Best Mattress for Vacation Rentals

Written by Lauren Hapgood, Performance Editor

Methodology

Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief, and more.

Learn more.

In This Roundup

We’ll be discussing our top picks for the best mattresses for a vacation rental that are comfortable, affordable, durable for lots of use, and versatile for all kinds of sleepers.

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Whether it’s through Airbnb, HomeAway, Home To Go, or Luxury Retreats, vacation rentals are extremely popular. Owning one comes with a lot of benefits, but also a lot of expenses. For instance, you’ll have to buy or replace mattresses. Even in terms of high-quality options, the best mattress for vacation rentals doesn’t have to run your wallet dry. There are numerous beds ideal for these spaces, and we’ve compiled them all into this roundup. Here are the best mattresses for vacation rentals.

Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress For Vacation Rentals?

Our expert reviewers chose the Helix Midnight as the best mattress for vacation rentals due to its well-rounded features that can work for many types of sleepers. It’s durable enough for continuous use and has impressive pressure relieving features.

Best Mattress for Vacation Rentals: Our Top Picks

• Editor’s Pick – Helix Midnight
• Best Foam Mattress – Nectar Luxe
• Best Hybrid Mattress – DreamCloud
• Best Mattress for Back Pain – Nolah Signature 12”
• Best Mattress for Couples – The WinkBed
• Best Luxury Mattress  – Bear Elite Hybrid
• Best Mattress for the Money – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
• Best Mattress for Heavy People – Titan Plus

Compare the Best Mattresses for Vacation Rentals

	Helix Midnight Mattress	Nectar Luxe Mattress	DreamCloud Original Mattress	Nolah Signature 12″ Mattress	WinkBed Mattress	Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress	Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress	Titan Plus
Rating	4.1	4.5	4.0	4.1	4.6	4.5	4.0	4.2
Firmness	Medium-firm: 7/10	Soft: 6/10	Firm: 7.5/10	Medium-firm: 6.5/10	Multiple firmness options	Multiple firmness options	Multiple firmness options	Firm: 9/10
Material	Hybrid	Foam	Hybrid	Foam	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid
Cooling	—			—			—	—
Best For	Couples, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers	Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers	Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors	Side Sleepers	Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain	Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers	Couples, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain	Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

How We Chose the Best Mattresses for Vacation Rentals

Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 600 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.

To choose the Best Mattresses for Vacation Rentals, we focused on beds with medium-firm firmness levels. This balanced feel allows for a wider range of sleepers to rest soundly on the same mattress, something that’s crucial for a vacation rental.

Affordability was a large focus when creating this roundup, but only in tandem with durability; we wanted mattresses cheaper than the one you might have in your own home, but just as long-lasting. We also kept a close eye on motion transfer because many couples enjoy vacation rentals.

Lastly, we chose beds with good cooling abilities, an important feature for any guest space. One of the featured beds scored an above-average 3.5/5 for cooling, while the remaining nine scored at or above 4/5.

Best Overall- Helix Midnight

Pros of the Helix Midnight

Excellent value

Balance of support and pressure relief

Cooling build

Cons of the Helix Midnight

Stomach sleepers may feel under-supported

Lack of support for heavier sleepers

Our Expert’s Take

The Helix Midnight is our Editor’s Pick because it’s the dream vacation rental mattress. First off, its medium-firm construction appeals to a wide range of sleepers. Visiting couples will enjoy the bed’s stellar motion isolation, so they shouldn’t feel each other moving around at night. With coils and a breathable cover, there’s also plenty of cooling for hot sleepers. This can come in handy if your vacation rental is in a warmer climate or gets muggy during the summer months.

What the testers say: “The Helix Midnight is a crowd pleaser that makes it a fantastic choice for hosting others, and side sleepers in particular. The bed also strikes a nice universal feel with the slow-moving memory foam on top added to the bounce of a coil base layer.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Helix Midnight

• Made from a hybrid of high-density foams and sturdy coils, this mattress is durable.
• The Memory Plus foam in the comfort layer provides lots of contouring for impressive pressure relief.
• With good edge support and a responsive feel, visiting seniors should have an easy time getting in and out of bed.

