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The Best Mattresses of 2024

We’ve created this guide discussing the key factors to consider when buying a new bed. See which mattress is best for you in 2024.

Advertisement disclosure i We may receive financial compensation for products purchased through links on this website. sleepjunkie.com is owned by Healthy Sleep, LLC and includes Amerisleep, LLC advertising. Learn more.
Advertisement disclosure i We may receive financial compensation for products purchased through links on this website. sleepjunkie.com is owned by Healthy Sleep, LLC and includes Amerisleep, LLC advertising. Learn more.

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Dr. Jennifer Miller, PT, DPT: Expert Physical Therapist and Pelvic Health Specialist

Dr. Jennifer Miller, PT, DPT: Expert Physical Therapist and Pelvic Health Specialist

Dr. Jennifer Miller is a compassionate and skilled outpatient physical therapist with nine years of experience in the field. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Elon University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Minnesota State University-Mankato. Dr. Miller specializes in Neurological, Geriatric, and Vestibular Physical Therapy and serves as […]

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Why you can trust SleepJunkie

Sleep Junkie delivers accurate, up-to-date sleep product reviews through comprehensive testing, catering to diverse sleeper needs. Learn More.

Meg Riley is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and a full-time writer focused on sleep and mattresses. She is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Junkie.

Dr. Jennifer Miller is a compassionate and skilled outpatient physical therapist with nine years of experience in the field. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Elon University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Minnesota State University-Mankato.

If you’re mattress shopping, learning about the best mattresses of 2024 is an excellent way to make sure you choose a good one to replace your older mattress. It’s also helpful to know which ones don’t fare so well in order to avoid the duds, especially if your previous mattress was one such lackluster model.

New mattress models come out every year from a growing number of retailers and manufacturers. For those who are not familiar with the terminology, materials, and sales tactics, we’re often told buying a mattress can be very confusing. There are many different beds out there, and it can be challenging to cut through the marketing and identify the best mattresses for your money.

Best Mattress Overall

Amerisleep AS3

Amerisleep AS3
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Memory Foam
  • Thickness: 12 inches
  • Firmness: 5 to 6 out of 10 (Medium)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

20 Years

Sleep Trial

100 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Breathable, cool, eco-friendly foam top
  • Five zones of support from HIVE® technology
  • Long-lasting structure from Bio-Core® base
Recommended For
  • Side, back, and combination sleepers
  • Hot sleepers
  • Couples

Amerisleep AS3 Overview

The Amerisleep AS3 is our recommendation for the best bed of the year, both in the memory foam category and overall. Thanks to its pressure-relieving foam and targeted support technology, it’s one of the most comfortable beds we’ve found.

While comfort preferences vary on the AS3, most report greatly improved sleep over time after an initial adjustment period. Amerisleep’s customer service also receives consistent praise.

We’re fans of Amerisleep for making comfortable mattresses, but also appreciate their eco-friendly manufacturing processes. When making their foam, they replace as much petroleum as they can with plant-based materials—making their beds healthier for you and the environment.

Every Amerisleep mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a lengthy 20-year warranty, protecting your investment for the next two decades.

Incredible mattress!

This is our primary bed. We stayed at an Airbnb over the summer and the mattress was the most comfortable that we’d slept on in years. We removed the sheets to see what kind it was and discovered it was an Amerisleep A3. We researched it (and similar mattresses) and read reviews. Waited, debated and finally made the leap. Best decision ever. I am a side sleeper and my husband is a stomach sleeper and we are both equally comfortable and well rested.

Melissa W Dayton, OH

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Amerisleep’s AS3 as the best mattress of 2024.

  • Great Features

    The AS3 features plant-based memory foam and state-of-the-art zoned support technology to deliver healthier, more restorative sleep. Plus, their mattress covers feature cooling and FIR technologies to deliver you deeper, more restful sleep.

  • Amazing Guarantees

    Amerisleep offers amazing guarantees with all of its mattresses, including a 20 year warranty, 100 night risk-free sleep trial, and money-back guarantee with free returns.

  • Excellent ratings and customer service

    With over 10,000 ratings on their website and an average of 4.8 stars, many featuring words like “best sleep ever” or focusing on their service, Amerisleep is a safe bet.

The AS3 model has more than 6600 reviews on the Amerisleep website. Of those reviews, more than 6000 used the word “comfortable” to describe the mattress, according to Amerisleep’s displayed review statistics. This is closely followed by more than 5900 reviews praising the AS3’s “good support,” which should reassure shoppers that the AS3 is likely to provide them with a good night’s rest.

Based on analysis of thousands of customer reviews and product tester notes, the AS3 receives high marks for improved sleep quality and comfort. However, some customers note that the mattress is firmer than expected initially before softening up over an adjustment period. Side sleepers in particular may find the AS3 too firm at first. Despite this, the majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive about the long-term comfort.

Amerisleep also sells four other memory foam mattresses, with two softer and two firmer than the AS3. The AS3 was deliberately designed to be a middle-of-the-road option to suit most sleeping styles, hugging the body while supporting its curves.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • After enjoying a restful night’s sleep on the Amerisleep AS3 at an AirBnB, Jennie was impressed by the absence of back pain upon waking up. Jennie decided to research her options and ultimately purchased the same mattress she had slept on. She praises the customer service department’s kindness and understanding, expressing her intention to buy another one in the future. Even her dog seems to love the bed as well.
  • Hampz bought the Amerisleep AS3 for their mother in law. “She loves it and gets great sleep!”

Amerisleep features state-of-the-art materials in each of their beds to promote healthy sleep positions and help you get a more restful night’s sleep. Let’s look at its construction. Inside the mattress are three revolutionary foams.

Comfort Layers

The first layer of every Amerisleep mattress is Bio-Pur®, a plant-based memory foam. Amerisleep designs Bio-Pur® to be breathable and cushioning, so it’ll mold to your body and relieve pressure as traditional memory foam would, but it doesn’t retain heat.

Their Bio-Pur® is also more responsive than traditional memory foam, making it easier to switch sleeping positions and get in and out of bed. Their Bio-Pur® shouldn’t cause you to feel “stuck” in the bed.

Transition Layers

Next, is a layer of HIVE® technology—a zoned support system. This layer is designed to offer healthy spinal support. HIVE® contains five comfort and support zones. In your shoulders and hips, these zones are softer and allow for further compression in the mattress; this helps prevent pressure points. These zones feel firmer around your neck, torso, and feet to maintain your spine’s natural alignment.

Support Layers

The base of the AS3 is Amerisleep’s Bio-Core®, a supportive poly-foam. This layer gives the bed shape and structural support.

There’s also the AS3 Hybrid as the bouncy counterpart to Amerisleep’s popular AS3 mattress. It possesses the same medium firmness as the classic memory foam mattress.

Because the AS3 Hybrid blends high-quality material together, it can cost a little bit more than the original AS3 mattress. However, many customers find the price point fair because they’re getting a mattress that balances bouncy support with eco-friendly, pressure-relieving cushion.

If we were to open up the AS3 Hybrid, we would see that the bed’s top layer is the familiar Bio-Pur® foam. Underneath the comfort foam are pocketed coils, wrapped for reduced motion transfer.

Pros

  • Memory foam’s sustainable production increases bounce and breathability
  • Targeted support from responsive transition foam
  • Expected to provide more than a decade of use

Cons

  • Memory foam is plant-based but not free of synthetic materials

Best Cooling Mattress

Zoma Boost

Zoma Boost
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Thickness: 15 Inches
  • Firmness: 5 out of 10 (Medium to Medium-Soft)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

10 Years

Sleep Trial

100 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Multiple foam layers for cushion
  • Conducive graphite infusion
  • Responsive individually wrapped coils
Recommended For
  • Side and combo sleepers
  • Smaller sleepers
  • Hot sleepers

Zoma Boost Overview

Next up is the Zoma Boost one of the best beds for those who sleep hot and those who just want to improve their sleep experience. Designed to help you sleep deeper, recover faster, and perform better, this bed is engineered to help you get a good night’s sleep every night so you can feel your best every day.

Zoma’s webpage proudly displays pictures of the professional athletes who have enjoyed sleeping on their mattress. Even if you don’t lead an active lifestyle, the Zoma Boost can upgrade your sleep and help you wake up refreshed morning after morning.

Zoma mattresses are all backed with a 10-year warranty. Plus, their beds come with a 100-night sleep trial.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Zoma Boost as the best cooling mattress of 2024.

  • Intense Focus on Cooling

    The Zoma Boost has highly advanced fabric and foam to ease sleepers into chilled comfort.

  • Supportive Bounce

    The pocket coils of the Zoma Boost work with the cooling surface to ensure it feels like you’re sleeping on a cloud.

  • Lightly Soft

    The thick foam top of the Boost ensures you’ll wake up pressure-free.

The Zoma Boost strikes the perfect balance between plushness and support, hovering between a medium and medium-soft feel that most people will find comfortable. Its construction allows for just the right amount of sinking without sacrificing the soft, relaxing cushion that the mattress provides.

You can stretch out and enjoy the cloud-like feel of the bed, without worrying about sinking too deeply and feeling like you might fall through the mattress.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Ryan from Saratoga Springs, UT, praises the mattress, describing it as ideal for both him and his wife, who shift sleeping positions during the night. He notes that the mattress’s feel accommodates all sleeping positions, making it a comfortable choice for combo sleepers like them.
  • Donna from Houston, TX, expresses her love for the Zoma adjustable bed frame and boost mattress that she purchased at the end of May 2024. She notes the significant improvement in comfort compared to their old Sleep Number bed, highlighting their satisfaction with the purchase.

The Zoma Boost is top-notch in terms of quality and construction. All of its foam layers are certified by CertiPUR-US®, ensuring that they are safe, high-quality, and free of harmful chemicals.

Comfort Layers

It features a plush, pillow top layer of hypersoft foam that conforms to your body’s curves and provides a cozy sleeping surface. Beneath that layer, you’ll find graphite-infused memory foam that enhances the mattress’s cooling comfort and conformability.

Transition Layers

The mattress also features a Reactiv™ transition layer that adds bounce and ensures that it remains responsive to your movements. Its pocketed coils contour to your body’s shape and provide motion isolation, while edge support makes it easy to get in and out of bed.

Support Layers

Pros

  • Gently icy feel relaxes sleepers and eases aches
  • Plush mattress feel relieves pressure points along the body
  • Bouncy transition foam with wrapped pocketed coils

Cons

  • Mattress is quite bulky, though easier to move with side handles

Best Mattress for The Money

Vaya Mattress

Vaya Mattress
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Foam
  • Thickness: 12 inches
  • Firmness: 5 to 6 out of 10 (Medium)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

Warranty

10 Years

Sleep Trial

100 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Plush yet supportive cushioning top
  • Bottom layer distributes weight to relieve pressure
  • Fabric cover with an airy weave
Recommended For
  • Back, side, stomach sleepers
  • All body types, from petite to plus-size
  • Budget shoppers

Vaya Mattress Overview

The Vaya Mattress is another top-rated mattress, and we love this bed because it’s budget-friendly and designed to feel comfortable for the majority of sleep styles and body types—so it’s an affordable sleep solution for most people! Plus, this mattress is hypoallergenic and CertiPUR-US® certified, so it’s free of harmful chemicals and safe for all sleepers.

