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Best Mattress of 2024
Expert Tested and Sleeper Reviewed
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
To help you get your best sleep, our in-house sleep product experts have tested more than 1,900 mattresses over nearly a decade in our Seattle Test Lab. To come up with our list of the best mattress for every type of sleeper, we test each mattress across six performance categories, pairing that data with qualitative feedback from sleepers like you.
This guide kicks off with our top picks for best mattresses of 2024. It also covers other key topics savvy mattress shoppers should be aware of, like the nitty-gritty of the buying process, what to watch out for, and how to pick the best mattress for your sleep style.
Helix Midnight
We found the Helix Midnight kept us cool throughout the night, while excelling at pressure relief and support. It was preferred by many testers regardless of their sleep position or body type.
Our Top Picks
- Best Mattress Overall – Helix Midnight
- Best Hybrid Mattress – DreamCloud Mattress
- Best Value Mattress – Nectar Mattress
- Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Classic
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBed
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution 15
- Best Mattress for Couples – Leesa Sapira Hybrid
- Best Cooling Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
- Best Mattress for Pressure Relief – Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best Firm Mattress – Plank Firm Luxe
- Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Layla Hybrid
Didn’t see one you liked? Try the Mattress Match.
Answer three questions to find mattresses that matches your sleep style. Our recommendation for you is based on over 450 different mattress options.
The Best Mattress Deals of the Week
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Save $450
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Nectar Mattress
$649 (List Price $1,099) -
Save $275
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Helix Midnight
$1,099 (List Price $1,374) -
Save $333
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Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
$999 (List Price $1,332) -
Save $665
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DreamCloud Mattress
$665 (List Price $1,330) -
Save $300
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WinkBed
$1,499 (List Price $1,799)
In-Depth Reviews
Sturdy, pressure-relieving hybrid design at an affordable price. The Helix Midnight was originally designed for mid-weight side sleepers, but the balanced design — complete with plush foams and robust coils — has come to appeal to a much wider audience. People with back pain and pressure points enjoy ample cradling for their most sensitive areas, the top layers are soft enough to prevent couples from waking each other up, and plenty of airflow ensures a cool, comfortable night’s rest. Plus, the sticker price is very approachable and shipping is free to all 50 states.
“As a side sleeper, I liked the Helix Midnight for its gentle contouring — just the right amount of cushioning without that deep hug you sometimes get from memory foam. The coils give the mattress great stability, as well. I never felt like I was sinking too much but the surface wasn’t overly bouncy. This is definitely one of the more balanced hybrids out there.” — Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience
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Pros
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Contouring foam layers evenly distribute your weight and cradle pressure points
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Strong coils and a reinforced perimeter deliver ample support and a soothing bounce
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High-quality build at a price that falls way below average for a hybrid
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Cons
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Some sleepers over 230 pounds may need a firmer mattress to prevent sinkage beneath their midsections
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Off-gassing odor can be overwhelming at first — best to air out the mattress before breaking it in
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$749 – $1,399
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Tori S.
“Easily the most comfortable bed I’ve slept on. Supportive, soft, and I’ve been sleeping better than ever. This mattress helped with my back pain and my husband’s shoulder pain.”
Roshan S.
“The medium firmness was perfect. The movement isolation was also great. It’s really comfortable to sleep on and has just enough give without making it hard to get out of bed.”
Shelly S.
“This mattress is so comfortable! And I don’t wake up feeling hot like I did with other mattresses…. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a quality mattress at a reasonable price.”
Product Details
Why It’s Best Overall
Well-rounded performance, quality construction, and affordable pricing put the Helix Midnight at the top of our best mattress picks. We attribute these qualities to the bed’s mid-range firmness, which hits the sweet spot between plush and firm, and a memory foam hybrid construction that earned above-average marks from our testers for pressure relief, motion isolation, breathability, and overall support.
Helix offers a wide selection of hybrid mattresses, each one designed for specific body types, sleep positions, and firmness preferences. Our testers singled out the Helix Midnight thanks to its balanced feel that combines pressure relief and sturdy coil support – all at a very reasonable price-point.
How It Performs
The Helix Midnight has a medium firm (6) feel. The foam layers alleviated pressure buildup and isolated motion well during our tests, while the coils helped the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature and allowed testers to move across the surface with ease. We found that the even blend of pressure relief and ease of movement appealed to side, back, and stomach sleepers on our test team. It was also a hit with combination sleepers who frequently switch their position during the night.
What It’s Made of
The first two layers are foam. The top layer is Helix’s Memory Plus Foam, which cradled testers’ pressure points while keeping a strong degree of responsiveness. The second layer is transitional polyfoam that prevented testers from significantly sinking into the mattress. Under this is a pocketed coil support core, which provided a sturdy foundation and a bit of bounce to the mattress, making it easier to move on.
The sleep trial for the Midnight is 100 nights, and Helix backs the mattress with a 10-year warranty that covers material and manufacturing defects. Shipping is free for customers in all 50 states.
A luxe hybrid that balances cushioning, support, and breathability. The DreamCloud stands out from other hybrids thanks to its deep comfort system. Three foam layers create a close cradle around your body’s curves, and the bed’s hug can alleviate existing pain and keep new pressure points from forming. The mattress also contains burly steel coils that push back against your weight and stabilize the edges, so sinkage isn’t an issue for most sleepers. Topping off the bed with a cashmere blend cover adds to its luxurious softness. Pricing is reasonable, and DreamCloud’s 365-night sleep trial can’t be beat.
“The DreamCloud’s thick foam layers set it apart from other hybrids on the market. This mattress feels remarkably plush, but there’s strong coil support to keep your body on an even plane. I recommend this mattress to anyone who needs deep cushioning to soothe pain points and sore spots.” — Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Expert
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Pros
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Thick foam layers give the DreamCloud a closer hug than most competitors
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A cashmere blend makes the cover soft and breathable
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Sturdy springs prevent you from sinking
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Cons
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The coils may not provide enough support for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
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Combination sleepers may have trouble moving on the mattress — some owners say they “feel stuck” when changing sleep positions
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$499 – $999
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Lori S.
“I wasn’t sure how the mattress was going to affect my injured neck and sensitive back. I’m very pleased to say that I could not be more comfortable.”
Steven A.
“The mattress itself is high quality and super easy to set up. It didn’t take long to take its full regular shape once unboxed and opened up. Sadly, it’s just not firm enough for me.”
Thomas G.
“We are enjoying our new mattress. The one drawback for me is the edge support.”
Product Details
The DreamCloud’s luxurious construction utilizes multiple types of foam along with pocketed coils to give you a comfortable combination of contouring, support, and responsiveness. This makes the mattress a great option if you tend to sink too deeply into your mattress, or if you don’t enjoy overly firm sleep surfaces.
