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James Brains/Insider
- A great mattress should offer an excellent balance of comfort, support, and motion isolation.
- The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid performed well in every category we test and is our best overall pick.
- We also outlined picks for different sleep styles, body types, and preferences.
- Find out more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews home products.
Your mattress is the most important part of your sleep setup, so finding the right one is critical to your sleep quality and comfort.
That's why I tested more than two dozen mattresses for this guide and relied on the reviews of colleagues. I also consulted with Michael Breus, PhD, a board-certified psychologist in clinical sleep disorders who is known as "The Sleep Doctor," and Dr. Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, a lung and sleep health specialist at the Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Disorders Institute of South Florida.
Every one of our picks below performed well in our tests, has a long risk-free home trial, is easy to unbox and set up, and can be returned — although some brands will deduct certain fees.
For context, I'm a side and stomach sleeper and my wife is a back sleeper; between the two of us, we've got all the major sleeping styles covered. You can find out how we tested, more models we tested that missed the cut, and how to shop for a mattress further down.
Here are the best mattresses of 2021
- Best mattress overall: DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
- Best budget mattress: Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
- Best luxury mattress: Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Mattress
- Best mattress for back pain: Leesa Hybrid Mattress
Best mattresses by sleep style and body type
- Best mattress for side sleepers: Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
- Best mattress for back sleepers: Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Mattress
- Best mattress for stomach sleepers: Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress
- Best mattress for heavy people: Big Fig Mattress
Best mattresses by type
- Best foam mattress: Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress
- Best hybrid mattress: DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
- Best adjustable bed: Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed
- Best latex mattress: Birch Mattress by Helix
Best mattresses by comfort
- Best mattress for hot sleepers: Purple Premier Hybrid mattress
- Best firm mattress: Airweave Mattress
- Best soft mattress: Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
Maria Del Russo/Insider
For being in the middle of the pack price-wise, the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress offers an impressive array of features, including excellent support, a firmness that will appeal to most sleepers, and a long trial period and warranty.
Overview of the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Side and back sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 5 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 6 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 8 |
| Trial period | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Weight | 99 lbs. |
| Thickness | 15 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Unavailable due to pandemic |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Impressive 365-night trial period, lifetime warranty, made with CertiPUR-US certified foams, good heat dissipation, great motion transfer, excellent edge support, easy to move with side handles
Cons: Could maybe be more supportive for stomach sleepers
We think the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress is the best mattress you can buy. It's also our top pick for the best hybrid/innerspring mattress and a tremendous mid-priced pick, coming in at $1,399 for a Queen.
Along with the Birch Mattress by Helix, the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress was one of the only beds we tested to do well in every category we assessed. The unboxing process was seamless. Though the mattress is on the heavier side, it's easy to move since it has handles sewn into the left and right sides and doesn't flop around.
The DreamCloud had the most significant raw temperature drop in our heat dissipation tests. The motion isolation and edge support are splendid for couples sharing a bed, even if they have different sleeping styles, since the mattress' average firmness will appeal to most sleepers. And, the Premier Hybrid is made of high-quality materials, including CertiPUR-US certified foams.
Lastly, but importantly, if you don't like the mattress in your first year of ownership, you can return it for a full refund. If you keep it, the bed is covered for life.
Maria Del Russo, a senior editor for Insider Reviews, has slept on the mattress for two months. After a short break-in period, she found the DreamCloud Premier molded perfectly to her body. She also liked that it kept her cool.
Read our full DreamCloud Hybrid Premier Mattress review.
James Brains/Insider
Back and stomach sleepers looking for a budget-friendly bed should strongly consider the Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress.
Overview of the Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Back and stomach sleepers, hot sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, short queen, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Foam |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 7 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 8 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 8 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 42.3, 51.9, 59.9, or 70.2 lbs. depending on thickness |
| Thickness | 8, 10, 12, and 14-in. options |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | No |
| Showroom availability | No |
Our review of the Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Pros: Affordable, 100-night trial, 10-year warranty, made of cooling gel memory foam, excellent motion isolation, four thickness options, great for back and stomach sleepers
Cons: Took a week to expand to full size, poor edge support
The Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress features one of my favorite materials to sleep on: gel memory foam. I've found this material does an outstanding job of keeping my hot-sleeping body cool through the night, and the Zinus mattress was no exception.
The memory foam sinks in to comfort the contours of your body while still providing firmer-than-average support. Because of this, I felt better sleeping on my stomach during testing rather than on my side. Back sleepers may also like the firmness of this model.
The mattress passed my motion transfer tests with flying colors. When I was sleeping on it, my wife and dog could sneak into bed without jostling or waking me.
The mattress comes in four thickness options — 8, 10, 12, and 14 inches. I tested the 14-inch Queen. In general, I've found that mattresses that are 10 inches or thinner aren't as supportive, so you should consider the thicker styles.
At under $500, you would expect compromises, and there are a few, but they are easy to look past if you want to save a few dollars. First, the edge support is awful. It's hard to lie on the edges and not fall off. The mattress also took a week to expand to its full size. Out of the box, it was about half its full thickness. The directions suggest it will only take 72 hours to expand, but that was not my experience. It also had an initial odor, but that went away quickly.
At 70 pounds, the mattress is easy to move around, especially since it is firmer and doesn't flop around.
Tempur-Pedic
When price is no object, the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid is your best bet with its contouring, supportive, and cooling combination of foam and springs delivered and set up in your bedroom.
Overview of the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Hot sleepers, all sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin long, full, queen, king, split king, Cal king, split Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 6 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 10 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 7 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Trial period | 90 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 123 lbs. |
| Thickness | 12 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping, $175 return fee |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Free on mattresses, foundations, and power bases |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Medium firmness that suits an array of sleeping styles, excellent motion transfer dampening, sleeps cool, 10-year warranty, white-glove delivery
Cons: Heavy, subpar edge support, expensive, shipping deducted from refund if you choose to return the mattress during the trial period
If you want to spend top dollar on a mattress that you'll spend a third of your life on for the next 10+ years, then the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid is your best bet. The patented Tempur material has similar body contouring to memory foam but with added support and pressure relief without the sinking feeling, which is why it's also our top pick for back sleepers.
