To help make sense of the vast array of mattresses available, our dedicated staff has taken matters into their own hands by personally testing 100's of different mattresses since 2018. And we're not slowing down anytime soon, as we currently have several new mattress models lined up for testing. Rest assured that all the mattresses we've reviewed here are among the best on the market, so there are no subpar options.
Rather than proclaiming a single "best mattress for everyone," which we believe is an elusive concept, our approach has been to evaluate each mattress on its individual merits. This is because the ideal mattress choice is highly subjective and depends on various factors such as your sleeping position, body temperature, firmness preferences, and budget. Ultimately, the perfect mattress reveals itself only after you've spent a night's sleep on it.
Nonetheless, we hope that these reviews serve as a valuable reference point, offering insights into the level of firmness, responsiveness, or comfort that a particular brand's other products may possess.
What we’re looking for in construction
Our focus lies in evaluating various aspects of mattress construction. Traditionally, mattresses consisted of interlocking springs designed to provide consistent support, supplemented with batting for comfort. However, these springs were interconnected, leading to excessive motion transfer and limited pressure relief. It wasn't until the 1990s when Tempur-Pedic introduced mattresses incorporating NASA-designed viscoelastic polyurethane foam that significant technical advancements took place.
Presently, the mattress market offers a wide range of options. The advent of bed-in-a-box mattresses has popularized all-foam alternatives, while hybrid models combining foam and springs have also gained prominence. Traditional innerspring constructions have undergone notable transformations, with interlocking springs being replaced by individually encased "pocketed" steel coils that offer independent movement. This evolution has resulted in improved motion isolation, pressure relief, and overall support.
The construction of a mattress, including the number and type of foam layers, the presence of springs (referred to as coils), and the gauge or thickness of those springs, directly impacts its level of support. Additionally, the type and arrangement of foam layers can influence temperature regulation.
All-foam mattresses allow for greater sinkage and contouring to the body, with the firmness or softness determined by the foam density. Hybrid mattresses, which combine foam with pocketed coils, tend to offer more support and can create a sensation of being "on top" of the mattress. Some mattresses also incorporate extra features such as strategically placed high-gauge coils in the center to provide additional lumbar support. In our mattress descriptions, we provide details about the construction of each mattress, and our testers specifically noted the level of envelopment or support, temperature regulation, and the extent to which motion transfer was felt in shared sleeping situations involving partners or pets.
What we’re looking for in firmness
Firmness and support play crucial roles in determining mattress comfort, but the ideal level of firmness varies based on individual sleep preferences and positions. Manufacturers often assign a firmness rating on a scale from one to ten to help consumers understand the feel of their mattresses. However, it's important to consider your sleeping style when assessing the comfort and perceived firmness of a mattress.
Side sleepers, for instance, require pressure relief on their hips and shoulders to alleviate potential discomfort. They also benefit from a mattress that promotes proper alignment of the spine, shoulders, and pelvis. Back sleepers generally find firmer mattresses more suitable as they provide adequate support to maintain spinal alignment. On the other hand, stomach sleepers tend to prefer slightly softer mattresses that contour to their bodies without excessive sinking.
Keep in mind that personal preferences and comfort levels may differ. While a particular firmness rating may be recommended for a specific sleeping position, it's essential to prioritize your individual comfort and ensure proper spinal alignment when selecting a mattress.
What we’re looking for in sleep quality
Undoubtedly, determining the comfort of a mattress is crucial when making a purchase, yet it proves challenging to quantify objectively. Our team of writers and editors employed various methods to evaluate sleep quality and assess the impact of mattresses on their rest. Some utilized sleep trackers or sleep-tracking apps to gather data on sleep patterns and quality. Others relied on anecdotal evidence, such as waking up naturally without the need for an alarm clock, experiencing reduced back pain, or avoiding excessive sweating during sleep.
While subjective experiences can provide valuable insights into the comfort and suitability of a mattress, it's important to acknowledge that individual preferences and responses to mattresses can vary. What works well for one person may not necessarily be the best choice for another. Therefore, it is recommended to consider a combination of objective data, anecdotal evidence, and personal experiences when evaluating the comfort and performance of a mattress.
