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The Best Mattresses for Every Type of Sleeper

After more than 10 years of testing hundreds of models — and surveying more than 10,000 mattress owners — our bedding experts reveal their top recommendations.

By
VerifiedTested by Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst

A good mattress is key to a good night's sleep, but finding one that feels comfortable and doesn't cost a fortune can seem like a daunting task. Our bedding experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab have run long-term at-home sleep tests on hundreds of models and surveyed thousands of mattress owners on our tester panel to recommend the best options for every type of sleeper.

You can learn more about how we test mattresses — and how to find the best one for you — at the end of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested mattresses (with prices listed for Queen sizes).

Best Overall Mattress

Saatva Classic Mattress

Classic Mattress
Now 20% Off
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • High scores for comfort and support from long-term users
  • Excellent customer service with free delivery, setup and old mattress removal
  • Good edge support and breathability

Cons

  • Less pressure relief and motion isolation than foam mattresses

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT: Good Housekeeping readers can take 20% off their Saatva orders (with a minimum $1,000 spend) by shopping through our exclusive link through Presidents' Day.

Online mattress shopping has become more popular over the past decade, but if you still prefer a traditional mattress, Saatva is your best bet. Its innerspring construction uses primarily steel coils — which are more durable, bouncy and breathable than traditional bed-in-a-box foam mattresses, although they tend to offer less pressure relief and motion isolation than foam mattresses. This model is convenient to buy online and includes setup in your home rather than shipping in a box for DIY setup. It offers two heights and three firmness levels to choose from, plus a year-long trial period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit (minus a $99 return pickup fee).

We've surveyed over 100 Saatva mattress owners, who gave it highest ratings for comfort, support and overall sleep quality. Our reviewers also highlighted the brand's customer service; they said ordering and in-home setup went smoothly and any issues that came up during the process were quickly resolved. Our product analysts and testers agree that this mattress sleeps cooler, feels firmer and offers more edge support than memory foam mattresses. One described it as "firm, but not hard" while another said it's "comfortable and just the right amount of plush." Some praised it for being "the best mattress ever," and one said it led to "the best sleep I've ever had."

Two things to keep in mind regarding the cost: First, we've seen Saatva prices regularly increasing over the past several years, and we expect this trend to continue. Second, we've noticed that it's almost always marked down, so avoid paying full price for this one.

Mattress type: Innerspring | Height: 11.5 or 14.5 inches | Firmness: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm | Trial period: 365 days (with a $99 return pickup fee)

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Saatva Is Our Pick for the Best Overall Mattress

Best Memory Foam Mattress

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud

Tempur-Cloud
Now 30% Off
$1,399 at Tempur-Pedic
Tap to Copy -- Expires Jan 1, 2026
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Adapts to your body shape, providing pressure relief
  • High-quality Tempur-Pedic foam at a more affordable price
  • Convenient box delivery

Cons

  • 10-inch height is on the lower side

Memory foam mattresses mold to your body and make you feel cradled and helps keep your spine in neutral alignment, making it ideal for side sleepers and back pain sufferers. In this market, Tempur-Pedic mattresses are widely-recognized for their high-quality foam that offers superior pressure relief and motion isolation, meaning the foam takes weight off of pressure points (like shoulders and hips) and you're less likely to feel your sleeping partner move at night. Most of the brand's models are very expensive, but the Tempur-Cloud is a boxed mattress that uses this unique foam without costing a fortune. At only 10 inches tall, it's a bit on the short side and it has a medium firmness. The brand says that although it may feel a bit too firm when you first lie down, it slowly adapts to your body shape to feel like a personalized fit.

Our reviewers gave it high scores for comfort and support, and said they slept great on it. "We were delighted with the comfort," said one tester. "The foam is lovely if you like that feeling of sinking into a warm hug when you sleep. We can’t deny that we slept well on this mattress." Another user told us, "I feel like my entire body is supported in a very gentle way." A tester compared this model to a previous mattress-in-a-box they slept on and noted, "It was definitely a major upgrade," and our panelists also note that the foam holds up surprisingly well over time.

Though it's still somewhat expensive, you can save 30% off the full price of this mattress using the code CLOUD30 at checkout. If you prefer a model with coils, you can upgrade to a hybrid version for an extra $200. However, our testers tend to like the all-foam models from Tempur-Pedic better, which makes sense because the brand's foam is considered best in class.

Mattress type: Memory foam | Height: 10 inches | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 90 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Pedic's Tempur-Cloud Delivers Luxurious Memory Foam to Your Door

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Best Hybrid Mattress

Bear Elite Hybrid

On Sale
Elite Hybrid
Now 40% Off
$1,383 at bearmattress.com
Tap to Copy -- Expires Mar 4, 2025
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Combines memory foam and coils so you don't have to choose
  • Perfect comfort and support ratings from every tester
  • Users report improved sleep quality

Cons

  • We couldn't validate the brand's energy and recovery claims

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT: Good Housekeeping readers can take 40% off their order and receive two free pillows with code GH40 through March 3rd.

If you're not sure whether to buy memory foam or innerspring, this model combines the benefits of both and is consistently a tester favorite, thanks to its comfort that you have to feel to believe. I've personally been sleeping on this mattress for about two years and can attest to its comfort: I feel the cradling foam on top, but it doesn't sink in too much. It also has reinforced edge support, which is not typically found in boxed mattresses

We've had new testers try this model each year and they consistently tell us they have better, more uninterrupted sleep than on any other mattress they've tried before. All of our testers give it perfect ratings across the board, with one saying, "It is the most comfortable mattress we have ever slept on." One also noted, "This is undoubtedly the best mattress we have ever owned. We have traveled all over and have never had the sleep experience we now have every night."