The PRObreeze mattress is different from other Tempur-Pedic mattresses in that it is designed with a focus on cooling. Tempur-Pedic also offers a similar mattress in the series, called the LUXEbreeze, that provides an even cooler sleep at an even heftier price tag (currently $4,999). However, I haven't personally tested it yet.
The PRObreeze is my main mattress when I'm not testing other models. I appreciate the luxury feel and how it cradles my body while keeping me from overheating. And, I don't notice when my dog jumps in the bed thanks to the impressive motion isolation.
If you're looking to splurge, I recommend pairing the PRObreeze with the Tempur-Ergo Smart Base, which features a sleep tracker to monitor your sleep and makes recommendations for improved rest.
Read our full Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid with Ergo Smart Base review
Leesa
The Leesa Hybrid Mattress has great edge support and motion isolation. The mix of memory foam and pocket springs leads to an average firmness that makes it an outstanding solution for back pain sufferers of any sleeping style.
Overview of the Leesa Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | All sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 5 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 7 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 115 lbs. |
| Thickness | 11 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Yes, $150 |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Leesa Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Average firmness that will appeal to a broad range of sleepers, edge support and motion isolation are ideal for couples, 100-night risk-free home trial, made of foam and pocket springs for support and breathability, 10-year warranty
Cons: Heavy, hard to move around
For about a year, the Leesa Hybrid was the main mattress I slept on when I wasn't testing others.
The bed features five layers: a cooling premium foam top layer, a contouring memory foam layer, and 14.5-gauge pocket springs that help with breathability sandwiched by two core foam support layers.
My wife and I appreciated that its average firmness suited our backs, stomachs, and sides, and I was incredibly impressed with its motion isolation — I rarely noticed when my wife got up in the night. The edge support is also great, thanks to the innerspring coils that go all the way to the very edge of the bed.
When I tested the Leesa Hybrid, I never woke up with back pain, though I have a history of pain back issues. When I wrenched my back trying to put a standing desk together, the mattress provided the pressure relief and comfort I needed to get restful sleep and facilitate the healing process.
However, this is based on my personal experience. If you suffer from back pain, you should always consult your doctor before purchasing a new mattress.
I also encourage you to have someone else set up this bed if you have back pain. I tempted fate and tackled the task on my own. I tested a King mattress for this guide, and it weighed 142 pounds. I set up the bed on my own, but I relied on white-glove mattress removal once I was done with it.
Save 15% on the Leesa Hybrid when using the Insider-exclusive promo code INSIDER15 at checkout.
Read our full Leesa Hybrid Mattress review
James Brains/Insider
The Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress is ideal for side sleepers looking for a plush-comfort bed with great heat dissipation.
Overview of the Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Side sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 4 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 8 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 6 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 89 lbs. |
| Thickness | 12 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Yes, $149 |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Made with eco-friendly materials, 100-night risk-free trial, good edge support, excellent heat dissipation, the plush comfort is ideal for side sleepers
Cons: Held on to its new bed smell, not the best for stomach or back sleepers, failed motion transfer tests
The Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress is also our pick for the best soft mattress, an attribute that makes it ideal for side sleepers, who usually find a bed with some give to be the most comfortable. (Read more: the best mattresses for side sleepers.) Additionally, we think it's a good solution for petite sleepers and older individuals who may not have as much natural cushioning as they once did and could benefit from the soothing comfort of a soft mattress.
Side sleepers will appreciate the zoned pressure relief built into the foam layers of the Nova Hybrid. The second foam layer has three ergonomic zones that are firmer around the waist, hips, and lower back and softer under the shoulders. The following foam layer features contoured cuts designed to reinforce the second layer. And, the hybrid's springs ensure your body is adequately supported while adding a level of durability. A firm border of foam helps the bed's edge support.
I tend to overheat in bed, but I never felt hot when sleeping on the Nova Hybrid, which is impressive since I tested the mattress in the summer. When I used the bathroom in the night, the spot where I was sleeping was cooler when I returned, which helped me get back to sleep faster.
Casper recently introduced the Nova Hybrid Snow, which costs $450 more than the Nova Hybrid but is supposed to have better cooling capabilities. I just wrapped up testing it, and I still think the Nova Hybrid is the better mattress. It has better edge support, and if the Snow has better heat dissipation, it's a minimal improvement.
Read our full Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress review.
Tempur-Pedic
The medium firmness and cradling comfort of the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Mattress make it ideal for back sleepers, especially if you tend to overheat at night.
Overview of the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Hot sleepers, all sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin long, full, queen, king, split king, Cal king, split Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 6 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 10 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 7 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Trial period | 90 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 123 lbs. |
| Thickness | 12 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping, $175 return fee |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Free on mattresses, foundations, and power bases |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Medium firmness that suits an array of sleeping styles, excellent motion transfer dampening, sleeps cool, 10-year warranty, white-glove delivery
Cons: Heavy, subpar edge support, expensive, shipping deducted from refund if you choose to return the mattress during the trial period
Back sleepers benefit from medium-firm mattresses, though this can vary based on body type and personal preferences. It also helps if there is zoned support with extra cushioning around the hips and shoulders. Based on these factors and our subjective testing, the Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Mattress is the best option for back sleepers.
The Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid Mattress is designed for cool sleeping and provides outstanding cradling comfort. There's an outer cover that you can unzip and toss in the wash for easy cleaning and three layers of foam geared toward absorbing excessive heat and improving breathability. The base's 1,000+ spring coils and supportive foam border provide support, durability, and breathability.
The PRObreeze is the mattress that my wife and I sleep on when I'm not testing other alternatives. As a hot sleeper, I've found it does an excellent job of keeping me from overheating.
We exhibit just about every sleeping style between my wife and me, and we both find this slightly firm mattress works well for our bodies. I also don't feel when my wife or dog are moving around during the night — the motion dampening abilities are outstanding. However, the edge support could use some work. When sitting or lying on the edge, it sinks significantly.
