10 best mattress brands, tested and reviewed for every type of sleeper
If you’ve ever googled the best mattress for back pain, scrolled through endless “top 10” lists promising the best mattress for side sleepers, or stood paralyzed in a mattress showroom wondering if you were about to spend $3,000 on the world’s fanciest brick — welcome, friend. You’re in the right place. Whether you’re hunting for the best firm mattress to align your spine, the best memory foam mattress to cradle every curve, or the best cooling mattress to stop sweating through your sheets like you’re starring in a bad fever dream, this guide has your back. Literally.
We’ve curated the most expert-backed and comfort-tested list of winners to help you decode mattress marketing. From the best hybrid mattress to the best adjustable mattress (yes, there’s one that literally changes its feel via an app), and even the best mattress in a box for those of us who’d rather die than go into a store, we’ve tried them all. And we brought backup. This year, we tapped four top-tier sleep experts — Dr. Will Cole of BodyBio’s Spring Center, Dr. Michael Gradisar, head of sleep science at Sleep Cycle — for commentary on everything from hot sleeper science to spinal alignment and how often you really need to replace that 9-year-old slab of sadness you call a bed.
- Best Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress: Saatva Classic Mattress
- Best Organic Mattress: Birch Natural Mattress
- Best Hybrid: Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress
- Best for Side Sleepers: Nolah Evolution 15 Mattress
- Best Cooling Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress
- Best for Back Pain: Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- Best Adjustable Mattress: Sleep Number c2 Smart Bed
- Best Ultra-Firm Mattress: Plank Firm Mattress
- Best Box Mattress: Casper The One Mattress
Oh, and since the best time to buy a mattress often coincides with major sales, we’ve kept our picks updated with current pricing, sleep trials, and shipping policies. The best mattress brands know that comfort isn’t one-size-fits-all, so let’s find your perfect match.
Best mattresses to shop
Best Overall: Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress
Pros:
- Targeted lumbar support + plush comfort for side sleepers
- Zoned coils and premium foam relieve pressure and prevent pain
- Advanced cooling technology with GlacioTex Cover
- Excellent motion isolation for couples
- Made in the USA with CertiPUR-US certified foams
Cons:
- Heavy and hard to move solo
- Slight sloping at the edges
- Premium price (though worth it for long-term value)
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid mattress specifically engineered for side sleepers and back pain sufferers. It combines a plush quilted pillow top with multiple layers of responsive memory foam that cradle hips and shoulders while maintaining spinal alignment. Underneath, a zoned coil system targets lumbar support for healthier sleep posture, while individually wrapped coils prevent motion transfer between partners.
One of Helix’s most impressive upgrades is the optional GlacioTex Cooling Cover, which draws heat away from the body and keeps the surface cool to the touch. Designed in the U.S. and made with CertiPUR-US certified materials, the Midnight Luxe balances breathable structure and pressure relief like few others. It’s a standout for comfort, durability and targeted design, making it a top contender for the best hybrid mattress in the game.
“Twelve years of sleeping on the wrong mattress — and the Helix Midnight Luxe was the cure,” writes Al Murillo, senior director of commerce partnerships. After switching from a firm Tempurpedic to the Helix, both Murillo and his wife noticed immediate relief from back pain and hot sleep discomfort. “There was plush comfort without causing a sinking effect… and neither one of us woke up with the usual back pain.”
Murillo also highlights the standout motion isolation and cooling: “As a hot sleeper, the GlacioTex cover was a revelation. Even in L.A. warmth, the fabric stayed cool to the touch and helped regulate my temperature all night. And despite kids, dogs, and nightly chaos, we finally sleep through it all without waking each other up.”
Sleep trial: 100 nights | Warranty: Limited Lifetime | Size options: Twin to California King (plus RV sizes) | Feel: Medium | Shipping: Free, compressed in a box | Free mattress removal: No
Best Memory Foam Mattress: Saatva Classic Mattress
Pros:
- Three firmness levels and two heights
- Euro pillow top for plush comfort
- Excellent support for back and joint pain
- White glove delivery and lifetime warranty
- Made to order in the U.S.