Like most other online mattress brands, Vaya Sleep offers a risk-free sleep trial with their mattress. Once it arrives at your doorstep, you have 100 nights to test the Vaya out and decide if it works for you. If it’s not a comfortable fit after breaking it in, returns are easy and free.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Vaya Mattress as the best mattress for the money of 2024.

  • Highly Affordable

    Budget-friendly, costing only $599 for a queen

  • Versatile Sleep Surface

    Built for universal comfort

  • Allergy-Friendly

    Hypoallergenic materials

Vaya Sleep is an online mattress brand appealing to a large majority of shoppers because they use an innovative foam to support comfortable sleep for side, back, and combination sleepers. Plus, their mattress is medium in firmness, so it offers a good balance of cushioning comfort and firm support. Lying on the mattress should feel like you’re getting a hug while being relatively on top of the bed.

The soft surface is designed to adapt to the body in all positions. While reviewers were often pleasantly surprised by how plush yet supportive the Vaya Mattress felt, a few were disappointed that the edges seemed soft as well. People who sleep close to the edge might feel as if the surface is unstable or that they’re liable to roll over the side.

If you prefer a bed with firmer edges and are shopping on a budget, there’s also the Vaya Hybrid to consider. The bed replaces the bottom layer of stiff foam with pocketed coils, providing some bounce along with reinforced edge support. The Vaya Hybrid supports the body in all positions, like its predecessor.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Mary B. describes the Vaya Mattress as excellent and appreciates that the mattress uses regular foam instead of memory foam, which prevents her from sinking too far down into the firm layer. She finds the bed to be very comfortable, although she suggests that individuals over 200 pounds might have a different experience. She highlights the mattress’s construction with a soft top layer and a firm layer underneath.
  • Natalie E. intends to purchase another Vaya Mattress. They use the term “amazing” to praise the mattress and liken its feel to a comforting hug for the body.

Despite its low price, the Vaya is made with long-lasting, high-quality materials, and they even back their mattress with a 10-year warranty protecting you from manufacturing defects and sagging as minimal as an inch deep. This warranty ensures the Vaya is one of the best mattresses for the money.

The Vaya Mattress stands 12 inches tall and has two layers: a 3-inch comfort layer and a 9-inch support core.

Comfort Layers

The first layer of the mattress is plush Vaya Comfort Foam to contour to your curves, distribute body weight, and alleviate pressure points.

Support Layers

The core of the mattress keeps you lifted upright and prevents uncomfortable sinkage or sagging.

Vaya also offers a hybrid model, putting a bouncy twist on their original foam mattress. The Vaya Hybrid is a thicker model with a focus on affordable, versatile, and durable comfort and responsive support.

Pros

  • AirCloth’s weave works with gel foam for temperature neutrality
  • Gel memory foam moves heat away from the body
  • Transition foam named for its reactivity

Cons

  • Restorative design only comes in a medium firmness

Best Mattress for Hip Pain

Helix Midnight Luxe

Helix Midnight Luxe
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Thickness: 14 Inches
  • Firmness: 4 to 7 out of 10 (Medium)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

Warranty

15 Years

Sleep Trial

100 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Choose one of two cooling mattress cover fabrics
  • Zoned support from coils for shoulders and hips
  • Pillow top cushions the body for pressure relief
Recommended For
  • Side sleepers
  • Select combo sleepers
  • Couples

Helix Midnight Luxe Overview

Hip pain is a common ailment among sleepers, leaving many shoppers seeking relief with their mattresses. One of our favorite mattresses that features targeted support specifically for the hips is the Helix Midnight Luxe, an upgraded version of the Helix Midnight mattress. Even if you don’t suffer from hip pain, this pillow top mattress has plenty to offer.

The Helix Midnight Luxe has a 15-year warranty and a 100-night sleep trial.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Helix Midnight Luxe as the best mattress for hip pain of 2024.

  • Added Materials for Comfort

    Upgraded, thicker model features more support and comfort

  • Choice of Cooling Cover

    TENCEL™ or GlacioTex Cooling fabric for hypoallergenic coolness

  • Hip and Shoulder Support

    Targeted support from hundreds of pocketed coils

The medium feel is naturally the most popular with Helix’s shoppers, thanks to the wide range of sleepers the firmness serves. It feels largely balanced across the surface, though the shoulder section is meant to have a “softer” feel to better relieve pressure. Conversely, the hip section has a less yielding feel, meant to maintain a healthy spine alignment.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Paige K. thought the Sunset Luxe would be the bed for them, as soft mattresses had been their previous preference. But instead, they found the Midnight Luxe delivered what they wanted, striking the right balance between softness and support.
  • Taylor S. finds the bed to strike a balance between pillowy comfort and firm support, which is perfect for their side/stomach combo sleeping style. They note that the bed doesn’t sink excessively but provides adequate support, alleviating shoulder pain. However, Taylor recommends a firmer bed for stomach sleepers, as it provides better lower back support.
Comfort Layers

The cover fabric of the Helix Midnight Luxe is either the default Tencel fabric or the upgraded GlacioTex Cooling Cover. While Tencel has a breathable weave made with eco-friendly fibers, the GlacioTex Cooling Cover has the edge in cooling because it contains thermoreactive materials.

This cover fabric rests over the first layer, high-density Memory Plus Foam that is produced to offer a medium feel. It relieves pressure by conforming to the body, without feeling overly plush.

Transition Layers

Next is a supportive foam layer of gel visco foam, creating more cushion for the body. Responsive transition foam forms the middle of the mattress, providing a smooth barrier against the feel of coils.

Support Layers

The Helix Midnight Luxe has a supportive base of hundreds of pocketed coils, resting on a foam of specialty DuraDense material. As the name implies, DuraDense is dense and durable to better prolong the coils’ longevity.

Pros

  • Tencel fabric or GlacioTex Cooling Cover for consistent comfort
  • Softer feel for shoulders and firmer feel under the hips
  • Motion-isolating wrapped coils promote airflow and support

Cons

  • Some sleepers may prefer more softness in the hip area

Best Latex Mattress

Nolah Natural 11

Nolah Natural 11
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Latex Hybrid
  • Thickness: 11 inches
  • Firmness: 5 to 6 out of 10 (Luxury Firm)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

Lifetime

Sleep Trial

120 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Organic wool and cotton act as top and bottom
  • Natural materials also promote a cool feel
  • Bouncy Talalay boosted by underlying coils
Recommended For
  • Most sleeping styles
  • Shoppers seeking a green mattress
  • Individuals sensitive to synthetic materials

Nolah Natural 11 Overview

Latex mattresses are growing in popularity with shoppers, thanks to an increasing concern about choosing green, eco-friendly products. One of our top recommendations for a latex bed is the Nolah Natural 11,

The Nolah Natural 11 comes with a lifetime warranty plus an additional 10-year accident protection plan. While it also comes with a 120-night sleep trial, shoppers can choose to remove it if they want to take a little bit more off the mattress’s final price.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Nolah Natural 11 as the best latex mattress of 2024.

  • Natural materials

    GOTS certified organic cotton with perforated Talalay latex

  • Protective policies

    Add-on accident protection and removable sleep trial

  • Third-party certifications

    Other certifications include OEKO-TEX, eco-INSTITUT, Rainforest Alliance, and Cradle to Cradle

The Nolah Natural 11 has a versatile feel that’s close to but not quite a true medium, which is why Nolah appropriately rates it as a “luxury firm.”

Most sleepers will feel comfortable stretching out on the Natural, but some lighter side sleepers may find themselves happier with a mattress that’s quicker to hug their bodies.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Kevin Maxham says they used the Nolah Natural 11 primarily as a guest room, but they have also personally tested its comfort. They found the Nolah Natural 11 strikes a good balance between cushion and stability, suitable for supporting two adults. Also, the natural materials bring them peace of mind regarding home safety.
  • Mike McKillips highlights the minimal motion transfer when someone moves on the Nolah Natural. Selecting the desired mattress was a straightforward process, and the mattress itself has met their expectations, being well-constructed, comfortable, and environmentally friendly.

The Nolah Natural contains six parts inside its hybrid construction.

Comfort Layers

The mattress cover is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified organic cotton cover fabric. Not only does the sustainable production create a more eco-friendly fabric, but the cotton fibers wick away absorbed heat and sweat that can build up and disturb sleep.

The underlying organic wool is also certified by GOTS. This wool doubles as a fire barrier while also providing heat dispersion.

Next is the main comfort layer of Talalay latex foam, placed to relieve pressure points across the whole body. Without this pressure relief, a sleeper is more likely to wake up sore and in pain.

Transition Layers

A second, thinner layer of Talalay latex foam acts provides more transition than conforming comfort. The second latex foam layer creates a layer of protection from the feel of the mattress’s coils, ensuring sleepers won’t experience discomfort from bottoming out against them.

Support Layers

The base of the mattress is pocketed coils resting on a foundation of organic cotton and wool.

Pros

  • Talalay latex foam has holes punctured for extra breathability
  • Surface is GOTS certified cotton with underlying organic wool
  • Pocketed coils rest on cotton and wool base for support

Cons

  • Latex costs more than memory foam, reflected in mattress’s final price
Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Thickness: 14 inches
  • Firmness: 3 to 4 out of 10 (Soft)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

20 years

Sleep Trial

100 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Plush, thick plant-based foam for consistent coolness
  • Minimal sinkage due to Active Flex's buoyancy
  • Pocketed coils prevent transfer and provide bounce
Recommended For
  • Side and combination sleepers
  • Petite, average, and heavyset sleepers
  • Hot sleepers

Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid Overview

The Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid has a different construction than its memory foam counterpart, but features the same luxurious softness. The AS5 model is a luxurious mattress with an ultra-soft feel. We like the AS5 because it’s a soft mattress that still offers excellent support.

One of the tallest mattresses on our list, the Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid measures 14 inches tall. Generally, the softer the mattress, the thicker it is, so this makes sense. The height works well here as it’s not too tall (some mattresses which are 15, 16, or 17 inches high can be a pain to get in and out of in the morning).

The AS5 Hybrid comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid as the best soft mattress of 2024.

  • Responsive Huggy Cushion

    Thick top layer of breathable and adaptable Bio-Pur® foam

  • Soft Without Sinkage

    Springy Active Flex layer prevents sinkage and spinal misalignment

  • Bouncy Wrapped Coil Core

    Responsive coils offer support and increase pressure relief

While the mattress is soft, it’s also designed to resist impressions and quickly snap back into shape once you leave the bed. This hasn’t gone unnoticed by customers, with plenty of reviews noting the bed holds its shape after extended nightly use. If you want a soft mattress that won’t go flat and will hug your body’s curves for years to come, the AS5 Hybrid is an excellent choice.

The AS5 isn’t the only soft mattress Amerisleep offers. Their AS4 mattress features a plush cushion with targeted support and a sturdy base, all working together to establish a medium-soft feel. The AS4 is only offered as a memory foam mattress, so if you enjoy a bouncy bed, the AS5 is the better option.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Kay, initially hesitant about buying a mattress online, is thrilled that the AS5 surpassed her expectations. She notes it provides the best sleep she’s had in years, describing it as comfortable, supportive, soft, and not prone to sleeping hot.
  • Na emphasizes the life-changing impact of the AS5, as they had experienced shoulder and back pain before buying it and that pain has now disappeared. They commend both the mattress and the excellent customer support, appreciating their salesperson’s proactive follow-up during the trial period.