The mattress is heavy and hard to move around. Fortunately, Tempur-Pedic includes white-glove delivery with the purchase of the PRObreeze. Professionals showed up at my house and set up the new mattress in under an hour. My lower back appreciated the break from heavy lifting.
Read our full Tempur-Pedic PRObreeze Hybrid review
James Brains/Insider
With its plush Euro-top and supportive feel, the Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress supplies the ideal balance of comfort and support for stomach sleepers to get a good night's sleep.
Overview of the Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Back and stomach sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 6 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 5 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 6 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 5 |
| Trial period | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Weight | 129 lbs. |
| Thickness | 13 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Unavailable due to pandemic |
| Showroom availability | No |
Our review of the Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress
Pros: 365-night risk-free trial, lifetime warranty, great for stomach sleepers, good heat dissipation, made of eco-friendly materials, all four sides have two handles
Cons: Not ideal for side sleepers, heavy, sinks significantly when sitting on the side
Stomach sleepers generally prefer the firmest mattresses, though this will vary based on personal preference and body type. A firmer mattress supports stomach sleepers by keeping your spine aligned, protecting you from back pain.
The Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress gives you a slightly firm, comfortable support along with one of the longest trial periods and warranties in the industry.
The firm feel is balanced by a plush Euro-top made of organic wool. Next is a layer of Rainforest Alliance-certified Dunlop latex, and the support core contains individually wrapped coils.
The cotton blend mattress cover has two handles sewn into all four sides for easy movability. This feature is a must since the Awara is one of the heaviest mattresses in our guide. Despite the heft, I set it up without help in about five minutes. The mattress had a strong initial odor that dissipated within a few hours.
As a combination side and stomach sleeper, I preferred stomach sleeping on the Awara. During the testing period, I didn't have any trouble falling asleep, and each morning I awoke feeling refreshed. I also didn't experience any soreness, a common issue for stomach sleepers.
Both the edge support and motion isolation were middle of the road. When sitting on the edge of the bed, I didn't feel like I sunk much, but when I was lying on the edge, I felt uncomfortable, like I might fall off. The Awara also failed the objective motion transfer tests each time, but the mattress is quite bouncy, which some people may like.
James Brains/Insider
The Big Fig Mattress is constructed for heavier individuals, with firm support and a high weight capacity for the bed and the included foundation.
Overview of the Big Fig Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Heavy individuals, back and stomach sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 7 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 6 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 6 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 10 |
| Trial period | 120 nights |
| Warranty | 20 years |
| Weight | 116 lbs. |
| Thickness | 13 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | $199 + $50 for mattress removal |
| Showroom availability | No |
Our review of the Big Fig Mattress
Pros: Above-average firmness, 1,100-pound weight capacity, good motion isolation, good heat dissipation, exceptional edge support, 20-year warranty
Cons: Hard to move around, may not be comfortable for side sleepers or petite individuals
The Big Fig Mattress is unique because it can support two sleepers with a combined weight of 1,100 pounds and comes with a 1,200-pound-capacity foundation. Factor in the firmer-than-average support, and you have the ideal mattress for heavier individuals.
The Big Fig weighs more than most mattresses, so setup took a little more effort, but I had it unboxed and ready to use in 10 minutes. An initial odor took a day to dissipate, so air the bed out before you sleep on it.
The cover is made of a cooling material. Below are three CertiPUR-US certified foam layers that promote airflow, edge support, and durability. The individually wrapped coils add more support and durability. Lastly, 16 tufts hold the materials in place to prevent shifting over time.
I usually sleep on my side, but with the firm feel of the Big Fig, I was more comfortable on my stomach and back. Still, I recognized the bed's dynamic feel, and I slept well during testing, even if I wasn't in my preferred position. I may not be the target market for the mattress. Heavier side sleepers will likely be more comfortable since they will sink into the mattress more, which will keep their spine aligned.
As a hot sleeper, I didn't overheat while testing the Big Fig. It did an above-average job of dissipating heat and staying cool.
The edge support of the Big Fig is among the best I've experienced. I felt just as comfortable on the edge as I did in the middle, and there was a slight sag when I sat on the side.
I rarely find good motion isolation and bounce in the same mattress. The Big Fig came close. It failed our bowling ball test, but in my subjective experience, the mattress's motion dampening was pretty good. The impressive bounce could facilitate intimate activities.
James Brains/Insider
The Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress features contouring foam that cradles sleepers of all body types and sleeping styles while offering outstanding pressure relief and heat dissipation.
Overview of the Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | All sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin long, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Foam |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 6 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 9 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Trial period | 90 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 58 lbs. |
| Thickness | 10 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping, $175 return fee |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Free on mattresses, foundations, or power bases |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress
Pros: Great heat dissipation, outstanding motion isolation, 90-night trial, 10 inches thick with three layers of supportive and comforting Tempur foam that caters to all sleeping types
Cons: A shipping charge is deducted from your refund if you choose to return your bed, unimpressive edge support, no white-glove delivery
The Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress arrives in a box now like many other brands; you open the box, remove the mattress, cut through the plastic, and unroll. Like many foam mattresses, it had an odor that dissipated after a few hours.
There are three foam layers: a soft and responsive comfort top layer, a firmer support layer, and finally, a supportive and durable base. The polyester-blend stretch cover is moisture-wicking and breathes well.
I was struck by how the patented foam contoured to my body and offered impressive pressure relief. I was comfortable on my stomach and side, and my wife, a back sleeper, also enjoyed the feel. During testing, I fell asleep within minutes of lying down.
Unlike most all-foam mattresses, the Cloud didn't overheat. When I got up at night, the heat dissipated, making it cool enough to fall right back asleep when I got back in bed. The Cloud also passed my objective motion isolation tests, and when my rambunctious dog jumped onto the bed in the morning, I barely noticed.
The Cloud also supported my back well. I suffer from lower back pain that flares up when I sleep on an unsupportive mattress. While testing the bed, I didn't experience any back aggravation.
The biggest negative is the Cloud's poor edge support. I noticed significant sinking when I sat or laid on the edge of the bed. This isn't a deal-breaker; however, couples may want a King for more space without feeling uncomfortable on the edges.