How It Performs
The DreamCloud’s medium firm (6) feel met the needs of many of our testers and was a top choice for side and back sleepers in particular. The balanced performance served most combination sleepers and couples, as well.
Hybrids are considered one of the best mattress types for hot sleepers, so it’s no surprise the DreamCloud performed well in our temperature neutrality tests. The pocketed coil support core circulates air and helps maintain a cool interior temperature. The DreamCloud also takes cooling a bit further with a luxury cover made from blended cashmere, which we found breathable and excellent at wicking moisture.
What It’s Made of
The DreamCloud starts with a layer of polyfoam quilted into the bed’s cashmere-blend cover. A two-tiered comfort system follows, beginning with a layer of gel-infused memory foam that kept our bodies supported by modestly cradling heavier zones and pressure points. The next layer is made of polyfoam and has slightly less contouring and more bounce. Our testers noted this was a nice way to balance the memory foam’s conforming feel.
The support core is made with individually wrapped coils divided into zones that adapt to your body, offering enhanced support to your lower back and deeper contouring for the shoulders and hips. The springs shore up stability at the edges and create notable bounce that enhances ease of movement across the whole mattress surface. A layer of high-density polyfoam underneath the coils fortifies the mattress and limits noise from the coils.
The DreamCloud’s sleep trial lasts for a full year, giving you 365 nights to truly see how well it works for you. Over the long haul, you can rest easy knowing that you’re covered by DreamCloud’s lifetime warranty.
Pressure-relieving plush foam design at an unbeatable price. The Nectar Mattress is one of the top foam beds on the market right now, and it truly shines when it comes to pressure relief. Close contouring on the surface allows your body to nestle nicely into the bed, and the foam layers absorb movement and noise so effectively that you won’t notice your co-sleeper moving at night. If you love foam beds, the Nectar gives you great bang for your buck — not to mention the one-year sleep trial and lifetime warranty.
“The Nectar Mattress is one of the first models that comes to mind when I think of foam beds — it really gives you the classic hug and top-notch cushioning of foam. Pro tip: It’s great for most side sleepers, especially if you wake up with sore shoulders a lot.” — Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
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Pros
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Memory foam and polyfoam layers deeply cradle your body for excellent pressure relief
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Foam design absorbs motion and noise, keeping sleep disruptions to a minimum if you share the bed with a partner
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Great price for the quality
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Cons
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Some customers notice significant sagging after a few years of sleeping on the bed
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The mattress traps a fair amount of heat, which can be a deal-breaker for hot sleepers
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$359 – $1,098
Trial Period
365 nights
Customer Reviews
Andrea O.
“I have a history of waking throughout the night with low back pain, hip pain and/or arm numbness. This is not happening on the Nectar. At first laying on it, it feels like it will be too firm, but it softens where you need it and maintains great support.”
Cameron T.
“Was skeptical at first, but after 5 nights my body adjusted and I haven’t slept this good in years. Don’t wake up to the wife getting up in the middle of the night and we both sleep sound into a deep REM sleep and feel rejuvenated.”
Daniel W.
“This mattress is fantastic. My wife and I chose it so we would not bother the other person when we move in our sleep. In that regard, it’s great! However, it gets very hot throughout the night.”
Product Details
The Nectar is a stellar example of a high-quality mattress that won’t break the bank. Nectar Sleep also offers other perks if you’re shopping on a budget, such as a generous sleep trial and hassle-free warranty coverage for as long as you own the mattress.
How It Performs
During tests, we found the Nectar’s conforming properties made it a good match for side sleepers of all sizes. Many back and stomach sleepers on our team, particularly those between 130 and 230 pounds, also felt comfortable on this mattress. The Nectar has a balanced, mid-level firmness and materials that offered testers comfortable plushness without sacrificing support. The mattress earned strong ratings across performance categories such as pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature control, yet it costs much less than the average memory foam model.
What It’s Made of
The Nectar features a 2-inch comfort layer of memory foam over transitional and support layers of denser polyfoam. Although the mattress is very supportive, you’ll feel deep body-contouring from the first layer that we liken to sleeping “in” – as opposed to sleeping “on” – the mattress. A quilted cover accentuates the comfortable design by creating a luxuriously plush feel on the surface.
Nectar’s 365-night sleep trial, which is among the longest in the industry, and lifetime warranty are exclamation points on the value offered by this quality mattress that is available at a very accessible price point.
A luxurious coil-forward hybrid without the steep sticker price.
For a mattress to reach luxury status, certain criteria have to be met: high-quality materials, a sophisticated design, and special features to enhance your sleep experience. The Saatva Classic checks all the boxes and is even easy on your wallet. A Euro-top padded with cushy, cradling foam targets pain in your lower back and hips, while two coil layers give the mattress a remarkably robust and bouncy feel. You can choose from three firmness levels based on your ideal cushioning-to-pushback ratio. Saatva sweetens the deal with free in-home setup and old mattress removal, and the company’s 365-night trial gives you plenty of time to decide if the Classic is right for you.
“The Saatva Classic’s two-layer coil system delivers plenty of support and bounce. This makes the mattress easy to move across and get on and off of, and I didn’t sink too much when changing sleep positions. Personally, I preferred the medium firm design, but with three firmness options there’s something for just about everyone. — Colin Simpson, Product Research Manager
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Pros
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Two coil layers deliver generous support and bounce
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Three firmness options — soft, medium firm, and firm — to satisfy any sleep position and body type
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Free in-home setup and a full year to try out the mattress
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Cons
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This mattress is quite springy, so couples may wake each other up with movements at night
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Some owners report sagging foam layers within the first three years
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$995 – $2,710
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Customer Reviews
Chang L.
“I’m a back and occasional side sleeper, and absolutely love this bed. My husband is a stomach sleeper and would prefer his bed to be a tiny bit firmer.”
Nancy
“If you like a firm mattress, Saatva Classic may be for you. If, like me, you are used to a plush pillow top mattress and you want a soft plush mattress, you should keep looking. This is a nice mattress, but it is NOT soft.”
Sunny B.
“I love my new Saatva classic full, luxury firm matress. I went with the 14.5″ and I’m really happy with it. I didn’t give 5 stars because it is softer than I expected from a ‘firm’ mattress, but maybe it’s just a matter of getting used to it.”
Product Details
The Saatva Classic blends the superior support of traditional innersprings with the enhanced comfort and sophisticated features of modern hybrid mattresses. The result is a luxurious Euro-top design that alleviated pressure points during testing without sacrificing sturdiness or temperature regulation.