What to Keep in Mind About the Helix Midnight

• This is a mattress tailored to side sleepers. Although side sleeping is the most common sleep position, your stomach-sleeping guests in particular may not be able to get as cozy. 
• Heavier side sleeping guests may complain that the bed lacks pressure relief.
• Helix’s 10-year warranty offers less coverage than mattresses with comparable builds.

Other User Reviews

Reviewers agreed that Helix Midnight is a hit with guests: “Bought it as a guest bed for a variety of sleepers. Everyone has stated that it was extremely comfortable,” writes verified buyer Bonnie R. Negative reviews tended to focus on delivery and customer service issues.

Read our full Helix Midnight mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for more great options.

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Best Memory Foam Mattress for Vacation Rentals- Nectar Luxe

Pros of the Nectar Luxe

Highly cooling build

365-night sleep trial

Robust height and durable build

Cons of the Nectar Luxe

Higher price tag for an all-foam build

May feel too slow-moving for some

Our Expert’s Take

Foam mattresses have a bad reputation for their durability and cooling ability, two of the most important aspects of any vacation rental. You won’t have to worry about this with the Nectar Luxe. With a height of 14”, a 9” high-density base foam support layer, and impressive edge support, it can last over 10 years. This mattress includes many cooling features: a copper-infused cooling cover, Phase Change Material, and gel-infused foam. So, it sleeps cooler than most all-foam beds.

What the testers say: “Some people, especially people who sleep hot, understandably may turn their nose up at all-foam mattresses. The Nectar Luxe is like the holy grail though when it comes to all-foam mattresses that have a cooling effect, rivaled by few others.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Nectar Luxe

• This foam mattress has a balanced feel, so guests who favor support and guests who favor pressure relief should all be pleased.
• It’s a luxury mattress, so it’s a nice high-end touch to your rental home.
• It has a 365-night trial, a lifetime warranty, free shipping, and free returns, showing Nectar’s confidence in their product.

What to Keep in Mind About the Nectar Luxe

• Being a vacation rental, you may want to add a mattress protector, and a basic mattress protector may mitigate the cooling properties of the Nectar Premier Cooper.
• The Nectar Original mattress may be more than adequate for non-fussy guests, and is more budget-friendly.
• Despite its robust build, you may have to deal with the perception from guests that any all-foam mattress isn’t a “real” mattress.

Other User Reviews

Verified buyer Jonathan W. wrote that he bought a Nectar Luxe for his Airbnb after enjoying his own, and said “guests love it as well.” The bed averages 4.5 out of 5 stars among 2,000-plus reviews. Some negative reviewers said they did not like how slow-moving the mattress felt.

Read our full Nectar Luxe mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Memory Foam Mattresses for more great options.

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Best Hybrid Mattress for a Vacation Rental- Dreamcloud

Pros of the DreamCloud

Brand runs excellent deals

Lifetime warranty and 365-night sleep trial

Plush quilted top

Cons of the DreamCloud

Heavier folks may need more support

Lesser motion isolation

Our Expert’s Take

The best foam mattress and innerspring mattress become one in the DreamCloud, our pick for best hybrid. This bed provides a luxury feel and high-quality materials at an affordable price. With a cashmere-blend cover, gel-infused memory foam, and strong coils for support, your guests should be more than satisfied with their rest.

What the testers say: “The DreamCloud will make an impression on any guest off the bat with its quilted foam top that is a favorite among testers. Most weights and sleep positions can get comfortable on the DreamCloud as well, although heavier people may need a tad more support.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the DreamCloud

• Thanks to the support from its springs, the DreamCloud shouldn’t sag and can last up to eight years.
• With a breathable cover, gel-infused foam, and coils for airflow, guests shouldn’t overheat.
• This mattress is a bit firmer than average, so it can accommodate body types up to around 270 lb.

What to Keep in Mind About the DreamCloud

• Heavier guests may not find they have enough pressure relief or support.
• The price of the DreamCloud fluctuates substantially based on sales, so you may have to time your purchase based on when a sale is live if you’re on a budget.

Other User Reviews

DreamCloud has garnered a 4.6 out of 5 rating from almost 9,000 reviews. “I bought my DreamCloud hybrid mattress for the guest room. Every person who has used it has expressed how well they slept and how much they loved the mattress,” writes verified buyer Neil D. Negative reviews said the bed didn’t meet the sleepers’ firmness expectations.