Read our full Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress review
Maria Del Russo/Insider
The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress performed well in all of the tests we put it through, making it ideal for most sleeping types, couples, and people who tend to overheat at night.
Overview of the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Side and back sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 5 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 6 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 8 |
| Trial period | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Weight | 99 lbs. |
| Thickness | 15 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Unavailable due to pandemic |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Impressive 365-night trial period, lifetime warranty, made with CertiPUR-US certified foams, good heat dissipation, great motion transfer, excellent edge support, easy to move with side handles
Cons: Lacks support for stomach sleepers
We chose to combine hybrid and innerspring mattresses for this update because the line between the two categories has blurred so much in recent years.
As with most hybrids, the DreamCloud Premier consists of a combination of individually wrapped coils and foam. The bed's top layer is high-loft memory foam covered by quilted cashmere. From top to bottom, the other layers are high-density gel memory foam, supportive foam, coils, and a porous foam base.
Despite its heft, the DreamCloud is easy to maneuver thanks to handles on the long sides of the bed. Removing the mattress from the box and setting it up took about five minutes. While there was a new bed smell initially, the odor dissipated by bedtime.
The DreamCloud Premier scored well in every performance test. It particularly excelled in heat dissipation: within two minutes of getting out of bed, the surface temperature of the bed dropped by 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
The edge support and motion isolation were excellent, making this a smart option for couples. When sharing the bed with my wife, I didn't notice her shifting position in the night. When lying on the edge of the bed, I still felt supported.
Though the DreamCloud Premier is billed as a "luxury firm," I found the mattress soft and preferred sleeping on my side rather than my stomach. Still, I was comfortable enough on my stomach; I just didn't feel supported. My wife appreciated the cushy feel while sleeping on her back.
What's particularly unique about DreamCloud is its 365-night trial period and lifetime warranty, which is among the most generous of the mattresses I've tested.
Read our full DreamCloud Hybrid Premier Mattress review
James Brains/Insider
Suppose you and your partner just can't agree on mattress firmness. In that case, the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed allows you to customize each side to your perfect firmness, and the bed automatically makes adjustments based on your body's position.
Overview of the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | All sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin long, full, queen, king, split king, flextop king, Cal king, split Cal king, flextop Cal king |
| Mattress type | Adjustable air |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 20 firmness levels |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 3 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 6 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 15 years |
| Weight | 80 lbs. |
| Thickness | 12 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping but return shipping fees apply |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Free with purchase of mattress and base |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed
Pros: 20 firmness options make it ideal for all sleeping styles, good edge support, white glove delivery included with purchase, built-in sleep tracker, automatic air adjustments based on sleeping position
Cons: Hard to move, terrible motion isolation, may not be ideal for hot sleepers
Your mattress should last you for at least 10 years. In that time, a lot can happen to change your firmness preferences. For example, when I lost significant weight, I developed a liking for softer mattresses. Also, if you share a bed with someone, the odds are pretty small that you'll find the same firmness comfortable. These scenarios demonstrate why an airbed with adjustable firmness is a good investment.
The Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed is the best adjustable airbed I've tested. Two features set it apart. First, it has an automatic function that, when engaged, will adjust the firmness of the mattress as you shift positions in the night. Second, the bed tracks your sleeping and offers custom recommendations in the app (available for iOS and Android).
While I found the adjustable air feature was a game-changer and significantly improved my sleep, the sleep tracking was nowhere near as accurate as my Garmin Forerunner 945 watch. However, even during the month I tested the mattress, Sleep Number made improvements to the app. A representative for the company said a team is constantly making tweaks to make it more useful.
I appreciated that I didn't have to lift a finger to unbox the mattress. Two Sleep Number delivery people set up the dual adjustable bed frames and King-size mattress in about 45 minutes and made sure the bed connected to my phone and worked correctly.
The separate firmness level settings for each side and good edge support make it a smart choice for couples. However, the mattress failed my motion transfer tests each time, and my wife remarked that the bed felt like a waterbed with how noticeable the motion was. Another negative is how hard it is to move the mattress. It's attached securely to the base, so if you want to move it, you need to bring the base with you or figure out how to detach the mattress. Both methods require significantly more effort than your standard mattress.
Read our full Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed review
James Brains/Insider
The Birch Mattress by Helix is made of sustainable, environmentally-friendly materials and offers firm and soft comfort options to accommodate several preferences.
Overview of the Birch Mattress by Helix
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | All sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 7 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 10 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 5 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 10 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 25 years |
| Weight | 114 lbs. |
| Thickness | 11 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Unavailable due to pandemic |
| Showroom availability | Only in NYC and inaccessible during the pandemic |
Our review of the Birch Mattress by Helix
Pros: Above-average firmness, soft topper available for an extra cost, excellent motion isolation, made of natural materials, Greenguard Gold certified
Cons: Pillow top is slightly smaller than the mattress and doesn't attach to it, not ideal for side sleepers without the pillow top, no white-glove delivery
From the cover to the latex and the wool, the Birch Mattress by Helix is made of eco-friendly materials. The mattress is Greenguard Gold-certified to be free of harsh chemicals, and it's handmade in the US. The top layer is made of a fire-retardant layer of natural wool fibers with rayon, followed by an organic wool layer for temperature regulation and comfort. The middle layers are made of natural Talalay latex certified by several environmental organizations, including OEKO-Tex, and individually-wrapped coils for support and limited motion transfer. The base is organic wool batting for durability and stability, and the cover is made of GOTS-certified organic cotton.
When I unboxed the Birch, I found these materials proved hefty. Though it didn't come with special tools or instructions, it was a standard unboxing — remove the bed from the box and cut through the layers of plastic. Within five minutes, the mattress was resting on the bed frame. There was a slight initial odor, though it dissipated within hours.
The Birch Mattress by Helix on its own is firm, but for an extra cost, you can add a plush organic mattress topper to make the bed softer. I tested the mattress with the topper since I prefer a softer feel, and I was much more comfortable than laying on the base mattress alone, especially when sleeping on my side. Though, if you like a firmer feel, you might want to skip the topper.
