With thousands of options out there, finding the best mattress can be a trial for the average shopper. Do you want a mattress with springs or one made entirely of foam? A budget buy or a luxury option? Cooling, hypoallergenic, or organic? The choices feel endless.
Our experts have tested hundreds of these online mattresses, so we’re here to make your search easier. To find the best of the best from the myriad mattress brands on the online market, we prioritized beds that scored well across the board in our tests. Whether you’re a co-sleeper looking for an all-foam mattress to keep you cooler at night or a combination sleeper wanting a bouncy bed with latex foam, we’ve got you covered. Take a gander at our hand-picked recommendations so you can start getting the best sleep of your life.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Mattress Overall?
After reviewing more than 600 mattresses, our expert testers chose the Nectar as the best mattress. This well-rounded, medium-firm memory foam bed offers sleepers great pressure relief and temperature regulation at a more than reasonable price.
The Best Mattresses of 2026
- Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress – Best Mattress Overall
- Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress – Best Mattress for Back Pain
- DreamCloud Classic Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress
- Saatva Classic – Best Firm Mattress
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – Best Cooling Mattress
- WinkBed Plus Mattress – Best Mattress for Heavy People
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
- Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress – Best Luxury Mattress
- Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
- Birch Luxe Natural Mattress – Best Organic Mattress
Top Deals
- Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress – Save Up to 50% on Mattresses & 66% on Bundles
- Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress – 27% Off Sitewide with Code CLARITY27
- DreamCloud Classic Hybrid – Up to 60% Off Mattresses + 66% Off Bundles
- Saatva Classic – $300 Off Orders of $1,000+
- Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid – 25% Off Mattresses and Bedding; Up to 30% Off Mattress and Adjustable Base Bundle
How We Tested and Selected the Mattresses
The best of the best mattresses are those that rose to the top during our testing. Of the hundreds of beds that we’ve tested, the average overall score fell at 4.2 out of 5, so we naturally looked for beds that scored 4.3 or higher for our top picks.
More than this, we looked for beds that earned 4.5 and above in multiple performance categories. High-ticket areas like pressure relief, motion isolation, and cooling are essential factors for most sleepers seeking high-quality mattresses. We also noted where our top beds fell short, though it was often only in one area. These mattresses performed admirably in our studio and are all well-rounded options that should cater to a variety of personal preferences.
Regardless of what type of mattress you purchase, you’re going to want it to be an investment. With that in mind, we looked for mattresses that will last well into the typical 7- to 10-year lifespan or more. To judge durability, we looked for markers of quality construction. We often chose coil mattresses over foam for their ability to hold shape, for example; when we chose the latter, we made sure that each layer was dense and well-constructed.
We also paid special attention to edge support, as the less a mattress sags when you sit or lie along the perimeter, the less likely the bed as a whole will sag over time. All but one of our mattresses earned a 4 out of 5 rating for edge support.
Finally, we also considered the length of the mattress manufacturer’s warranty, which can be a preview of how long the brand expects its bed to last. All of these mattresses come with a lifetime warranty, which also earned a 5-out-of-5 score and boosted the overall customer service rating.
For most mattress shoppers, price is going to be an important factor (if not the most important factor). But it’s not enough to simply seek out the cheapest price to get the best deal. This is why we considered value more than price, which is a reflection of whether the product’s price directly correlates with its quality.
Sometimes beds that seem like great deals are only so because of their cheap construction. We made sure to find beds that are affordable but high-quality, as well as beds that might come in at a higher price point but are worth every penny. We took a look at everything from construction to performance highlights to company policies to ensure every mattress on this list is worth its weight in gold.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches selected the best beds by looking for top performers in the categories above: well-rounded scores, durability, and value.
But our full process involved testing numerous aspects of a bed’s performance, including cooling, motion transfer, and more. We evaluated and scored these factors using specialized technology as well as firsthand accounts of how the bed felt to testers with different body types.
Once we gathered all those scores, we calculated the bed’s overall score using a weighted formula. This overall score is a good indicator of a mattress’s general quality, and is always a number out of 5.
In deciding which mattresses to feature on any roundup, we only included beds with an overall score of 3.5 out of 5 or higher. Even if a mattress performed well in certain categories, we won’t point you toward it if it falls below this baseline. As mentioned, we upped it a bit for this list, only including mattresses that fell at 4.3 or above.
Learn more about how we test mattresses at Mattress Clarity.
- 500+ mattresses tested in person
- 30+ data points collected for each bed
- Certified Sleep Science Coaches on staff
- Expert input from our Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta (MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM) and our Chief Medical Product Tester Dr. Hannah Habeeb (DPT)
- 40,000+ readers who bought a new bed based on our recommendations
Learn more about Mattress Clarity.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Compare the Best Mattresses
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| Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress | Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress | DreamCloud Classic Hybrid | Saatva Classic | Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid | WinkBed Plus Mattress | Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress | Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress | Birch Luxe Natural Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-Firm: 7/10 | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 7.5/10 |
| Material | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers |
Our Best Mattresses Video Review
Read about our testing experience with each of the beds on our list below.
Nectar – Best Mattress Overall
The Nectar is an affordable all-foam mattress that offers lots of pressure relief and body contouring. It works well for most side sleepers, because it helps cushion shoulders and hips. It is also a good option for couples, because it isolates motion well. However, the Nectar mattress isn’t supportive enough for most stomach sleepers and heavyweight people. If you tend to sleep hot at night, you may want to look for a mattress with more cooling features. Learn more in our Nectar mattress video review.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: A touch firmer than your industry-standard medium-firm, this bed has a more supportive feel than your traditional foam mattress, providing decent lift for back sleepers.
- Cooling: The Nectar’s cooling cover helps keep hot sleepers cool throughout the night — a rare feat for foam mattresses.
- Motion Isolation: The doughy top layers of foam help absorb movements of restless sleepers, making it a solid choice for couples.
Why the Nectar Classic is the Best Mattress Overall
The best mattress overall should be one that appeals to a variety of sleepers, has performed well overall in our testing, and comes in at a reasonable price. The bed that most fits this description is the Nectar Classic Memory Foam.
This flagship all-foam mattress earned an overall score of 4.4/5, excelling in cooling (5/5), motion isolation (4.7/5), and customer service (5/5). It’s got a comfortable, albeit slightly firm, feel with enough cushiness and pressure relief for traditional foam fans, but it’s balanced by a sturdy support layer that also adds a bit of lift and response.