Best Overall
Lux Estate Plush Pillow Top by Stearns & Foster
Stearns & Foster, a renowned mattress brand, offers a diverse range of options designed to cater to various sleep preferences. Their flagship mattress combines inner springs, memory foam, and a pillow top to deliver a harmonious blend of comfort and support. While Stearns & Foster has expanded their product line to include hybrid and all-foam mattresses, their classic model remains an innerspring mattress.
Construction: The construction of the Stearns & Foster mattress features a top layer of eco-friendly memory foam, enveloped by a plush pillow top. This layer rests upon individually wrapped coils, followed by a layer of high-quality steel coils and a poly foam base. The mattress is available in different heights, typically ranging from 13.5 inches to 16 inches, without any significant impact on the overall firmness or support provided.
Firmness: Recognizing the significance of customizable firmness options, Stearns & Foster offers a variety of firmness levels for their classic mattress. These options typically include soft, luxury firm, and firm, ensuring that customers can select the level of firmness that best suits their personal comfort preferences and sleeping style.
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Best (less expensive) overall mattress
Align 8" Gel Memory Foam by Diamond Mattress
This mattress offers exceptional value and stands out among its competitors.
Construction: Align mattresses boast a straightforward design. They consist of foam layers with varying levels of density, without any proprietary technology commonly found in higher-priced alternatives. The 8-inch model features two layers of high-density foam, a layer of comfort foam, and a top layer of gel-infused memory foam. The gel infusion is intended to enhance heat dispersion, providing better temperature regulation compared to traditional memory foam. The breathable fabric cover is crafted with a moisture wicking fabric, woven knit to facilitate airflow and promote coolness.
Firmness and Support: This particular mattress is equipped with cooling gel memory foam and offers a single firmness option. However, specific guidelines regarding the firmness level are not clearly defined.
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Best Foam Mattresses
TEMPUR LUXEbreeze° Soft Sleeps 8° Cooler by Tempur-Pedic
Construction: Tempur-Breeze is a notable offering from Tempur-Pedic, a renowned brand recognized for its exceptional mattresses. Tempur-Breeze mattresses are specifically engineered to address temperature regulation, ensuring a cooler sleep experience. They feature multiple layers of advanced Tempur foam, which conform to the body's shape, providing superior comfort and support. These mattresses incorporate innovative cooling technologies to help dissipate heat and maintain a refreshing sleep environment.
Firmness and Support: Tempur-Breeze mattresses excel in offering customized firmness options to suit individual preferences. With varying levels of firmness available, individuals can select the option that best aligns with their desired comfort and support needs. These mattresses are designed to provide exceptional pressure relief and spinal alignment, promoting restful sleep in a cooler environment. Tempur-Breeze aims to deliver a personalized sleep solution that combines optimal support and temperature regulation for a truly refreshing and comfortable night's sleep.
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Best basic all-foam mattress
Cheer Memory foam mattress by Diamond
Diamond Mattress, a top choice for budget-conscious shoppers seeking all-foam mattresses, is highly regarded among consumers.
Construction: Diamond offers three Cheer mattress options: Firm, Medium, Plush. The Cheer model consists of two primary layers: a seven-inch base layer of dense foam for support and a three-inch top layer of proprietary Adaptive Foam infused with a cooling gel and graphite. This combination is specifically designed to provide a cool sleeping experience.
- Adds Luxurious bouncy & comfort unlike other memory foam mattresses
Firmness and Support: The Cheer mattress stands out not only for its affordability but also for its versatility. The simplicity of its construction helps keep the price lower compared to other foam competitors. The mattress aims to cater to a wide range of sleeping preferences and body weights, making it a suitable choice for various individuals seeking both comfort and support.
Diamond Mattresses commitment to affordability and broad appeal has made it a popular option for those seeking a quality all-foam mattress without breaking the bank.
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Best memory-foam mattress
Rally Medium Cool Copper Gel Foam by Diamond Mattress
Construction: The Diamond Mattress Rally Medium offers a well-crafted design that combines the benefits of memory foam with enhanced temperature regulation, providing an optimal sleep experience.