Thanks to its outstanding edge support and motion isolation, the Birch Mattress is an excellent solution for couples. I performed my motion transfer test on the bed four times, and it only failed once. When I sat on the side of the bed, I felt supported, and when I laid on the very edge, I didn't feel like I was going to fall.
After testing the mattress, I gave it to my 6-foot-5 teenager. He deals with joint pain from constantly growing, and he said the bed helped soothe his aches. We both sleep hot, and the Birch did an adequate job of dissipating heat. However, on hotter nights, he reports the mattress is uncomfortably hot.
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The Purple Premier Hybrid Mattress not only has outstanding heat dissipation, but the patented Purple Grid offers pressure relief to all sleeping styles.
Overview of the Purple Premier Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | All sleeping styles |
| Available sizes | Twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal King, split king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 5 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 10 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 5 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 145 lbs. |
| Thickness | 12 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Free |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Purple Premier Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Excellent heat dissipation, great for all sleeping types, free white-glove delivery, outstanding pressure relief, bouncy
Cons: Poor motion isolation, heavy
I use a laser thermometer to measure heat dissipation and consider how hot a mattress gets and how quickly it returns to its starting temperatures.
The Purple Premier Hybrid is our top pick for a cooling mattress because, based on our temperature tests, it builds up the least amount of heat of any mattress we tried and quickly releases any remaining heat within two minutes of getting out of bed. In my tests, the Purple mattress returned to within three degrees of the ambient temperature in those two minutes. It was almost as if no one had been sleeping on it at all.
The Purple Hybrid Premier mattress is so heavy I needed help unboxing it. Once released from the packaging, we carried the bed to the foundation. I strongly recommend taking advantage of Purple's free white glove delivery of the Hybrid Premier.
What sets Purple beds apart from other brands is the "Purple Grid," which is made up of hyper-elastic gel polymer "grid lines" with one-inch-square open spaces between. You can choose how thick you want your grid: two, three, or four inches. I chose the three-inch thickness option, sometimes called the Purple 3.
Below the grid is a CertiPUR-US certified polyurethane foam layer, and below that is 7.5-inch pocketed springs. The cover is soft and breathable.
When you first lay down on the Purple, the feel of the grid is noticeable since it's located right under the cover. It's a unique feel that can take some getting used to.
I preferred to sleep on my side when testing the Premier Hybrid, but I was also comfortable on my stomach. I like the responsiveness of the grid, which immediately relieves pressure where you need it to most.
While the Premier Hybrid failed our objective motion isolation tests spectacularly, my subjective experience wasn't so bad. On occasion, my dog could sneak onto the mattress without me noticing. Also, I noticed the so-so motion isolation was likely due to the exceptional bounce of the bed, which couples may appreciate.
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The Airweave Mattress has a breathable and non-toxic polyethylene core that offers ultra-firm support to all parts of the bed, even the very edges.
Overview of the Airweave Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Back and stomach sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Foam |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 10 (9 with insert) |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 7 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 10 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 71.5 lbs. |
| Thickness | 8 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns within the contiguous US |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | $40 for white-glove delivery, $125 for all non-California mattress removals, $0 for California-based removals |
| Showroom availability | Only in Brooklyn, NY |
Our review of the Airweave Mattress
Pros: Features a soft insert to transform the bed from incredibly firm to just firm, great heat dissipation, outstanding edge support, decent motion isolation, 100-night sleep trial, machine-washable cover
Cons: Some assembly required, hard to move around, not recommended for side sleepers
The Airweave Mattress is one of the most unique beds I've ever tested — it's modular and requires more assembly than most mattresses. The polyethylene core is broken into three blocks. You place these on the bottom half of the cover, seal up an inner cover, add the soft polyester layer, and zip on the top of the cover. With this level of assembly, white-glove delivery would be an attractive option. Unfortunately, Airweave does not currently offer this service.
I like that there's a soft layer insert that you can easily remove if you'd prefer an ultra-firm mattress rather than just firm. Even with the soft layer, the bed was firmer than I'd like, and sleeping on my side was out of the question. I mainly slept on my stomach and a little on my back when testing this mattress, and I was surprisingly comfortable in these positions. I appreciated how cool the bed slept, thanks to the breathable core.
In my experience, mattresses less than 10 inches thick are not supportive enough, but at 8 inches thick, the Airweave surprisingly offered plenty of support. With its short stature and light weight — the Queen only weighs 71.5 pounds — you might assume the mattress would be easy to move around, but it's a beast. The blocks cause the bed to flop, which adds to the difficulty.
The Airweave is an excellent solution for anyone who loves firm mattresses. The edge support is terrific on all sides, and the bed performed well in my motion transfer tests. When I dropped the bowling ball, the soda can rarely fell over on the first impact, but the bed was incredibly bouncy, and the can would sometimes fall over on the second bounce.
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The Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress is the brand's softest mattress and offers cushiony support for folks who like a "sinking in" feeling to their mattress.
Overview of the Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
| Category | Product Information |
| Best for | Side sleepers |
| Available sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king |
| Mattress type | Hybrid |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 4 |
| Motion isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 3 |
| Heat dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 8 |
| Edge support (1 awful to 10 best) | 6 |
| Trial period | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Weight | 89 lbs. |
| Thickness | 12 in. |
| Shipping and returns | Free shipping and returns |
| White-glove delivery and mattress removal | Yes, $149 |
| Showroom availability | Yes, nationwide |
Our review of the Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
Pros: Made with eco-friendly materials, 100-night risk-free trial, good edge support, excellent heat dissipation, the plush comfort is ideal for side sleepers
Cons: Held on to its new bed smell, not the best for stomach or back sleepers, failed motion transfer tests
The Nova Hybrid is one of Casper's newest and softest mattresses, ideal for my side-sleeping body. When my muscles and joints were aching after exercising, the Nova Hybrid cradled my body and offered pressure relief in all the right areas. This is thanks to the supportive foam layers with ergonomic zones that are firmer around the lower back, waist, and hips, and softer under the shoulders to help align your spine.