Read our full DreamCloud mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Hybrid Mattresses for more great options.

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Best Vacation Rental Mattress for Back Pain- Nolah Signature 12”

Pros of the Nolah Signature 12″

Uses propietary Airfoam

Excellent pressure relief for side sleepers

Lifetime warranty

Cons of the Nolah Signature 12″

Slightly pricier all-foam bed

Lacks the desired traditional memory foam feel for some

Our Expert’s Take

Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute states that 65 million Americans report a recent episode of back pain. If you have guests who count themselves among this number, you’ll want an amazing orthopedic mattress to help with their back issues. You may find just that in the Nolah Signature 12”. Its medium-firm construction provides lumbar support, and also allows for comfort in a number of sleeping positions. The top layer of Airform contours to pressure points while side sleeping, and its high-density base layer gives lots of support to back sleepers.

What the testers say: “Stomach sleepers being an exception, Nolah Signature boasts excellent support and spinal alignment to keep back pain at bay. The bed’s use of Airfoam, the brand’s bouncier, more responsive take on memory foam, can also win over even the most ardent skeptics of all-foam mattresses.”– Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Nolah Signature 12”

• Nolah cuts out the middleman by selling all their mattresses online, so the Nolah Signature 12” comes at a reasonable cost.
• The transition layer of Deep Supportive High-Resilience foam prevents sleepers from sinking too far into the mattress and losing support.
• It has a 100% organic cotton cover with a luxury feel.

What to Keep in Mind About the Nolah Signature 12”

• Guests may not be a fan of the Nolah Signature’s edge support, which garnered a mediocre score (3/5) out of the sleep lab. 
• Some guests may scoff at the idea of sleeping on an all-foam bed, and favor a more traditional innerspring mattress.

Other User Reviews

Nolah Signature has a 4.9 out of 5 among reviewers, although there’s no readily available way to see how many reviews have been left, or sort for negative ones. Verified buyer Dewey M wrote that the Nolah “completely relieves my back pain,” allowing a good night’s rest.

Read our full Nolah Signature 12” mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Back Pain for more great options.

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Best Vacation Rental Mattress for Couples – The WinkBed

Pros of the WinkBed

Available in multiple firmness options

Accessible to all sleeper types

Lifetime warranty

Cons of the WinkBed

Less motion transfer than what we typically recommend for couples

A bit pricey for consumers on a budget

Our Expert’s Take

When couples book a high-end getaway, the bed’s mattress is a critical element of their stay. The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress accessible to all sleeper types. That level of accessibility across sleeping patterns makes it ideal for unpredictable houseguests or couples sharing a bed. Our testers found that they could find the support (5/5) and comfort each needed atop the mattress, across an array of sleeping preferences. Furthermore, couples sharing the WinkBed can expect consistent support across the entire mattress; our testers gave the WinkBed a perfect 5/5 for its edge support.

Beyond quality sleep, the WinkBed is one of the better mattresses for sex due to its excellent bounce and responsiveness. Our testers found the WinkBed easy to move around on without sinking into the mattress, offering couples a quality foundation for intimacy during holidays. The WinkBed is also built to provide quality temperature regulation (4/5) and a cool sleeping surface, so couples sharing body heat won’t be sweating next to each other. If you’re accommodating couples often in your rental, the WinkBed is a versatile, accessible, and likely safer bet base for most relationship getaways.   

What the testers say: “Because the WinkBed is bouncy and responsive, it should be a great fit for partners who don’t want to feel stuck in this mattress. Although the motion isolation suffers a bit as a result, I think the solid edge support makes it for it. If you want to be on the safe side to please guests in a vacation rental situation, a king-size might be an even better option to ensure motion transfer is less disruptive.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the WinkBed

• The WinkBed is available in four firmness options: soft (great for side sleepers), medium firm (6/10), firm (great for stomach sleepers), and firm plus (great for heavier sleepers).
• The WinkBed has a hot sleeper-friendly construction. Using a breathable and plush Tencel-cover top, gel-infused cooling foam, and a zoned coiled layer for airflow, hot sleepers should find solace on the WinkBed.
• The WinkBed is great for seniors due to its excellent edge support, which makes it easy to get in and out of bed, and its supportive build for people struggling with back or hip pain.