How It Performs
Multiple firmness and thickness options make the Classic an appealing choice for a wide range of sleepers, regardless of body type and sleep position. The two coil layers created responsiveness and made it easy for testers to move on the bed while also lightly contouring to the body for cushioning. Plenty of airflow through the coils kept this mattress cool through our temperature neutrality tests. Firmness options include soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8), so you can choose the firmness that best suits your preferences.
What It’s Made of
The top of the Saatva mattress utilizes several types of foam, including a specialty polyfoam and a memory foam pad under your lumbar area. These foams are quilted into the Euro-top, which has a cover made of smooth, breathable organic cotton.
Underneath the Euro-top is a coil-on-coil design. The top coil layer is 4 inches thick, and the coils are individually wrapped. This allows them to compress under your body while also decreasing motion transfer. The second coil layer forms the mattress’ support core, and is either 4.5 or 7.5 inches depending on the profile you select. This layer uses hefty 13-gauge springs that are bolstered by a high-density foam encasement around the perimeter to give you better edge support.
You’ll receive free White Glove delivery with your mattress, which includes installation plus haul-away of an old mattress. The mattress is also backed by a 365-night sleep trial with a $99 return shipping fee, and a lifetime warranty.
A plush hybrid with just enough bounce. Sleepers with back pain tout WinkBed’s exceptional construction, pressure-relieving cushioning, and zoned support to be a ridiculously good value for a hybrid mattress of this quality. With four firmness options and plenty of airflow and gel-infused foam to promote cooling, most everyone will find a level of comfort in the WinkBed that works well for them. If not? A generous sleep trial, free returns, and a lifetime warranty should put your mind at ease.
“If — like me — you deal with regular back pain, the WinkBed is a solid choice thanks to its thoughtful design. The foam layers provide deep cushioning without hugging or sinking too much, and the multi-zone coils push back against your midsection to keep your entire body on an even plane. Four firmness options and a generous exchange policy also mean you’ve got outs if your first choice doesn’t quite meet your needs.” — Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor
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Pros
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Four firmness options for light and heavier sleepers: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and PLUS
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Gel-infused foam, a coil core, and a Tencel cover help keep hot sleepers cool all night
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Zoned coils, foam layers, and a pillow top relieve pressure and give extra support where you need it
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Cons
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Some customer reviews have called out sagging as a problem after a few years of having the bed
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Interpreting the fine print of the lifetime warranty can been thorny
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,149 – $2,049
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Randall D.
“After the 3rd day, I knew I made the right decision. This is my second WinkBed that I have purchased. The first one I put on the guest bed and every guest — and I have a lot of overnight guest — absolutely loved it, and some even went home and bought one.”
Micah T.
“Overall comfortable but too firm for us. We swapped for the softer WinkBed and are sleeping great now!”
Kimberly K.
“My back pain is gone, however we had to purchase an additional topper because the “luxury” wasn’t as soft as we’d hoped. It caused pain in my hips and shoulders due to being a side sleeper.”
Product Details
If you experience back pain during sleep, you might benefit from a mattress that provides both even spinal support and strong pressure point relief. Achieving this balance can be difficult, which is what sets the WinkBed apart from many of its competitors. You can choose between four firmness levels with this hybrid mattress.
How It Performs
The WinkBed is available in four firmness options — medium soft (4), medium firm (6), firm (7), and firm (8). Regardless of firmness level, the comfort system and pocketed coils create a luxe feel that our testers described as well-balanced and welcoming. This set of features allowed the mattress to isolate motion effectively during our performance tests, while the air circulation through the coils helped the bed stay cool. The even mix of support and contouring across all four firmness options made the WinkBed an excellent pick for most testers, regardless of body type.
What It’s Made of
Each firmness option varies slightly in construction, but all WinkBed models have a Euro-top surface quilted with polyfoam. The foam surface helped relieve pressure point discomfort during testing by contouring to our bodies, cushioning joints and evenly dispersing weight. A transitional polyfoam layer acts as a buffer between the Euro-top and support system. The softest model has additional foam layers, while the firmest model features latex in lieu of polyfoam in the transitional layer.
The pocketed coil support core is divided into different zones based on gauge and strength. Thicker coils wrap around the perimeter to limit sinkage and help you feel more stable sleeping close to the edges, while thinner interior coils offer adequate support without making the mattress feel too stiff.
The WinkBed comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Nolah Evolution 15
35% off mattresses + 2 free pillows at Nolah
$1,624 at Nolah Sleep
Plush foam layers and coils designed to boost support in all the right places. The Nolah Evolution 15 is a great fit for side sleepers because of its plush cushioning and targeted support for the lower back — where you need it. The foam layers on top are nice and gentle on the shoulders and hips but the coils beneath don’t skimp on support. One of the best parts of the Evolution is the three firmness options, so you can really zero in on a firmness level that works best for you.
“Nolah’s Evolution Hybrid really showcases the reliable combo of cushy foam layers and robust coils. As a side sleeper, I appreciated the extra padding for my shoulders and hips, but I never felt like I was sinking into the mattress — the zoned support core delivered some nice pushback where I needed it most.” — Jackson Lindeke, Executive Director
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Pros
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Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm options allow you to pick the best firmness for your needs
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Thick foam layers and sturdy coils deliver plenty of pressure relief without sacrificing support
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Cooling cover fabric, specialized cooling foam, and airflow through coils make the bed comfortable for hot sleepers
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Cons
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Some customers are underwhelmed by the edge support
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You’ll need to shell out $99 to return the mattress
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,004 – $2,143
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Phyllis B.
“I don’t wake up with shoulder or neck pain like I did with my previous mattress (I am a side sleeper). I also don’t feel it when my husband gets in and out of bed. Recommend it!”
Christopher R.
“It is one of those Goldilocks situations where the bed is not too hard, not too soft, but just right. My wife prefers more support while I prefer more comfort, but the bed works well for the both of us.”
Joseph B.
“I very much love my new Nolah mattress. It is firm but not too firm. Just the way I like it. I especially like the firm edges.”
Product Details
You generally need a balance of cushioning and support to promote even spinal alignment and prevent pressure buildup in areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips. The Nolah Evolution 15 is available in three firmness levels, so most sleepers across different positions and weight groups can find a comfortable option.
How It Performs
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a great choice if you sleep hot at night. The top foam layer contours to your body much like memory foam but without the heat retention. This is largely thanks to graphite infused into the material. We found the coils promoted airflow for added cooling and also protected the perimeter quite well, providing pushback and preventing sinkage when you’re getting in and out of bed or sleeping close to the edges.