The mattress is made of CertiPUR-US certified foam, and the cover is partially composed of recycled bottles, making it an eco-friendly alternative. There are two layers of Casper's proprietary "Airscape" foam to help with the airflow, and the topmost layer has small perforations for breathability.
With all of the layers of foam and springs, the Nova Hybrid is heavy and flops around as you move it. Fortunately, it comes with handles sewn into each corner to make it more manageable.
The motion-dampening properties, however, leave much to be desired. The Nova Hybrid failed my motion transfer tests, and when sharing the bed with my wife and dog, I could feel when either of them moved.
I found the Nova Hybrid cradled my body just right, especially when my muscles were screaming after strenuous workouts. I appreciated how my body would wake up refreshed and ready for more punishment.
I just finished testing the new Nova Hybrid Snow upgrade, designed to offer better heat dissipation for an extra $450. It had the same comfy soft feel but wasn't significantly cooler than the Nova Hybrid and appeared to have worse edge support. We still prefer the Nova Hybrid.
Read our full Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress review.
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We've tested dozens of mattresses over the years, and there are none that we outright don't recommend. Every mattress we've tested could potentially be a good fit for the right individual. However, here are a few that missed the cut for our guide but are worth considering.
What else we recommend and why
Under $1,000
Nest Bedding Robin Flippable Hybrid: Formerly known as the "Flip Double-Sided Hybrid," this affordable bed is unique in that you can flip it. One side has a medium firmness, and the other is firmer. The medium side is the best budget option for side sleepers since our budget pick is best for back and stomach sleepers. I was impressed with the excellent edge support, how easy it is to move around, and that it's made of CertiPUR-US foam. The most significant negative was the poor motion isolation.
Bear Original: The Bear Original does a good job of cooling, is made in the US of CertiPUR-US certified foams, has great edge support, and is easy to set up and move around. However, it's on the firmer side, so it was uncomfortable for side sleeping. Also, the motion isolation was poor, so it may not be the ideal option for couples.
Nectar Memory Foam: There's a lot to like about Nectar's flagship mattress. It just wasn't the best in any specific category. I like that you can try it risk-free with a 365-night trial, and if you keep it, it's backed by a lifetime warranty. I found it was softer than average, which was comfortable for my side sleeping. It also has great heat dissipation, excellent motion isolation, and average edge support. However, I would be hesitant to recommend it for back and stomach sleepers because it's so soft.
Bear Pro: Despite feeling a little softer than average, I was comfortable on my stomach and side while sleeping on the Bear Pro, and I think its all-foam construction will appeal to all sleeping types. The copper-infused foam, gel-infused foam, and breathable Celliant cover give the bed impressive heat dissipation. The main negatives are it offers poor edge support, and it's a bit pricey for an all-foam mattress. Read our full review.
Allswell Supreme Hybrid: This is one of the best mattresses you will find under $1,000. It features a combination of copper and graphite gel-infused memory foam and pocket coils, which give it a medium firmness that will appeal to many different types of sleepers. The edge support is great, but it sleeps hot and is quite heavy. Also, it's only available online and not in showrooms.
Casper Original: The Casper Original was our previous pick for the best all-foam mattress, and we still recommend it. We like the Casper Original because it works well for a wide array of sleeping styles, is made of eco-friendly materials, has excellent heat dissipation, and exhibits great motion dampening. However, it does not have good edge support. Read our full review.
Under $2,000
Brooklyn Bedding Sedona Hybrid: The Sedona Hybrid is a luxury mattress made of CertiPUR-US certified foams and up to 1,000 coils. You can test it out for 120 nights risk-free. I liked how hassle-free the unboxing was and how the mattress has handles for easy movability. The average firmness should appeal to a broad audience, but I just could not get comfortable no matter what position I was in. And, while the heat dissipation and edge support are average, the mattress failed my motion transfer tests every time.
Over $2,000
Amerisleep AS5 Hybrid: Amerisleep offers five mattresses, AS1 through AS5, each with a specific benefit. I've tested the AS3, the company's best-selling bed, but I much prefer its softer, luxury mattress, the AS5. Due to its soft feel, it's an outstanding solution for anyone who likes softer beds. Since it sleeps hot, people who get too cold at night may prefer this mattress. Also, it has poor edge support and failed my motion isolation tests, so it's better suited for people who sleep alone. Overall, though, I like how it cradled my body.
Saatva Solaire Adjustable Mattress: The Saatva Solaire has a built-in air pump controlled by a corded controller that allows you to pick from 50 firmness options for your ideal comfort level. I found it worked great, but the motion isolation left a lot to be desired. Plus, you can't find the mattress in showrooms to test it out before buying. Fortunately, there's a 120-night home trial period. Read our full review.
Intellibed Matrix Grand: The Intellibed Matrix Grand is the height of luxury and features seven layers of high-quality materials, including two gel layers that flex to provide localized pressure relief and help align the spine. However, at 196 pounds, it's the heaviest mattress I've tested, and at 17 inches thick, it's hard to find fitted sheets that are deep enough to stay on the bed. I didn't find it exceptionally comfortable no matter what position I was in, the motion isolation is poor, and the return policy has questionable stipulations.
James Brains/Insider
I've been testing mattresses for more than four years to determine the best and personally tested all of the beds in our guide. Unless noted otherwise, each mattress I tried was a queen because it's the most popular size.
In addition to sleeping on each mattress for at least two weeks, there are many objective tests I put each model through. The most important factors I consider are comfort, edge support, and motion isolation.