Let’s look at the bed’s four layers, all wrapped in a cooling cover fabric.

Comfort Layers

Sleepers will stretch out on a surface of Refresh fabric, a technological material that takes the body heat it absorbs and transforms it into restorative infrared energy.

The bed’s top layer is 3 inches of breathable and bouncy Bio-Pur® foam. As a reminder, Bio-Pur® conforms to you for full-body pressure relief and support, while remaining cool throughout the night.

Transition Layers

Next is 2 inches of Active Flex material. Active Flex is a “latex-like” foam that is very bouncy. Many soft mattress owners encounter a stuck feeling from sinking too far into the bed. Without measures to prevent sinkage, you risk spinal misalignment. By putting the Active Flex layer beneath the Bio-Pur®, Amerisleep makes sure you won’t feel “sunken in” in this soft, luxurious mattress.

Support Layers

The bed’s support is 8 inches of pocketed coils. As with the AS3 Hybrid, the coils react to movement individually and rest on an inch-thick foam base. The base promotes a durable structure for greater mattress longevity.

The original AS5 mattress features Affinity foam and Bio-Core® foam for its supportive base, along with the top layers of Bio-Pur® and Active Flex. The targeted support in the Affinity foam layer provides added cushion for the hips and shoulders. This layer is left out of the AS5 Hybrid because the reactive coils ensure the bed responds individually to different parts of the body.

Pros

  • Plant-based memory foam cushions sensitive areas
  • Active Flex helps the mattress buoy the sleeper
  • Pocketed coils isolate motion, eliminating ripple sensations

Cons

  • Too soft for some sleeping styles

Best Hybrid Mattress

GhostBed Flex

GhostBed Flex
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Thickness: 13 inches
  • Firmness: 6 to 7 out of 10 (Medium)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

25 years

Sleep Trial

101 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Quilted surface with cooling fiber and gel foam
  • 2 layers of gel memory foam deepens compression
  • Pocketed coils for responsive, adaptable support
Recommended For
  • Most sleeping styles
  • Hot sleepers
  • Couples

GhostBed Flex Overview

Hybrid mattresses are quickly becoming one of the more popular mattresses, set to potentially eclipse even long-standing options like traditional innerspring mattresses and newer foam bed. By combining elements of each of these types into one mattress, hybrids can offer more to sleepers and maximize comfort.

With so many hybrids to choose from, it’s difficult to narrow it down to just one. The GhostBed Flex isn’t even the only hybrid we have on the list, but we awarded it the title of best for its responsive comfort and numerous cooling features that enable better sleep.

The GhostBed Flex ships free and comes with a 101-night sleep trial and a 25-year warranty.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Ghostbed Flex as the best hybrid mattress of 2024.

  • Buoyant Surface

    Ghost Bounce layer with individually wrapped, reinforced coils

  • Stays Cool All Night

    Gel memory foam layers paired with cooling fibers and plush fabric

  • Thorough Protection

    Lengthy 25-year warranty for protection against defects

GhostBed wanted the Flex to feel as close as sleepers can come to floating without leaving the ground. Lying on lets your body feel weightless as it moves to meet your curves, rising like dough.

It’s buoyant yet still a touch soft, according to some reviews. This balance suits most sleeping styles, though stomach sleepers may want to consider a firmer hybrid.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Tony O. called the GhostBed Flex a “mattress made in heaven.” While Tony initially had doubts about buying a springless mattress due to their age and habits, they gave it a try because of the brand’s sleep trial guarantee and was satisfied enough after 30 days to call the mattress amazing.
  • Michele M. says they appreciated the excellent customer service and conducted thorough research on the GhostBed website before choosing the Flex. Initially unsure about purchasing a bed online, their positive experience with GhostBed convinced them otherwise.

Comfort Layers

The GhostBed Flex has a quilted cover fabric for a cool, soft surface, with cool burst airflow technology fiber directly woven into the cover. The Flex’s cover has a suppleness to its soft weave that lets it move easily under the body, helping the mattress live up to its name.

The primary comfort comes from two layers of gel memory foam. These materials let the mattress conform to the body, while the infused gels help heat away from the body.

Transition Layers

The Ghost Bounce layer provides transition and minimizes any unwanted sinkage, increasing the mattress’s overall floating. GhostBed crafted the Bounce layer to be responsive as latex while also conforming the way memory foam does.

Support Layers

The support core is the GhostFlex pocketed coil unit with Spirited Edge™ support, letting sleepers sit easily on the side. The coils rest on a base layer of dense foam.

Pros

  • Fibers for increased airflow woven into quilted cover fabric
  • Two gel memory foams with Ghost Bounce transition foam
  • Pocketed coils with strengthened perimeter and sturdy base foam

Cons

  • All sizes cost over $1000 and may be out of some shoppers’ budgets

Best Luxury Firm Mattress

Saatva Classic

Saatva Classic
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Innerspring
  • Thickness: 11.5 or 14.5 Inches
  • Firmness: 3 (Plush), 5 to 7 (Luxury Firm), and 8 (Firm) out of 10
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King, Split California King

Warranty

Lifetime

Sleep Trial

365 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Choice of 3 firmness levels and 2 heights
  • Organic cotton cover repels microbes
  • Included white glove delivery with appointment
Recommended For
  • Allergy-sensitive sleepers
  • All sleeping positions and body types
  • Hot sleepers

Saatva Classic Overview

Most sleepers will feel comfortable on a Saatva Classic, thanks to the company’s choice of three firmnesses. The soft option provides a deep hugging sensation, with padding in the pillow top meant to cushion a side sleeper’s or petite person’s body. The firm option offers “balanced resistance” and keeps back, stomach, and heavier sleepers on top of the bed.

The luxury-firm option is the most popular option and the one we’ve chosen to spotlight. Saatva says it’s their number one seller, preferred by 82 percent of their customers.

The Saatva Classic has a 365-night home trial and a lifetime warranty for peace of mind. Free white glove delivery is also included, as Saatva will arrange a delivery appointment, set up the mattress, and remove the old mattress and foundation by request.

However, we must mention that the sleep trial isn’t without a catch, as Saatva charges a $99 transportation fee for any returned mattress. Many mattress companies offer risk-free trials with full refunds, so you might want to shop elsewhere if you want a money-back guarantee.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Saatva Classic as the best luxury firm mattress of 2024.

  • Luxurious Pillow Top

    Thick Euro pillow top for a soft, seamless mattress

  • Dual Coil Support

    Base of tempered steel coils topped with pocketed coils

  • Free In-Room Assembly

    No need to set up the mattress yourself

Saatva’s mattresses have received rave reviews, with people praising their beds as the answer to quite a few different sleep problems. For example, one couple who often disturbed each other’s rest now wake up completely refreshed after a full night’s rest on their Saatva Classic mattress.

As we mentioned, the luxury firm option is the most popular Saatva Classic mattress, with a versatile and adaptable surface ready to suit most sleep styles.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • John D. tried the Saatva Classic out for three years, along with the brand’s adjustable bed frame, and later left a 5-star review. Satisfied with his purchase decision from the very beginning, John emphasized that he experienced the joy of falling asleep and waking up refreshed. He contrasted his positive experience with other mattresses he had before, stating that the Saatva Classic was more comfortable and durable, even though it was more affordable.
  • Trien L. shared their positive experience with the Saatva Classic mattress and Santorini platform bed in a king size. Having used the bed for over a week, they expressed satisfaction with the mattress’s firmness and the frame’s height, stating that it was just right. They concluded by recommending others to try out the Saatva mattress, emphasizing that they wouldn’t be disappointed.

The Saatva Classic mattress contains five layers, bringing it to 11.5 or 14.5 inches of height, depending on the shopper’s choice.

Comfort Layers

The top layer is a 3-inch Euro pillow top with a hypoallergenic cotton cover. The plush pillow top cushions the joints and the back area, relieving the pressure that can cause pain. The cotton fabric is treated with Guardin™ botanical antimicrobial treatment, keeping the mattress pristine.

Separating the pillow top from the coils is a layer of patented spinal zone technology. The layer is active wire with CertiPUR-US® certified high-density memory foam to increase lumbar support and maximize pressure relief.

Transition Layers

Next are the pocketed coils, placed to provide contouring support and reduce motion transfer. The coils respond to the body’s movements and enable airflow throughout the mattress.

Support Layers

As mentioned, the base is tempered steel coils to decrease the chances of sagging and increase durability.

The mattress’s edge support comes from high-density foam ringed around the oil layer for a firm feel. This edge support can make it easier to move in and out of bed.

If you prefer another type of mattress, Saatva also sells a premium memory foam mattress and a latex hybrid. Their memory foam model, known as the Loom & Leaf, comes in a relaxed firm and firm feel, while the latex hybrid is only available in one firmness. There’s also the Saatva HD, their luxury innerspring mattress model for heavier sleepers.

Pros

  • Pillow top protected by antimicrobial treatment
  • Choice of two heights and three firmnesses
  • Two coil layers for maximum springy support

Cons

  • Lengthy sleep trial comes with the caveat of a return fee

Best Mattress for Back Pain

Zoma Hybrid

Zoma Hybrid
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Thickness: 12 Inches
  • Firmness: 5 out of 10 (Medium-Soft)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

10 Years

Sleep Trial

100 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Ventilated AirCloth cover supplements gel foam
  • Pocketed coils respond quickly to movements
  • Edge support makes getting out of bed easy
Recommended For
  • Side, back, and combination sleepers
  • Hot sleepers
  • People with chronic pain conditions or joint disorders

Zoma Hybrid Overview

If you’re searching for a cooling mattress that will keep you from waking in a sweat, you might want to try the Zoma Hybrid. The mattress design promotes recovery just like the original Zoma Mattress, with four layers making up a Zoma Hybrid.

The Zoma Hybrid is compatible with various bed bases, including mattress foundations, platform beds, and adjustable bases. Like the original Zoma Mattress, the Zoma Hybrid has received its share of appreciation from reviewers.

A Zoma Hybrid includes a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Zoma Hybrid as the best mattress for back pain of 2024.

  • Top To Bottom Cooling Materials

    Breathable coils and gel foam for a cool sleep surface

  • Cushioning, Responsive Foams

    Increased pressure relief and even weight distribution

  • Wrapped Coils Boost Comfort

    Pocketed coils reduce motion transfer and mattress noises

The Zoma Hybrid possesses a feel not too distinct from the original Zoma Mattress. Like its classic memory foam counterpart, the Zoma Hybrid has a medium feel that moves to cushion the body without completely swallowing the sleeper’s shoulders and hips. The memory foam and cover fabric also maintain a consistently cool feel across the whole surface.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Stephen F. took an online quiz and was recommended the Zoma Hybrid as the best mattress for an active lifestyle. As a side sleeper, Stephen finds the mattress to be perfectly supportive and highly recommends it to others.
  • Contrary to her expectations of a 5-7 day adjustment period, Claudia Hammons found herself sleeping well and feeling comfortable on the mattress from the very first night.
Comfort Layers

The top layer is 2 inches of gel memory foam, a heat-wicking material that conforms to the body and eases pressure points.

Transition Layers

The second layer is 2 inches of Reactiv™, a springy material that adapts to your movements. Because of Reactiv™ foam, you’ll never feel trapped in a mattress that’s slow to respond to your movements.