Our testers who weigh less than 130 pounds preferred the plush (5) feel due to its deeper contouring, while testers who weighed more received better support from the luxury firm (6) or firm (7) models. The zoned coils provided enhanced lower back support and hip support, along with gentler cradling for the head and shoulders. Thanks to this broad selection, most of our testers found a firmness level that improved their alignment and reduced pressure in sensitive areas along the spine.
What It’s Made of
The Nolah Evolution 15 features a Euro-top padded with foam and a comfort layer of AirFoamICE, a proprietary polyfoam. An additional polyfoam layer offered transitional support and prevented testers’ bodies from sagging excessively. The support core contains pocketed coils divided into zones based on your body weight, so you’ll receive more reinforcement around your midsection and gentle cradling for lighter areas of your body. Thicker coils also reinforce the perimeter.
The mattress comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king size. Nolah provides free ground shipping to all customers in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a sleep trial with your order that spans 120 nights in length. The mattress is also backed by a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects for as long as you own it.
Best Mattress for Couples
Leesa Sapira Hybrid
20% off mattresses + free pillows at Leesa
$1,599 at Leesa
A plush, bouncy hybrid built for two. When snuggling up on the Sapira Hybrid, couples say it feels like it’s a mattress that’s tailor-made for two. Thick springs strengthen the edges and circulate air, so couples can spread out across the entire mattress and stay cool while doing so. There’s a light bounce, but the foam layers muffle movement to prevent you and your partner from waking each other up. The foams also cradle your bodies independently and alleviate soreness in the shoulders, lower back, and hips.
“If you usually sleep with a partner, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid checks all the important boxes: consistent cooling, sturdy edge support, and a gentle bounce without too much motion transfer. But even if you’re a solo sleeper, our tests show the balanced foam-on-coil design should appeal to a wide range of body types and sleep positions.” — Logan Foley, Editorial Director
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Pros
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Plush foams contour evenly but not too closely, keeping your body on an even plane
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The top layer is hole-punched to keep air flowing close to the surface to help you stay cool
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Thicker springs along the perimeter keep the edges firm when you get in and out of bed
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Cons
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The mattress is packed with foam, so expect some off-gassing smells for the first few nights
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People who weigh more than 230 pounds may sink a little too much, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,349 – $2,299
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
Customer Reviews
William M.
“This mattress is firm, but not too firm and soft, but not too soft. It’s comfortable.”
Kathryn D.
“The mattress is very springy – as a king mattress, you can feel every movement of the other person on the bed. Although we bought this mattress to be able to sleep together, I am sleeping on another bed because this mattress makes it impossible to both sleep in the same bed.”
Elizabeth
“We were initially worried it would be too soft but that hasn’t been a problem. The issue seems to be that it gets really warm ensconced in there overnight, such that I am tossing off coverings in the wee hours.”
Product Details
People who share their bed with a partner have different considerations than solo sleepers when selecting a mattress. The Leesa Sapira Hybrid checks many boxes for mattress qualities that matter to couples. These include strong edge support, excellent temperature control, and good responsiveness for sex.
How It Performs
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid’s thick comfort system and sturdy coils create a balanced feel that should appeal to different types of sleepers. During our tests, the mattress earned favorable ratings from side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and back and stomach sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. The hybrid also performed well in pressure relief — an area where hybrids sometimes fall short.
Breathability is another strong point of the Leesa Sapira Hybrid. The ventilated foam and coil system promote airflow to cool down the interior, resulting in a comfortable surface temperature. Extra coil reinforcement along the edges also makes the mattress feel stable, allowing you and your partner to move across the surface with relative ease.
What It’s Made of
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid begins with a top layer composed of aerated polyfoam intended to circulate air near the surface, with a solid memory foam layer beneath. The mixed-foam design produces a light bounce when you get into bed, followed by even contouring as your body settles into the memory foam. A transitional layer of dense polyfoam offers additional cushioning and serves as a buffer between you and the support core.
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid’s pocketed coils measure 6 inches tall. These coils are more robust along the perimeter to limit sinkage and stabilize the mattress, so you and your partner can use the entire sleep surface rather than being confined to the middle. The support core also contains a base layer of high-density foam. A knit polyester cover encases the entire mattress.
Leesa offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. Your Sapira Hybrid purchase includes a 100-night trial period with free returns after 30 nights, as well as a 10-year warranty against structural and workmanship defects.
Best Cooling Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Save 25% sitewide at Brooklyn Bedding
$1,698 at Brooklyn Bedding
Foam-and-coil hybrid chock-full of cooling features. If you’re on the hunt for a cooling mattress, the Aurora Luxe can absolutely help you beat the (body) heat. Nearly every layer of the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has some sort of cooling feature, whether it’s cooling phase change material in the foam or air circulating through the coils. It also comes in three firmness levels, all of which feature cushioning foams on top and responsive coils as the base. You can also pay a little extra for a pillow-top addition to dial up the plushness.
“Cooling is not usually the first thing that comes to mind when I think of foam, but the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is a foam hybrid that hot sleepers may want to check out. The bed impressed me during our temperature tests, and I love the cushy feel when I lie on the surface.” — Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
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Pros
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Cooling-engineered foam, cooling fabric, and airflow through coils ensure the bed stays cool for hot sleepers
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Soft, Medium, and Firm options cover a wide range of sleep positions and preferences
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Optional pillow-top available if you want extra pressure relief and cushioning
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Cons
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Mattress returns incur a $99 fee
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Some customers have noticed weaker support along the edges
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Price Range
$749 – $1,699
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Jill Z.
“This is our second Aurora Luxe. Bought one a year ago for the 5th Wheel. The latest one is for our winter home. Bought the medium and its great for the wife. I am some heavier and might like the firm better but the medium is a good compromise.”
Rachel C.
“The firmness, edge support, and motion transfer did not live up to my expectations. The bed is rather bouncy and I don’t get the support I need, therefore I’ve spent a lot of the nights tossing and turning to get comfortable and minimize low back discomfort.”
Luana P.
“I have a chronic pain syndrome so most beds aren’t comfortable for me, but the Aurora Luxe is more comfortable than most, and works well with my fibromyalgia condition.”
Product Details
With three firmness options and a well-rounded design, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is one of the most versatile hybrid mattresses we’ve tested. We found the bed’s cooling features made it a strong fit for sleepers who tend to run hot at night.
How It Performs
The Aurora Luxe’s proprietary foams have a more latex-like feel than conventional polyfoam, so you’ll experience significant responsiveness with moderate conforming to relieve pressure. The medium firm (6) model has a balanced feel that appealed to most of our testers, regardless of sleep position and body type. Side sleepers under 130 pounds felt most comfortable on the medium soft (4) model, while back and stomach sleepers and testers over 230 pounds preferred the firm model (7).