The Classic also comes in at an excellent price point, with a queen-size costing around $649 (after a routine markdown). Its top-shelf performance, combined with bargain basement prices, is why it was selected as our best overall mattress.
What Our Testers Say: “This mattress is elevating my hips enough because of the firmness, and there’s just a little sinkage to create a really nice balance.” – Sosha Lewis, certified sleep science coach
Firmness: 7/10
This mattress has an “on-top” feel that skews it slightly firmer than true medium-firm.
Pressure Relief: 3.7/5
Below average. The Nectar offers better pressure relief for back sleepers.
Edge Support: 3.4/5
Below average. While lying down along the edges of the Nectar Classic mattress feels seamless, there’s a lot more sinkage when you’re seared at the perimeter.
Cooling: 5/5
Exceptional. The bed’s cooling cover has a crisp feel.
Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Above average. Most disturbances should be stifled on the Nectar Classic, allowing light sleepers to sleep peacefully.
Response: 4/5
Below average. The doughy nature of foam can make moving around a challenge on the Nectar mattress.
Who Might Like the Nectar Classic
- Back sleepers: Several of our in-house testers attest that this mattress provides great support and pressure relief when lying on their backs, particularly in the lower back.
- Hot sleepers: Hot sleepers looking for a foam mattress should opt for the Nectar, as it recorded a temperature increase of only 3.9 degrees after a few minutes.
- Value shoppers: Often marked down to about $650 for a queen mattress, this is a quality mattress for anyone on a budget.
Who Might Not Like the Nectar Classic
- Strict side sleepers: The firmer “on top” feel of the Nectar may cause pressure buildup on the shoulders and hips, so they may want a softer foam mattress that offers more contouring.
- Heavyweight sleepers: Even with its firmer feel, the Nectar Classic may not have enough support for folks over 230 pounds, especially if they sleep on their stomach.
- People with mobility issues: The lackluster edge support caused me to sink considerably while seated on the bed’s perimeter. If you’re looking for top-notch edge support, I’d recommend a bed like the Saatva Classic.
Doctor’s Note
“It’s conforming to my lower back and prevents too much dipping at the hips. I think this bed would help sleepers with back pain find support and contouring to place the spine in a neutral position.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
With more than 54,000 total reviews on the brand’s website, the Nectar Classic Memory Foam has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Most positive reviews praise the mattress’s overall comfort and solid value. However, some users complain that the mattress is too firm and that its edge sinks too much.
Read more in our full Nectar mattress review.
Helix Midnight Luxe – Best Mattress for Back Pain
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: At a rating of 6/10, this bed is just a touch softer than medium-firm and perfect for contouring areas prone to pain.
- Edge Support: Even with the cushy pillow top, the Midnight Luxe had minimal sinkage and ample support along the edge of the bed.
- Cooling: The breathable coils pair well with a cool-to-the-touch cover for solid temperature regulation throughout the night.
Why the Helix Midnight Luxe is Good for Back Pain
Waking up every morning with a crick in your back? Your mattress could be the cause. If it’s time to upgrade, your back will be in good hands with the Helix Midnight Luxe. This bed was vetted by physical therapist Dr. Hannah Habeeb as “just great for back pain,” thanks to its supportive coil layers and plush pillow top, which relieve pressure on sensitive joints.
Though designed with side sleepers in mind, our testers quite enjoyed the mattress in many positions due to its balanced feel. Moreover, it earned well-deserved praise in other areas, scoring highly for pressure relief (4.2/5), edge support (4.8/5), and cooling (4.5/5), for a total score of 4.5/5. Our lightweight tester preferred the bed, especially on her side, saying, “I feel like there is more even sinkage all around my body, and it’s cradling it nicely.”
What Our Tester Says: “My favorite part about this mattress is that it fills in your lower back. The quilted top is plush, but the coils underneath offer great support for my back. My body feels very aligned overall.” – Livvi Dicicco, certified sleep science coach
Firmness: 6/10
The Helix Midnight Luxe has a medium feel, skewing slightly softer than traditional medium-firm.
Pressure Relief: 4.2/5
Above average. Only our heavyweight tester noted some pressure on his lower back while back-sleeping.
Edge Support: 4.8/5
Above average. There was minimal sinkage when sitting or lying down at the edge of the mattress.
Cooling: 4.5/5
Above average. The Midnight Luxe has a cool-to-the-touch feel at the surface.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. We could feel some movement from the other side of the bed during the couple’s test.
Response: 4/5
Average. This bed has bounce, but the pillow top is softer, potentially impeding some movement.
Who Might Like the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Back and side sleepers with back pain: With a solid balance between cushioning and support, the Midnight Luxe helps maintain proper spinal alignment while cradling sensitive joints for most back and side sleepers.
- Seniors and people with mobility issues: Thanks to the reinforced edge, I was able to sit on the edge of the mattress with just a touch of sinkage, and lying down, I could throw a leg over the side of the bed without slipping or sliding.
- Hot sleepers: I found the bed pleasantly cool to the touch when I lay down for a quick nap, and it only rose by 4.4 degrees afterward.
Who Might Not Like the Helix Midnight Luxe
- Restless sleepers: The motion isolation is just average for the Helix Midnight Luxe, so people who toss and turn in the night and share their bed may disturb their partner, especially if they’re a light sleeper.
- Budget shoppers: At $2,399 for a queen before any discounts, the Midnight Luxe is a pricier model, especially when you factor in optional extras like its GlacioTex cooling cover.
- Sexually active couples: The top of the mattress has a doughy feel that doesn’t provide very good responsiveness or bounce. Couples looking for more seamless movement during sex might want a bouncier bed like the DreamCloud.
Doctor’s Note
“This mattress is so supportive, and my lumbar spine and pelvis feel neutral. I feel like I want to make snow angels on top of it because it is so silky and comfortable.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
On the Helix website, the Midnight Luxe sits with a solid score of 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on more than 8600 reviews at the time of writing. Many customers praise its balanced feel, with some saying it’s helped relieve back pain, although some complain that the soft top proved too soft and didn’t help alleviate their aches and pains.
To find out more, read our full Helix Midnight Luxe review.
DreamCloud Original – Best Hybrid Mattress
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that offers great support for back sleepers and nice cooling for hot sleepers. Its mix of foam and coils ensures you get the right amount of support, while its breathable materials ensure you don’t sleep too hot. It is a bouncier mattress, and if you prefer more of a memory foam feel, consider the Nectar mattress. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: It’s decidedly firm, but this hybrid mattress features softer foam layers on top to offset the coils’ sturdiness.