Support Layers

The third layer is 7 inches of pocketed coils. The coils feature springy support, with fabric packets encasing every coil to limit motion transfer, which is a common drawback of a bouncy mattress.

The coils rest on the fourth and final layer, a 1-inch thick foam base.

Pros

  • Memory foam contains heat-moving gels for cooler sleep
  • Reactiv™ foam serves as transition layer for limited sinkage
  • Core of pocketed coils buoy the body and enable easy movement

Cons

  • Bouncy hybrid mattress does not have perforated foam

Best Mattress for Shoulder Pain

Layla Hybrid

Layla Hybrid
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Thickness: 13 Inches
  • Firmness: 4 (Soft) or 7 (Firm) out of 10
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

Warranty

10 Years

Sleep Trial

120 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Soft and firm sides with cooling copper
  • Targeted support on both sides
  • Core of bouncy pocketed coils
Recommended For
  • All sleeping styles
  • Curious sleepers exploring different positions
  • Guest bedrooms

Layla Hybrid Overview

For the most part, flipping your mattress is a thing of the past. Most beds have a clear top-to-bottom construction, and flipping the bed would mean lying on a surface that wasn’t designed for comfort. There are exceptions, such as the flippable Layla Hybrid that offers a soft and firm side.

The Layla Hybrid comes with a 120-night trial and a 10-year warranty.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Layla Hybrid as the best mattress for shoulder pain of 2024.

  • Targeted Back Support

    Zoned support from Max Airflow Support foam

  • Cooling Copper Infusions

    Copper infusions keeps not only heat but bacteria away

  • Flippable Firmnesses

    Dual-sided with a removable mattress cover that has handles

The Layla Hybrid offers a soft side perfect for side sleepers and a firm side suited for back and stomach sleepers. The mattress has handles along the side to make it easier to flip the mattress.

The Layla Hybrid has more than 900 reviews, with shoppers pleased at how easy it is to experiment with firmness thanks to the mattress’s design. Many mattress owners used the hybrid to relieve a recurring pain issue.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Lea D. expressed that the Layla Hybrid lived up to its advertising claims. They appreciated the fact that the hybrid mattress was flippable, providing two different options of support. Despite being able to sleep well on both sides, they eventually settled on the softer side as their preference.
  • Brian G. found the soft side to be suitable for them. Given their experience with various online mattresses (6 in total), Brian characterized themselves as having specific preferences. As a side sleeper with discomfort in the hips and shoulders when the mattress is too firm, they seemed to have found a suitable option in this mattress.

Let’s examine the mattress’s construction, starting with the soft side and working downward.

Comfort Layers

The plush surface owes its feel to the 2.5-inch thick top layer of copper-gel memory foam. Copper is different from a traditional gel infusion because the metal not only wicks away heat but prevents harmful microbes from settling in the mattress. Memory foam eases pressure points across the mattress surface.

For the firm side, the comfort layer is an inch layer of copper-gel foam.

Both sides of the mattress are covered with a soft, breathable fabric. The mattress cover can be removed by unzipping it.

Transition Layers

The next layer is 2 inches of Max Airflow Support foam. This transition layer features deep channels for more cooling airflow and surface modification technology to establish different support zones.

The reverse firm side consists of a 1.5-inch thick Max Airflow Support foam layer.

Support Layers

The supportive layer for both sides of the mattress is 6 inches of pocketed coils. The coils along the edge offer firm support, making it easy to move out of bed.

Layla also offers a thinner memory foam mattress with dual-sided design, one soft and the other firm. Since it relies on the same materials, the original Layla Mattress offers a feel similar to the Layla Hybrid. The Layla Mattress is excellent for people who want a flippable mattress but who are shopping on a limited budget.

Pros

  • Handles along the cover make it easy to switch sides
  • Pocketed coils provide both sides with support
  • Copper infusion manages microbes and responds under pressure

Cons

  • Flippable design still has limited firmnesses that do not suit all

Best Memory Foam Mattress

Bear Original

Bear Original
  • Price Range: See Price
  • Mattress Type: Memory Foam
  • Thickness: 10 Inches
  • Firmness: 7.1 out of 10 (Medium-firm)
  • Available In: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King

Warranty

Lifetime

Sleep Trial

120 Nights

Shipping

Free

Mattress Highlights
  • Graphite gels keep comfort foam cool
  • Medium-firm feel supports the spine
  • Low-profile mattress
Recommended For
  • Stomach sleepers
  • Back sleepers
  • Bargain hunters seeking a low-priced bed

Bear Overview

We recommend the Bear Mattress to stomach sleepers because it is designed to help you get healthier sleep, but it’s also rated 7.1 out of 10 on the firmness scale by the company, so it should be firm enough to support a stomach sleeper. In fact, it says right on their website they design their bed to be compatible with stomach sleepers, as it is supposed to keep your belly lifted and maintain your spine’s natural curvature.

Bear sells their mattresses online only, so they offer a 120-night sleep trial, free shipping, and free returns with each of their beds. Plus, their beds are backed by a lifetime warranty. All Bear mattresses are made in the USA.

The Editors at Sleep Junkie recommend Bear as the best mattress for stomach sleepers of 2024.

  • Made for High Restoration

    Designed to help athletes get better sleep

  • Supportive Firm Feel

    Best for stomach and back sleepers

  • Heat-Wicking Graphite Infusion

    Graphite-infused gel helps keep you cool and comfortable

More than 9900 reviews have been posted about the Original Bear Mattress on the company’s website. Reviews can be sorted by recurring terms and concerns, rating, the reviewer’s sleep position and how firm they rated the mattress. Stomach sleepers praised the mattress’s supportive feel, with many giving it 5 stars, but combo sleepers and even the occasional side sleeper enjoyed the Bear Original.

Of course, firmness is relative. Bear notes on their original mattress’s product page that “independent reviews for comparison on mattress firmness rate the Bear Original a 6.5” making it a suitable option for back sleepers, too. Side sleepers might want to pass on the Bear Original and find a mattress more likely to hug their curves.

What Consumers Are Saying
  • Samuel V. shared that while they initially felt the Bear Mattress was a bit too firm during the first few days, they soon adapted to it. Samuel reported that they no longer woke up with a sore lower back and had been experiencing restful sleep. They highlighted choosing the Bear Mattress over the Nectar mattress and appreciated the lower cost of the Bear option.
  • Michael J. is a back-and-side sleeper and an older athlete, and as such they appreciate the support, firmness, and cushioning of the Bear Mattress, which suits their recovery needs well. They also describe the unboxing process as easy, with the mattress being rolled into the bed frame. After allowing the mattress to settle for over 12 hours, Michael initially found the mattress quite firm, but their opinion changed after sleeping on it.

Let’s talk about how the construction of the Bear can actually help you get healthier sleep.

Comfort Layers

To promote more restful sleep, Bear utilizes Celliant® in its cover. Celliant® recycles the body heat you emit naturally while you sleep to infrared energy; your body reabsorbs this infrared energy, which helps you get better sleep because it:

  • Promotes local blood flow
  • Increases circulation
  • Helps you wake up feeling more rejuvenated and rested

Inside the mattress are three layers of foam, the top layer is graphite-infused memory foam. It contours to your body and graphite works in conjunction with the Celliant® cover to keep your temperature regulated while you rest.

Transition Layers

Next, is a layer of transition foam for extra pressure relief; this transition foam is designed to be bouncy and responsive, which is what keeps you lifted in the mattress and prevents your midsection from sinking.

Support Layers

The last layer is a 6.5-inch dense base layer, which is in place to give the bed structural support.

The original Bear mattress is the company’s firmest option. People seeking a softer mattress with similar features might want to try the upgraded Bear Pro, another memory foam mattress, or the bouncy Bear Hybrid. Both options are not only thicker but more expensive, so budget shoppers might want to stick with the original mattress.

Pros

  • High-tech Celliant® cover provides cutting-edge coolness
  • Gel memory foam helps heat swiftly disperse
  • Dense base foam supplemented by transition foam for spine support

Cons

  • Bear’s mattresses are designed to have a firmer feel that may not suit all

Honorable Mentions for Best Mattresses

How We Choose Mattresses

There’s a lot to consider when looking at dozens of mattresses and trying to decide which ones deserve the coveted title of “best mattress.” To make our job easier, we looked at each possibility while considering three things: materials, customer reviews, and company history.

  • Materials used in the mattress: Not all materials feel the same or have similar high-quality productions. We also sought to cover the potential range of types of mattresses, so sleepers can find something to enjoy regardless of their material preferences.
  • Customer reviews and what they say: How customers describe the mattress can tell a lot about its feel, but there’s often more than just that in their reviews. Customers can also talk about how delivery went or how the company worked to address a complaint they had, which says something about the company’s values.
  • Company history and their established policies: Companies who have been around for a few years have done quite a bit to establish themselves as reliable and trustworthy. Many of them maintain and seek out customer trust by offering lengthy sleep trials and warranties.

What to Consider Before Purchasing a New Bed

Before you can confidently choose your next mattress, there are a handful of things to take into account so you’re best prepared.

The most important factor being your own personal preferences, including how you like to sleep and how firm or soft you want your bed to be. If you’re somebody who craves the feeling of sleeping on a cloud and you know that ahead of time, you’ve already narrowed down your search drastically.

Sleeping Positions

Sleep style is nothing to overlook as it’s critical you buy a bed that’s compatible with how you sleep.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers are most comfortable on medium or soft mattresses. When you sleep on your side, it’s important your bed is soft enough to allow your hips and shoulders to compress in the mattress. Firmer beds can create pressure points and pains for side sleepers.

Targeted support can be important, too, in a mattress for side sleeping. Specialty cushioning for shoulders and hips can relieve pressure before it has a chance to build into painful discomfort.

Back Sleepers

The best mattress for back sleepers is anywhere in the medium to firm range. For back sleepers, it’s important to look for a bed that nurtures the spine’s natural alignment and keeps you lifted in the mattress. Anything too soft can cause your torso to sink too far in the mattress, creating pain.

As with side sleeping, targeted support can be helpful. However, enhanced lumbar support is what you should look for in a mattress for back sleeping.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleeping is considered to be the unhealthiest sleep style for a number of reasons— the most significant is the strain it puts on your back. When you sleep on your stomach, your center of gravity shifts to your torso.

This can cause your midsection to sink into the mattress, overextending your spine. It’s not uncommon for stomach sleepers to experience chronic lower back pain. If you do sleep on your stomach, choose a firm mattress to offer you the necessary support.

Lastly is combination sleeping, which is the group of people who switch between these positions as they toss and turn. The right mattress for combination sleeping should account for all of these, usually with a medium to medium-firm feel.

Body Type

Remember, body type is the most significant factor in the perception of firmness. So, you need to take into consideration your build.

If you’re smaller or more petite, most beds will feel firmer to you. But if you’re a heavier individual, you’re going to need to look for a bed with more support to help promote healthy sleep positions.

Ultimately, the most important thing here is finding a mattress that will nurture a healthy spine, foster healthy sleep styles, and prevent aches and pains— finding the support necessary to achieve that is the main goal.

Mattress Types

As we mentioned, there are a variety of mattress types to choose from in your search for a new bed, including, memory foam, latex, hybrid, and innerspring beds. Like anything in life, each material has its pros and cons. In this section, we’ll highlight the benefits and downfalls of each material so you can assess what meets your needs.