Cons:
- Some may find the plush option too soft
- Not compressed for easy DIY setup
The Saatva Classic is the gold standard of luxury innerspring and memory foam hybrids, combining the plush comfort of a Euro pillow top with the responsive support of a dual coil system. It comes in three firmness options and two heights, making it customizable for nearly any sleep style. Whether you’re a side sleeper needing softness or a back sleeper wanting firm spinal support, Saatva has you covered.
Unlike most bed-in-a-box models, the Saatva Classic is handcrafted and delivered fully expanded — no off-gassing, no wrestling a box through your doorway. It also includes free white glove delivery and mattress removal, plus a full year to test it out risk-free.
Page Six Style and Shopping Director Elana Fishman reports, “My husband swears by firm mattresses, I live for plush, and the Saatva Classic somehow fits both of us like a dream. It truly feels like sleeping in a five-star hotel bed every night.”
She adds, “We’ve had more room, fewer aches, and better mornings since switching. The Euro pillow top cradles my body, while the supportive base keeps everything aligned. Even our cat seems impressed.”
Sleep trial: 365 nights | Warranty: Lifetime | Size options: Twin to Split California King | Feel: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, or Firm | Shipping: Free white glove delivery | Free mattress removal: Yes
Best Organic Mattress: Birch Natural Mattress
Pros:
- Made with organic cotton, wool, and Talalay latex
- GOLS and GREENGUARD Gold Certified
- Naturally cooling and hypoallergenic
- Supportive for all sleeping positions
- Strong edge support with individually wrapped coils
Cons:
- Heavy and hard to move solo
- $99 return fee
The Birch Natural Mattress by Helix is a sustainably sourced, latex-hybrid mattress engineered for all types of sleepers — especially those who care about what’s inside their bed. It features a breathable organic cotton cover, moisture-wicking organic wool, natural Talalay latex for gentle bounce and contouring, and a base of individually wrapped steel coils for zoned support and motion isolation. It’s ideal for back, side, and even stomach sleepers who want a firm, clean foundation for restful nights.
Certified by GOLS, GOTS, and GREENGUARD Gold, this mattress is a chemical-free zone. That means no polyurethane foams, synthetic fire retardants, or off-gassing funk — just fresh, clean comfort that supports both you and the planet. Birch’s edge reinforcement also keeps sleepers securely supported, no matter how close to the side they drift.
The Post’s commerce reporter Miska Salemann writes, “The Birch mattress smelled like a cedar forest straight out of the box. Zero synthetic odor. After years of waking up with aches and skin issues, I feel supported and refreshed — and my skin is clearer too.”
She adds, “I was skeptical of the organic mattress hype, but the Birch changed everything. My toddler climbs into bed nightly, and I don’t wake up anymore from her flailing limbs thanks to the mattress’s motion isolation. I sleep deeper, straighter, and longer— and I haven’t even missed my old squishy foam bed.”
Sleep trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 25 years | Size options: Twin to California King | Feel: Medium-Firm | Shipping: Free | Free mattress removal: No (optional in-home setup available)
Best for Side Sleepers: Nolah Evolution 15 Mattress

Pros:
- Zoned support system is ideal for shoulder and hip pressure relief
- Seven-layer hybrid design maximizes cooling and spinal alignment
- Fast setup with minimal off-gassing
- Ultra-durable with reinforced edges and high-end construction
- Great for sleepers who work, read, or lounge in bed
Cons:
- Very tall at 15 inches — may require deep-pocket sheets
- On the heavier side, setup may require two people
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a side sleeper’s dream: a luxury hybrid mattress with seven carefully engineered layers to relieve pressure points, regulate temperature, and deliver lasting spinal alignment. At the core of its success is Nolah’s proprietary HDMax Tri-Zone coil system, which offers firmer support in the lumbar region and more give at the shoulders and hips — exactly where side sleepers need it most. The mattress also features breathable AirFoamICE for contouring and a Euro-top with ArcticTex fabric that draws heat away from the body.
Measuring a plush 15 inches thick, the Evolution feels substantial and high-end. It combines comfort-focused foam layers with responsive coils and reinforced edges, making it an ideal bed for people who multitask from their mattress. Available in three firmness levels (plush, luxury firm, and firm), this model gives sleepers a fully tailored sleep experience, without the toxins of traditional memory foam.
Commerce reporter Angela Tricarico writes, “After sleeping on the Nolah Evolution 15 for a month, I haven’t found a single major flaw. I picked the firm model and was pleasantly surprised by how supportive yet cushiony it felt. My hips didn’t hurt when I woke up — which, as a lifelong side sleeper, is nothing short of miraculous.”
