & Foster, Sealy Well where Serta and Tempur-Pedic, Casper, and some internet-only retailers. There was overwhelming post-sale offline service and the offer of a 365-day trial for some pay. Nine out of 16 of the mattresses were more than 310mm (over 12-inch) thick, potentially offering sleeping postural support and reduced emission of volatile organic compounds for several.
For American or Australian double mattress sizes, Sharmaine embarked on a field survey with a sample of 50 shops (10 online-only and 40 brick and mortar). Encountering multiple rounds of communication with staff, Sharmaine found double-size models for 16 shops (either 15 shops in the USA or 1 shop in Australia) and twin models for 3 shops.
The popularity and availability of 7-inch and American/Aussie double-size mattresses in the Singapore market are well documented. It is a common perception that 7-inch mattresses are often marketed as trundle bed mattresses or are suitable for children as they go well with bunk beds. They are seen as inexpensive, easy to store, and popular within Asia. The frequent association between 7-inch mattresses and children has led to the argument by Asst Professor Moon to serve as educators to highlight to parents the ideal mattress thickness that would best support the backbone while their children are growing.
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress
If you are looking to get a new mattress or bedding for your space, one important factor to note in your consideration is the available size options. Mattress dimensions and sizes differ as a result of slight differences in international standard measurement guidelines. Therefore, the measurement you require and receive may not be accurate if it differs from what you are used to. This could be confusing, especially if you are buying across borders. Therefore, you must consider factors such as bedroom size, your personal size, etc., when ordering for a new mattress. Although the American/Aussie double is wider than the 7-inch by one to two inches, there isn’t much difference between the two sizes when compared. As a matter of fact, the 7-inch is a few inches taller than the American/Aussie double. Be sure to check which one fits your bed frame or bedroom floor space to avoid unexpected costs.
4.1. Comfort and Support
Mattresses are personal choice items that should last for several years. Through short power naps, deep sleep cycles, and feeling refreshed for the purpose of tackling the next day, an average person rests upon their mattress for approximately 8 hours daily. By using a mattress that meets their unique comfort and support needs, they will be able to achieve this. Individuals that would like to avoid daytime sleepiness, a variety of negative health issues, a decrease in productivity, an inability to participate in sporting activities, and achieve relaxation or associated activities but are yet to purchase a mattress are recommended to buy a mattress. So we should choose the best supportive sleeping mattresses to keep our body straight and active all day. Selecting the most supportive mattress that won’t want to get up for works.
This section of the mattress selection criteria analysis focuses on comfort and support. When mattress users require assistance to get into comfortable and starting positions upon waking, it is a good indicator that the mattress provides poor support. With a suitable mattress that meets their personal body needs, users will enjoy pressure relief and body alignment as the bones and muscles are ensured of continuous support. Personal preferences proposed are individuals that prefer a more cushioning feel, usually refer to a plusher mattress. Conversely, a mattress with firmer support offers a less plush feel. Components that influence the sensation are primarily created by the materials used to cushion the top of a mattress. A firm layer that offers firm support represented by the foundation section of the mattress influenced by the materials used to manufacture the mattress and is supported.
4.2. Price and Value
Value is likely to be a more important part of the purchase decision, and may be affected differently by the size of the consumer’s house, age, age cohort, and sex. Given that consumers who are interested in Queen-sized mattresses are willing to pay 42% more just to have two extra inches of mattress, are they instead willing to pay 42% less to only use part of the mattress? It is really the flexibility of the bed that is of concern here and the difference in value between sleeping on a smaller mattress. It is important to note that the areas of the body that tend to move the most during sleep are the upper limbs, i.e. the arms, head, and feet, and sleeping with them fully extended is a luxury that must not be underestimated.