What to Keep in Mind About the WinkBed 

• The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress with a price tag that reflects that. While I’d consider it a good investment for a couples-focused rental, it may be a bit out of your budget for expenses.
• The WinkBed runs a bit firmer than all-foam beds. While our testers found that it offers quality support to side sleepers, especially heavier ones, quite well, it may feel too firm for fans of that super plush memory foam feel.

Other User Reviews

WinkBeds’ website had 8,774 customer reviews of this luxury hybrid mattress, averaging 4.8/5. One verified buyer shared his and his wife’s experience on the WinkBed, stating, “I switched from a foam bed, which slept hot, has no solid edge, to this bed. My wife and I love it. I sleep sideways, and she sleeps facing down (she could not do that in the foam bed). It is also more bouncy, which is great to have fun with the wife.”

Read our full WinkBed mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Couples for more great options.

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Best Luxury Mattress for a Vacation Rental- Bear Elite Hybrid

Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid

Unique build and cooling materials

Zoned support

Marketed for athletes and active people

Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid

May be beyond some budgets

Lacks memory foam feel some prefer

Our Expert’s Take

Want your guests to feel like royalty? Invest in a luxury mattress like the Bear Elite Hybrid. It’s available in three different firmnesses: extra plush, luxury firm, and ultra firm. For catering to the widest range of guests, we suggest you opt for the luxury firm option. This balanced, medium-firm construction comes from its combination of sturdy coils and pressure-relieving foam. We particularly love the zoned support system in this mattress. This means it’s firmer towards the center and softer towards the head and foot of the bed. It allows for optimal spinal alignment, regardless of your sleeping position.

What the testers say: “The balanced foam feel of this mattress creates a luxe feeling of comfort and security, making the Elite Hybrid a great option for any ‘superhost,’ as Airbnb would call it, who goes above and beyond by touting a luxury bed in their listing.” – Elisa, Reviewer

What We Love About the Bear Elite Hybrid

• At 14” tall, this bed is extremely durable.
• The cover includes Phase Change Material, our favorite cooling fabric.
• The Bear Elite Hybrid uses copper-infused memory foam, which is cooling and antimicrobial.

What to Keep in Mind About the Bear Elite Hybrid

• Guests who like a slow-moving memory foam mattress may not like the responsive Bear Elite.
• Heavyweight stomach-sleeping guests may not get enough support under the hips.
• The Elite Hybrid is one of Bear’s most luxury mattresses with a higher price point, but the Bear Original mattress may more than suffice for most guests.

Other User Reviews

Nearly 4,000 reviews give the Bear Elite Hybrid 4.6 out of 5 stars. Verified buyer Sanela A., who said she previously slept on a $4,000 mattress, summed up the affordable luxury appeal well: “I have to say that this is probably the best mattress I ever slept on. The perfect firmness, it really does make you feel cooler when you sleep.” Less flattering reviews said the bed didn’t nail the preferred firmness.

Read our full Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Luxury Mattresses for more great options.

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Best Vacation Rental Mattress for the Money- Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

A solid value hybrid

Multiple firmness options

Plush top layer

Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

May be too soft for some

Heavier sleepers may need more support

Our Expert’s Take

Because Brooklyn Bedding owns their own factory, they can cut out the middleman. The result is a high-quality mattress set at an amazing value: the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. It’s a hybrid mattress, using a combination of TitanFlex foam and Ascension coils. It comes in three firmnesses: Soft, Medium, and Firm. For vacation rentals, we recommend the medium version; it ranks 6.5/10 on our firmness scale, so it accommodates most back, side, and stomach sleepers.

What the testers say: “Brooklyn Bedding has a solid line of good value beds, and their hybrid stands out as especially having bang for the buck. I also love that the firmness can be custom ordered, including a medium firmness that should suit vacation rentals nicely.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

• Its cover features a plush, pillow-top feel and is soft to the touch.
• This mattress comes in a number of different sizes, from Twin XL and Short Full to Olympic Queen and Split California King. It’s great for almost any space.
• Its high-quality materials should allow guests to enjoy this mattress for 7–10 years.

What to Keep in Mind About the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

• May not offer enough support for heavyweight guests.
• The 10-year warranty is one of the more middling warranties out there.
• The bed did lack motion isolation under testing in the sleep lab, and that factor may interrupt the sleep of guests who are sharing the mattress.