She adds, “Setup took under five minutes and it inflated almost instantly with zero chemical smell. Despite the mattress’s size and plushness, it sleeps cool and doesn’t trap heat, which is a major win in my NYC apartment. Even after weeks of use, it still feels brand-new — no sagging, no hot spots, just solid, luxurious sleep.”
Sleep trial: 120 nights | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Size options: Twin to Split King | Feel: Plush, Luxury Firm, or Firm | Shipping: Free via FedEx | Free mattress removal: No
Best Hybrid: Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress
Pros:
- Excellent support and pressure relief
- Stays cool through the night thanks to airflow design
- Motion isolation is ideal for couples and pets
- Reinforced edge support holds up to real-life use
- Ethically made and CertiPUR-US certified
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky to move
- Not ultra-plush — leans toward medium-firm
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid blends responsive memory foam with over 1,000 individually wrapped coils for a mattress that feels like it was custom-engineered for spinal alignment and comfort. Its five-layer construction includes perforated foam for breathability, a contouring memory foam layer for pressure relief, a transition layer to prevent sinkage, and a responsive spring core that delivers balanced support across the body. It’s an ideal choice for side and back sleepers, especially those prone to lower back or hip pain.
Unlike many hybrids that skew warm or sag over time, the Sapira remains temperature neutral and resists long-term indentations. Reinforced edge coils help the mattress hold shape even when sprawled on or sat along the perimeter. With a breathable knit cover and a slightly springy feel, it provides that luxurious hotel-bed sensation without the synthetic off-gassing.
I ordered the Leesa Sapira Hybrid after one too many mornings of hip pain. That first night? Game-changer. The top layers felt plush without being swampy. My hips finally stopped complaining. Even after three weeks, I wake up rested and without stiffness. It hasn’t developed dips or hot spots, and it holds up beautifully — whether I’m starfished or in a Sunday-scary fetal spiral.
I also have to praise the Sapira’s Goldilocks comfort level and cooling design. I’m a human furnace at night, and I’m not waking up drenched anymore. The perforated foam actually works, and the airflow from the coils underneath keeps everything breezy. If you sleep with someone who moves like a caffeinated cat, you’ll barely feel it.
Sleep trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 10 years | Size options: Twin to California King | Feel: Medium-Firm | Shipping: Free | Free mattress removal: Yes (in select areas)
Best cooling mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress
Pros:
- Advanced cooling tech with GlacioTex and optional pillow top
- Zoned coil system provides personalized support
- No off-gassing smell upon unboxing
- Supportive, durable, and made to last
- Available in three firmness levels
Cons:
- Medium firmness skews slightly firmer than expected
- Heavy — challenging to maneuver alone
Designed for hot sleepers, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress features six advanced layers, including a GlacioTex cooling cover, a copper-infused memory foam layer, and a coil system that promotes airflow and motion isolation. This hybrid mattress is available in soft, medium, or firm options and features an 8-inch core of zoned coils that align the spine while providing bounce and edge support.
The Aurora Luxe isn’t just cool to the touch, it actively pulls heat away from your body while maintaining optimal support. Its optional pillow top adds a luxe, hotel-style feel without trapping heat, and its coil core resists sagging or soft spots over time. Best of all, it’s handcrafted in Arizona and ships directly to your door.
New York Post Wellness Editor Carly Stern writes, “I finally got my first ‘big girl mattress’ — and I’ve only popped a sleep aid once since. The Aurora Luxe feels sturdy, supportive, and significantly cooler than my old memory foam. I used to wake up sweating in my pre-war NYC apartment, and now I can actually wear pajamas to bed.”
She continues, “Unboxing it solo was a full-body workout, but it inflated fast, had zero chemical smell, and felt expensive right out of the gate. If you’re on the fence, just know: the cooling tech works. I don’t wake up in a puddle of sweat anymore, even when the radiator’s going rogue.”
