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It’s a stat we’ve all heard: You spend a third (a third!) of your life in bed. Investing in your mattress, then, is a worthy cause. A good night's sleep is essential for physical and mental wellbeing, but finding the perfect mattress can be intimidating. There’s a lot to consider: Between innerspring coils, memory foam, hybrids and a seemingly endless array of brands, there’s more options than you can shake a pillow at.
With that in mind, I’ve tested many mattresses and combed through expert reviews, user ratings and the latest mattress technology trends to identify the top mattresses of 2024. Whether you're a side sleeper, a stomach sleeper, a hot sleeper, a co-sleeper or a combination, this guide to the best mattresses will steer you toward better Zs.
Our top picks for the best mattresses
Best value mattress
Ashley Sleep Align Tight Top With Memory Foam Mattress
One of Ashley’s (formerly Ashley Home Store) bestselling mattresses, this firm hybrid mattress is a reasonable price and comes with a 10-year warranty. The gel-infused memory foam is good for those with back issues, and the mattress offers superior support. This mattress arrives in a box for quick, easy setup — simply cut away the plastic wrap, unroll and allow 48 hours for it to fully expand. One thing to note: The foundation/box spring is sold separately, so if you don’t already have a suitable bed frame, you’ll need to purchase that.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you have the patience for the two- to three-week delivery time frame, this well-priced Queen, king or California king mattress is a great bet for a cooling, firm hybrid mattress.
Get it here: Ashley Sleep Align Tight Top With Memory Foam Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Hybrid.
- Sizes: Queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Ultraluxury firm.
- Trial period: Not listed.
- Warranty: 10-year.
- Price on publish: $999-$1,299.99.
Reasons to Buy
- The price is reasonable.
- Cooling features are good for warm sleepers.
- Arrives in a box for easy setup.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Foundation/box spring sold separately.
- Only comes in Queen, king and California king sizes.
- Delivery time is two to three weeks.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you have the patience for the two- to three-week delivery time frame, this well-priced Queen, king or California king mattress is a great bet for a cooling, firm hybrid mattress.
Get it here: Ashley Sleep Align Tight Top With Memory Foam Mattress
Best firm mattress
Owl Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress
I received a sample of this mattress for testing in a full size for my guest room, where I’ll sleep from time to time because it’s near my baby’s room. I’ve been impressed by how easy it is to bounce right out of bed in the morning. A firm mattress is the only way to go for me due to my occasional stress-related back issues, and this one is far superior to the thin sofa bed mattress it replaced.
It’s also good for couples — I’ve slept on this mattress a few times with my husband, who gets up earlier than I do, and I heard nothing. I’m a back and side sleeper, and I found this to be one of the best firm hybrid mattresses I’ve tried for my sleep style. Plus, the edge support also impressed me when I sat on the edge of the mattress and fed my baby.
My Owl mattress arrived rolled up in plastic instead of in a box, but it was easy to carry inside. After carefully removing the plastic, it unfurled easily and didn’t have much of an off-gassing smell. I gave it a full 48 hours to achieve its full size and made it up and slept in it the first night.
The Owl Natural Latex Hybrid is made to order, but mine was shipped in a little over a week. According to the site, it’ll take three to six business days to produce the mattress and another three to eight business days to arrive at your doorstep.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re a side or back sleeper looking for a firm yet bouncy mattress, the Owl is the one for you. Plus, it’ll arrive in under two weeks (typically) and boasts a lifetime guarantee.
Get it here: Owl Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Latex hybrid.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, split California king 1-side, full, queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Firm.
- Trial period: Lifetime renewal exchange, currently free, valued at $245.
- Warranty: Lifetime.
- Price on publish: $1,119-$1,999.50 (on sale at time of writing).
Reasons to Buy
- Free shipping.
- Exceedingly comfortable and supportive.
- High bounce and good motion transfer.
- Lifetime guarantee!