Other User Reviews

Nearly 11,000 reviews give the Signature Hybrid a 4.7 out of 5. Verified buyer Annette W. wrote that guests, especially older guests, “love” the bed: “Some with back problems said their back felt great the next morning. Many say it’s the best sleep they’ve had in a very long time.” Less favorable reviewers said they preferred the more luxury Bloom Hybrid, and others found the bed to feel too soft.

Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for the Money for more great options.

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Best Vacation Rental Mattress for Heavy People- Titan Plus

Pros of the Titan Plus

Can support upwards of 1000 lbs

Great for stomach sleepers

Superior motion transfer

Cons of the Titan Plus

Likely too firm for most non-heavy-weight sleepers

Our Expert’s Take

Heavier sleepers need a firmer bed with durable posture support that prevents problematic sinkage. The Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding is explicitly designed for heavier sleepers, providing a hyper-durable base and precision firmness level that heavier side, back, and stomach sleepers should all be able to enjoy. Furthermore, our testers found the Titan Plus great for hot sleepers, giving it a 4.5/5 for its cooling abilities. This is due to the bed’s cooling memory foam and innerspring hybrid design, which should help your guests fall asleep feeling cool rather than running to raise the AC (potentially helping save on some bills).

In addition to being durably (4/5) built enough to accommodate the heaviest of sleepers (up to 500 lb), this bed is made to last rather than sag, with one tester claiming, “The Titan Plus is made with high-density foams and industrial coils that are designed to support heavier weights over the long haul. This should be a great long-term investment. I expect it to last at least a decade.”     

What the testers say: “Even though this is a firm bed, it does a great job of minimizing motion transfer. The foam in the top layers absorbs movement and helps limit disturbances across the surface of the bed. This could be a decent mattress for couples (particularly when both partners are larger).” –Marten, Lead Reviewer

What We Love About the Titan Plus

• The Titan Plus is CertiPUR-US® certified, meaning it has a more eco-friendly production process and a less toxic build (low in volatile organic compounds).
• According to Brooklyn Bedding, the Titan Plus should be able to offer comfort and support to sleepers weighing up to 1,000 lb. Making this one of the most durable and heavy-sleeper-friendly beds available today.
• The Titan Plus is relatively affordable for its level of durability and luxury compared to competing mattresses, making it a potentially smart and bargain investment.

What to Keep in Mind About the Titan Plus

• While lightweight stomach sleepers may find the Titan Plus suitable, most non-heavy-weight sleepers will find the Titan Plus’s 9/10 firmness too firm.
• Heavier side sleepers should get decent support on the Titan Plus without sinking into the bed’s comfort layers, which may happen in a less durable bed. Still, the Titan Plus may not offer enough pressure relief for some heavier side sleepers. We suggest you consider the softer Titan Plus Luxe mattress as a more luxe, soft alternative for guests that’s still supportive.

Other User Reviews

On Amazon, the Titan Plus has 105 verified customer reviews, averaging a score of 4.5/5. One plus-size customer attested to Titan Plus’s claims, stating,  “I’m a big girl and I literally buy a new mattress every year for $600+ because every mattress I’ve owned eventually gives out in the spot where I lay after a few months. I would always end up with back and hip pain after a few months, never getting a good night’s sleep because of tossing and turning to stay comfortable. I did a ton of research and decided to invest in a mattress built to stand my weight. This mattress does not disappoint!!!! The first night I slept on it, I got a full night of sleep. I woke up 2 hours earlier than I normally do feeling refreshed and with no back pain. If you’re like me, stop wasting your money on Sertas and other brands not made for heavy-set people. This mattress is so worth it.”

Read our full Titan Plus mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Heavy People for more great options.

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The Best Firmness for a Vacation Rental Mattress

The mattress industry rates mattress firmness on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. The best firmness for a sleeper’s needs depends on their body type, sleeping position, and personal preferences. What’s tricky about buying a mattress for your vacation rental is that it’s hard to find a bed to make everyone happy. That’s why it’s best to opt for a medium-firm mattress (about a 6.5/10 on the firmness scale). It strikes a balance between comfort and support that should accommodate most sleepers.