Sleep trial: 120 nights | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Size options: Twin to California King | Feel: Soft, Medium, or Firm | Shipping: Free | Free mattress removal: No
Best for Back Pain: Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Pros:
- Five-zoned coil system supports key pressure points
- PCM cover and copper foam keep you cool
- Outstanding motion isolation and contouring
- Reinforced edge coils prevent sagging
- Includes two free Cirrus Cloud Pillows
Cons:
- Tall and heavy — expect a climb
- May require new sheets due to depth
The Bear Elite Hybrid is purpose-built for people with back pain, athletes in recovery, and anyone seeking orthopedic-grade support. Featuring a five-zone coil system with added lumbar support, this mattress ensures your spine stays aligned whether you sleep on your back, side, or combo-style. The top layer uses phase-change PCM fabric that regulates body temperature, while copper-infused memory foam pulls excess heat away and reduces inflammation.
The result is a plush-yet-firm feel that cushions pressure points while keeping the lower back buoyed and balanced. This model also includes enhanced edge support and a responsive coil base to limit motion transfer. Designed for all body types and sleep preferences, Bear’s Elite Hybrid turns your bedroom into a personal recovery suite.
The Post’s Live Events Reporter Matt Levy writes, “This mattress is the closest thing to a hotel bed I’ve ever had at home. It contours to your body without sagging or trapping heat, and the edge support is so good I no longer wake up clinging to the edge like I’m trying to avoid falling off a cliff.”
He adds, “Setup was surprisingly fun — the box even had step-by-step instructions printed on the flaps. And the sleep experience? Unreal. I haven’t woken up with back pain once since switching to Bear. Add in two amazing pillows they throw in for free, and you’ve got yourself a luxury sleep setup that actually delivers.”
Sleep trial: 120 nights | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Size options: Twin to Split King | Feel: Soft, Medium, or Firm | Shipping: Free | Free mattress removal: No
Best Adjustable Mattress: Sleep Number c2 Smart Bed

Pros:
- Dual adjustability with remote or app
- Ideal for back pain and fluctuating comfort needs
- Temperature-regulating ceramic gel layer
- Long lifespan with 15-year warranty
- Pairs well with adjustable bases
Cons:
- Feels more like an air mattress at softest settings
- No free mattress removal
The Sleep Number c2 Smart Bed isn’t just a mattress, it’s a customizable sleep experience. Using air chamber technology, you can adjust firmness on either side of the bed using a remote or app, making it ideal for couples with different sleep needs. It also includes a temperature-balancing ceramic gel layer to help regulate sleep climate, and it’s compatible with Sleep Number’s FlexFit adjustable bases, which elevate the head and/or feet for added comfort.
What sets the c2 apart is its precision personalization. Whether you’re dealing with temporary back pain, fluctuating preferences, or a snoring partner, you can recalibrate your sleep setup nightly. This mattress also tracks your sleep data (if paired with the app) and helps you optimize rest over time.
Commerce Reporter and Content Strategist for The Post, Victoria Giardina, raves: “This mattress saved my sleep — literally. I change my settings almost nightly based on how my body feels. The adjustability makes it feel like a mattress made for you, not just picked by you.”
She adds, “While the softest settings feel more like an air mattress, the medium and firmer ranges offer structured, serious support. I’d recommend this to anyone managing sleep issues, especially older adults or couples with wildly different comfort preferences.”
Sleep trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 15 years | Size options: Twin to Split California King | Feel: Adjustable firmness (via air chambers) | Shipping: 2 weeks | Free mattress removal: No
Best Ultra-Firm Mattress: Plank Firm Mattress
Pros:
- Engineered for optimal spinal alignment with ultra-firm feel
- Dual-sided design allows users to flip between firm and ultra-firm
- Minimal motion transfer — great for couples
- Ideal for stomach and back sleepers needing rigid support
- GREENGUARD Gold certified for low chemical emissions
Cons:
- Too firm for most side sleepers or those with joint pain
The Plank Firm Mattress doesn’t try to feel like a cloud. It proudly doesn’t. Inspired by the firm sleep surfaces favored in parts of Asia, this bed is a godsend for back and stomach sleepers who’ve had it with “sink-in” softness. Constructed by Brooklyn Bedding, the Plank uses high-density foams arranged in a flippable, dual-firmness design: one side is firm, the other ultra-firm. No springs, no sag — just straight-up support with an almost orthopedic feel.
What sets this mattress apart is its ability to promote a neutral spine position, which research suggests can reduce lumbar strain and improve sleep quality in individuals with lower back pain. A limits muscle tension by minimizing unnatural sinking, helping the spine stay in a more natural position through the night.