The coils allow for plenty of ventilation and enhance the bed’s overall edge support. The surface is also infused with TitanCool, a phase change material that helped keep the bed cool and comfortable during our heat-mapping tests.
What It’s Made of
The Aurora Luxe comes in three firmness levels that correspond to medium soft, medium firm, and firm. All models have a thick comfort system that begins with a top layer of copper-infused CopperFlex foam, a proprietary polyfoam with cooling properties. Beneath is a layer of TitanFlex polyfoam that varies in thickness, depending on the firmness option you choose. If you need more cushioning, you can add an extra foam layer — known as the “Cloud” pillow-top — to the comfort system.
The medium soft and medium firm options have a third layer of gel-infused memory foam, which conforms closely to your body to relieve pressure. The firm option uses VariFlex foam in lieu of memory foam, which we found generated more support. In all models, the support core contains a thick layer of pocketed coils that rest on a thin layer of high-density polyfoam.
Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty with all of their mattresses. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Bear Elite Hybrid
35% off + 2 free pillows at Bear. Code: SF36
$1,499 at Bear
Cooling hybrid with plush foams to alleviate pressure buildup. If aches, pains, and soreness keep you up at night, the Bear Elite Hybrid’s plush surface and strong support system can help provide the relief you need. A memory foam top layer infused with copper hugs your body without overheating, while the second foam layer feels firmer beneath your midsection, so your lower back and hips stay aligned with your spine. Robust coils provide extra pushback where it’s needed. You can choose from three firmness options based on how much you weigh and which sleep position you use most often.
“Since I sleep on my side, pressure relief is key for keeping my shoulders and hips comfortable. But I also want enough support for my lower back. The Bear Elite Hybrid easily checks off both boxes, thanks to the plush foam and bouncy coils.” — Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience
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Pros
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Two foam layers cradle your body to ease aches and soreness in your shoulders, lower back, and hips
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A copper infusion in the surface layer ample airflow through the coils, and a breathable cover all help the mattress sleep exceptionally cool
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“Zoned” support pushes back against your midsection while cushioning lighter areas of your body
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Cons
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Memory foam tends to sink when weight is applied, so you may have a hard time moving across the mattress
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You can exchange the mattress for a softer or firmer design within 120 nights, but the replacement mattress doesn’t come with a trial
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Customer Reviews
Walter F.
“I weigh 220 lbs, my wife weighs 130 lbs… we both love the mattress. The hybrid gives me the support I need, while it also gives my wife the comfort she needs. It’s the best parts of a coil mattress and a memory foam mattress.”
Keith B.
“I sleep with my wife and bad edge support is a non-starter for her. On the Bear Elite Hybrid she sleeps right near the edge with no issues. Edge support is very good.”
Sheila H.
“I think for the money, the Bear Elite Hybrid felt higher-quality compared to other online mattresses, regardless of price. This is built and feels more like a quality traditional mattress compared to many others.”
Product Details
If you maintain an active lifestyle, you should invest in a mattress that promotes physical recovery during the night. The Bear Elite Hybrid promotes muscle recovery thanks to its tried-and-true combination of adaptive foam and pocketed coils, which delivers deep cushioning and even contouring to alleviate sore spots along the spine. Another key element of the mattress is a zoned transitional layer that pushes back against the weight in your midsection and prevents excessive sinkage.
How It Performs
The Elite Hybrid is available in three firmness levels, and our team tested each one. The medium (5) feel conforms very closely, resulting in a cloud-like surface that was popular among our side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers on our team weighing at least 130 pounds preferred the firm (8) design, which contours very little and offers sturdy support. If you’re a side sleeper who weighs 130 pounds or more, we recommend the medium firm (6) model for its balance of cushioning and reinforcement.
Temperature control was a highlight of our hands-on tests. The Elite Hybrid’s Celliant-blend cover is engineered to feel cool to the touch at all times, and the coils promote steady airflow, so our thermal sensors detected minimal heat retention. Motion isolation and pressure relief proved key strengths of the medium design while the medium firm and firm models excelled at edge support and ease of movement.
What It’s Made of
The Elite Hybrid begins with a memory foam comfort layer. Cooling gel infused into the foam helps reduce heat absorption to keep the surface cool. The transitional polyfoam layer is divided into five firmness zones to reinforce the midsection, where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight, while cradling lighter areas of the body.
Pocketed coils and dense base foam make up the support core. Thicker coils along the perimeter provide extra stability when you lie along the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed. Celliant-blend fabric encases the entire mattress.
Bear offers free ground delivery to customers in the contiguous U.S., and your order includes two free pillows at no extra cost. The company’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights. If you decide to keep the Elite Hybrid after the trial ends, you’ll receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects. You can also purchase an accidental protection plan that covers stains and other types of physical damage.
Flippable foam hybrid bed with next-level firmness. If you’re underwhelmed by mattresses that claim to be “firm,” the Plank Firm Luxe is the real deal. You can sleep on either surface of the bed thanks to its flippable design, with one side firm and the other extra firm. Sturdy coils are sandwiched between firm polyfoam layers, making this more supportive than most other firm beds out there. A touch of cushioning ensures you won’t wake up with soreness in pressure points.
“This is one seriously firm mattress — in the best way possible. I sleep on my stomach a good chunk of the time and really need firm surfaces when I do. The Plank Firm Luxe is one of the few beds that truly keeps my head, neck, and spine aligned enough to avoid painful neck strain.” — Logan Foley, Editorial Director
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Pros
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Dual-sided design offers a different firmness level on each surface: firm and extra firm
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High-density foam and sturdy coils give you exceptional support and firmness
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Foam traps minimal heat since it barely hugs your body
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Cons
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You’ll need to pay $99 to return the mattress
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Some side sleepers find the bed is too firm to cushion the shoulders and hips
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Price Range
$693 – $1,299
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Customer Reviews
Robert J.
“This puppy is really HARD. I know why you named it Plank.”
Bryan M.
“Improved my back pain right away. Extra firm side was a bit too much, so really appreciated the option to flip the mattress to the slightly more forgiving side.”
Ping Z.
“I’m using the extra firm side with a mattress topper. I often had back pain due to my lower back problem. Sleeping on this mattress, I no longer feel pain in the morning.”
Product Details
Most mattresses made today are considered middle of the road in terms of firmness, leaving few options for those who prefer an extra firm feel for their sleep surface. The Plank Firm Luxe from Brooklyn Bedding should cater to these sleepers thanks to its flippable design with a firm (7) feel on one side and an extra firm (9) feel on the other. We found both surfaces highly supportive, and the mattress was a big hit with many of our testers weighing more than 230 pounds.