- Pressure Relief: Despite its firm feel, the DreamCloud offers great pressure relief for both back and side sleepers, though most of our testers preferred it on their backs.
- Response: The DreamCloud Classic is bouncy and easy to move around on, making it a solid choice for combination sleepers.
Why the DreamCloud Classic is the Best Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses are among the most prevalent and varied, known for balancing softness and support through their comfort layers and coil units. If you’re looking for the best of the best when it comes to hybrids, you’ll love the DreamCloud Classic mattress.
This firm-feeling hybrid prioritizes a lifted feel while still offering decent pressure relief (earning 4/5 in our tests) and plenty of bounce (earning 5/5 for response). With an overall score of 4.6 and a reasonable price point of just $699 for a queen-size mattress, it’s clear why this bed makes our best-of list.
What Our Tester Says: “I definitely feel more on the bed than in the bed. I’m feeling a lot of cushioning from the quilted cover, and it’s filling in the space of my lower back.” – Riley Otis, mattress product tester
Firmness: 7.5/10
The DreamCloud mattress has a firmer feel.
Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
Above average. Even with its firm feel, the DreamCloud offers great pressure relief for both back and side sleepers.
Edge Support: 4.4/5
Above average. The DreamCloud has exceptional edge support, regardless if you lie down or sit at the mattress perimeter.
Cooling: 4/5
Average. The DreamCloud provides a temperature-neutral feel.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. We could feel some motion transfer on the DreamCloud, but nothing that would cause extreme disturbance.
Response: 5/5
Exceptional. It’s extremely easy to move around on the bouncy DreamCloud hybrid.
Who Might Like the DreamCloud Classic
- Back sleepers: Our testers found that the DreamCloud worked best for back sleeping, especially if you prefer that firmer feel.
- Stomach sleepers: The firm, supportive coils should provide the lift most stomach sleepers under 230 pounds need.
- Sexually active couples: The responsive feel, decent cooling features, and strong perimeter make this a solid choice for sexually active couples.
Who Might Not Like the DreamCloud Classic
- Memory foam fans: The hybrid construction of the DreamCloud has an “on top” feeling that doesn’t hug you as memory foam mattresses do.
- Very hot sleepers: The DreamCloud has some cooling features that provide a temperature-neutral sleep, but very hot sleepers should look at a bed with more robust cooling abilities.
- Light sleepers: During our motion isolation tests, our testers could feel each other’s movements from the other side of the bed, enough to likely disturb a lighter sleeper. For less transfer of movement, check out the Nectar Classic.
Doctor’s Note
“It’s plush, it contours the body, and it provides a combination of cushioning and support. I’d consider it to be a decent orthopedic bed.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
The DreamCloud site lists the DreamCloud Classic Hybrid with a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on more than 9,300 reviews. Many positive experiences appreciate the supportive construction of the hybrid mattress, with a few people saying it’s even helped alleviate their back pain. Most negative reviews were based on personal preferences, with reviewers citing the mattress as too soft or too firm for their liking.
For more, check out our full DreamCloud mattress review.
Saatva Classic – Best Firm Mattress
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: The firmer feel of the Saatva Classic will provide plenty of lift at the hips for both back and stomach sleepers.
- Response: This mattress bounces you across the surface like a rubber ball, a feeling I love as a particularly restless combination sleeper.
- Motion Isolation: The Saatva Classic provides a supportive, responsive feel similar to innerspring mattresses, but because of that, motion travels pretty easily across this bed.
Why the Saatva Classic is the Best Firm Mattress
If you are a firm mattress fan like me, I have you covered with my personal recommendation, the Saatva Classic. I sleep on this bed every night, specifically the Luxury Firm model; it gives that lifted, on-top feeling while still relieving pressure where needed. I rated it 7.5/10 on our firmness scale, but if you want even firmer, opt for the Firm version, which is also available.
The Classic is a luxury hybrid with a classic innerspring feel. It earned a number of high scores in our testing, including perfect ratings for edge support, response, and customer service, which ultimately led to an impressive overall score of 4.5. Our testers also felt solid pressure relief for both side and back sleeping, and it should provide enough lift for stomach sleepers as well.
What Our Tester Says: “I could actually physically feel the pressure being relieved while on my lower back, which is rare.” – Mattress Clarity In-House Tester
Firmness: 7.5/10
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva Classic feels pretty firm.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above average. Even with its firmer feel, the Saatva offers great pressure relief.
Edge Support: 5/5
Exceptional. You can sit and lie down on the edges of the Saatva Classic with minimal sinkage.
Cooling: 4/5
Average. The Saatva Classic has a comfortable, temperature-neutral feel.
Motion Isolation: 2.7/5
Below average. We could feel every little movement our fellow testers made on the Saatva.
Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Thanks to its two innerspring layers, the Saatva Classic is plenty bouncy.
Who Might Like the Saatva Classic
- Back and stomach sleepers: There’s enough support to keep the hips lifted for back and stomach sleepers alike, although heavyweight sleepers may prefer the Firm model.
- People with mobility issues: Seniors or those with mobility issues will find it a breeze to get in and out of bed, due to this mattress’s sturdy edge.
- Couples: The solid edge support allows couples to spread out on the mattress, and the bounciness provides a springy surface for sexually active couples.
Who Might Not Like the Saatva Classic
- Budget shoppers: Even though it’s affordable when compared to other luxury mattresses, the Saatva’s higher price tag may be outside of some people’s budgets.
- Light sleepers: Small movements can be felt throughout the entire mattress, so we don’t recommend this bed to light sleepers who share their bed with a partner or pet.
- Memory foam fans: This hybrid mattress has a feel more akin to a traditional innerspring mattress, so it won’t have the hugging contouring that foam mattresses tend to have.
Doctor’s Note
“It’s very plush and adds a lot of contouring at my hips and shoulders on my side. It does a great job of keeping me lifted while on my stomach, but I think the Firm model would be slightly more supportive.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
Out of nearly 5,600 customer reviews on the brand’s website, the Saatva earns an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. While some customers complain it’s too firm, most say it provides a great night’s sleep and ample lumbar support.
For more about this mattress, read our full Saatva Classic review.
Leesa Sapira Chill – Best Cooling Mattress
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a cool, comfortable bed that pairs a plush pillow top with supportive zoned coils. It’s available in three firmness options, so many sleepers should be able to choose a model that works for their sleeping position. This isn’t the cheapest option for a cooling mattress, though. Instead, check out the Cocoon Chill.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: The Medium-Firm model comes in at a 6/10, closer to a medium firmness, but it still provides excellent support for back sleepers.