The Best Constructions for a Vacation Rental Mattress

Memory Foam

Memory foam is known for its unique slow-moving nature. It has excellent contouring abilities that promote a hug-like feel and provide pressure relief to pain points. In the context of a vacation rental mattress, memory foam beds can be quite comfortable. Where these mattresses often fall short is in their durability and cooling ability.

Luckily, many companies recognized the shortcomings of memory foam, so they created beds that defy its bad reputation. We recommend finding a memory foam mattress with cooling features, such as gel, graphite, or copper-infused foam. Use of thermoregulating Phase Change Material also promotes breathability. Additionally, we suggest finding a memory foam bed with high-quality materials and a high-density base foam layer. This should result in a much more supportive, long-lasting construction.

Innerspring

Innerspring beds are famous for their traditional feel. The construction centers around the sturdiness of thick coils and includes a much thinner comfort layer. This classic spring construction is great for cooling, since its coils allow for breathability. These beds tend to be much more durable than other materials like foam, which have the tendency to sag. You can expect unparalleled support from these mattresses; the innerspring is designed to handle more weight than base foams.

That said, innerspring mattresses tend to be more expensive than other beds. They also have poor motion isolation. For any couples staying at the vacation rental, motion isolation is crucial. A bed with great motion isolation allows couples to sleep soundly, so they shouldn’t wake up from each other’s movements at night. If you’re set on an innerspring, try to find one with a thicker comfort layer. Purchasing a mattress topper can improve motion isolation to an extent.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses are referred to as the “best of both worlds.” They combine the pressure-relieving qualities of a memory foam mattress and the support of an innerspring. This hybrid of foam and coils is great for vacation rentals. While it definitely depends on the manufacturer, these beds often offer a balanced feel, where sleepers feel comfortable without getting stuck in the material. These mattresses are durable, cooling, and supportive, but they can come at a higher price point. Luckily, our roundup features a number of more affordable options.

Latex

Latex mattresses are increasingly popular because they’re a sustainable, hypoallergenic option. As a bedding material, latex is naturally cooling and makes for some very durable mattresses. You’ll often find latex in transition layers because it provides a bouncier feel, allowing sleepers to sleep more “on top of” the mattress. Because latex is difficult to source, these beds generally come at a higher price point. They also have a unique, responsive feel that not everyone appreciates. However, if you’re wanting to go green and help your guests feel supported all night long, a latex bed is the way to go.

Qualities to Look For in a Vacation Rental Mattress

Aside from materials and firmness levels, there are a number of other considerations when it comes to selecting the best vacation rental mattress.

Cooling

Rentals in warmer climates or with popular locations in summer months should pay special attention to the cooling aspects of a mattress. It’s important to keep guests from overheating at night, especially if they’re sleeping with a partner. We recommend you check out our favorite cooling mattresses and cooling sheets for more information.

Durability

With so many different people sleeping on a mattress, there are a variety of body types and sleeping styles introduced to the same surface. The wrong mattress can sag easily and cause an awful night’s sleep for guests. So this is the least of your worries, make durability a focus. Our roundup is full of them, but there are plenty of other great options out there that won’t sag.

Whether It Suits Couples

Of course, vacation rentals are popular for couples’ getaways. It’s a good idea to ensure a bed suits more than one person. Beds with cooling abilities can help dissipate body heat, and durable beds are ideal for holding extra weight. However, motion isolation can be a crucial factor as well. Mattresses with good motion isolation prevent partners from waking up each other while they toss and turn at night. For more, check out our roundup for the best mattresses for couples.

Paying for a Vacation Rental Mattress

How Much You Should Spend

It goes without saying that it’s tough to shell out thousands of dollars on a mattress that’s going in a rental and not your own home. Luckily, quality mattresses for great values exist all over the mattress industry! When looking for the best vacation rental mattress, it’s important to balance affordability with durability and quality of materials. That said, if it suits your wallet, we suggest looking for a mattress under $1,000. Companies that normally price their beds higher offer price slashes multiple times a year. If you’re set on a model but it’s too expensive now, it’s possible that the company will lower prices sometime soon.

Beds like the Dreamfoam Essential come at much lower price points and make our list for the best cheap mattresses. We appreciate the Dreamfoam Essential and how it includes more extra features and better materials than other lower-priced mattresses. However, always be on the lookout for cheaper mattresses; there’s often a reason why they’re cheap.