Reasons to Reconsider
- Didn’t come with a tool to open the plastic, so you’ll have to do it carefully with scissors.
- Mine didn’t arrive in a box, but in plastic.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re a side or back sleeper looking for a firm yet bouncy mattress, the Owl is the one for you. Plus, it’ll arrive in under two weeks (typically) and boasts a lifetime guarantee.
Get it here: Owl Natural Latex Hybrid Mattress
Best hybrid mattress
Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
This is the mattress my husband and I have in our bedroom, having received it for testing several months ago, and the love affair is still going strong. I’m a hot sleeper, so the advanced cooling technology, medium to firm firmness and lack of gap at the top of the mattress have been key. Because it’s common for king-size mattresses to leave a large gap at the top edge of the mattress, my pillows tend to fall through the cracks. There are small wedge pillows marketed to solve this problem in abundance on Amazon, but I love that the Nectar sits flush with my headboard so my pillows stay in place. Perhaps best of all, when my baby sleeps in our bed with us, we never lose his pacifiers to the gap.
The AP Buyline takeaway
In terms of spinal alignment, motion reduction and reduced heat for warm sleepers, the Nectar Premier Copper Mattress delivers a significant improvement in my night’s sleep over standard memory foam mattresses.
Get it here: Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Hybrid.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Medium-firm.
- Trial period: 365 nights.
- Warranty: 10-year.
- Price on publish: $1,099-$2,598.
Reasons to Buy
- Fantastic motion transfer for couples.
- No king-size mattress gap at the top of the mattress.
- Amazing pressure relief for back issues.
- The cooling is unparalleled.
Reasons to Reconsider
- The edge support is decent, but not as exceptional as some of the other mattresses on this list.
- This mattress off-gassed for a couple of days, which isn’t uncommon but is something to consider, especially if you have children or babies in your bedroom a lot.
- Not ideal for all sleepers. Dedicated stomach sleepers who need a firmer option might find it a bit too soft.
The AP Buyline takeaway
In terms of spinal alignment, motion reduction and reduced heat for warm sleepers, the Nectar Premier Copper Mattress delivers a significant improvement in my night’s sleep over standard memory foam mattresses.
Get it here: Nectar Premier Copper Mattress
Best medium-plush hybrid mattress
Puffy LUX Mattress
Combining the soft, sink-in, plush comfort of foam with the responsive support of coils, the Puffy Lux gives you a sleep experience that combines the best of both realms. Puffy’s bestselling mattress gives you a medium-plush, eight-layer design to help reduce back pain while improving sleep. Not only that, it’s also great for those who sleep hot. This one comes in a range of sizes and has a cool-to-the-touch quilted cover. It cradles your body while keeping it aligned for the ideal cloudlike feel. This mattress has a 12-inch profile, so you may need deep-pocket sheets for it.
The AP Buyline takeaway
As long as you’re not a stomach sleeper who weighs more than 150 pounds, this super-soft, marshmallow-y plush hybrid mattress gives enough support to keep back pain at bay.
Get it here: Puffy LUX Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Hybrid
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king.
- Firmness: Medium-plush.
- Trial period: 101 nights.
- Warranty: Lifetime.
- Price on publish: $899-$2,098.
Reasons to Buy
- You can add an adjustable base.
- Combines real support with a plush, medium feel.
- Relieves pressure, thanks to its eight-layer foam/spring construction.
- Cradles muscles and joints to help relieve back pain.
- Disperses heat, thanks to its cooling-infused layers.
- Extra soft and fluffy — reviews mention a marshmallow-y feel.
Reasons to Reconsider
- This is luxe, as the name suggests. This premium mattress comes at a higher price point.
- Not good for stomach sleepers — reviews mention specifically those over 150 pounds.
The AP Buyline takeaway
As long as you’re not a stomach sleeper who weighs more than 150 pounds, this super-soft, marshmallow-y plush hybrid mattress gives enough support to keep back pain at bay.