- Pressure Relief: Our testers noticed great pressure relief on their sides and backs, so this may be a solid pick for combination sleepers.
- Cooling: As the name suggests, the Sapira Chill Hybrid has a cool-to-the-touch cover that helps disperse heat.
Why the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid is Good for Hot Sleepers
If you’re overheating on your current bed every night, you might want to invest in a cooling mattress like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid. As the name suggests, this high-end mattress is pretty good at regulating temperature, outfitted with a cooling cover and also featuring breathable foam layers and coils that promote airflow. This helped it to earn a 4/5 in our cooling test, which in turn contributed to its overall rating of 4.4.
Aside from cooling, the mattress also excelled in pressure relief, earning a 4.5/5 rating thanks to its plush top and medium feel that’ll contour to your body as you lie on your back. It’s a great pick for hot sleepers who are looking for solid support.
What Our Tester Says: “This bed feels cool to the touch, thanks to the cooling fibers in the cover. It also didn’t noticeably heat up while I was lying on top of it.” – Melanie Kassel, certified sleep science coach
Firmness: 6/10
The Medium Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid has a slightly softer—but still medium—feel.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above average. Our testers encountered plenty of pressure relief in the back- and side-sleeping position.
Edge Support: 4.3/5
Above average. The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid has excellent edge support for sitting and lying down at the far reaches of the bed.
Cooling: 4/5
Average. True to its name, the Leesa Sapira Chill has a pleasantly cool-to-the-touch feel.
Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
Below average. You’ll likely feel your partner moving around on the other side of the bed, just like we did.
Response: 4/5
Below average. Though it’s a hybrid mattress, the Leesa Sapira Chill has a doughy pillow top that makes it harder to move around on.
Who Might Like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
- Back sleepers: With a pressure-relieving pillow top that hugs the hips and contours to the lower back, this bed should work splendidly for back sleepers.
- Combination sleepers: Our heavyweight tester noted decent pressure relief on his back and side, meaning it’ll be comfortable shifting between these positions.
- Hot sleepers: The gel-infused foam layers and cooling fibers woven into the cover provide a cool surface that stays cool even when lying on it.
Who Might Not Like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
- Light sleepers: The motion isolation is just average on the Spaira Chill Hybrid, so couples sharing the bed may want to look elsewhere, such as the Nolah Evolution.
- Heavyweight stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may need the firmest model of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid to get the lift they’d need.
- Budget shoppers: At around $2,399 before discounts for a queen-size mattress, this mattress is a pricier option for budget-minded shoppers.
Doctor’s Note
“It’s a bit of a softer mattress, so you do sink in a little, but I don’t feel like I’m bottoming out. My lower back and hips may be sinking in a little too much while on my back, so for heavier sleepers, it may not keep you in a very neutral position; they may need a firmer option. But for the general population, it’s still really comfortable.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
The Sapira Chill Hybrid mattress earns 4.3 out of 5 stars on Leesa’s website, based on 222 reviews. Most customers have enjoyed the bed’s comfort and cooling capabilities, and even cite that customer service has been helpful if they had to contact the brand. Negative reviewers mostly cited the mattress as too firm or too soft, with a few saying they still slept hot.
You can read our full Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid review for more.
WinkBed Plus – Best Mattress for Heavy People
The WinkBed Plus is the brand’s model designed specifically for sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs. Its sturdy, supportive coils help prevent sagging and provide plenty of support for heavyweight back and stomach sleepers. All of this said, it’s likely too firm of a mattress for most side sleepers. Instead, check out the WinkBed. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: This mattress is pretty firm by conventional standards, but many sleepers over 230 pounds will appreciate its firmness when it comes to providing extra support.
- Edge Support: The firmer feel lends itself to the WinkBed Plus’s solid edge support, which feels secure sitting and lying down at the perimeter of the mattress.
- Pressure Relief: Although designed for heavier sleepers, the bed’s pillow top provides solid pressure relief for back sleepers of all sizes.
Why the WinkBed Plus is Good for Heavy People
Sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds can have a harder time finding a mattress that properly supports them while still remaining comfortable. The WinkBed Plus was designed with these folks in mind. It’s an upgrade to the brand’s flagship luxury hybrid, which already provides plenty of lift for sleepers of all sizes.
Its firm feel will keep plus-size sleepers aligned, while its dense pillow top cushions their joints and relieves pressure—an area in which the bed earned a 4.3/5 score. Moreover, with 4s and above in all performance categories, the WinkBed comes out to an impressive overall score of 4.5.
What Our Tester Says: “It feels really good on the side, which is interesting because it’s so firm. On my back, I don’t feel any pressure buildup in my shoulders and neck. Overall, I feel really well-supported, which is unique in a firm-feeling mattress.” – Mattress Clarity In-House Tester
Firmness: 8/10
The WinkBed Plus has a pretty firm feel, bordering on extra-firm.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Above average. Back sleepers of all sizes will love the WinkBed Plus.
Edge Support: 4.2/5
Above average. The edge barely compresses when you’re seated or lying down on the WinkBed Plus.
Cooling: 5/5
Exceptional. The surface of the WinkBed Plus barely heated up during our cooling test.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. Most couples should do alright on this bed, since the pillow top absorbs a decent amount of motion.
Response: 4/5
Below average. The dense pillow top makes it difficult to move on top of the WinkBed Plus.
Who Might Like the WinkBed Plus
- Heavyweight sleepers: The firmer feel of the WinkBed Plus provides solid support for sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds.
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers like myself will appreciate how this mattress feels on my stomach; it kept my hips from sinking, and the pillow top cushioned my chest.
- Hot sleepers: The WinkBed Plus hardly retains heat, with its surface rising by only 3.9 degrees after a short nap.
Who Might Not Like the WinkBed Plus
- Combination sleepers: The pillow top dampens the responsive coils somewhat, so people who shift positions throughout the night may find movement slightly impeded. If you’re looking for effortless movement, check out the Bear Elite Hybrid.
- Lightweight sleepers: Some sleepers under 130 pounds may find the WinkBed Plus too firm and prefer a softer mattress.
- Couples with a light sleeper: If you share your bed with a light sleeper, this may not be the ideal mattress, since some movements can still transfer across the mattress.