Measuring 11.75 inches tall with a simple two-layer foam construction, the Plank is impressively solid but still relatively lightweight for its density. While it lacks the bounce of a hybrid or the plush hug of memory foam, it excels at motion isolation — a huge plus for couples or co-sleepers. It’s also GREENGUARD Gold certified and made in the U.S., with optional cooling panels available for an extra fee if you sleep hot.
Mattress type: Foam | Sleep trial: 120 nights | Warranty: 10 years | Feel: Firm or Ultra-Firm (flippable) | Free shipping: Yes via FedEx | Free mattress removal: No
Best Mattress In A Box: Casper The One Mattress
Pros:
- Arrives compressed and expands in minutes
- Designed for all sleep positions
- Great edge support and breathability
- Easy setup and high-quality materials
- Medium-firm feel suits most sleepers
Cons:
- May not be plush enough for ultra-soft fans
- Slightly low profile compared to luxe models
Casper’s The One Mattress delivers a seamless blend of convenience and quality. Designed with three layers of supportive, pressure-relieving foam, it arrives rolled in a box and fully expands in under five minutes. It’s responsive enough for back sleepers, cushioning enough for side sleepers, and balanced enough for combination sleepers.
The One’s standout feature is its all-foam design that breathes like a hybrid. Built with open-cell foam for airflow, zoned support for spine alignment, and reinforced edges for sitting and sleeping stability, it performs well beyond its modest profile. And yes, it really is better than most “fancy tech” beds at double the price.
Giardina reports that she “was shocked by how fast and easy this setup was. It expanded in minutes and felt supportive from night one. Zero weird smells. No adjustment period. Just sleep.”
She adds, “Honestly, I prefer this over my old Sleep Number. It’s breathable, stable, and deceptively durable for something that showed up on my doorstep like a pizza. Hot take: it’s the best bed I’ve ever pulled out of a box.”
Sleep trial: 100 nights | Warranty: 10 years | Size options: Twin to Split King | Feel: Medium Firm | Shipping: 3–5 business days | Free mattress removal: Yes
| Superlative | Mattress | Type | Firmness | Trial (Nights) | Warranty | Price (Queen) |
| Best overall | Helix Midnight Luxe | Hybrid | Medium | 100 | Limited Lifetime | $2,049.00 |
| Best hybrid | Leesa Sapira Hybrid | Hybrid | Medium-Firm | 100 | 10 Years | $1,499.00 |
| Best for side sleepers | Nolah Evolution 15 | Hybrid | Plush, Luxury Firm, Firm | 120 | Limited Lifetime | $2,127.00 |
| Best cooling | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe | Hybrid | Soft, Medium, Firm | 120 | Limited Lifetime | $2,265.00 |
| Best organic | Birch Natural Mattress | Latex-Hybrid | Medium-Firm | 100 | 25 Years | $1,405.00 |
| Best adjustable | Sleep Number c2 Smart Bed | Adjustable (Air) | Adjustable | 100 | 15 Years | $1,099.00 |
| Best memory foam | Saatva Classic Mattress | Innerspring + Memory Foam | Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm | 365 | Lifetime | $1,995.00 |
| Best mattress in a box | Casper The One Mattress | Foam | Medium-Firm | 100 | 10 Years | $1,245.00 |
How We Tested
Testing a mattress isn’t just about flopping down for a nap. We approached this with the rigor of a lab rat and the pettiness of someone who hasn’t slept well since 2017. Here’s how each mattress earned its spot:
1. Comfort in Real Sleep Scenarios
We didn’t just lie down — we slept, sprawled, curled, star-fished, sweat, shivered, doomscrolled, and repeat-watched “Succession” to simulate real use. Testers included side sleepers, back sleepers, hot sleepers, restless partners, and even dogs and toddlers (unofficial participants).
2. Support & Spinal Alignment
We evaluated whether mattresses kept our testers’ spines in neutral alignment and avoided pressure buildup at hips, shoulders, and lower back. Extra points went to zoned coils, latex layers, and smart responsiveness.
3. Temperature Regulation
Hot sleepers tested each mattress across warm nights. We tracked whether they woke up overheated, evaluated breathability, and noted material tech like cooling gel foam, latex, or GlacioTex covers.