Memory Foam

Pros of Memory Foam

Memory foam is considered to be one of the best mattress materials for pressure relief. If you’re somebody who suffers from aches and stiffness, memory foam could be your solution for pain-free sleep.

Memory foam contours and cradles your body unlike any other material, so it helps evenly distribute your weight across the mattress, relieve tension in your joints, and prevent pressure points.

Athletes sleep on memory foam because it helps them recover more quickly by alleviating pressure points and leading to a deeper night’s rest. Plus, memory foam is superb at isolating motion. If you share your mattress with a partner who tosses and turns, memory foam can help you get undisturbed sleep.

Cons of Memory Foam

There are a few major concerns people have with memory foam, and fortunately, many companies have taken strides to modify how they make their memory foam to reduce the risk of their customers experiencing any issues with their beds; however, if you buy a cheap memory foam mattress, you’re likely to experience some of these side effects.

First, because a combination of chemicals is required to produce memory foam, these beds are prone to off-gassing. Off-gassing refers to the chemical-like “new mattress smell” that comes with a lot of foam beds. Even high-quality beds are likely to off-gas slightly when you first open them, but with inexpensive foam, the smell sometimes doesn’t dissipate.

Another downfall to using memory foam is its likelihood of trapping heat. Because some memory foams are dense and don’t have a lot of air pockets, they can retain the body heat you naturally emit while you sleep and cause you to overheat. Plant-based memory foams and open-cell foams are the solution to this problem, but for hot sleepers, these beds can still cause discomfort.

Last, because memory foam has a cradling feel, it can sometimes create a “sinking” feeling in the mattress and make it difficult to move around or get in and out of bed.

Latex

Pros of Latex

Many people prefer latex mattresses because they’re an eco-friendly, all-natural sleep solution— that is only if you make sure to buy 100% natural latex. Latex is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, mold, and bacteria, so it contributes to germ-free sleep.

Though latex beds are usually on the pricier side, latex is one of the most durable mattress materials, so it’s likely to last longer than any other material. The average lifespan of a latex bed is 15 years, where memory foam is likely to last 10 years, and other beds usually hold up anywhere between 5 to 8 years.

Latex is a breathable material, so it does pretty well in regards to temperature regulation, too. Lastly, like memory foam, latex is great at molding to your body and relieving pressure points, which helps you get more restful sleep to wake up feeling rejuvenated.

Cons of Latex

Latex is one of the best materials to buy if you’re looking for an eco-friendly or hypoallergenic bed, but they’re often the most expensive mattresses you can buy. Latex is also markedly heavy and difficult to move or rotate, so if your latex bed requires any periodic rotation, it won’t be an easy feat.

Like memory foam, there’s also a risk of latex retaining heat, too, so it could be hit or miss for a hot sleeper. Lastly, there is a chance of off-gassing with latex, as well.

Hybrid

Pros of Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses offer the best of both worlds, combining a pocketed coil system with layers of foam— whether it be latex, memory, or poly-foam— gives the sleepers a bouncy but cushioning bed. The bounce of hybrid beds makes it easier to get in and out of bed and prevents the “stuck in the mattress” feeling other materials can create.

If you’re somebody who prefers a little bounce from your mattress, you’ll likely want to invest in a hybrid bed; that said, hybrids aren’t the best at isolating motion. Because hybrid beds contain a pocketed coil system, there is good airflow throughout the mattress, ensuring no hot air gets trapped in the bed— if you’re a hot sleeper, this is especially important.

Cons of Hybrid

Hybrids bring a lot of good to the table, so it is not much of a surprise they’re quite pricey. There are budget-friendly hybrids on the market, but usually a high-quality, long-lasting hybrid is going to be relatively expensive.

Most hybrid beds require you to periodically rotate them so they last longer, but hybrids are often heavy, so they’re not the easiest to maintain, either. If hybrids are poorly constructed, they’ll likely lack in their ability to isolate motion, too, because they contain a coil system.

Innerspring

Pros of Innerspring

Innerspring beds were the first kind of mattress invented and used, so they’ve been around for quite some time! The biggest advantage of buying an innerspring bed is the airflow throughout. Having essentially nothing but a pocketed coil system inside, there’s plenty of room for air to flow in and out of the mattress.

Innerspring beds are also relatively budget-friendly and more affordable than other mattress types; so if you’re looking to buy a bed for a guest room or camper and don’t want to spend too much, innersprings are the way to go. Also, like hybrids, innersprings have a bouncy feel to them, so they’re more responsive to movement and offer a more “on the bed” feel.

Cons of Innerspring

Innerspring beds receive one of the lowest owner satisfaction ratings, according to SleepLiketheDead.com with only 64% of consumers rating their beds positively. On average, these beds have the shortest lifespan, too— with 25% of owners reporting sags in their bed within only three years.

Unlike an all-foam mattress with memory foam or latex foam, innerspring beds cannot contour to your body, which means they aren’t the best at pain relief or prevention. Additionally, because they’re primarily composed of springs, they don’t isolate motion well. If you share a mattress with a restless sleeper or are just looking for the best bed for couples, these aren’t the way to go.

Waterbeds

Pros of Waterbeds

As their name implies, waterbeds are simply beds full of water. These mattresses were more popular about twenty years back, but they’re still a comfortable sleep solution for anyone who wants excellent contouring. Waterbeds are ideal for even weight distribution and pressure relief, making them great options for those with chronic pains or arthritis.

Because these beds are full of water, they shouldn’t aggravate allergies like other mattresses can, so they’re great for allergy or asthma sufferers. Plus, they’re usually cheaper than other mattress types, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Cons of Waterbeds

While water is pressure-relieving, it is not motion isolating. Any movement on the mattress results in waves, making it difficult to settle in and get comfy. While there are waveless water beds on the market, they’re often expensive.

Waterbeds aren’t known for their durability and often fall victim to punctures and leaks. These beds also require close care— their water levels should remain consistent and water conditioner needs to be added regularly.

These beds are some of the hardest to set up and heaviest to move, so they’re far from hassle-free. As you can probably imagine, waterbeds require quite a bit of water to fill— they can weigh over 1,000 pounds when filled! Setting up and maintaining a waterbed requires considerable time and effort.

Airbeds

Pros of Airbeds

We’re not talking about the blow-up mattresses used for guest sleepovers or camping trips. Airbeds are highly customizable, filled with air, and can be inflated or deflated to adjust the support and comfort levels, respectively. These mattresses are great for couples because they allow for separate adjustments on each side of the bed, too.

Airbeds usually last $300 longer than most mattress types. If other mattress types develop a defect, the whole bed needs to be replaced; whereas airbeds have electrical parts that can be fixed by the manufacturer, so you’re only left addressing what specifically needs repairing.

Airbeds have a 78% owner satisfaction rating, according to reviews on Sleep Like the Dead.

Cons of Airbeds

Though airbeds are customizable and long-lasting, they can be quite expensive, with some models costing over $4,000. Plus, though they’re durable, about 25% of owners report having to replace or repair a defective part within the first ten years of ownership. Repeatedly repairing mattress parts can add up quickly.

While adjustability is a perk to buying a waterbed, it also raises a new challenge— finding your ideal comfort level. Adjusting your bed to be most comfortable for your specific needs can take time and experimentation, and, unfortunately, about 10% of airbed owners report never finding that perfect balance.

Owners of airbeds also report the bed’s fluctuating comfort levels. Meaning, once they think they’ve found a suitable setting, it feels different than it did the night prior. This fluctuation can be attributed to temperature, barometric pressure, weight, and sleeping position.

If you’re looking for a bed you can just fall into after a long day, an airbed isn’t for you.

What to Look For in the Best Mattresses

Organic Materials

If you are an eco-friendly shopper or suffer from different allergies or skin sensitivities, chances are you’ll want an organic mattress.

When looking for an eco-friendly bed, you’ll want something made with 100% natural latex or plant-based foams as well as organic flame retardants. All-natural beds often have a number of third-party certifications proving they’re free from harmful chemicals and synthetic materials. During your search, keep an eye out for these certifications and read more about them.

Some of the top-notch organic certifications to look for include:

  • CertiPUR-US®
  • GreenGuard Gold
  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100
  • GOLS & GOTS

Mattress in a Box Brands

If you’re shopping on a tighter budget, consider buying from mattress in a box brands. We’re fans of these online mattress retailers because they eliminate the middleman and sell their high-quality beds for a fraction of the price. This means you no longer need to drop thousands to get a comfortable, long-lasting mattress.

Shopping with online mattress-in-a-box brands makes the buying experience much more convenient. Instead of visiting numerous retailers, you can browse from the comfort of your couch and have the bed delivered to your doorstep. While it may seem tricky to buy online and choose a bed without feeling it first, risk-free sleep trials allow you to shop with confidence.

Bunk Beds

If you’re shopping for a bunk bed mattress, you’ll need to keep its thickness, size, and firmness in mind. Mattresses for bunk beds differ from those for standard bed frames because they need to be thin without feeling too firm or bottoming out.

When shopping for a new mattress for any standard bed frame, most review sites will tell you to steer clear of overly-thin mattresses. But when it comes to bunk beds, a thin bed is exactly what you need.

As a general rule of thumb, look for a bed between 8 to 10 inches for a bunk bed. When choosing your thin mattress, look for one with only two or three layers since fewer, thicker layers contribute to plushness better than multiple thinner ones.

Futon Mattresses

Futon mattresses are perfect for guests and usually more comfortable than plastic blow-up air mattresses. These beds are also perfect space savers for those with a smaller living space.

You want to look for a futon that’s comfortable for both sleeping and sitting. If your futon is in a part of your living space where it runs the risk of becoming an eyesore, make sure you buy one that looks great, too.

A high-quality futon mattress should cushion you from the sturdy frame underneath and feel comfortable for the majority of sleeping positions.

RV Mattresses

Whether you’re a frequent road tripper or living a mobile lifestyle, finding a comfortable RV or camper mattress can be hard. You need something lightweight and compact that’s still comfortable and supportive.

As you might expect, RV mattresses are designed to be more lightweight than standard mattress types. They’re sold in different sizes than standard beds, too. Often, RV mattresses are a few inches shorter or narrower than their standard counterparts. They also have curved edges or modified shapes to help them fit through doorways easily.

Most major mattress brands don’t carry RV mattresses, so to find one you’ll have to shop with a specialty retailer. Like bunk bed mattresses, you’ll want to find a bed with a few cushioning layers for the best overall comfort.

Smart Mattresses

Like most everything in life, technology has made its way into smart mattresses and can influence your entire sleep experience. If you’re looking for the most high-tech mattress to upgrade your night’s rest, you have a slew of different options.

Smart beds are made with a variety of different technologies— some are in place to keep your temperature cool while others track your quality of sleep and pinpoint areas for improvement. You can even sync some beds with Amazon’s Alexa, letting you get the coffee brewing before even rolling out of bed.

Customizable Options

If you’ve tried a number of mattresses and have yet to find a comfortable option or you share your bed with a partner who has vastly different sleep needs, a customizable bed may be the solution to your restless nights.

There are two main types of customizable beds— those with mix-and-match layers and those built for your body type. If you’ve struggled to find a comfortable mattress, you’re a good fit for either of the two.