When considering the benefits of one mattress over another, price is often used as a form of comparison. This tied in with testing the market’s willingness to pay for attributes is a vital part of understanding consumers’ valuation. With an increase in size from a Queen-sized 7-inch mattress to a Queen-sized 9-inch mattress seeing large increases in market price, some may see this as an easy way to make an incremental sale. Beds are, after all, long-term investments. Still, providing a mattress two inches smaller without translating this into consumed space may reduce the value perception of the product for consumers. This is partly due to the fact that in Singapore there are no metropoles where space is uncovered. There is also the association that bigger is equal to better comfort. This is partly due to the fact that mattresses often give the seater a vast spatial envelopment, and the logic of ‘bigger means better’ would thus be expected.
- Conclusion
However, lack of uniform standards in the dimensions of mattresses has resulted in different mattress sizes being used across different countries. These differences in mattress sizes results in tourists being faced with the challenge of a change in sleeping habits when they travel on vacation. In addition to understanding the need for a good bed and bedding in a hotel to ensure good travel quality and a comfortable night’s sleep, putting guests at ease is important. By ensuring optimal comfort, you increase the likelihood that your hotel guests will enjoy their stay and continue to return, thereby increasing the hotel’s competitiveness.
The study established that the sizes of the 7-inch mattresses and American/Aussie Double mattresses differ significantly from each other in terms of length, width, and surface area. Focus was on analyzing the dimensions of the mattresses which provided sales data for the specific mattress sizes. Using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney test, it was determined that the 7-inch and American/Aussie Double mattresses have different estimated locations and have propensity factors of one. Thus, the difference in estimated median surface areas values is not significant. These findings could provide reference information for the development of tourism products and services targeting international markets that use the American/Aussie Double mattress as a standard. Similarly, this study sought to find out if the sale of different mattress sizes attributed to their morphology or any other influencing factors. It is commonly believed that sleeping patterns and bed types differ from country to country, but there is not a lot of reliable data.
5.1. Summary of Findings
Regarding the American Double and the Aussie Double mattress comparisons, it is found that these can be costly in terms of time consumed. For the American Double and Ant-fungal mattresses, many resellers perform the COC modification by using a Singapore mattress refurbisher. The expert even estimated the cost of this refurbishment. Consequently, the differences found for the nine stipulated criteria in this current paper are novel. They should be no different when comparing between other types of mattresses. Such differences found in this paper had not been reported in the newspaper. If they had not been reported and if the study is considered as original, then the paper is unique. However, since all these mattresses are sold locally in physical shops, lay consumers at least know what to look out for the next time they engage local mattress salespersons. If one wishes to refurbish the Ant-fungal or the American Double mattresses to be thicker with more features, then the commercial refurbisher in the local market could be approached.
This paper sought to carry out a comparative analysis of mattress sizes, focusing on 7-inch and both the American Double and Aussie Double mattresses in the Singapore market. This paper had furnished a background study, then subsequently introduced the two types of mattresses. Thereafter, nine criteria for identifying the numerous differences between the mattress sizes had been given. The bulk of this particular paper had been focusing on using Internet information to compare between the 7-inch and the American Double and Aussie Double mattresses across the nine stipulated criteria. Differences found for these nine criteria are listed and summarized in tables with brief descriptions. The tables in this paper summarized only the differences found, and should serve to alert lay consumers, and also to serve as a platform for potential further studies of a technical nature.
5.2. Implications for Consumers
For regular and active sleepers, who are often changing their sleeping positions, good “motion transfer” is an important factor, and this factor is usually used to describe the ability of a mattress to isolate partner and pet movements or movements of oneself. For mattresses or beds that are used for people who exercise a lot, such as athletes, and also require deep sleep to maintain their stamina, it would be best if the foam layering in the mattress absorbs moisture and dries quickly as actual sleep patterns are affected by body temperature and humidity.
The general implications for consumers are both physical and functional support of the bodies and spinal alignment during sleep. Despite the limited size of the bed, there is usually enough space on the bed to promote different movements to effectively reduce joint compression during sleep.