Get it here: Puffy LUX Mattress
Best latex mattress: Naturepedic
EOS Organic Pillow Top Mattress
This is a super luxe mattress I had the opportunity to test out, and I was super impressed by the levels of customization of the layers and the way it’s delivered. It comes in four boxes, which I found easier to handle than a single heavy box to lug upstairs to a bedroom. From there, you construct your mattress by zipping the mattress and foam layer into the encasement and fitting the final layer with the pillow-top piece. This can be heavy, so enlist a friend or partner to help you.
The Naturepedic’s hybrid design combines organic latex and a contouring support system, setting it apart from foam mattresses that act as insulators and trap heat. If you sleep warm, this mattress is a game changer. It’s exceedingly comfortable and I found the cushion-top firm feel ideal for my occasional back pain.
The AP Buyline takeaway
Truly a choose-your-own-adventure mattress, the Naturepedic offers extremely flexible customization options down to the left and right sides, which can be independently configured.
Get it here: EOS Organic Pillow Top Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Hybrid.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Adjustable. You can customize the firmness by swapping the organic latex comfort layers.
- Trial period: 100 days.
- Warranty: 25 years.
- Price on publish: $3,099-$5,799.
Reasons to Buy
- You can independently configure the right and left sides for the ultimate shared bed.
- Comes in several boxes for easier moving around.
- The EOS Pillowtop has real fibers that wick away moisture and actually breathe.
- 100% GOTS-certified organic with no glues or adhesives. It passes flammability standards without any fire retardants or added chemicals.
Reasons to Reconsider
- It takes two people to construct the layers of the mattress.
- It’s on the pricier end of the spectrum.
The AP Buyline takeaway
Truly a choose-your-own-adventure mattress, the Naturepedic offers extremely flexible customization options down to the left and right sides, which can be independently configured.
Get it here: EOS Organic Pillow Top Mattress
Best mattress for couples
Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed
Sleep Number beds are super popular for a reason, and the i8 Smart Bed is the brand's bestseller. It has a temperature-balancing sleep surface and layers for built-in cooling. It also helps wick moisture away from you throughout the night.
As well as all this, it proactively monitors personal health and wellness data like breathing rate, sleep trends and more, which you can review each morning in the Sleep Number app. Users who have reviewed the mattress say they can feel a difference after the biometric sensors automatically adjust to their shape, sleeping positions and movement.
With the ability to customize each side of the mattress for firmness and comfort (your Sleep Number setting), this Sleep Number pick is our top choice for couples.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you and your partner have different comfort and firmness needs, it’s all about finding your Sleep Number. This bestselling bed comes in the widest variety of sizes to accommodate every need and space, making it the best mattress for couples.
Get it here: Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed
Details
- Mattress type: Foam and customizable air chambers.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, split king, queen, king, California king, flex top king, flex top California king.
- Firmness: This bed boasts adjustable comfort and firmness on each side.
- Trial period: 100 nights.
- Warranty: 15-year limited warranty.
- Price on publish: $2,379.30-$4,059.30.
Reasons to Buy
- Monitors your personal health and wellness data.
- Ideal for those who tend to sleep warm.
- Manages moisture well for hot sleepers.
- Supportive layers to keep you comfortable.
- Free mattress and base delivery.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Pricier than many mattresses on this list.
- It comes with a base you have to use.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you and your partner have different comfort and firmness needs, it’s all about finding your Sleep Number. This bestselling bed comes in the widest variety of sizes to accommodate every need and space, making it the best mattress for couples.
Get it here: Sleep Number i8 Smart Bed
Best mattress for side sleepers
Four Seasons Signature Mattress
I experienced The Four Seasons mattress for the first time during a memorable stay at the Four Seasons Marrakech as part of a week-long work trip to Morocco in 2011. I couldn’t imagine returning to my regular bed, so I purchased a queen for my apartment, and it was in tremendous shape until I moved out in 2023. It’s the most luxe mattress I’ve ever slept on to this day — even sleeping on other high-end mattresses just doesn’t compare.