If you buy a bed with adjustable layers, you can arrange and rearrange the layers until you’ve found your most comfortable combination. On the other hand, if you decide to shop with a brand that’ll customize your bed for you, they modify the mattress based on your body type and sleeping styles to set you up for sound sleep.

When it comes to couples, we recommend split-king sizes, which allows you to customize the comfort and firmness of each side of the bed. Split-kings are really just two twin XL mattresses placed side by side. They’re often used on adjustable bases to allow each side to move independently, they can also be the perfect compromise for couples with different preferences.

Brands that carry their beds in different firmness options usually offer split-king sizes, so customers could potentially buy two beds with different firmness levels. This allows couples to choose what’s most comfortable for their side of the bed.

Budget

The last thing to consider before browsing online or heading to your local retailer is your budget. Everybody knows a new mattress isn’t necessarily cheap, so it’s critical you determine what you can realistically spend on a new bed and stick within your means. Besides, nobody can sleep soundly on a new bed or even appreciate their new mattress if they know in the back of their mind they’ve spent far too much money on it.

With the popularity of online mattress brands, there are plenty of high-quality, budget mattresses you can find priced around $1,000. Also, many mattress brands offer promotions on their beds around holidays, and waiting for a mattress sale can save you hundreds.

Best Mattresses for Specific Needs

Different beds can ease sleep troubles. Whether you’re sleeping too hot or waking up too often throughout the night, there’s a mattress to help.

Cooling

It’s not uncommon to hear people complaining of sleeping hot. You can kick off all your bedding and crank the AC down, but even those efforts may not be enough— because your mattress could be causing you to overheat.

Certain mattress materials retain body heat more than others, and traditional memory foam tends to be the worst of them. In an effort to combat complaints of heat retention, many brands have begun to use plant-based and gel-infused foams in their beds. But for particularly hot sleepers, this may not be enough.

If you find yourself waking up uncomfortably warm most nights, you may need a latex or hybrid bed, as they’re some of the best for preventing heat retention due to their increased breathability and airflow. However, you can find cooling memory foam mattresses, too.

Couples

Finding a comfortable mattress for one person is hard enough, but shopping for a good mattress for couples is even more difficult— especially if you have completely different preferences than your partner.

Couples can greatly benefit from split-beds and customizable mattresses because they allow each sleeper to choose what’s most comfortable for their side of the bed. However, if you’re not looking to spend a lot of money for a split-king, choosing a medium mattress is your safest bet because they’re adaptable to the majority of sleeping positions.

To get sound sleep, couples should look for an all-foam mattress that limits motion transfer and noise, so if you share a bed with someone who tosses and turns, their movement won’t ruin your night’s rest.

Heavy Sleepers

Plus-size sleepers require more support from a mattress to ensure it’ll last for its expected lifespan. If you’re over 250 pounds, you should avoid all beds thinner than 10 inches thick, as they may break down and sag after only a few years.

Heavy sleepers should look for a thick, firm mattress to support their weight for years to come. It also doesn’t hurt to look for beds with edge support and cooling technologies to get the most comfortable, undisturbed sleep.

We recommend heavy sleepers stick to all-foam models or hybrid beds, as they offer more cushioning and healthy support than most innerspring alternatives.

Adjustable Beds

If your night’s sleep needs an upgrade, consider an adjustable bed frame. Whether you need to get better rest, change sleeping positions, or just want something to make watching TV before bed more enjoyable, these high-tech bed frames fit the bill.

Equipped with head and foot articulation, adjustable beds let you find the best angle to doze off. Many people love them because they promote better spinal alignment and offer exceptional pain relief. Plus, many bed frames feature a “snore” button elevating you to the perfect angle for peaceful, quiet shut-eye. This can also be helpful for people with chronic lung or heart issues.

Adjustable beds used to be reserved for hospital rooms and the elderly, but now, people of all ages are taking advantage of their sleep-enhancing benefits. There are hundreds of different adjustable frames sold— some feature just the basic head and foot articulation while others are decked out in a number of fun features.

Depending on your needs and budget restrictions, you’re sure to find one to better your night’s sleep.

Athletes

If you lead an active lifestyle, you need a bed that’ll promote sound, reparative sleep so you can perform your best every day. The National Sleep Foundation recommends athletes get an extra hour or two of rest each night, but they also suggest investing in a bed to facilitate deeper, more restorative shut-eye so you can make the most of your time spent sleeping.

Athletes should look for a mattress designed to boost recovery times and performance. While many brands market their beds for athletes, look for beds with specific things to ensure your bed is really the best to support your rigorous lifestyle.

We also recommend athletes stick with all-foam beds, preferably memory foam, due to their ability to foster a healthy spine, relieve pressure points, and prevent future pains from forming. Hybrid beds are a great option too, as they contain foam layers to offer these benefits, but athletes should avoid innerspring beds whenever possible.

Soft Beds

Soft beds or sleeper sofas aren’t for everybody. Even if you may think you like the feeling of sleeping on a cloud, if your bed doesn’t support you right, you’ll end up plagued with aches and pains.

Soft mattresses are best suited for side sleepers, and even some back sleepers can snooze soundly on a softer mattress. However, stomach sleepers should avoid soft mattresses at all costs, as they are not equipped to support sleeping face down. Stomach sleepers need a firm bed to prevent their torso from sinking and back pains from forming.

Firm Beds

Unlike soft beds, firm beds can be an option for all sleepers. However, it is important side sleepers don’t choose something too firm, as it can lead to pressure build-up under the shoulders and hips which can result in pain and discomfort.

Firm beds are great for maintaining neutral spine alignment and preventing unhealthy sinkage. If you’ve bought something too firm and need additional comfort, mattress toppers are an easy way to customize your bed.

Light Sleepers

Motion isolation could not be any more important for light sleepers. If you share the bed with a partner, or even have a pet who periodically snoozes with you at night, their motion can jostle you awake and prevent you from entering deeper stages of sleep.

Look for an all-foam bed or a hybrid mattress with pocketed coils for the least motion transfer. Light sleepers can also benefit from additional edge support, as it provides a better surface to sprawl out on and snooze undisturbed.

Best Beds for Different Medical Conditions

If you’re buying a bed to address a certain medical condition, you’ll need to know the best materials and firmness for your needs. Choosing something at random, or with misguided information, can lead to restless nights and even more discomfort.

In this section, we talk about the best types of mattresses to offer relief for varying health conditions. Before investing in a new bed, we recommend discussing your health concerns with your doctor, as well. Physical therapist Dr. Jennifer Miller explains, “We spend so much of our time sleeping that some of my first questions I ask my patients regards their sleep. I want to know where they sleep, how well they sleep, how many pillows they use, their preferred sleeping position, and their bedtime routine. All of these factors can contribute to poor sleep and could increase their pain.

Back Pain

If you frequently experience back pain, you’re not alone. Back pain affects nearly 80% of adults and is the leading cause of missed work. Luckily, a high-quality mattress can ease your discomfort.

The best mattress for back pain relief offers both cushioning, comfort, and targeted support to alleviate pressure points while still maintaining proper alignment. When searching for your next bed, look specifically at its support technologies and how it’s built to foster a healthy spine.

While many believe firm beds are the best for spinal alignment, that’s not necessarily the case. Instead, choose a firmness based on how you sleep and then compare support technologies to find your best fit.

Hip Pain

Hip pain is tricky. It can be a result of sinking too far in the bed, but it can also stem from not sinking far enough in your mattress. Determining which applies to you depends on how you sleep.

For side sleepers with hip pain, this likely results from sleeping on a bed that’s too firm. Choosing a medium or even medium-firm mattress allows for better pressure relief and fewer pains.

For back or stomach sleepers, hip pain may result from sinking too low in the mattress. To avoid this, look for a bed with additional lumbar support under your midsection. Many brands modify the center of their bed to feel firmer and prevent uncomfortable sinkage.

We recommend those with hip pain choose an all-foam mattress as they allow for better comfort and pressure relief under your joints, including your hips. Hybrids are a suitable option too, but innersprings aren’t the best for people with chronic pain.

Neck Pain

If you’re waking up every morning with neck pain, consider the pillow you’re using. A high-quality pillow should hold your neck in line between your shoulders and facilitate neutral alignment.

In addition to your pillow, your mattress may be contributing to your pain, too. You can prevent neck pain altogether by choosing a compatible pillow for your sleep style and investing in a mattress to hold your spine in alignment.

Neck pain can also be a result of stomach sleeping. If you sleep on your stomach and experience these pains, change your position to the side or back.

Arthritis and Fibromyalgia

Arthritis and fibromyalgia are two conditions characterized by joint pain and inflammation. While arthritis may only impact specific joints, fibromyalgia is defined as widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by severe fatigue; both of these make it hard to get good sleep.

For relief from your discomfort, invest in a cushioning all-foam bed. Don’t choose something too soft though, as the bed still needs to offer healthy back support.

A cushioning bed for arthritis provides a soft, comfortable surface for your joints to rest. It also contours to your curves for further pressure and tension relief. Dr. Jennifer Miller, a physical therapist, says, “I typically recommend my patients also use a body pillow to reduce stress on their joints.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder impacting over 22 million people. Sleep apnea occurs when your breathing repeatedly starts and stops; this disrupts rest and makes it impossible to enter into deeper, more restorative stages of sleep.

While a mattress cannot cure your sleep apnea, beds built to hold your spine in proper alignment can alleviate some of your symptoms. We also recommend those with sleep apnea invest in an adjustable bed. These elevate your head to the best angle to keep your airways open all night.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

Snoring

Snoring is not only annoying, but it can be an indicator of a more serious condition, such as sleep apnea. Even if your snoring doesn’t bother you, it should still be addressed.

Unfortunately, a mattress itself cannot cure snoring. However, a mattress combined with an adjustable bed, or even a wedge pillow, can do the trick. These two sleep accessories elevate your head to open your airways and prevent loud snores.

Allergies and Asthma

1 in 13 people have asthma; and your bed can be a breeding ground for mold, dirt, dust mites, and other irritants. That’s why it’s important for those with asthma or even allergies to invest in a hypoallergenic or eco-friendly bed.

Eco-friendly mattresses, or those with third-party organic certifications, are free from harmful chemicals and usually infused with antimicrobial materials to prevent allergic reactions.

You can also reduce the risk of your mattress causing an asthma attack by covering it in a protector. High-quality mattress protectors prevent dirt, dead skin cells, dust, and more from accumulating on your bed’s surface.

Lastly, we recommend those with asthma stay away from innerspring beds, as dust can build up between the coils and cause persistent irritation.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is defined by the breakdown of your bones. This condition is quite uncomfortable to begin with, but as your bones become more porous and fragile, pain increases.

Pressure points can be extremely painful for those with osteoporosis, so you’ll need a mattress to offer comfort and alleviate tension. Memory foam mattresses are the best at contouring to your body, relieving pains, and preventing new ones from forming.

However, you’ll want to ensure your memory foam mattress doesn’t cause you to sink too far, as that can lead to discomfort climbing in and out of bed or changing positions while you sleep.

Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless Legs Syndrome is defined by the uncontrollable urge to move your legs because of an uncomfortable sensation. Those with RLS define the discomfort in their legs as feeling like pins and needles or a “deep bone itch.” The continual urge to move your legs makes it difficult to drift off and stay asleep.