The Rally Medium mattress features multiple layers, including a quilted cover, gel-infused memory foam, and a support foam layer. The gel-infused memory foam helps dissipate heat, preventing overheating during sleep. The precise construction of the Rally Medium ensures a balanced blend of comfort and support, allowing for restful nights.
Firmness and Support: The Rally Medium is specifically engineered to offer a medium firmness level, catering to a wide range of sleep preferences. It provides a supportive surface while allowing for pressure relief and contouring to the body's curves. This mattress strikes a harmonious balance between support and comfort, ensuring a rejuvenating sleep experience for a variety of sleepers.
Diamond Mattress Rally Medium embodies quality craftsmanship and innovative features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking the benefits of memory foam without compromising on temperature regulation and overall sleep quality.
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Best latex mattress
Harvest Vegan Original by Harvest Green Mattress
Experience the ultimate in eco-conscious comfort with the Harvest Vegan Latex Original mattress, crafted with sustainable materials and designed to deliver a luxurious sleeping experience.
Construction: Harvest Vegan takes pride in creating mattresses that are not only comfortable but also environmentally friendly. The Latex Original mattress is meticulously crafted using natural and vegan materials. It features multiple layers, including a core layer of 100% natural Dunlop latex, known for its exceptional durability and support. The latex used is sourced from sustainable rubber tree plantations, ensuring a responsible approach to material selection. The mattress also includes a cover made from organic cotton, offering a soft and breathable surface.
Firmness and Support: The Harvest Vegan Latex Original mattress is designed to provide a medium-firm feel, striking a balance between plush comfort and reliable support. This firmness level suits a wide range of sleep preferences, making it an excellent choice for various sleepers.
With the Harvest Vegan Latex Original mattress, you can rest assured that your sleep experience is both luxurious and sustainable, as it combines the comfort of natural latex with a commitment to vegan and environmentally conscious practices.
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Best hybrid mattress
Anniversary III Firm Box Top by Scandinavian Collection Southerland
Experience the exceptional support and luxurious comfort of the Anniversary III Firm Box Top mattress by Southerland.
Construction: The Anniversary III Firm Box Top mattress boasts a thoughtfully designed construction that ensures a restful sleep experience. It features a firm box top layer for added cushioning and comfort. The mattress is built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, utilizing advanced mattress-making techniques. The precise details of the construction, such as the specific layers and materials used, are not provided in the given information.
Firmness and Support: The Anniversary III Firm Box Top mattress is designed to provide a firm level of support, catering to those who prefer a firmer sleeping surface. It offers excellent support for proper spinal alignment and is suitable for individuals who prefer a firmer feel while sleeping.
Enjoy the superior support and comfort of the Anniversary III Firm Box Top mattress by Southerland, ensuring a rejuvenating sleep experience night after night.
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In conclusion, the best mattresses discussed offer a diverse range of options to cater to various sleep preferences and needs. From established brands like Tempur-Breeze and Stearns & Foster to innovative newcomers like Diamond Mattress Rally Medium and Harvest Vegan Latex Original, there is something for everyone.
The construction of these mattresses showcases a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials. From hybrid designs with foam and innerspring coils to all-foam constructions, each mattress is built with careful attention to detail. Features such as zoned lumbar support, cooling technologies, and motion isolation contribute to a comfortable and undisturbed sleep experience.
Firmness and support levels vary among the mattresses, offering choices for different sleeping positions and preferences. Whether you prefer a plush, medium, or firm mattress, there are options available to suit your comfort needs.
Furthermore, customer benefits and enhancements such as extended trial periods, lifetime warranties, and convenient delivery services have become increasingly important in the mattress industry. Brands like Tempur-Pedic, Southerland, and Diamond prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to provide exceptional service.
Ultimately, the ideal mattress choice depends on individual preferences, body types, and sleeping habits. It is advisable to consider factors such as firmness, support, construction, and additional features when making a decision. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find the perfect mattress that promotes restful sleep and enhances your overall well-being.