Doctor’s Note
Dr. Habeeb has yet to try out the WinkBed Plus, but below are her thoughts on the original WinkBed, which she also believes could also work for a heavyweight sleeper:
“The WinkBed can be a great bed for heavier sleepers, since it’s extremely supportive and can prevent them from sinking into the mattress too far.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
With 4.8 out of 5 stars from more than 9,300 ratings, reviews are overwhelmingly positive for the WinkBed Plus. Positive reviews say it’s one of the best mattresses they’ve slept on, with a couple of customers comparing it to sleeping on a cloud. On the other hand, there are some criticisms in negative reviews, mostly that the bed was too firm for them.
Read more in our full WinkBed Plus mattress review.
Nolah Evolution – Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress is available in three firmness levels. The Luxury Firm model works well for many back and side sleepers. This mattress has many cooling features, and it isolates motion well. It’s not a great option for most people who weigh over 300 lb, though. If you fall in this category, you may need more lumbar support. Watch our Nolah Evolution mattress review video to learn more.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: With multiple firmness options, we found the Luxury Firm model to be a true medium-firm mattress that’ll accommodate side sleepers well.
- Pressure Relief: The plush foam top allows for plenty of contouring to cradle joints and reduce pressure buildup.
- Motion Isolation: The foam layers also excel at rescuing movement from traveling across the mattress, making the Nolah Evolution a solid pick for couples.
Why the Nolah Evolution is Good for Side Sleepers
The best mattresses for side sleepers will offer plenty of pressure relief to cushion the hips and shoulders, the areas that dig most into the mattress in this position. With a pressure relief score of 4.5/5 and a comfortable medium-firm feel, the Nolah Evolution was a no-brainer pick for this category.
This luxury hybrid mattress contours like there’s no tomorrow, but its plusher foams on top are backed up by a sturdy coil unit that keeps side sleepers supported and aligned. The mattress should also be a hit for couples as well, with its high marks for motion isolation (5/5) and edge support (4.6/5), which helped the mattress earn its overall rating of 4.6.
What Our Tester Says: “I’m feeling super-cradled by this mattress. It’s soft yet supportive. It’s contouring really well in my lower back, where I do have slight pain going on today.” – Mattress Clarity In-House Tester
Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm Nolah Evolution has a true medium-firm feel.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above average. Both side and back sleepers should get pressure relief from the Evolution, but the latter will feel much more contouring.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
Above average. When sitting on the edge of the Nolah Evolution, the pillow top compressed a bit but otherwise remained stable.
Cooling: 4/5
Average. The Evolution isn’t actively cooling, but it should provide a comfortable temperature-neutral feel.
Motion Isolation: 5/5
Above average. This mattress has exceptional motion absorption, so you shouldn’t feel any movement from your side of the bed.
Response: 4/5
Below average. The doughy pillow top might slow down some sleepers as they switch positions on the Evolution.
Who Might Like the Nolah Evolution
- Side sleepers: This hybrid mattress provides zoned support to cushion the hips and shoulders while maintaining proper spinal alignment.
- Back sleepers: The supportive coils will help keep back sleepers lifted, and the plush top fills the gap in the lower back to promote a neutral spine.
- Couples: The top foam layers go a long way toward absorbing motion, and its reinforced edge allows couples to stretch across the entire mattress.
Who Might Not Like the Nolah Evolution
- Heavyweight side sleepers with hip pain: Although the pressure relief is exceptional on the Evolution, our heavyweight tester noticed some pressure on his hip.
- Budget shoppers: The Nolah Evolution retails for over
$2,200 for a queen, sobudget-minded customers might want to wait for a sale before making this purchase. - Combination sleepers: The plush Euro top makes the bed less responsive, so combination sleepers may find issues shifting positions at night. For a truly bouncy bed, check out the Birch Luxe, which is a latex hybrid.
Doctor’s Note
“I’m finding a lot of sinkage on this bed, which is contouring my body really nicely. However, I’m finding enough support to prevent me from sinking too much, and it’s helping promote spinal alignment. I would definitely recommend this to side sleepers.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
With nearly 1,300 reviews on Nolah’s website, the Evolution gets an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Some negative reviews feel that the Luxury Firm model is still too soft for their needs, but the overwhelming majority of positive reviews say that the mattress strikes a solid balance between comfort and support.
Read more in our full Nolah Evolution mattress review.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Best Luxury Mattress
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most high-end mattress. It offers luxury features, like zoned support and extra height, while still offering the temperature regulation Bear mattresses are known for. Based on our testing results, we’d recommend this mattress to average-weight side and back sleepers, as well as hot sleepers. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, check out the Bear Star Hybrid. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: A true medium mattress, the Medium model of the Bear Elite Hybrid allows for a little bit of sinkage while still being lifted by its coils.
- Response: The springy coils provide a bouncy, responsive surface that makes moving a breeze for combination sleepers.
- Pressure Relief: There’s a good balance between pressure relief and support, particularly for back sleepers.
Why the Bear Elite Hybrid is the Best Luxury Mattress
Some of the best mattresses on the market are high-end models like the Bear Elite Hybrid. This luxury mattress is elevated by its plush pillow top, bouncy coils, performance-enhancing textiles, and zoned support that’s firmer where you need more bolstering to enhance your overall sleep experience.
This mattress earned an overall score of 4.4/5, owing to its stellar performance in response (5/5), edge support (4.6), pressure relief (4.3/5), and motion isolation (4/5). It’s a well-balanced mattress that comes in three firmness options, so you can also have the luxury of customization for your unique preferences.
What Our Tester Says: “The soft pillow top gave me plenty of cushion, but I didn’t sink very far into it. The bouncy core of the mattress made it a breeze to launch myself in and out of bed or roll around.” – Mattress Clarity In-House Tester
Firmness: 6/10
The mid-range model for the Bear Elite Hybrid skews slightly soft.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Above average. The Bear Elite offers better pressure relief for back sleepers.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
Above average. The edges barely budged when sitting or lying down on them.
Cooling: 2.5/5
Below average. We had conflicting results in our cooling test, but it heated up quite a lot.
Motion Isolation: 4/5
Average. We could feel movement from the other side of the bed, but it’s likely not enough to wake a light sleeper.
Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Even with the softer pillow top, moving around was a breeze.
Who Might Like the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Back sleepers: The balanced support and comfort of the Bear Elite Hybrid help back sleepers maintain a neutral spine throughout the night.
- Combination sleepers: This mattress has springy coils that make shifting positions easy for combination sleepers.