Here are some of the test results for the main attributes we tested:
| Attribute | DreamCloud Premier Hybrid | Zinus Cooling Gel Memory Foam | Tempur-PRObreeze Hybrid | Leesa Hybrid | Casper Nova Hybrid | Awara Organic Luxury Hybrid | Big Fig | Birch by Helix | Tempur-Cloud | Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed | Purple Premier Hybrid | Airweave |
| Firmness (1 softest to 10 firmest) | 5 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 20 levels | 5 | 10 (9 with insert) |
| Motion Isolation (1 awful to 10 best) | 7 | 8 | 10 | 7 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 10 | 7 | 3 | 3 | 7 |
| Edge Support (1 awful to 10 best) | 8 | 3 | 3 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 10 | 10 | 3 | 6 | 5 | 10 |
| Heat Dissipation (1 traps heat to 10 stays cool) | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 9 | 3 | 10 | 7 |
| Trial Period | 365 days | 100 nights | 90 nights | 100 nights | 100 nights | 100 nights | 120 nights | 90 nights | 90 nights | 100 nights | 100 nights | 100 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years | 25 years | 20 years | 10 years | 10 years | 15 years | 10 years | 10 years |
Here are the main attributes we look for and how we test them:
Comfort: This is a reasonably subjective characteristic based on the firmness of a mattress, how hot it sleeps, and how supportive it feels. My firmness measurement is based on testing dozens of beds and developing a feel for soft, average, and firm mattresses. I also consider heat dissipation, which I gauge using a laser thermometer to measure the temperature before I lay in the bed for at least one hour, immediately after I get up, and two minutes after I get up.
Motion isolation: If you've ever spent the night with someone who moves around a lot in their sleep, you know how vital motion isolation is. Without it, your sleeping partner's movements will jostle you awake throughout the night. To test motion isolation, I place a 12-ounce can of soda pop in the middle of the mattress. Then I drop a 15-pound bowling ball from four feet above the bed, so it lands 12 inches from the can. If the can falls over time and time again, the motion isolation is not very good. If the can stays upright, the bed does an excellent job of dampening motion transfer.
Edge support: To test edge support, I lay on the very edge of the bed and slowly roll off — literally. If I can roll a fair amount before actually falling, then the bed has good edge support. If I fall easily, then the edge support is not very good. I also sit on the side to put on my socks and shoes to assess how much the edge sinks. I am currently developing an objective measurement that I'll "roll" out in future guides as I collect more data.
Portability: Unless you're constantly relocating or redecorating, it's unlikely you'll need to move your mattress often, so this category doesn't weigh heavily in our assessment. Still, it's nice if you can easily rotate your mattress, a task that's important for your bed's longevity. And depending on how your bed is positioned, you may need to move the mattress to put on fitted sheets. I move each mattress several times to see how heavy it feels and if it flops around, making it harder to move.
Trial and warranty: I look at the details of the warranty and home trial period, whether the mattress is available in showrooms, and whether there's white-glove delivery. The only way to know if a bed is right for you is to sleep on it for several nights, so we looked for loopholes in the fine print of the return policy and let you know about them.
Setup: I timed how long it took me to unbox and set up each mattress on my own. Also, I noted any peculiarities to the process. My nose tracks any new bed odor initially and when I go to bed, usually 10+ hours later. Lastly, I look at whether white-glove service is offered and how much it costs.
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Buying a mattress no longer requires heading to a showroom and having a salesperson lurk over you as you lie on a bed for 10 minutes to decide if it will suit you for the next decade. We put together a handy guide of what to expect if you're shopping for a mattress online at nine popular brands.
To help you shop for a mattress, we spoke with Dr. Luis Javier Peña-Hernández, a lung and sleep health specialist at PCSI.
Consider your medical conditions
Peña-Hernández first suggests considering your medical history. "The right mattress is the most comfortable one for each person. However, consumers should consider their medical history, like respiratory diseases, allergies, scoliosis, or sleep apnea, when purchasing a mattress," Peña-Hernández said. "Patients with COPD may benefit from mattresses that are designed for adjustable beds because elevating the head of the bed can sometimes facilitate easier breathing."
Know your sleep position
After talking to your doctor, assess your sleeping style and preferred firmness level.
"The most common mattress problem that people report is the lack of comfortability which can result in fatigue or excessive sleepiness," Peña-Hernández said. "It's hard to keep up with the day-to-day when you're not well-rested, and ultimately, it can affect your quality of life. Chronic fatigue can even have implications for your immunity and your health. A good mattress meets the criteria for the specific person's needs and promotes healthy, well-rested rest."
Though every person's preferences are different, there are some patterns that certain body types and sleeping styles seem to prefer, according to Peña-Hernández.
Side sleepers: "Vast research exists to support side sleepers benefit from medium-firm mattresses to support pressure point relief," said Peña-Hernández. "Side sleepers can experience shoulder and lower back pain if the mattress is too unsupportive."
Back sleepers: Peña-Hernández recommends medium firmness for back sleepers. "Back sleepers should strive to maintain the natural S-curvature of the spine, so the best mattress for back sleepers provides spinal support. A medium-firm mattress will help achieve this by redistributing weight and promoting healthy alignment but still contours to the body to provide cushioning where it is needed."
Stomach sleepers: Firmer mattresses tend to benefit stomach sleepers as well as heavier folks.
Consider body size and preferences
In addition to the above, you should also consider bodyweight and heat dissipation.
"Individuals concerned about their weight and weight-related complications should speak to their medical provider when considering a mattress, said Peña-Hernández. "Overweight individuals should consider a thicker mattress of at least 12 inches thick or more. Thinner mattresses won't provide you with the support you need. Coil mattresses also provide a more durable construction."
Softer mattresses are generally better for petite individuals since lighter individuals (under 130 pounds) don't sink into beds as far. Breus also notes that as people get older, they benefit from a softer mattress to address pain issues. "As we age, our skin gets thinner, which means less cushion."
Firm mattresses aren't necessarily more supportive. Instead, support is based on how well the bed cradles your body and allows your spine to relax. Since different parts of your body push down more on a mattress, such as the hips and shoulders, mattresses that offer zoned support in these areas tend to be more comfortable to a broader range of individuals. These beds also tend to cost more as the construction is more specialized.
If you overheat at night, you'll want a mattress and even bedding that does an outstanding job of dissipating heat. "Hot sleepers should consider sheets and materials made of natural fibers for their breathability," said Peña-Hernández. "Bamboo, cotton, linen, and hemp are good options as well as cooling sheets, especially sheets designed to wick moisture."
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What kind of mattress should you buy?
There are a handful of popular mattress types to choose from.
- Memory foam: When most people think of a bed-in-a-box, they think of memory foam mattresses. These are mattresses with multiple layers of foam that support and contour your body. However, all-foam mattresses tend to trap heat due to the construction.