Finding the Best Deals

There are a few times a year where companies habitually slash their prices, and these often occur on holidays. Here’s when you can access those sweet deals:

• President’s Day (February)
• Memorial Day (May)
• Labor Day (September)
• Thanksgiving / Cyber 5 (November)
• Christmas (December)

Warranties and Sleep Trials

Before clicking on the “checkout” button, take a close look at a mattress company’s warranty and sleep trial. These are indications of a company’s confidence in their product. Additionally, a longer warranty or sleep trial allows you more time to test out a mattress and determine if it’s the best fit for your rental.

Warranties are used to cover the customer in the event a mattress is damaged by a manufacturing flaw. Every company is different, so each warranty covers different circumstances. It’s imperative to read the fine print so you understand what the company commits to replacing.

Sleep trials are an allotment of time where customers can test out the mattress. They should use this time to determine whether the mattress suits their body type, sleeping position, and personal preferences. The longer the sleep trial, the better.

How to Care for Your Vacation Rental Mattress

How to Clean Your Mattress

A lot of guests will be using the mattress at your vacation rental, and so they’ll require a lot of cleaning. It’s important to keep up on maintenance to help make your mattress last longer. Also worth mentioning: above any advice you see online (including this article), you should consult the mattress manufacturer. Mattress constructions vary widely, and not all are treated the same when it comes to spot treating or deep cleaning. When in doubt, here are some tips that should work for most mattresses:

Deep Clean: After stripping away and washing the bedding, start with the vacuum cleaner. Using the hose attachment across the surface of the mattress can pick up loose dust or particles. After treating stains (outlined below), sprinkle baking soda across the mattress surface and let sit for a few hours to remove moisture and odor. Vacuum the surface again to pick up the baking soda particles and repeat with the other side. After cleaning, expose your mattress to sunlight so it can air out for a few hours. This can be done indoors with an open window, or outdoors if laid on a clean surface.

Spots and Stains: Overall, it’s best to treat the stain by putting one part white vinegar and one part water into a spray bottle. Leave the mixture there for 5–10 minutes, then dab the excess moisture with a cloth or rag. However, certain stains require certain removal processes. For more information on this, take a look at our article on how to clean mattress stains.

When to Replace Your Mattress

How often should you replace your mattress? This can be difficult to determine because mattress lifespan is largely dependent on the quality of materials used and overall construction. You can expect memory foam mattresses to last around 6-8 years because they tend to sag. Latex, hybrids, and innersprings can last 10 years or even more if cared for properly.

The easiest way to tell whether or not you need to replace your mattress is from physical signs of wear. Of course, visible sagging and general discomfort are signs. Your mattress may be yellowing because of allergens or aggravating your allergies. Perhaps your mattress is really noisy or you can feel the springs when you lie down. Perhaps there’s an odor that’s not going away. If it’s causing your unpleasantness or discomfort in any form, maybe it’s time to invest in a new mattress.

How to Protect Your Vacation Rental Mattress

Buy a Mattress Protector: If you want to extend the lifespan of your vacation rental mattress, using one of the best mattress protectors is a great start. They keep your mattress safe from contaminants like allergens, bed bugs, and stains.

Use a Box Spring, Platform, or Foundation: Placing a mattress over a box spring, platform, or foundation gives it a sturdy surface for a more comfortable night’s sleep. It also keeps the mattress off the ground and prevents premature wear. The option that’s best for your mattress often depends on the materials and construction. Learn the difference between the three in our article: Box Spring vs Foundations vs Platform Beds.

Rotate Your Mattress: Rotating a mattress from head to foot, or 180 degrees, evens out the wear on a mattress. It allows sleepers to rest on fresher spots of a mattress, giving heavily-used spots on the mattress a break. If you’re interested in learning more, take a look at our article on how to properly rotate your mattress.

Clean It Regularly: Cleaning a mattress regularly and caring for stains as soon as possible can increase your mattress’s lifespan. See our section above for more information on how to clean your mattress.

For additional information, check out our article: 11 Ways to Make Your Mattress Last Longer.