How It Performs
As an exceptionally firm two-sided mattress, the Firm Luxe appealed to the back and stomach sleepers on our team who weigh at least 130 pounds. Most of these testers agreed the firm side offered the best balance of contouring and support, but some weighing more than 230 pounds also found the extra firm side comfortable. The edges felt stable and didn’t sink much, and we didn’t encounter any difficulty moving across either surface.
Cooling is another major strength of the Firm Luxe. Air circulates freely through the coil system to help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. Thanks to the even support on both sides, we also noticed plenty of surface airflow to offset heat retention in the foam layers. We tested the mattress with and without the optional cooling panels. While the standard models provide decent temperature regulation, those who enjoy bursts of cooling while they sleep should opt for the cooling cover.
What It’s Made of
The bed’s firm side features plush fibers quilted into the surface, followed by layers of responsive polyfoam and high-density polyfoam. Our testers felt gentle cushioning and contouring, along with a light bounce. The extra firm side has a thinner quilting layer and is composed of just one polyfoam layer, resulting in a very supportive feel with little to no sinkage. Pocketed coils located between the foam layers serve as the support core of the mattress, regardless of which side you use.
The Firm Luxe is encased in a breathable knit cover. You have the option of including a cooling cover made of phase change material (PCM) on each side of the mattress. PCM is engineered to absorb and release heat in order to maintain a cool surface at all times. The cooling cover increases the sticker price by $100 to $200, depending on the mattress size.
The Firm Luxe’s price-point is affordable compared to other hybrids sold today, and standard shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. The mattress is available in 12 different sizes, including a split California king for couples who share adjustable beds and several RV-friendly options. All orders include a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Layla Hybrid
$220 off + 2 free pillows at Layla. Use code: Sleepy20
$1,499 at Layla
A two-sided contouring foam hybrid for sleepers who move around a lot. The Layla Hybrid is a great match for people who switch between sleeping on their side, back, and stomach and need to move around frequently and easily. One side is luxuriously plush with deeply contouring foam layers, while the other feels firmer and won’t hug your body as closely. Strong coils sandwiched between the comfort systems deliver great stability no matter which side you choose. We also like the Layla Hybrid for its cooling abilities — gel infusions in the foam and plenty of airflow help the mattress stay at a comfortable temperature.
“The Layla Hybrid is one of the most well-rounded beds I’ve tested, with a really nice mix of cradling and support. This is crucial for me, since I switch between side and back sleeping. I need a balanced bed that feels comfortable for both sleep positions, like the Layla.” —Mary Fenton, Head of Product Content
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Pros
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Flippable construction with a medium soft feel on one side and a firm feel on the other
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Coils are more robust beneath your midsection and along the perimeter, so sinkage isn’t severe anywhere on the surface
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Excellent overall temperature control thanks to a breathable cover, cooling gel infused into the foam, and steady airflow
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Cons
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Initial off-gassing odor is strong compared to other foam hybrids
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The Layla Hybrid is pretty heavy — at least two people are needed to flip the mattress
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,299 – $1,899
Trial Period
120 nights
Customer Reviews
Lea D.
“Getting the hybrid that is flippable for 2 different options of support took the fear of ordering the wrong mattress online away. I actually slept well on both sides but eventually settled on the softer side.”
Meredith F.
“This mattress is heavy but has been great! I was having hip pain with our old mattress and this is gone now. I love how my partner can move and I can’t feel anything!”
Tim S.
“It has the perfect amount of support and great cushioning but not too soft. It doesn’t have that stuck in feeling of most cheaper foam mattresses, and the sides are very supportive as well. Super happy!”
Product Details
Due to its flippable design, the Layla Hybrid offers two firmness levels in one mattress: medium soft (4) and firm (7). We found this flexible design accommodates a diverse range of sleepers, ensuring optimal support and pressure relief for most people regardless of your body type or preferred sleep position. It’s especially suitable if you experience uncomfortable pressure buildup in joints like the hips and shoulders.
How It Performs
Our testing showed that individuals of all sizes and sleep positions experience good spinal alignment on the Layla Hybrid. We attribute this to the zoned polyfoam transitional layer on each side, which supports the heavier areas of your body, such as the hips and shoulders, while cushioning your head and neck. The firm side was more popular among sleepers on our team weighing more than 230 pounds, who reported better spinal alignment and support beneath their hips and shoulders. Testers up to 230 pounds appreciated the medium soft side’s deep, pressure-relieving cradle.
What It’s Made of
The mattress is constructed with a comfort layer on either side, consisting of low-density memory foam infused with copper meant to help keep the bed’s surface cool. Meanwhile the shared pocketed coil support core allows air to freely circulate, which further prevents heat buildup. The bed also features a reinforced perimeter, allowing our testers to comfortably use the entire sleep surface without experiencing feelings of “roll-off.” A breathable cover made from a stretchy polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra blend encases the entire mattress.
Layla offers free shipping for customers who reside in the contiguous U.S. and backs the mattress with a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.
Compare Our Picks for the Best Mattress of 2024
| Mattress | Price | Firmness | Type | Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight | $799 | Medium Firm | Hybrid | 20% off + 2 free pillows |
| Dreamcloud Mattress | $499 | Medium Firm | Hybrid | Up to 50% off all mattresses |
| Nectar Mattress | $359 | Medium Firm | Foam | 33% off |
| Saatva Classic | $995 | Soft Medium Firm Very Firm | Innerspring | Up to $600 off |
| WinkBed | $1,149 | Medium Firm | Innerspring | $300 off all mattresses |
| Nolah Evolution 15 | $999 | Medium Medium Firm Firm | Hybrid | 30% off + 2 free pillows |
| Leesa Sapira Hybrid | $1,349 | Medium Firm | Hybrid | $750 off + 2 free pillows |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | $999 | Medium Soft Medium Firm Firm | Hybrid | 25% off sitewide |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | $1,721 | Medium Medium Firm Very Firm | Hybrid | 30% off + $400 in free accessories |
| Plank Firm Luxe | $693 | Firm Extra Firm | Hybrid | 25% off sitewide |
| Layla Hybrid | $1,299 | Medium Soft Firm | Hybrid | $220 off + 2 free pillows with code “Sleep20” |
How We Test: Rigor, Data, and Sleeper Feedback
Every sleeper is different, so we strive for a best-in-class, objective rating system that helps you understand each product — the good and the bad — so that you can make the best purchase decision for you.
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about sleep and the sleep products that can help improve overall wellbeing. In our Seattle-based Test Lab, our team uses a four-part process to evaluate a mattress. Below are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings.