- Couples: The responsiveness of the mattress is great for sexually active couples, plus the bed still isolates movements decently.
Who Might Not Like the Bear Elite Hybrid
- Hot sleepers: While our tester didn’t notice it, the bed’s temperature rose by more than 12 degrees during our cooling test. Folks who sleep hot may want a mattress with enhanced cooling, like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid.
- Heavyweight stomach sleepers: The Medium model of the Bear Elite Hybrid will likely prove too soft for those over 230 pounds.
- Budget shoppers: Since it’s a luxury mattress, the Bear Elite Hybrid also has a premium price, retailing for nearly $2,300 before any sales or discounts.
Doctor’s Note
“The Bear Elite Hybrid conforms to your body really nicely. My spine feels neutral and comfortable.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
On the brand’s website, the Bear Elite Hybrid has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, determined from over 4,100 reviews. The mattress is generally well-received for its solid quality and comfort, although some criticize that the mattress’s firmness levels are misleading, being softer or firmer than advertised.
You can read more about this bed in our full Bear Elite Hybrid review.
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe – Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers a responsive surface great for combination sleepers. It’s also a good choice for hot sleepers looking for a bed that can keep them cool but that’s available in a wide array of sizes. Learn more in our video review.
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: The Aurora Luxe has a slightly firmer feel that will provide great support for back sleepers.
- Edge Support: Our testers noted that the bed’s perimeter was just as sturdy as the center, with hardly any sinkage when seated.
- Pressure Relief: There’s a good amount of cushioning from the Aurora Luxe, although side sleepers may want a mattress that hugs their joints more.
Why the Aurora Luxe is Good for Back Sleepers
Back sleepers need a mattress that’s built for balance. These folks need support to keep their spine properly aligned, but also enough softness to relieve pressure around the hips and lower back. A bed that checks both these boxes is the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe.
This hybrid earned a 4.5/5 rating for overall pressure relief, with our testers loving the cushioned feel on their back. Additionally, it has a slightly firmer feel that’ll help keep your hips lifted and spine aligned. Along with a strong showing in our other performance tests, the Aurora Luxe earns an overall rating of 4.4.
What Our Tester Says: “I love this mattress on my back. It has a cushy feel, but it’s not teetering towards the ‘too soft’ zone. My spine is as straight as an arrow, and I don’t feel uncomfortable anywhere.” – Mattress Clarity In-House Tester
Firmness: 7/10
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling has a firmer feel.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Above-average. Back sleepers who love a firmer sleep surface will glean the most pressure relief.
Edge Support: 4.6/5
Above average. The edges of the Aurora Luxe felt solid, only dipping slightly when we were seated at the perimeter.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Below average. The Aurora Luxe feels cool and crisp, but it did hold onto some heat during our temperature test.
Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
Average. We felt our fellow testers’ movements when they were closer to our side of the bed.
Response: 4/5
Average. The Aurora Luxe has decent responsiveness, but it’ll likely require some effort to move around on top of.
Who Might Like the Aurora Luxe
- Back sleepers: The slightly firm feel and zoned support provide plenty of lift in the hips that’s balanced by the plush, cushioned top.
- Seniors or people with mobility issues: The edge of this mattress is very secure and sturdy, making getting in and out of bed easy.
- Average-weight stomach sleepers: Sleepers under 230 pounds will find enough support from the Aurora Luxe for stomach sleeping, although heavier sleepers may need a firmer option.
Who Might Not Like the Aurora Luxe
- Very hot sleepers: While the Aurora Luxe’s cover feels cool and crisp, it did hold onto some heat during our testing.
- Light sleepers: The motion isolation is just average on this mattress, so light sleepers may be disturbed by movements from their partner or pet if they share their bed.
- Side sleepers with sensitive joints: While our testers mostly felt fine on their side, the firmer mattress could allow for some pressure to build up on the hips or shoulders.
Doctor’s Note
“This bed maintains a nice, neutral spine and supports the lumbar spine and lower back. This is true for all sleeping positions, too.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
With more than 4,200 reviews on the Brooklyn Bedding website, the Aurora Luxe has a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Most positive reviews praise the mattress for its balanced feel, providing both support and comfort. Some users, however, felt the firmness levels were off, either harder or softer than advertised.
Read more in our full Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling review.
Birch Luxe Natural – Best Organic Mattress
Testing Highlights
- Firmness: The Birch Luxe Natural has a slightly firmer feel than other mattresses, providing a top-of-the-line feel, unlike the sinking sensation of memory foam.
- Response: Like many latex beds, the Birch Luxe has a springy bounciness that’ll suit both combination sleepers and sexually active folks.
- Edge Support: This mattress has a strong perimeter that stays steady whether our testers sat or lay down on it.
Why the Birch Luxe Natural is the Best Organic Mattress
Eco-conscious shoppers looking for the best organic mattress will find their match with the Birch Luxe Natural. This is the higher-end model of the original Birch mattress, a latex mattress that’s geared toward hypoallergenic, sustainable, and natural sleep.
The Birch Luxe has an exceptionally buoyant profile thanks to its use of latex and coils, which led us to give it a perfect score for response. This latex, combined with layers of organic wool, also helps to relieve pressure (earning 4.3/5 in our tests). These results helped the bed earn an admirable overall rating of 4.5.
What Our Tester Says: “It’s very soft and comforting on my back, and I like the way that it cushions my body, especially at the lumbar region. My hips feel in line with my shoulders, which still get a good amount of pressure relief and sinkage.” – Riley Otis, mattress product tester
Firmness: 7/10
The Birch Luxe has a slightly firmer feel.
Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Above average. Both back and side sleepers should feel relief on this mattress, though it was a standout for back sleepers in particular.
Edge Support: 4.7/5
Above average. The Birch Luxe’s edges remained steady whether we sat or laid down on them.
Cooling: 3.5/5
Below average. The Birch Luxe didn’t feel notably cool, but neither did it heat up to an uncomfortable degree.
Motion Isolation: 3.8/5
Below average. Light sleepers may feel some of their partner’s larger movements from the other side of the bed.
Response: 5/5
Exceptional. Latex and coils make this bed extremely bouncy.
Who Might Like the Birch Luxe Natural
- Back sleepers: The balanced, cushioned support will provide nice contouring while maintaining a neutral spine.
- Combination sleepers: The bouncy latex and springy coils will make shifting sleeping positions simple at night.
- People with allergies: The materials used in the Birch Luxe are all-natural and hypoallergenic, which should help some sleepers with allergies.