4. Motion Isolation
We tested beds with co-sleepers (human and otherwise). Whether it was a flailing partner or a 2 a.m. cat parkour incident, we tracked how much movement transferred across the mattress.
5. Edge Support
We sat and rolled around the perimeter to see if the bed collapsed or supported weight without sloping. Mattresses that doubled as couches (without sliding us off) scored higher.
6. Durability
All materials were examined for density, construction, and long-term durability indicators like sag resistance and reinforcement. Bonus if they stayed plush without losing structure.
7. Unboxing & Setup
We noted ease of delivery, setup, off-gassing, and whether one person could manage setup alone. (Spoiler: usually not.)
8. Trial, Warranty, and Value
A longer sleep trial and warranty signaled brand confidence. We matched specs to price to see who gave the best bang for your bedtime buck.
FAQs, answered by experts
“It’s important to consider your build (height/weight), and your sleep position (side, back, stomach, combination) when choosing a mattress,” said Logan Foley, Sleep Science Coach and Managing Editor at the Sleep Foundation. “For instance, a sleeper who is 5’1 and weighs less than 130 pounds could find a mattress more firm than someone who is 6’1 and over 230 pounds.”
“When buying online, a consumer won’t have access to a customer service representative to help them with their specific sleep needs,” Foley said. “This means they need to be more aware of what they want in a mattress than someone who shops in-store.”
Overall: The Sleep Foundation suggests a medium soft firmness level for sleepers under 130 pounds, medium firm between 130-230 pounds, and extra-firm for sleepers 230+ pounds.
What makes a mattress “good for everyone”? Is there a universal option?
There’s no true one-size-fits-all mattress, but certain designs come close. According to Dr. Michael Gradisar, Head of Sleep Science at Sleep Cycle, “People can actually request a ‘mattress fitting’… not only different mattresses but also different pillows, so you’re getting the overall support for your body.” Medium-firm hybrids with zoned support are often the most versatile. “Mattresses labeled ‘medium-firm’ with targeted zoned support systems come closest to accommodating all sleep positions,” notes Dr. Will Cole, adding that “adjustable mattresses like Naturepedic’s customizable models allow couples with different sleep preferences to essentially have two mattresses in one.”
What type of mattress is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers typically need a mattress that cradles the body without compromising alignment. “When recommending mattresses for side sleepers, I prioritize pressure relief and materials first,” says Dr. Will Cole. “Side sleepers place concentrated pressure on shoulders and hips, which can lead to pain and misalignment.”
Dr. Christopher Allen agrees: “Pressure relief plus spinal alignment [are] crucial for avoiding joint and nerve pain… firmness should be medium-soft to medium (4–6/10).” Lauri Leadley adds that a firmer mattress paired with a body pillow can help side sleepers “take pressure off the lower back and give you a slightly elevated head – both conducive to good sleep and positive airflow.”
What kind of mattress is best for people who sleep hot?
If you overheat at night, steer clear of traditional memory foam. “Natural materials consistently outperform synthetic options,” Dr. Cole explains. “Organic wool wicks moisture while providing ventilation. Natural latex has inherent cooling properties.” Dr. Allen breaks it down further: “Latex is naturally breathable. Gel-infused foam offers moderate cooling. Hybrid coil systems provide the best airflow.” Even Lauri Leadley, who favors spring mattresses, notes, “the coils serve as little structures that precipitate better airflow.” Dr. Gradisar reminds hot sleepers that “heat rises,” suggesting it’s equally important to focus on breathable bedding and cooler room temperatures: “You’re talking about heat transfer — from the core of the body to the cooler air surrounding you.”
If I wake up with pain, what kind of mattress should I be sleeping on?
The experts are unanimous: pain means it’s time to upgrade. “People with pain should prioritize proper support and pressure point relief using non-toxic materials,” says Dr. Cole, citing “inflammatory conditions exacerbated by chemical exposure” in conventional mattresses. Dr. Allen advises choosing a model with “zoned support and pressure-relieving top layers,” adding that adjustable bases can aid alignment. Lauri Leadley emphasizes that “usually, a softer mattress can help with painful pressure points,” while Dr. Gradisar cautions that “people may not realize a spring they’re lying on for hours is the key factor in the pain they’re experiencing.” His bottom line? If you’re waking up sore, your mattress isn’t working.
How much should I spend on a mattress?