How to Maximize Space in Your Airbnb or Vacation Rental

Purchase a Space-Saving Bed

• Pull-Out Couch: A two-in-one steal, pull-out couches are popular, cost-effective options that make room for an additional guest.
• Bunk Bed: Want an extra bed for any younger guests, but don’t have the space? A bunk bed is a classic option, and many come at affordable prices.
• Murphy Bed: These beds are sneaky in that they’re often disguised as furniture, such as a dresser. In fact, they’re fold-out mattresses. The multifunctional bed is a solid choice for any vacation rental.
• Twin / Twin XL: Sizing down is always an option. If you’re wanting an extra bed in your rental space but it doesn’t need to be a big one, try a Twin or Twin XL (a Twin bed, but longer).

Take Advantage of Natural Lighting

Letting the daylight in can work wonders for a space, making it feel much larger. Bonus points if you’ve got walls that are lighter in color; it can make you feel less confined. Did you know that natural light provides a number of sleep benefits, too? Learn more about this in our article: How Does Light Affect Sleep?

Consider Vertical Storage

Vertical storage doesn’t have to be difficult to access. The addition of floating shelves, cabinetry, stacking drawers, and racks are some of the many ways folks are using vertical storage today. This can be great for a vacation rental, transforming a cramped space into one that has room for a couch or another mattress.

How to Make Your Vacation Rental Mattress More Comfortable

Buy a Mattress Topper

Mattress toppers are ideal for changing the firmness and feel of a mattress. If the model you bought is just a touch too soft or firm for most guests, adding the right topper can create a far more comfortable sleeping surface. If this interests you, see our roundup for the best mattress toppers.

Purchase a Mattress Pad

Mattress pads typically have thinner comfort layers than mattress toppers, so they don’t drastically change the feel of a mattress. They are still used for added cushioning. Mattress pads can be waterproof and act as a protector against contaminants, as well. Learn more by checking out our article about mattress pads versus mattress toppers.

Invest in Good Pillows

If the pillows provided to guests start to sag and lose their shape, it can cause a lot of unnecessary discomfort. That’s why it’s important to invest in a good pillow. Adjustable pillows are great for vacation rentals because they allow the sleeper to customize the loft. Need to replace your pillow? Head on over to our roundup for the best pillows on the market.

Find a Great Sheet Set

A good sheet set should last about two years of constant use. It’s pretty easy to tell when to replace a set. Visible signs of wear such as holes, yellowing, and split seams are some examples. There are a number of amazing sheet sets on the market, and some of our favorites are outlined in our best sheets roundup. In the context of a vacation rental, you can even purchase a nice set of cooling sheets for the hotter months and a flannel set in the winter. That way, guests sleep cozy year-round.

Overall

Here’s a summary of our top picks for vacation rentals:

Mattress	Superlative
Helix Midnight	Editor’s Pick
Nectar Luxe	Best Foam Mattress
DreamCloud	Best Hybrid Mattress
Nolah Signature 12”	Best Mattress for Back Pain
The WinkBed	Best Mattress for Couples
Bear Elite Hybrid	Best Luxury Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid	Best Mattress for the Money
Titan Plus	Best Mattress for Heavy People

Still looking for your next perfect mattress? Try taking our mattress quiz for personalized recommendations!

FAQ

How thick should my vacation rental mattress be?

Mattress thickness often indicates durability, so a mattress on the thicker side is ideal. We recommend looking for a mattress with a height of at least 10”.

What bed is best for a vacation rental?

While different mattresses suit different situations, we’d say that the Helix Midnight is our favorite overall. Our editor’s pick for this roundup, the Helix Midnight balances comfort and support and should cater to a wide range of sleepers. It has impressive cooling properties, should work well for couples, and is durable.

What’s the most comfortable mattress for a vacation rental?

We think the most comfortable option for most is going to be the Bear Elite Hybrid or the Nectar Luxe. The Bear Elite Hybrid is our favorite luxury pick with all the bells and whistles. The Nectar Luxe is our favorite foam mattress, providing lots of pressure relief. Both are pricier options on the list, but we like to think the extra cost is worth the unmatched comfort.

What types of mattresses are used in hotels?

A lot of hotels use luxury options with hybrid or innerspring constructions. If you’re looking to provide your guests with a hotel bed feel without breaking the bank, take a look at the DreamCloud.