Who Might Not Like the Birch Luxe Natural
- Light sleepers: The responsive latex foam used can amplify rather than muffle motion, which may disturb light sleepers who share their bed.
- Very hot sleepers: While it didn’t heat up too much in our testing, the Birch Luxe doesn’t feel particularly cool, so people who sleep hot may want to opt for a cooler mattress.
- Budget shoppers: Since this is a luxury mattress, the higher price tag may not suit budget-minded shoppers.
Doctor’s Note
“My spine feels aligned neutrally. The mattress isn’t letting me sink in too much, but I’m still getting good contouring at my hips and lower back. The heavier parts of my body are more cushioned, while the lighter parts are supported.” – Dr. Hannah Habeeb, chief medical product tester
Other User Reviews
On Birch’s website, the Luxe Natural has a respectable 4.2 out of 5 stars from 565 customer reviews. Many customers are fans of the product’s organic materials as well as its balanced feel, although some customers say the mattress has begun to sink and sag prematurely.
You can read more about this bed in our full Birch Luxe Natural mattress review.
Other Mattresses We Researched
If you didn’t find what you were looking for in our list above, here are some other high-ranking beds we often recommend. I’ll go over their strengths and why they ultimately didn’t make the final cut.
- Leesa Original – The Leesa Original is a well-rounded memory foam mattress that stunned us in testing with a flurry of high scores across the board. It provides a balance of pressure relief and support, cooling, strong edges, and it’s easy to move around on top of without disrupting your partner. The Leesa Sapira Chill won out over this bed because it has a softer, more approachable feel. But if you’re seeking something firm, the Original has you covered.
- Helix Midnight – Like the Luxe model, the original Helix Midnight boasts a balance of comfort and support that suits multiple sleeping positions. We think it’s an especially comfortable bed for side sleepers, back sleepers and combination sleepers who switch positions at night. However, the Luxe performed better in our tests, plus it has an added touch of luxury with its plusher pillow top.
- Titan Plus – This mattress was designed by Brooklyn Bedding to support sleepers over 230 pounds comfortably. While it earned high marks for its firm-but-comfortable feel, it didn’t score as high as we’d like to see for cooling or pressure relief, hence why the WinkBed Plus earned the title best for heavy sleepers.
How We Tested the Best Mattresses
The best mattresses we tested performed well on a high level in all of our performance, construction, and customer service evaluations. They are also built to last a long time and ultimately worth the investment.
Overall Performance
We test mattresses in a variety of performance areas, such as pressure relief, motion isolation, cooling, and more. We rate each out of 5 and average them up to find the total overall rating for a mattress. Features like pressure relief, edge support, and response will have a higher weight on average, as these pertain to the feel of the mattress and its quality.
Out of all the beds we’ve tested, the average overall score we see is 4.2 out of 5. It follows that the best of the best would have at least this score—or higher. This means the mattress earned a number of ratings over 4.2/5 in multiple performance categories to achieve this. The average rating of the mattresses chosen for this panel is actually 4.5, which is a sign of their extremely well-rounded performance.
Durability
When buying a new mattress, you’re going to want it to last a long time. Most beds have a lifespan of around 10 years, but some start to show signs of wear and tear before then. How do you sort out the duds?
Well, first, I always recommend taking a look at the bed’s construction. Opt for coils over foam where you can, as the sturdy innerspring layer helps the mattress maintain its overall shape. If you love a foam bed, make sure the memory foam layers are dense enough to remain supportive as well as cushy.
In our studio, we use edge support as a marker for durability. How well the perimeter of the mattress holds up when bearing weight can show how likely the rest of the mattress is to sag over time with repeated use. This is why we test mattresses in the seated and lying down positions, as well as with weight plates to emulate different body types. We rate edge support out of 5, so you can take a gander at how the bed performed in these tests as a preview for how long it will last.
Finally, we also take a look at the length of the warranty. How long a mattress brand will back up its product if it shows any defects speaks to the level of confidence in the product. Many retailers will offer 15-year, 25-year, or even lifetime warranties. All of the beds we’ve chosen come with lifetime warranties, so you can rest assured that the bed you purchase is backed for life.
Value
For some folks, purchasing a new mattress comes down to the price. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, you’ll want your bed to be worth the money. As for how you determine whether a mattress is worth it, I always recommend first looking at reviews both on and off the manufacturer’s site, especially if you can’t see the bed in person at a brick-and-mortar mattress store.
Also take advantage of any sleep trials. Most trials last anywhere from a few weeks to a whole year. This gives you time to try before you buy, risk-free. You can often send back the mattress for a full refund, so long as you initiate it during the trial period.
Mattress company policies like the sleep trial can factor into the overall value. Some brands offer lifetime warranties, long sleep trials, free accessories, and even white glove delivery with purchase of a new sleep product. This adds overall value to your purchase and ensures you get the most bang for your buck. We rate customer service out of 5, taking into account these policies and the delivery process to get our final score; be sure to factor this into your value evaluation to get a full picture for all that you get with a new bed.
What Else Is Important When Buying a Mattress?
We know it can be overwhelming to find the perfect mattress, so we’ve broken down some of the top factors to consider when shopping for a new mattress. Keep reading to find additional guidance on selecting the best mattress for your sleeping position, body type, and other preferences.
Mattress Type
There are several different types of mattresses out there. Some appeal to a wider range of sleepers than others do, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses are the most traditional mattress type and are still popular, though many bed-in-a-box companies don’t offer them. These beds are built with a coil construction, making them firmer and bouncier. Because they’re so responsive to movement, innerspring mattresses are great for combination sleepers who switch sleeping positions. These beds are also ideal for shoppers on a budget.
While it’s rare to find a true innerspring mattress these days, many beds (such as Saatva and the WinkBed) heavily feature coils in their construction. In this case, they might be described as a mattress with a traditional innerspring feel.
Foam
Memory foam mattresses are popular with bed-in-a-box companies. There are many benefits to the material, including its soothing, pressure-relieving comfort, motion isolation, and wide pricing range. Many people believe memory foam mattresses will make you sleep hot, but newer models have innovated aerated foams for better airflow. Some come with gel or copper infusions to keep you cool.