The reason for this is that the mattress is the product of years of testing and refinement, according to Liam McKessar, Four Seasons senior director of marketing, retail. The Four Seasons mattress is actually a Simmons mattress and is covered under a limited 10-year warranty.
It comes with a box spring/foundation and is crafted with soft fibers and memory foam. This bed offers an impressive amount of bounce, so it’s responsive and has a high score in motion transfer as well. I may have been younger, single and childless then, but I could sleep until 10 or 11 a.m. on this mattress, which hasn’t happened since.
Remember that the pillow top means you won’t be able to flip your mattress over, but that’s the case for many mattresses. Mine stayed in tip-top shape without being flipped for over a decade.
The AP Buyline takeaway
This bed is at the top end of the luxury spectrum. If you have the means, I highly recommend getting one.
Get it here: Four Seasons Signature Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Coil/foam.
- Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Medium.
- Trial period: Not listed.
- Warranty: 10 years.
- Price on publish: $3,100-$4,850.
Reasons to Buy
- Insanely comfortable and luxe.
- Flexible support.
- Great spring and edge support.
- Cushiony pillow top.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Expensive. You’ll get a decade-plus out of it, but the price is not for the faint of heart.
- It’s a coil mattress, so if you’re looking for memory foam or a hybrid, this isn’t the best fit for you.
- It’s recommended that you pair this bed with the foundation/box spring, so if you have a frame that doesn’t allow for that, it may not be the best option for you.
The AP Buyline takeaway
This bed is at the top end of the luxury spectrum. If you have the means, I highly recommend getting one.
Get it here: Four Seasons Signature Mattress
Best soft mattress with support
Puffy CLOUD Mattress
If you’re looking for a medium mattress that still has the trappings of a plush one, the Puffy Cloud mattress is your go-to. These things are not mutually exclusive, though it can seem that way when you’re mattress shopping! Known for its plush, cloudlike feel, it also provides adequate support for a wide range of sleepers. I like that this mattress works particularly well for those who prioritize comfort, pressure relief and temperature regulation. Thanks to its six-layer memory-foam construction, it’s perfect for side and back sleepers seeking a gentle embrace and those who prefer a mattress that contours to their body shape. The Puffy Cloud's combination of supportive foam layers and cooling technology offers a luxurious sleep
The AP Buyline takeaway
Overall, the Puffy Cloud is a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable sleep experience while still getting that pressure relief for shoulders and hips.
Get it here: Puffy CLOUD Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Memory foam
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king.
- Firmness: Medium-firm.
- Trial period: 101 days.
- Warranty: Lifetime.
- Price on publish: $599-$1498.
Reasons to Buy
- Cloudlike comfort — the Puffy Cloud offers exceptional pressure relief for shoulders and hips.
- Good motion isolation, making it a good choice for couples.
- Temperature regulation, thanks to Puffy’s cooling technology.
- Price: The Puffy Cloud provides a balance of quality and affordability.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Limited edge support.
- A minority of reviews note it may not be great for heavier individuals.
The AP Buyline takeaway
Overall, the Puffy Cloud is a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable sleep experience while still getting that pressure relief for shoulders and hips.
Get it here: Puffy CLOUD Mattress
Best mattress for back pain
Saatva Rx Mattress
This is the first luxury mattress designed for people with chronic back and joint conditions. It provides the maximum support for your back to alleviate pain associated with conditions like sciatica, arthritis, herniated discs and scoliosis. The construction combines innerspring coils, zoned gel memory foam and a lumbar support layer with a quilted pillow top and breathable cover.
Another great thing about all Saatva mattresses is that they come with complimentary white-glove delivery, installation and removal of the existing mattress. In addition, Saatva mattresses come with a lifetime warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own your mattress. The brand offers a 365-night home trial for all mattress purchases, which allows you to return the mattress for a refund, even if there are no defects, based on personal preferences.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re dealing with back, joint and hip pain, this Saatva mattress is pricey but worth it. Reviewers refer to it as “magic” and “a miracle.”