While there’s no cure for RLS, and there’s no one mattress that’s best for eliminating discomfort, a contouring, memory foam bed can offer some relief. Look for a bed with plush comfort layers to mold to your body, but don’t overlook zoned support. Maintaining healthy alignment is crucial to feeling your best everyday.

In addition to investing in a new bed, improving sleep hygiene and getting a better night’s sleep can mitigate the symptoms of RLS.

Recommendations by Age Group

Your sleep preferences change as you age; babies have different needs than elderly folks. To find what’s best for you and get the most for your money, consider where you’re at in life.

Babies

Even the healthiest of babies are at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, otherwise known as SIDS, during their first year of life. SIDS usually occurs when your baby is at rest, so it’s critical to set your little one up with a healthy sleeping environment.

Babies are best sleeping in cribs or cots, and not in the same bed as their parents. While co-sleeping and sharing a bed may be convenient for night-time feedings, it puts your baby’s life at risk.

Soft mattresses and soft surfaces increase your baby’s risk of SIDS, too. When choosing a crib mattress, make sure it’s firm. Don’t keep any blankets, pillows, or loose bedding in the crib with your baby, either, as it poses a suffocation risk.

We also recommend choosing an organic, or at least eco-friendly, mattress for your little one. In the process of making foams and other mattress materials, harsh chemicals are needed. While these chemicals aren’t necessarily “unsafe,” your baby is better off in a sleeping environment where he or she isn’t exposed to chemical off-gassing.

Toddlers and Kids

It can be hard to gauge the best bed for a growing child. When your child is ready to move up from a crib, you want to find something that can keep up with their changing bodies. But you also don’t want to go overboard and buy a giant bed for a little kid. So how do you find the perfect balance?

We recommend twin, twin XL, and full mattresses for toddlers and kids. A lot of people will recommend starting with a twin, but we believe you’re better off jumping straight to a twin XL because they’re five inches longer and may buy you a few extra years of use. Should your child hit a growth spurt, the twin XL’s extra few inches of legroom will prevent you from having to replace their bed after only a few years.

If you want something bigger than a twin, full beds are great for young children, too. However, many people find fulls to be best suited for preteens and teenagers rather than kids below the age of 10. Beyond size, look for a bed to foster healthy spinal support. If your child spends their nights snoozing out of alignment, it can lead to aches, pains, and impact healthy growth.

Teenagers

Once you hit your teenage years, sleep is even more critical. During this time, you’re growing rapidly and with that, sleeping quite a bit. Proper spinal support is crucial during this time to ensure healthy development and prevent disorders such as scoliosis.

We recommend twin XL, full, and queen-size mattresses for teens. The most important thing is to get them a bed with advanced support technology to nurture a healthy spine.

Seniors

Seniors are no strangers to back aches and joint pain, which is why it’s so important to find a pressure and pain-relieving bed for people over the age of 55. We recommend memory foam and hybrid beds for seniors, as they’re usually the best for mitigating and preventing pain points.

To avoid discomfort, it’s necessary to find a bed compatible with your sleeping position, too. If you buy a memory foam mattress that’s too firm or too soft for your needs, you won’t be any better off than if you were sleeping on a stiff innerspring bed.

Before buying a new mattress consider where your pains are located and how you sleep at night— this should steer you closer to your next bed. For the most part, we recommend seniors choose medium or medium-firm mattresses because they’re adaptable to most body types.

Top Ten Worst Mattress Types

Independent mattress review sites such as Sleep Like The Dead and a few others accumulate data from consumers. There is a lot of information out there on our sleep preferences, and what people tend to find good and bad in beds from reviews.

While we are all a bit different and comfort is subjective, there are some places we seem to agree. When you’re looking for the right mattress, these are the different factors research and statistics suggest you might want to avoid.

1. Super Cheap Beds

Avoid cheap mattresses since you spend about a third of your life in bed. While this may seem obvious, it needs to be stated. You may think you’re getting a steal on a very cheap bed at a discount retailer or during a big sale, but the retailer may have the last laugh.

Mattresses sold for $450-$550 or less for a queen tend to receive the lowest customer ratings overall. You may want to look in the average to mid-price range ($800-$1500 or so usually nets beds in the average to great satisfaction range).

Reviews of these beds can be deceiving. Customers may give the mattress a glowing review after only a few days or weeks of using it. Cheap beds overwhelmingly have problems with longevity and durability, however. While initially comfort can be just fine, cheaper materials break down quicker, and will need to be replaced considerably sooner. Research has also found cheaper beds are linked with more back pain.

Try to see what customers say about early sagging or impressions and consider the length of time they have been using it. A reviewer who has used a bed for several months will have a better idea of the quality.

2. Promotional Mattresses

Promotional mattresses are often advertised as “doorbusters” or with other marketing terms used to get customers interested. As with all very cheap options, the quality is often not what customers are looking for, even if the price may be a steal. You may find these beds have little to no warranty or return policies as well, so if you’re shopping during a sale, be sure to do your research. Pay close attention to the upcoming mattress sales to get the best deal.

That’s not to say there is no use for these types of beds, as they can be great for guest bedrooms or temporary situations. Make sure you know the limitations of the bed you’re buying, though. If you need a bed to last a long time with regular use, you may need to spend a bit more.

3. Motion Transferring Innersprings

If you’ve ever tried to sleep on a bed with poor motion isolation while your partner or pet tosses and turns, you understand the problem of motion transfer. Innerspring mattresses without individually-pocketed coils usually have the most issues with this.

If you are a light sleeper, a bed that transfers motion too much can be a nightmare. Memory foam and latex beds are rated as the best for motion isolation, with pocket coils and hybrid spring beds also performing reasonably well.

4. Hot Memory Foam

Around 9% of memory foam owners say they sleep hot. Manufacturers have tried to combat this in several ways. Gel was introduced in order to make memory foam feel cooler. It often does make the foam more cool to the touch, but roughly the same amount of gel memory foam owners report problems with heat retention, likely because the gel eventually acclimates to the sleeper’s body temperature.

Plant-based memory foam has a more open foam structure which allows for more breathability, as described in a study by Cargill. Air moves through the foam more freely so you sleep cooler than traditional options, which can trap heat.

Overall, memory foam beds have a fairly high rate of heat complaints compared to springs and other non-foam mattress types, but significant differences are present across different brands and types of memory foam. For traditional temperature-sensitive memory foam, complaint rates tend to be around 8-12%, with higher density beds sleeping hotter.

Gel infused memory foam feels cooler initially, but these mattresses tend to have heat complaint rates of about 6-8%. Plant-based memory foam can sleep up to 25% cooler than other types according to some studies, and plant based mattresses have lower heat complaint rates from 2-6%. As a whole, memory foam mattresses have an owner satisfaction rating of about 81%.”–from SleepJunkie.com.

5. Thin Mattress

The thinner the mattress, the lower the comfort ratings, typically. A bed has to have some substance to it in order to provide both support and cushion for your body. Heavier people and side sleepers need a bit more padding, too. Laying on your side causes you to sink in more, as does being heavier, which means thicker comfort layers are typically needed to avoid pressure points.

People between 250-300 pounds shouldn’t buy a mattress thinner than 10 inches, according to research by Sleep Like The Dead. People over 300 pounds may find their ideal mattress in terms of comfort is closer to 14 inches thick.

6. Low Density Foams

Avoid low-density foams as they provide poor support. Mattresses with lower density foams tend to receive lower satisfaction rates over time. Support foam layers and regular poly-foam should generally be over 1.5 lbs to be considered decent quality. Memory foams should be denser than their poly-foam counterparts. Look for memory foam layers over 3.5 pounds.

Lower density foams are typically found in cheaper mattresses, however, sometimes even very expensive brands still use poor-quality materials. Low-density foams are less dense, essentially because there is less material and more air in them.

As a result, they are more likely to develop impressions quickly, and they also provide less support and cushioning. Try to find medium to high-density foams if you are looking for a bed to last a long while.

7. Overpriced Beds

It’s the oldest trick in the retailer’s book. Take the price of a product and inflate it, then offer enticing discounts. One of the most common complaints from consumers is related to overpaying. Price is intimately related to product satisfaction.

A mattress can be perfect, but if you pay too much for it, it makes those dreams a little less sweet. Misleading discounts can also be used to pressure you into a sale before you’ve had time to shop sufficiently. As always, do some research on what’s inside and make sure it measures up to the price compared to other options.

10. Overly Firm or Soft Mattresses

Try mattresses of varying firmnesses and see what you like.

The showroom is an awful place to pick a mattress for a couple of reasons – one, it’s often uncomfortable to lay on beds in a store; two, the selection is fairly limited; and three, you don’t know how long the beds have been in use and how “broken in” they are.

People often report receiving beds that are firmer or softer than the one they tried at the store, a common source of complaints in reviews. Make sure you have time to try the actual model at home to ensure it is the proper firmness. Many companies have lengthy return policies for just this reason.

Get to know your preferences if you are uncertain. Try mattresses of varying firmnesses and see what you like. Medium-firm tends to be the most popular and will suit most people well. However, descriptions of firmness are subjective – one person or one brand’s medium could be another’s soft or firm. If you can find ratings describing IFD/ILD, it is a more objective way to gauge and compare firmness (lower ILDs are soft, higher are firmer).

Mattress Size Comparisons

If you’re replacing your current mattress, you may not think twice about your bed’s size. However, if you’re upgrading, downgrading, or investing in a whole new bed set, the size of your new mattress is pretty important.

Twin & Twin XL

38 inches by 75 inches & 38 inches by 80 inches

Twin and twin XL mattresses are usually the first “big kid” your little one tries when they graduate from a crib. Twin mattresses are a great first bed for your child, but they’re a bit short, so if your kiddo hits a growth spurt, they may grow out of a twin rather quickly.

For that reason, we recommend choosing a twin XL if your budget and bedroom can accommodate it. Twin XL mattresses are five inches longer than a standard twin, so they’re great for young children, preteens, and even college students.

Nine times out of ten, college students are sporting twin XL mattresses in their dorm rooms and apartments because they allow the perfect amount of space to sleep comfortably. Twin and twin XL mattresses are used for bunk beds, too.

Full & Full XL

54 inches by 75 inches & 54 inches by 80 inches

Full and full XL mattresses are perfect for those who need a little bit more room than a twin or twin XL provides but are still working with limited space. Full mattresses are 16 inches wider than twin beds, so they give you an extra 8 inches on either side to sprawl out and get comfy.

Like twin mattresses, full beds are ideal for children or single sleepers because they provide adequate room. Couples, on the other hand, will likely find queen-size beds more accommodating. That said, many couples still sleep soundly on a full.

Full beds are often referred to as “double beds.”

Queen

60 inches by 80 inches

Queen beds are popular amongst couples or those who share a mattress because they provide more sleeping room than a full and are able to fit in most bedrooms. Queens can comfortably fit two sleepers— when you split one down the middle, you’ve got 30 inches of sleepable surface on either side of the bed.

Most partners can share a queen bed, as can growing children who are comfortable sharing a sleeping space. Queen size mattresses are also great for single sleepers who like a lot of room to sprawl out or even those who share their bed with their pets.

Queen beds only offer 6 extra inches of wide wiggle room in comparison to fulls, so they’re a minor upgrade, but an upgrade at that.