Latex
Latex mattresses are similar to memory foam mattresses, except they’re bouncier, more sustainable, and more expensive. These beds offer great pressure relief and have natural cooling properties that can outdo all-foam beds. Latex beds suit eco-friendly shoppers, people who sleep with pain, and those looking for a luxurious mattress.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses use a combination of any of the materials listed above, including coils, foam, and latex. Often, these mattresses offer the best of both (or several) worlds, making for a comfortable, supportive, and more cooling bed. Hybrid mattresses are a good fit for most types of sleepers because the materials and construction have such a wide range of possibilities.
Sleeping Position
Studies recommend medium-firm mattresses as the best for aligning the spine and preventing pain and discomfort. This is echoed by our chief medical advisor, Dr. Dasgupta: “Medium-firm mattresses offer a balance of support and softness that can work for a variety of sleepers.”
However, this recommendation changes based on other factors, like your primary sleeping position. We’ll highlight what you should know about each sleeping position, including what to look for and watch out for in a mattress.
Side sleepers put a lot of pressure on their shoulders, hips, and knees while they sleep. It’s important for them to have a pressure-relieving mattress that evenly distributes body weight. Memory foam mattresses are a good choice for side sleepers. Side sleepers generally want a mattress on the softer end of the spectrum, as a soft bed is more likely to relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips. At the same time, they don’t want something too soft, as this might not keep their spine neutrally aligned.
Back sleepers need a mattress that balances comfort and support. While the mattress should keep your hips from sinking too far and maintain your alignment, you should also get plenty of pressure relief around the lower back it should provide enough support to keep your spine in proper alignment. Generally, this means finding a supportive medium-firm bed with enough cushioning on top.
Stomach sleepers put a lot of pressure on their lower back, especially if they sleep with a thicker pillow. These folks do best on a firmer mattress that prevents excessive sinkage and lifts the hips for proper spinal alignment.
If you switch positions during the night, you’re a combination sleeper. You should find a bed that’s responsive to your body movements because this will make it easier for you to move around at night. Hybrid and innerspring beds are made with coils, so they tend to be more responsive mattresses, but some memory foam beds can still provide bounce.
Body Weight
“How much you weigh is also an important factor when choosing a new mattress for your needs,” advises Dr. Dasgupta. Sleepers who weigh more than 230 lbs will want to find a very supportive, firmer bed to keep them from sinking too far into their mattress. Some might even fare best on an extra-firm mattress, especially if they sleep on their stomach.
On the other hand, those under 230 lbs should probably opt for something softer. They might have more trouble sinking into mattresses and find them firmer than expected. If they sleep on their side or back, they should opt for something medium or plush to get better pressure relief in these positions.
Couples Compatibility
Sleeping alongside a partner poses a set of unique challenges. For one, if you’re a light sleeper like myself, you might be easily awakened by any movement your partner makes. A good way to combat this is to find a mattress with exceptional motion isolation. These beds absorb movements before they can travel across the surface of the bed and cause a disturbance.
To judge motion isolation, we implement two tests. First, we place a glass of water on one side of the mattress, and then have a tester move around on the other side. How the water in the glass behaves tells us the level of disturbance—the more it ripples or wobbles, the more movement is felt on that side of the bed.
Then we have two testers in the bed, simulating a typical night for co-sleepers. One tester will lie there blindfolded while the other tester moves around on the other side, switching positions, getting in and out of bed, etc. The first tester will make note of anything they feel and whether they can tell what their partner is doing. Their experiences, combined with the results of the water glass test, lead to the assignment of a motion isolation score out of 5. This can say a lot about the quality and durability of the bed. “In my opinion, a mattress that isolates motion well is a sign of quality materials, like dense foams or latex,” Dr. Dasgutpa adds.
Other areas that might appeal to couples are response, edge support, and cooling. If you and your partner are sexually active, a responsive mattress can make it easier to move around on the surface during the main event. The same goes for edge support; if you and your partner prefer to spread out rather than cuddle up, a bed with strong edges ensures you can make full use of the surface area. Finally, two bodies in one bed can make things heat up, which is why you might want to consider a cooling mattress—which we’ll dive further into below.
Cooling
Whether you sleep with a partner or by your lonesome, overheating on a mattress is a popular concern. To ensure you get your coolest night’s sleep, we get pretty technical when testing temperature regulation; we use a thermal gun to measure the surface temperature of the mattress. We take a reading before and after lying on the mattress for seven minutes, and the increase in temperature directly correlates to how much heat the bed holds onto.
The average temperature increase we see is around 5.8 degrees, which I’d consider a sign of pretty good cooling. Anything lower means the bed is doing some active cooling, and it might even feel cool-to-the-touch.
Though the temperature test determines our ultimate rating out of 5, we temper any results with experience from our tester. For example, there are many beds that didn’t perform so great in the thermal gun test that still felt cool or temperature-neutral to our tester. We make note of these instances so you can make an informed decision.
More Best Mattress Guides
Best Mattress FAQs
Which mattress do 5-star hotels use?
Most 5-star hotels use pillow-top hybrid beds with a medium or medium-firm feel to appeal to a variety of sleepers while still providing a luxury feel. A good example that feels like a hotel bed is the WinkBed mattress.
What mattress feels like a cloud?
If you’re looking for a mattress that feels like a cloud, you might like softer mattresses made with plush memory foam. A good option is the Nectar mattress or the Nolah Evolution, both of which offer plenty of pressure relief and a touch of that slow-moving feel.
What is the best type of mattress?
This really depends on your sleeping preferences. If you like to sink into your mattress and desire good pressure relief, you should consider a memory foam mattress. Those who need more support and like a more traditional feel should like an innerspring mattress, and people who want something sustainable and eco-friendly will appreciate a latex mattress.
Recap: Best Mattresses
| Mattress | Award |
| Nectar | Best Mattress Overall |
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Best Mattress for Back Pain |
| DreamCloud Original | Best Hybrid Mattress |
| Saatva Classic | Best Firm Mattress |
| Leesa Sapira Chill | Best Cooling Mattress |
| WinkBed Plus | Best Mattress for Heavy People |
| Nolah Evolution | Best Mattress for Side Sleepers |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Best Luxury Mattress |
| Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | Best Mattress for Back Sleepers |
| Birch Luxe Natural | Best Organic Mattress |
References
- Low, F.-Z., Chua, M. C.-H., Lim, P.-Y., & Yeow, C.-H. (2017). Effects of Mattress Material on Body Pressure Profiles in Different Sleeping Postures. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 16(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2016.09.002
- Radwan, A., Fess, P., James, D., Murphy, J., Myers, J., Rooney, M., Taylor, J., & Torii, A. (2015). Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain; systematic review of controlled trials.