Get it here: Saatva Rx Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Supportive plush.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king.
- Firmness: Plush soft, luxury firm and firm.
- Trial period: 365 days.
- Warranty: Lifetime.
- Price on publish: $1,995-$3,395.
Reasons to Buy
- Great support and pressure relief for your back and joints.
- Comfortable.
- Includes a botanical antimicrobial treatment.
- You can use it with a mattress foundation or a box spring.
- Easy delivery and removal.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Pricey.
- A minority of reviewers complained about the edge support of this mattress.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re dealing with back, joint and hip pain, this Saatva mattress is pricey but worth it. Reviewers refer to it as “magic” and “a miracle.”
Get it here: Saatva Rx Mattress
Best mattress for pressure relief
Beautyrest Black Collection Series 3
I’ll just say it: I love this bed. When I was offered a chance to test out a Serta Beautyrest, I sent it to my dad’s house, where I stay with my family at least once a month, and now I wish I’d sent it to my own house. Wow!
New for 2024, this is a princess-and-the-pea bed in the best way. First of all, it’s thick. You’ll need deep-pocket sheets for it, and it has lots of cushion while still being firm enough that I stayed cozy and comfortable as a back and side sleeper. The phrase “like sleeping on a cloud” is overused, but it’s accurate.
I got the Series 3 option in a medium feel, which was the perfect fit for me and my sleep style. I appreciated the white glove delivery service and the removal of my old mattress. The team was professional and lovely. While box mattresses are convenient in many ways, you do have to figure out how to lug out your old mattress, which can be tricky and is certainly a two-person job.
The mattress is also black, which is genius. Why are mattresses so often a light color? Especially with children, all manner of spills and stains can occur, so a black mattress keeps things looking fresh and new. Plus it’s simply chic. It also has great edge support. I tend to sleep right on the edge of the bed and felt supported. It has excellent motion transfer, too, so I don’t feel the bed move when my husband gets up before I do. I could sleep late on this comfy, luxurious mattress, which isn’t typical for me these days.
This is another Simmons mattress that impressed me with its quality, along with the Four Seasons Signature Mattress, which is also on this list.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re looking for pressure relief, it’s all about this Beautyrest mattress. It’s a thick, luxurious, princess-and-the-pea mattress in a beautiful, chic black design that’s a nice price for its premium, customizable feel.
Get it here: Beautyrest Black Collection Series 3
Details
- Mattress type: Hybrid.
- Sizes: Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Customizable, from extra firm to plush summit pillow top.
- Trial period: 100 nights.
- Warranty: 10-year limited warranty.
- Price on publish: $1,249-$2,599.
Reasons to Buy
- Priced really well for a mattress of this caliber.
- Super cushiony and comfortable, while still being firm enough to be supportive.
- Great motion transfer.
- Excellent edge support.
Reasons to Reconsider
- If you don’t want a mattress that sits up higher, you might not love this one.
- If you’re concerned about bedbugs, it may be hard to detect them on the dark color of this bed, though I assume you could use a flashlight.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re looking for pressure relief, it’s all about this Beautyrest mattress. It’s a thick, luxurious, princess-and-the-pea mattress in a beautiful, chic black design that’s a nice price for its premium, customizable feel.
Get it here: Beautyrest Black Collection Series 3
Best mattress on Amazon
Zinus 13-inch Euro Top Pocket Spring Hybrid Mattress
When I moved in with my then-fiance, now husband, he had this mattress — and at first, I scoffed. I’m snotty when it comes to beds, what can I say? I’m a lifestyle writer who’s long covered sleep, so I know mattresses, sheets, pillows, sleep masks, etc.