- Latex foam: This is usually preferred by people looking for an eco-friendly, cooler, and more responsive foam than traditional memory foam.
- Hybrid: These beds combine one of the above foams with spring coils. The coils help with motion transfer and edge support, making them an excellent option for couples. The coils also help with airflow for a cooler sleep.
- Spring: These are your more traditional beds, also called innerspring or coil mattresses. Due to the responsive coils, they offer good support, edge support, cooling, and durability. However, they are generally more expensive and primarily found in showrooms and not online.
- Pillow-top: Pillow-tops are usually associated with innerspring mattresses but can be found on any above options. This is the smart solution for those who like a soft, cushy feel.
- Adjustable or air beds: These beds use an air pump to adjust the firmness of your mattress to suit your needs. They are among the most expensive options but may be an ideal long-term solution since your firmness needs change with time. Couples with drastically different firmness needs would also benefit from an adjustable air bed.
What size bed should you buy?
There are six standard bed sizes. In order from smallest to largest (and usually the least to most expensive), they are:
- Twin: If you are a smaller individual who sleeps alone, a twin (38 inches wide by 75 inches long) will serve you well.
- Twin XL: This is the same width (38 inches) as the twin but 5 inches longer, making it better for tall people who sleep alone.
- Full: With the same length (75 inches) as the twin but 16 inches wider, the full is designed for larger folks or anyone who just wants a bit more space
- Queen: The queen is 80 inches long by 60 inches wide and is meant for smaller couples.
- King: The king is 16 inches wider than the queen and better for larger couples. I recommend it if you choose a mattress with subpar edge support and are concerned about feeling uncomfortable near the edges.
- California king: The Cal king is four inches longer but four inches narrower than the King, so it's an intelligent alternative for taller couples.
For context, my wife and I are slightly taller and heavier than average, and we share a bed with a dog and a full-body pillow. Queen mattresses are too small and uncomfortable for us, though queen is the size we test as it's the most popular. We've found king is ideal for our needs.
What's the best way to clean a mattress?
Based on expert interviews, my colleague L. Daniela Alvarez put together an excellent guide on cleaning a mattress. The experts in her article recommend deep cleaning your mattress with baking soda and a vacuum every three to six months. However, you should treat stains as quickly as possible using a disinfectant wipe. For harder stains, you may need to use a mixture of dishwashing liquid and hydrogen peroxide.
Some mattresses have removable covers. Check with the manufacturer before removing the cover and attempting to clean it. Some brands may state that their covers are machine washable. If that is the case with your mattress, we recommend that option only as a last resort, and make sure you follow the cleaning instructions carefully.
Do I need a mattress protector?
When purchasing a new mattress, you should protect your investment by also buying a mattress protector. We regularly update our guide to the best mattress protectors and encourage you to check out our latest recommendations.
When is the best time to buy a mattress?
Though mattress makers have sales throughout the year, you can usually find the best deals during holiday weekends, like Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday/Cyber Monday.
Also, manufacturers tend to start marking down their mattress prices in the spring as they prepare to launch a new line in June. In March, you'll usually find the widest selection with the smallest discounts. But, as you get into May, the discounts increase while the inventory becomes sparse. We keep a running list of all mattress deals and sales updated monthly and features many Insider-exclusive discounts.
What's the best mattress for back pain?
Amit Jain, MD, chief of minimally invasive spinal surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital and an associate professor of orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said a medium-firm mattress is best for those with or without back pain. This was based on a 2015 study.
Tamara Huff, MD, a Georgia-based board-certified orthopedic surgeon and health disparities advocate, pointed out that it's hard to pinpoint what "medium-firm" is. She recommends avoiding the firmest mattress if you suffer from back pain. Instead, choose one that feels medium-firm to you.
I recommend looking for a mattress with zoned support. These offer more pressure relief around the hips, lower back, and shoulders. And they can do a better job of keeping your spine aligned.
Take full advantage of the home trials offered by all companies in our guide. After all, the only way to know if a mattress is right for your back is to sleep on it.
We rate the Leesa Hybrid as the best mattress for back pain, but check out our complete guide to the best mattresses for back pain for more options.
How much should you spend on a mattress?
We outlined picks at various price points, but time and again, experts have told us to think of a mattress as an investment in your health and well-being. You spend about a third of your life on your bed and should expect to spend at least $1,000 on a quality mattress. While the upfront cost may seem high, a good mattress should last you about 10 years. Below, you'll find a chart outlining the average costs of a bed. For more in-depth information, see our guide on mattress pricing.
| Type of mattress | Budget | Mid-priced | Luxury |
| Foam mattress | $450 or less | From $1,000 | From $1,300 |
| Innerspring mattress | $600 or less | From $1,000 | From $1,200 |
| Hybrid mattress | $1,100 or less | From $1,500 | From $2,200 |
| Latex mattress | $1,200 or less | From $2,000 | From $2,500 |
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There are plenty of terms tossed around in the mattress industry. But, what do they even mean? Here are a few common terms defined:
Edge support: This refers to how well a mattress maintains its integrity to its sides without sagging or sinking. So, a bed with good edge support will feel just as supportive on the edges as it does in the center of the mattress. On the other hand, if you feel like you're going to fall off the bed when you lay near the edge, that's a sure sign of poor edge support.
Euro top: This type of pillow top is sewn into the mattress cover to provide a plush yet supportive feel. It's commonly found on hybrid and innerspring mattresses and made of fiberfill, wool, or foam.
Innersprings: Also referred to as coils or just springs, these are corkscrew-shaped pieces of metal, usually steel, that make up the core of many of today's mattresses, including hybrid and innerspring styles. Many modern beds use "pocket coils," which are wrapped coils that help limit noise and motion transfer.
Motion isolation/motion transfer: These terms are two sides of the same coin. Motion isolation describes how well a mattress dampens the feel of movement. For example, a bed with sound motion isolation keeps you from being jostled as your partner shifts positions in the night. A mattress with good motion isolation will have minimal motion transfer. A bed with excessive motion transfer has bad motion isolation, meaning you can feel your partner's every move.
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