A good mattress is an investment in your health, and pricing reflects that. “A quality organic mattress typically costs between $1,500–$3,000,” says Dr. Cole. “Budget options can deliver, but look for real certifications — GOTS at minimum — to avoid greenwashing.” Dr. Allen agrees: “Expect to spend $1,800–$3,500 for a hybrid mattress and up to $3,200 for top-tier cooling options.” Lauri Leadley sums it up best: “Take care of your spine and your spine will take care of you. Buy the very best mattress you can afford.”
How long should a mattress last before replacing it?
Longevity depends on what it’s made from. “Natural latex mattresses typically outlast all others, often 12–15+ years,” says Dr. Cole. “Conventional foam starts deteriorating after 5–7 years.” Dr. Allen confirms, “Latex can last up to 15 years; hybrids, 7–10. Replace sooner if you notice sagging, new pain, or allergy flare-ups.” Leadley advises replacing “every seven years at least,” and Dr. Gradisar offers a gut check: “If you can’t remember when you bought your current mattress, it’s definitely time for a new one.”
What are the real benefits of hybrid mattresses?
Hybrids blend the best of both worlds — foam comfort and coil support — but quality varies. “Superior hybrids use GOLS-certified latex, GOTS-certified cotton and wool… with individually wrapped coils,” says Dr. Cole. “Avoid synthetic foams and adhesives that release VOCs.” Dr. Allen adds: “Great hybrids use high-gauge coils, dense foam, and zoned pressure relief layers for spinal alignment.” For Leadley, it’s about edge support and airflow: “The coils serve as little structures within the mattress that promote cooling.” Dr. Gradisar finds hybrids to be a solid middle ground, though he favors foam for motion isolation.
Do I really need motion isolation?
If you share your bed, yes. “Motion isolation should be a big consideration,” says Dr. Gradisar. “Up to 30% of a person’s awakenings can be caused by movement from a bed partner.”
Dr. Cole prefers natural latex or hybrids with individually wrapped coils. “Traditional innerspring mattresses transfer too much movement. Foam isolates motion well, but at the cost of breathability and off-gassing.” Dr. Allen notes: “Memory foam is excellent. Latex is moderate. Hybrid varies. Innerspring is poor.” Translation: the more you move, the more you’ll need foam or a thoughtfully engineered hybrid.
Is a mattress in a box a good idea?
It can be, if you choose wisely. “Don’t be afraid of the box,” advises Dr. Allen. “Look for CertiPUR-US certified foams and long trial periods.” Aaron Feldman, former director of product at Casper, adds, “Our research shows the average person changes position 20–30 times per night, so you need a mattress to accommodate your body’s natural movement.” Dr. Gradisar recommends buyers “focus on mattresses with proven sleep science, not just marketing.” If it ships well, sleeps well, and comes with a generous return policy, it’s worth considering.
How to choose a mattress firmness based on sleep position
- Side sleepers should look for a medium-firm mattress made of polyfoam or memory foam, providing above-average contouring to the body and also helping those who wake up with body aches.
- Back and stomach sleepers may consider a firmer latex mattress that offers less contouring and more bounce.
- Combination sleepers are looking for a medium to medium-firm mattress found in hybrid mattresses that combine innerspring support and the comfort of foam.
What is a good, reasonably priced mattress?
As far as mattresses we reviewed, Casper’s The One Premium Foam Mattress is the best value-driven pick, especially if you’re looking for ease of installation. It’s a bed-in-a-box mattress with a terrific brand reputation, too.
For a hybrid option, the Nectar Medium Firm Gel Memory Foam Mattress tends to be priced well, especially during sales, with a focus on pressure relief and motion isolation.
What is the best company to buy a mattress from?
Of course, choosing a mattress is subjective. However, we love the pillows to shop for to round out your purchase.
How often should you replace a mattress?
Typically, it’s recommended to replace your mattress every 7 to 10 years, but this can vary based on several factors. For instance, different materials have different lifespans. Innerspring mattresses may need replacement sooner than memory foam or latex mattresses.
Additionally, if you’re noticing your sleep quality start to dwindle, it may be time for a replacement. If you start waking up with aches and pains or not feeling rested, it may indicate your mattress is no longer supportive.
Weight changes or shifts in sleeping position can also affect how well a mattress works for you.
Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.