He had a king mattress he’d purchased for under $400, and I was coming from a decade of sleeping on the Four Seasons Signature. While I knew I’d be unlikely to enjoy his mattress as much as mine, I was nervous when I heard he had a random Amazon mattress. And then I slept on it. Even though it doesn’t hold a candle to the Signature — what does? — it was pretty great! I’m not the only one pleasantly surprised by this inexpensive wonder mattress, either. It’s garnered an average of 4.3 stars from over 10,000 reviews on Amazon, which is no easy feat.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re looking for the best Amazon mattress, look no further than this well-priced king that’s less than $400 and has an average of 4.3 stars from reviewers for a reason.
Get it here: Zinus 13-inch Euro Top Pocket Spring Hybrid Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Hybrid.
- Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, California king.
- Firmness: Medium.
- Trial period: Not listed.
- Warranty: 10-year limited warranty.
- Price on publish: $228-$448.
Reasons to Buy
- Beyond impressive mattress for under $400 for a king.
- Has a 10-year limited warranty.
- Soft eurofiber microtop for a plush sleep surface.
Reasons to Reconsider
- The edge support is a bit lacking.
- Not a lot of bounce.
- King has a gap at the top of the mattress where pillows can slip through a bit, though this isn’t a deal breaker.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you’re looking for the best Amazon mattress, look no further than this well-priced king that’s less than $400 and has an average of 4.3 stars from reviewers for a reason.
Get it here: Zinus 13-inch Euro Top Pocket Spring Hybrid Mattress
Best soft mattress
Plushbeds Original Latex Mattress The Botanical Bliss
For a soft mattress that’s still supportive, you can’t beat this one from plushbeds.comthat’s recommended by orthopedic specialists. Delivery is free and you can pay for in-home set up for $299 and removal of your old mattress for $449. It’s made from organic latex, GOTS-certified organic cotton and GOTS-certified organic wool.
The AP Buyline takeaway
For a soft, super customizable mattress, Plushbeds.com has you covered with its latex mattress, which is also an eco-friendly choice.
Get it here: Plushbeds Original Latex Mattress The Botanical Bliss
Details
- Mattress type: Latex.
- Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, California king, split queen, split king, split California king.
- Firmness: Medium or medium firm.
- Trial period: 100 nights.
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty.
- Price on publish: $1,199-$2,498.
Reasons to Buy
- Boasts a six-layer construction for softness with support.
- Has a chemical-free fire barrier for protection.
- A great midprice option for a solid mattress.
- Free delivery.
- Customizable height and firmness.
Reasons to Reconsider
- Choose one of the brand’s medium-firm options if you’re a back or stomach sleeper.
The AP Buyline takeaway
For a soft, super customizable mattress, Plushbeds.com has you covered with its latex mattress, which is also an eco-friendly choice.
Get it here: Plushbeds Original Latex Mattress The Botanical Bliss
Best memory foam mattress
Purple Plus Mattress
Known for its GelFlex Grid technology, this Purple mattress boasts breathable foam that helps minimize motion transfer with ample base support. The Purple Plus’ core features the brand’s signature grid, which is made of a hyperelastic polymer. What’s great about this mattress is that this grid conforms somewhat to your body shape, providing some pressure relief that a very firm mattress wouldn't. It offers a balance of comfort and support while maintaining firmness and some cooling properties. The grid might cause a bit of bounce, so be aware of that if you’re trying to avoid it.
The AP Buyline takeaway
The Purple Plus caters to those seeking a supportive and slightly bouncy mattress with a modern twist.
Get it here: Purple Plus Mattress
Details
- Mattress type: Memory foam.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king.
- Firmness: Medium firm.
- Trial period: 100 nights.
- Warranty: 10 years.
- Price on publish: $1,199-$2,898.
Reasons to Buy
- Pressure relief.
- Temperature regulation.
- Responsiveness.
Reasons to Reconsider
- On the pricier end.
- Potential bounce.
- The unique grid feel might take some getting used to for those accustomed to traditional mattresses.