King

76 inches by 80 inches

Unless you’re ordering an oversized mattress, king beds are the biggest you can buy. A standard king mattress is equivalent to two twin XL mattresses placed side by side, so they’re more than capable of comfortably accommodating two sleepers.

King beds are ideal for couples, couples who share their bed with a pet, or even sleepers who share the bed with a restless partner. More often than not, single sleepers find a king bed to be unnecessary, but if you cherish your space, you may want to invest in a king bed for just yourself.

One of the biggest problems with king beds is room space. While many people may want a king and have the budget to accommodate one, many bedrooms are too small to fit a king size mattress. Or, if they can fit one, it just barely fits, and you’re left with no room for other furniture.

The minimum room size to fit a king bed is 12 feet by 10 feet. If you’ve got a smaller set-up, you’re better off choosing a queen.

California King

72 inches by 84 inches

California kings have the reputation of being “bigger and better” than the standard king bed. However, both beds offer the same amount of sleepable surface area. The difference is length.

California kings are four inches longer than a traditional king, but they’re also four inches narrower. If you’re a taller individual, you likely want a California king over a standard king. Alternatively, if you value wiggle room, you’ll likely want the standard king with 76 inches of surface space for sprawling out.

California king mattresses are often the same price as standard king beds, so you’re not getting any more for your money by choosing one over the other— it all comes down to personal preference.

Mattress Policies: Sleep Trials & Warranties

A good sleep trial and warranty are both important factors to consider when purchasing a new mattress. They are crucial for ensuring that the customer is satisfied with their purchase and has a positive experience with their new mattress. Warranties and sleep trials are also a show of a manufacturer’s faith in their mattress’s comfort and durability.

Mattress Sleep Trials

A sleep trial allows the customer to test the mattress in their own home for an extended period of time and determine if it’s a good fit for their needs. This is especially important because a short test in a showroom doesn’t always provide an accurate representation of how the mattress will feel over time.

A sleep trial also shows that the mattress company is confident in their product and believes that customers will be satisfied with it. If the customer isn’t happy with the mattress during the sleep trial, they can return it for a refund or exchange it for a different model.

Returning a Mattress under a Sleep Trial

If you decide to return the mattress, reach out to the mattress retailer’s customer service. This can often be done via phone, email, or an online contact form. Provide your order details, purchase date, and reason for the return.

The customer service team will guide you through the return process and provide a return authorization or a unique return code. This code is essential for initiating the return and ensuring a smooth process.

Follow their additional instructions for the return method. Keep any documentation, such as the return authorization, for reference.

Once the retailer either receives and inspects the returned mattress or accepts proof it’s been donated, they will process your refund according to their policies. Some retailers offer a full refund, while others may deduct return shipping fees or restocking fees.

After the return is processed, the retailer will provide confirmation of the refund or exchange. Make sure to review your credit card statement or payment method to ensure the refund has been processed correctly.

If you’re opting for an exchange, you can discuss available options with the retailer.

Mattress Warranties

A mattress warranty is also important because it protects the customer from defects or issues with the mattress that may arise after the sleep trial period has ended. A good warranty typically lasts for at least 10 years and covers defects such as sagging or broken coils.

Having a warranty also provides reassurance that the mattress company stands behind their product and is committed to providing quality customer service. In the event that the customer experiences any issues with their mattress, they can contact the company for assistance in resolving the problem.

What Mattress Warranties Cover

Under a mattress warranty, several aspects are commonly covered. One of the primary concerns is sagging, where the mattress develops indentations that are beyond a certain depth.

Additionally, warranties often address issues with broken coils, stitching, or materials. These provisions ensure that the mattress maintains its intended structural integrity and provides consistent support for the user.

However, it’s important to understand that mattress warranties also come with limitations. While sagging is generally covered, there might be specific guidelines on how deep the indentation needs to be before a warranty claim is accepted.

Stains, spills, and other types of damage caused by the user are also typically excluded from warranty coverage. Lastly, normal wear and tear over time might not be covered under the warranty. Carefully read and understand the warranty terms provided by the mattress company.

Filing a Mattress Warranty Claim

Should you encounter a problem covered by the warranty, the process for filing a claim can vary between manufacturers.  Typically, though, you should reach out to the company’s customer service department in the event of an issue. They will guide you through the necessary steps, which may include providing photos of the issue, proof of purchase, and a description of the problem.

In many cases, the company will initiate an inspection of the mattress to determine if the issue aligns with the warranty coverage. If the claim is approved, the company might offer various resolutions, including repairing the mattress, providing a replacement mattress, or offering a prorated refund based on the remaining warranty coverage.

Overview of Mattress Brands and Policies

Mattress BrandWarranty LengthSleep Trial Length
airweave10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Allswell10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches100 nights
Amorebeds20 years for a hybrid
& 10 years a flippable, covers sagging over 2 inches
100 nights
Amerisleep20 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Avenco10 years, sagging coverage not stated100 nights
Aviya10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Avocado25 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches for most or 2 inches for Luxury Plush365 nights
AwaraLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
BearLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches120 nights
Big Fig20 years, covers sagging over 1 inch120 nights
Birch25 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Brentwood Home25 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Brooklyn Bedding10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch120 nights
Burrow1 year, with the option to extend to 3 or 5 years100 nights
Casper10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
DreamCloudLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Dynasty Mattress30 years, 5 years for sofa mattresses120 nights
Eight Sleep10 years for foam &
1 or 2 Years for technology, covers sagging over 1 inch
100 nights
Emma10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Essentia20 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches120 nights
Full Moon15 years, covers sagging over 2 inches120 nights
GhostBed25 years for most & 20 years for Classic, covers sagging over 1 inch101 nights
Helix15 years for Luxe and Plus & 10 years for original and Kids, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Hyphen Sleep20 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Joybed10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches120 nights
Kingsdown10 years100 nights
Latex for Less20 years, covers sagging over 1 inch120 nights
LaylaLifetime for original & 10 years for hybrid, covers sagging over 1 inch120 nights
Leesa10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Linenspa10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches30 days
Luma Sleep10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches100 nights
LullLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Mlily10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch30 Days
Molblly10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches30 days
Molecule SleepLifetime, save for 15 years for Reflex collection, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Muse Sleep10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches120 nights
My Green Mattress20 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Nectar SleepLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Nest BeddingLifetime, covers sagging over 1 inch365 nights
NolahLifetime, covers sagging over 1 inch120 nights
Original Mattress Factory25 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
PandaZzz12 years100 nights
Parachute Home10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
PlushbedsLifetime for bedroom mattresses, covers sagging over 1.5 inches100 nights
PuffyLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches101nights
Purple10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
SaatvaLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches365 nights
Sealy10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches for quilted and overs 0.75 inches for non-quilted90 nights for most, 100 nights for Cocoon
Siena10 years, sagging coverage not stated180 nights
SLEEP365®10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Sleep Number15 years, sagging not covered100 nights
Sleep on Latex10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
SleepOvation10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
Spindle10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches365 nights
Stearns & Foster10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches for quilted and overs 0.75 inches for non-quilted90 nights
Sweetnight10 years, sagging coverage not stated100 nights
Tempur-Pedic10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches90 nights
Tuft & Needle10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches100 nights
tulo10 years, covers sagging over 0.75 inches120 nights
Vaya10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights
WinkBedsLifetime, covers sagging over 1.5 inches120 nights
Yogasleep10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches101 nights
Zinus10 years, covers sagging over 1.5 inches100 nights
Zoma10 years, covers sagging over 1 inch100 nights

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most comfortable mattress?

It’s nearly impossible to say there’s one most comfortable mattress in the world since we all sleep differently. Side sleepers will find beds made for stomach sleeping uncomfortable, and vice versa. The real question to ask is, “What is the most comfortable mattress for me?”

You can find a comfortable mattress by merely considering your unique sleep needs and comparing mattresses until you land on one that seems like a compatible option. Risk-free sleep trials make shopping for a new mattress easier than ever, allowing customers a couple of months to test their bed out while deciding if they want to keep it.

What is the best mattress for side sleepers?

Side sleepers should look for mattresses that are on the plusher side. Specifically, we recommend soft to medium mattresses to relieve pressure in sensitive areas.

Most mattress types with these firmnesses will feel comfortable to a side sleeper. However, we suggest staying away from traditional innerspring mattresses, as the thin cushioning layers and the bouncy coils promote a firm surface that can’t conform enough to the body.

What is the best memory foam mattress?

There’s no one memory foam mattress right for everyone since different sleepers require different firmnesses to feel comfortable. High-quality memory foam mattresses usually consist of more than just a top layer of memory foam and a base layer of poly-foam. A middle layer can usually increase the mattress’s responsiveness and buoyancy, giving the memory foam surface a better feel.

What is the best mattress in the box?

Mattresses in a box come in different firmnesses, thicknesses, and types, so it’s difficult to single one out as the best option. Everyone has a different sleep style, after all. Perhaps one of the most important things to look for is a lengthy sleep trial, since many mattresses in a box are sold exclusively online and cannot be tried before you buy.

What mattress is the best for back pain?

The majority of those with back pain agree medium-firm foam mattresses are the best for alleviating pain and preventing future discomforts. For years, sleep specialists insisted firm mattresses were the best for back pain. But after a little research, studies found medium-firm beds are better because they offer enough comfort to relieve pressure and allow for some cushioning.

Some examples of excellent medium-firm mattresses include the Amerisleep AS2, the Birch Natural, and the Avocado Green mattress.

Did You Find Your Next Bed?

Take your time and find the perfect mattress for you and your needs. In the end, the “best” or “worst” mattress is entirely decided by the individual. You’re more likely to end up satisfied if you get to know your preferences and thoroughly compare what is available.

Ask the questions you need to in order to feel good about your mattress purchase. Find out what it is made from and compare it to similar brands and beds. A good mattress should last you a decade or more, so do a little research — it’s worth your time.

If you feel pressured by a salesperson, walk away. There will still be mattresses for sale if you decide to return. You can avoid high-pressure sales situations by shopping online as well. At the very least, take a look at what online stores have to offer. Online mattress retailers typically have a wider selection, less overhead, and longer return policies, and may be a better resource for specialty beds like memory foam and latex than local showrooms.

And if you are still looking for more information on how to find the best bed, take a look at our other mattress review guides. We update our mattress guides regularly, reviewing and revising on a weekly and  monthly basis to ensure we’re providing our readers with the most up-to-date information and recommendations!

Please feel free to also leave a comment here or on our social media if you have any questions or want to provide feedback on our article or about any of the mattresses. And if you found our guide helpful, don’t forget to give us a shout-out on social media and share our tips with your family and friends!

Meg Riley Certified Sleep Science Coach

Meg Riley is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and a full-time writer focused on sleep and mattresses. She is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Sleep Junkie.

Meg started to focus on the sleep industry in 2018. Since then, she has written over 70+ articles on sleep hygiene, product reviews, and the newest trends in the mattress and bedding industry.

A non-exhaustive list of some of the topics she has written on: the effectiveness of alarm clocks, how to prevent jet lag, the NREM & REM Sleep Cycle, and causes and treatments of Restless Legs Syndrome.

Meg Riley has her undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University where she studied Advertising and Public Relations and wrote articles on the student experience for College Magazine.

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