Construction analysis: After researching manufacturer specifications like firmness, price, and durability, our team performs a construction analysis on each bed, evaluating and scoring material and build quality across six performance categories as they relate to sleep quality.
Product testing: Leveraging the latest in innovative sleep technology and instrumentation, we conduct a series of lab tests around motion isolation, temperature control, pressure relief, odor potential, ease of movement, and edge support across mattresses to measure quantifiable outcomes.
Field testing: Our testers reflect the full spectrum of sleep preferences, positions, and body profiles to help us represent as many sleeper types as possible in our reviews. Our team field tests each mattress in their own homes over a multi-week period to experience how the bed sleeps in a real-world setting.
User testing: We collect feedback from real bed owners via surveys, user sleep stories, and customer review data to capture qualitative insights into how a mattress performs over time and how it impacts sleep.
How We Rated The Best Mattresses of 2024
We have put together the largest database of mattress information on the web. Our database includes datasets from in-person performance testing, at-home field testing, deep product research, and consumer sentiment analysis.
Below you can read up on how we test across six performance categories. For each of the tests, our foremost considerations are sleeping position and body weight, as the amount and distribution of weight on a mattress can affect how the mattress feels.
motion isolation
Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress absorbs movement and prevents it from transferring across the surface. Mattresses with thicker comfort layers tend to isolate more motion, which is great for those who are frequently disturbed by a sleep partner’s movement. We test motion isolation by performing a series of body movements and weight drops across the mattress, measuring movement across the bed using a seismograph.
temperature control
A temperature-controlled mattress should ensure the sleeper is not too hot or too cold. Mattresses made with breathable materials like cotton, wool, latex, and coils are great at regulating temperature. We measure temperature control by pointing a heat gun at the bed after a sleeper lies on it, then record the resulting temperature and cooling duration. We also repeat the process using a water bottle heated to 98 degrees (instead of a sleeper), allowing us to control for variations in sleeper body temperature.
pressure relief
A pressure-relieving mattress contours around the body to reduce pressure buildup in the joints. Usually these mattresses have thicker memory foam comfort layers that adapt to the body. Pressure relief is measured by placing a pressure pad between the sleeper and the mattress. This gives us an accurate reading on which parts of the body are under different amounts of pressure.
off gassing
Mattresses in a box and those made with synthetic materials are more prone to off-gassing odors. These odors are due to volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which are relatively harmless (in mattresses) but can be annoying. Our test team utilizes a VOC meter as well as a subjective smell test in order to rate off-gassing.
ease of movement
Mattresses that perform well in this category have responsive surfaces that allow sleepers to move without restriction. Combination sleepers benefit from a mattress with high marks in ease of movement. We measure this by performing a series of body movements and weight drops across the mattress, recording how the mattress responds and what our testers feel.
edge support
Edge support refers to a mattress’ weight-bearing capabilities along the perimeter. A mattress with supportive edges allows sleepers to lie closer to the perimeter, increasing the bed’s overall usability. Edge support is recorded by placing weight on the edge of the bed and measuring the resulting sinkage.
How to Choose a Mattress
Some of what you should look for when shopping for a bed involves things like brand reputation and product quality, but because every sleeper is unique, most of it comes down to you. When our testing team evaluates beds, we look at how they perform for back, side, stomach, and combo sleepers of different weight classes, but ultimately, you are going to be the best judge of what’s going to work for you and your body.
But here are a few tips that can make the process easier from the get-go:
- Read about different mattress types: The majority of mattresses fall into one of five general categories based on their construction. Decide which appeals most to you and might work best for your body weight and sleeping position. Finding the right bed means finding the right balance of pressure relief, support, and firmness to ensure proper alignment, an end to tossing and turning, and fewer random aches and pains from your bed.
- Create a budget: What can you afford, what can you get for that, and what can’t you live without? Most high-quality mattresses will set you back at least $1,000, and in addition to design and materials, factors that influence cost include mattress size (generally speaking, less material means cheaper bed), where you buy (online versus in-store), and when you buy (mattress sales are widespread).
- Test different beds: Lie down on mattresses in hotel rooms, at your friends’ houses, brick-and-mortar stores, anywhere you can — even a few minutes can be enough to gauge what feels right and what doesn’t.
- Read the reviews: Check out both our expert mattress reviews and customer reviews to gut-check your top contenders. Firmness options, performance ratings, and cost should all come into play when making your decision.
- Protect your purchase: In case things don’t work out with your new bed, make sure it has a sleep trial of at least 90 nights and a return policy that allows for refunds. Other watch-outs to look for are the brand’s delivery and post-purchase policies. How much does standard shipping cost? Do they deliver to your doorstep or your bedroom? Will they dispose of your old mattress?
What If I Have Unique Sleep Needs?
When choosing a mattress, it’s wise to level with every aspect of your sleeper identity. Do you get too hot at night? Do you have back pain or other sensitivities? Are you easily disturbed by your bed partner?
Other considerations include:
- Sleep position: Yes, you’ve heard this one before, but it can’t be overstated. Position matters. Our testing team has found that side sleepers prefer softer mattresses that provide deep cushioning for the shoulders and hips. Back and stomach sleepers don’t put as much pressure on these areas and tend to prefer firmer mattresses as a result. If you’re a combination sleeper who switches between different positions, choose a mattress based on which position you use most often.
- Body type: The general rule of thumb is that the more you weigh, the firmer your mattress should be. People who weigh less than 130 pounds tend to prefer softer mattresses, those between 130 to 230 pounds may need a medium to medium firm model, and sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds like to lean into firm to extra firm mattresses.
- Temperature sensitivity: If you run hot or live in a place that’s prone to extreme heat, you probably need a mattress made with cooling and moisture-wicking materials. These can range from cooling features and technology to different types of fabrics. (Cooling pillows and cooling sheets can also help you maintain a comfortable sleep space.)
- Aches and pains: Persistent aches, pains, and pressure points in your shoulders, lower back, and hips can decrease your sleep quality. Mattresses that cushion these areas and keep your body on an even plane can help alleviate pain and prevent new aches from forming.
- Co-sleeping: If you share your bed with a partner, you likely want a mattress with strong motion isolation so you don’t wake each other up when changing sleep positions or getting up in the middle of the night. Edge support is also important because a secure perimeter allows you and your partner to lie across the entire mattress surface, rather than feeling pitted in the middle of the bed.
Keep in mind these are general guidelines based on our hands-on testing and user experiences, and they may not apply to you. The best way to determine whether a mattress is right for you is to sleep on it. Take full advantage of sleep trials and don’t hesitate to return a mattress if it doesn’t check all your boxes.
Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Category
For more personalized mattress guides, check out the following pages:
Best Mattress by Price
Best Mattress by Firmness Level
Best Mattress by Specific Purpose
Best Mattresses by Size
Other Mattress Resources
- The Mattress Learning Library: The gateway to everything you’ll ever need to know about mattresses.
- How to Buy a Mattress Online: For when you need a shopping tutorial that walks through what you need to know and what you don’t when it comes to buying a mattress on the internet.
- Mattress Sizes: And to be sure your bed is the right fit, consult our sizing guides.
What We’re Testing Next
New Year, new beds! We’re constantly making room in our Test Lab for new mattresses to test and conjuring up new ways to test them. We already have close to 50 new beds on the testing docket for 2024, with more arriving in Seattle every week. Be on the lookout for more in-depth Test Lab results and a fresh swath of user reviews coming soon. Here’s a snapshot of beds that just landed in-house:
- Cloverlane Foam Plush Soft
- Cloverlane Foam Luxury Firm
- Cloverlane Hybrid Plush
- Cloverlane Hybrid Luxury Firm
- DreamCloud (New)
- DreamCloud Premier REST
- Bryte Balance Smart Bed
- Leesa Sapira Hybrid
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many factors to consider when choosing a new mattress. One of the most important considerations is firmness level. Some people prefer a softer mattress that contours closely to the body, while others enjoy firmer mattresses that provide sturdy support. Your ideal firmness will likely depend on your body type and preferred sleep position. If you share your bed with someone who has different firmness preferences, then a dual-firmness mattress with a different feel on each side may be preferred.
Consider performance areas, as well. If you tend to sleep hot, a mattress constructed with breathable materials that promote airflow and resist heat retention will probably be the best options. If you tend to sleep near the edge of your bed, you may need a mattress with strong edge support as opposed to one that sags along the perimeter when pressure is applied. If you feel sharp pressure points along the spine, we recommend looking into mattresses that cushion and conform to the body. Couples who prefer bouncy mattresses for sex may want a more responsive model instead.
Lastly, you should take pricing into account. A new mattress can cost anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a few thousand. The construction of a mattress often dictates the sticker price. Foam beds and traditional innersprings are usually the most affordable options, all-latex models and hybrids tend to be middle of the road, and airbeds cost the most. If you feel like you need extra time to test out the mattress before deciding whether to keep it, consider buying from a brand that offers a sleep trial of at least 120 nights.
Whether or not you find a mattress comfortable depends on factors like your body shape and preferred sleeping position. For example, a back sleeper who weighs over 230 pounds will usually prefer a significantly firmer mattress than someone who weighs less than 130 pounds and sleeps on their side.
Mattresses can also feel comfortable in the short term but uncomfortable after several hours or even days, making it difficult to choose the right mattress without sleeping on it. It’s helpful to choose a mattress with a sleep trial, as these allow you to double-check that your new bed is comfortable before committing to the purchase.
“When it comes to sleep, everyone’s comfort preferences are different… I recommend investing in an option with a good return policy, so you can try it out for at least a month or so to decide whether it’s comfortable for you.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
We’ve found that most people who sleep on their side prefer foam, memory foam, or hybrid mattresses. Side sleepers are prone to developing pressure points at their hips and shoulders, making it difficult to sleep or triggering next-day aches and pains.
“Side sleepers may prefer a mattress that has softness. It’s also important for side sleepers to find an option that ensures the head and neck are in alignment. Whatever is the most comfortable for you to sleep with is worth the investment.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
Mattresses with above-average pressure relief contour gently against your potential pressure points regardless of the mattress’s overall firmness level, providing you with both comfort and support. While not all foam or foam hybrid mattresses relieve enough pressure for side sleepers, they tend to perform significantly better in this category than innerspring or all-latex beds.
There are features that people with back pain tend to universally appreciate — including lumbar padding, ergonomically-zoned support systems, and sturdy edge support. Side sleepers with shoulder or upper back pain should also consider the pressure-relieving qualities of a mattress before buying since poor pressure relief can lead to tension in these areas.
The best mattress for back pain is one that encourages correct spinal alignment and provides excellent support for both your body type and preferred sleeping position. While some specific mattresses are popular among people with back pain, an ideal model for one person may leave another feeling worse the next day.
If you’re a warm sleeper, you should consider purchasing an innerspring or latex mattress. Innerspring mattresses without foam comfort layers provide the best temperature neutrality thanks to their superior airflow, while latex is naturally temperature-neutral and stays much cooler throughout the night than synthetic foam.
Latex hybrids can be even cooler, as pocketed coils provide airflow in the same fashion as an innerspring. If you prefer the feel of synthetic foam — such as memory foam — look for a foam hybrid with temperature regulation features. These are warmer than an innerspring or latex mattress but still offer better temperature regulation than a standard all-foam bed.
There is no easy answer to this question since the “best” mattress is subjective — a bed that is perfect for one person may leave another person sleepless and sore. You should always start by determining your sleep needs, which include personal preferences but should be based on your sleep position and body type. These details, combined with your budget, will help you choose a mattress type, firmness option, and preferred features. After narrowing the field, you can then rely on independent mattress reviews to determine which mattress in a box is best for you.
Six standard mattress sizes are available. Twin and twin XL are the smallest standard sizes. They both measure about 38 inches wide, making them best suited to single sleepers. Full size dimensions are a bit wider, but may still be too narrow for two people.
Queen size dimensions measure roughly 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, making this a suitable size for anyone who shares their bed with a partner. King and California king are the largest standard sizes and should provide ample space for two people, especially if small children or pets also share the bed. Even larger sizes such as the Alaska king are available, but not widely — and usually require a custom order.
If you and your partner use an adjustable bed, you may want to consider a split queen, split king, or split California king mattress. These models are divided lengthwise down the middle, allowing each of you to adjust the bed to your preferred angle without affecting the other person.
The reasoning for buying a new mattress varies from person to person, but we’ve typically found that people buy a new bed when their old bed starts to sag or generally feel uncomfortable, or you start to wake up feeling stiff or sore.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we'll help you find exactly what you're looking for.
Logan is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a deep understanding of what it means to struggle with sleep. Her years of experience researching and testing sleep products – including mattresses, natural sleep aids, and bedding – are critical to her role helping lead the editorial team. As a chronic insomniac, she aims to bring her findings to anyone struggling with getting adequate rest. Her expertise is in creating informative, trustworthy, and useful health content. When she’s not testing mattresses or researching CBT-I, she enjoys spending time in the sunshine with her husband and her dogs Pepper and Winston.
Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.