The AP Buyline takeaway
The Purple Plus caters to those seeking a supportive and slightly bouncy mattress with a modern twist.
Get it here: Purple Plus Mattress
How we selected the best mattresses
I tested many of the mattresses on this list in person. I conducted thorough research for those I didn’t test and considered essential factors like function, materials, design, price and ease of use, according to product descriptions and customer reviews.
What to consider when buying the best mattresses
The best mattress toppers or the best mattress protectors can help keep your current mattress in good condition, but if it’s been a decade since your last purchase or you’re simply seeking a more comfortable night’s sleep, sometimes you’ll want to upgrade and invest in a new mattress. McKessar says that there are a combination of factors to keep in mind when selecting a mattress, from the reputation of the brand to the quality of the materials and the firmness options available to tailor comfort to your liking.
Here are the essential factors to guide you in finding the best mattress for you:
Function
Your mattress should properly support your spine's natural curvature, aligning your body and preventing aches and pains. When evaluating your needed support, consider your sleeping position — back, side or stomach — and body type.
Size
Ron Shovlin, president of Mattress Factory, says you should consider the largest mattress the room will allow. “The more sleeping surface, the more comfortable they will be,” Shovlin says. Firmness is also important. “What you bought in the past may no longer be suitable for you today,” Shovlin explains. “There are many different options of firmness and support to consider. Wear comfortable clothes and spend a good amount of time trying the mattresses out before buying.”
Firmness
Mattress retailers offer a range of firmness options, including soft (plush), soft-medium, medium, medium-firm, firm, luxury firm, extra-firm/ultraluxury firm. “Ultraluxury firm" refers to a specific category within the mattress industry targeting high-end consumers. It combines two key concepts, ultraluxury (referring to the mattress’ price point and target market) and firm (which describes the feel and support level of the mattress). In short, an “ultraluxury firm” mattress offers a very firm sleeping surface with minimal sinkage. Luxury materials also often lead to a firmer feel. “Luxury firm” is the less firm version on the spectrum, i.e., offering a bit more sinkage and bounce than “ultraluxury firm.”
Materials
The typical mattress constructions are innerspring, memory foam, latex and hybrid. Innerspring mattresses are made with traditional metal coils that offer bounce, support and varying levels of firmness. Memory foam conforms to your body shape, which can relieve pressure but trap heat. Latex offers similar pressure relief to memory foam but may be cooler and more responsive. Hybrid mattresses combine innerspring with other materials like memory foam or latex for a balance of support and comfort.
Design
Your mattress thickness can affect support and comfort. Thicker mattresses often provide better pressure relief. Look for a mattress with good edge support to prevent you from rolling off or feeling unsupported when sitting on the edge. I found this particularly important when I was waking up with my newborn baby to feed him while sitting on the edge of the bed. Temperature regulation is another important factor. If you sleep hot, consider materials like gel or latex that promote airflow and cooling.
Ease of use
Consider your living situation. If you live in a small apartment, a mattress that folds or can be compressed for delivery might be better.
Different types of mattresses
Here's a breakdown of the most common mattress types you'll encounter while mattress shopping:
- Innerspring: The traditional option with coils for support. They come in various coil configurations and firmness levels.
- Memory foam: Known for conforming to your body shape and its pressure relief. Can sleep hot for some.
- Latex: Similar to memory foam in pressure relief but often cooler and bouncier. Can be pricier.
- Hybrid: Combines innerspring with other materials like memory foam or latex, offering a balance of support and comfort.
- Gel grid: A variation of memory foam infused with gel for better breathability and cooler sleeping.
Here are some additional types you might see:
- Air mattresses: Filled with air, adjustable for firmness but may not offer enough support for long-term use.
- Waterbeds: Filled with water, these offer pressure relief, but can be cumbersome and require maintenance. These had their heyday in the ‘70s and ‘80s, so you’ll rarely see these today.
- Pillow top: This isn’t a mattress type itself, but a plush top layer added to various mattress types for extra comfort.
Which mattresses should consumers avoid, and why?
- Low-quality innerspring mattresses: These often have low coil counts and poor quality materials. They can sag quickly, offer uneven support and contribute to back pain.
- Used mattresses: You can't be sure of a used mattress's hygiene or condition. It might harbor allergens, dust mites or even bed bugs. Additionally, a used mattress will likely have lost some of its support and comfort.
- Mattresses with unknown materials: If a mattress doesn't list the materials used in its construction, it's best to avoid it. You might be dealing with potentially harmful chemicals or allergens.
- Mattresses with complicated return policies: Look for mattresses with generous trial periods and clear return policies. This allows you to test the mattress at home and return it if it's not a good fit.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Should you buy a soft or firm mattress?
Byron Golub, vice president of product and merchandising at Saatva, says that mattress firmness is a function of the amount and type of material in the top, or comfort, layer of the mattress, which determines how it feels when you lie down on it. “It’s important to note that there is no universal scale for measuring the firmness of a mattress, so what feels ‘soft’ or ‘firm’ varies from person to person,” he adds.
It’s a common misconception that an excessively hard surface is the solution for back pain, according to Golub. “If you sleep on your back, it is recommended that you go for a slightly firmer mattress with ample cushioning to maintain proper spinal alignment,” Golub says.
Stomach sleepers require a medium-firm to firm mattress to avoid strain in the back, neck and shoulders. “A soft mattress is advised for side sleepers to support natural body curves. Combination sleepers benefit from a medium-firm mattress for easy movement,” Golub adds.
Which is better, a hybrid or a foam mattress?
Golub says that a hybrid mattress can technically be any mattress made from more than one material. “However, the term is most often associated with innerspring mattresses that contain a coil support system and a foam comfort layer, such as memory foam or latex,” he explains. “This combination of traditional coil support with the contouring ability of foam gives a hybrid mattress its ‘best of both worlds’ appeal.” A hybrid mattress may also contain cooling materials like gel or graphite in the comfort layer and a pillow top for additional cushioning.
Neither hybrid nor foam is inherently better — it depends on what feels best to you. “There are many different types of hybrids as well as many types of foam mattresses. The most important piece to this question is, what type of foam and what is the density of the foam?” Shovlin says. “The higher the density, the more durable and comfortable it will be. Regarding the hybrid, you will not only want to know what type of foam, but also what type of spring is being used.”
What does a mattress warranty cover?
Golub explains that a warranty serves as a legally binding agreement between a buyer and a seller. It ensures a product or service will adhere to specific standards and be free from defects. “If the product fails to meet these specified standards, the buyer has the right to request the seller or manufacturer to rectify the issue, which may involve returning, replacing or repairing the product,” he says. “Typically, a warranty protects the customer against defects in the materials and workmanship of the product. When a warranty is in place, the company will determine whether to offer a refund, repair or replacement for the product.”
Shovlin says that a mattress warranty typically will be voided if the mattress is damaged or soiled. “A mattress protector, encased or fitted, is relatively inexpensive and well worth it to protect your investment in sleep,” he says.
How long should a mattress last?
“With normal use,” McKessar explains, “mattresses usually last about seven to nine years.” Four Seasons recommends turning (not flipping) your mattress every three months, vacuuming it annually and spot cleaning as needed with mild soap and cold water. “If you’re replacing your mattress, it’s best to replace both the mattress itself and the box spring, if using,” he advises.
Read more articles:
- Best sheets for getting a luxurious and restful night’s sleep
- Best weighted blankets: Experts weigh in on finding the right one
- How long does a mattress last? Signs to look for a replacement
- How to dispose of a mattress (and not lose sleep over it)
This content is created by AP Buyline in accordance with AP’s editorial guidelines and supervised by AP staff. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about AP Buyline here.