Because it's a boxed model, it's intended for DIY setup. However, you can add a white glove delivery service for an extra $175. The brand makes claims about using natural minerals that turn your body heat into energy, which is then reflected back to you to enhance recovery. We couldn't verify these claims in our research, but we like the mattress for its incredible comfort.

Mattress type: Hybrid | Height: 14 inches | Firmness: Soft, Medium, Firm | Trial period: 120 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: After Testing Hundreds of Hybrid Mattresses, The Bear Elite Hybrid is Our Favorite

Best Mattress Under $500

Allswell Luxe Hybrid

Luxe Hybrid
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Hybrid model includes foam and coils
  • Quick delivery and easy DIY set up
  • Users say it feels like an expensive hotel bed

Cons

  • Lacks edge support

An affordable mattress doesn't have to feel cheap. This one from Allswell stands out for its exceptional comfort compared to other low-cost models (including inexpensive best-sellers on Amazon). And while mattress prices have skyrocketed in recent years, Allswell pricing has stayed low and consistent. In fact, we never see this one go on sale, so there's no need to wait for a holiday weekend to buy it.

It's a hybrid model with both memory foam and coils for a mix of comfort and support. The brand rates it as a medium firmness level, but it did feel a bit soft in our tests. The most common complaint was that it lacks edge support, which can be an issue for older individuals or anyone with mobility limitations. Still, our reviewers couldn't believe how expensive it felt, and some even said it got rid of their neck and back pain. One summed it up by saying, "This mattress is supportive and plush, and it feels like a fancy hotel bed." Your purchase includes free shipping, and the mattress arrives in a box within days of ordering for you to set up on your own.

Mattress type: Hybrid | Height: 12 inches | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 90 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Allswell Luxe Hybrid Is the Best Low-Cost Mattress

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Best Mattress for Couples

Helix Dusk Luxe

Dusk Luxe
Now 25% Off
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Medium firmness for combination sleepers
  • Good compromise for partners with different preferences
  • Zoned coils for ergonomic support

Cons

  • Heavy with no side handles for maneuvering
  • Motion isolation could be better

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT: Good Housekeeping readers can take 27% off their Helix orders of Luxe or Elite mattresses and receive a free bedding bundle with code GH27 through February 20th.

This mattress is a hybrid, but it's unique because of its Goldilocks firmness level — i.e., not too hard yet not too soft. As a result, it's a happy balance for couples with different needs and for sleepers who frequently change positions: Testers noted that they feel properly supported whether on their sides, backs or stomachs. As one reviewer highlighted, "It's a good mix for me (a side sleeper) and my partner (a back sleeper)." It's fairly tall for a boxed mattress and has plenty of layers and zones for ergonomic alignment, but the downside is that means it's heavier to set up — and there's no side handle to assist.

Users described this model as having a contouring feel against pressure points. One said, "It feels plush but doesn't feel like it's swallowing me up, and there's just enough bounce that allows me to shift and turn over in the night." They did note that they can sometimes feel their sleeping partner move if they're too close together, meaning it lacks motion isolation compared to all foam models. Helix offers a wide assortment of mattresses and we've tested many of them, but our analysts and consumer testers were most impressed by this Dusk Luxe.

Mattress type: Hybrid | Height: 14 inches | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 100 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Helix Carries Over 20 Mattresses — Here's Why We Love the Dusk Luxe Model

Best Boxed Mattress

Casper Original Mattress

On Sale
Original Mattress

Pros

  • Easy ordering and DIY set up
  • Ergonomic support
  • Users say it maintains its shape over time

Cons

  • Casper will be phasing out this model eventually as it updates its assortment

Casper has a variety of mattress that are popular among our survey panelists, but its all-foam Original model has zoned layers that are designed for spine alignment, with a softer feel around the shoulders and firmer around the hips, waist and lower back. This makes it especially good for side and back sleepers. The purchase includes free shipping, but like most boxed mattresses, you'll need to set it up on your own.

We've surveyed more than 250 Casper mattress owners; most gave the mattresses high scores and liked how well the mattresses have kept their shape over time. When it comes to the all-foam model, users especially liked the ease of ordering and setup as well as the 12-inch height that isn't too tall and fits sheets nicely. One user on our panel liked how well "it conforms to your body," while a second one pointed out, "it helps with motion transfer much more than the old innerspring mattress I had." Another reviewer told us, "It is extremely comfy — so comfy that we bought two more for other beds."

The company recently updated its entire mattress assortment and we are currently testing the One model (pictured here). It's similar to the Original, but it costs several hundred dollars less — the Queen size is under $1,000 — and it doesn't have zoned support. The Original may be phased out as a result of this assortment update, but you can currently buy it online.

Mattress type: Memory foam | Height: 11 inches | Firmness: Medium firm | Trial period: 100 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: How to Tell if a Casper Mattress is Right for You

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Best Foam Mattress Under $1,000

Tuft & Needle T&N Original Mattress

On Sale
T&N Original Mattress
Now 20% Off
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Supportive foam with motion isolation
  • Low cost compared to similar brands
  • Fast and free shipping on Amazon

Cons

  • Lacks edge support

Tuft & Needle's all-foam mattress is a great option for two reasons: First, it's a top-rated foam mattress that costs less than other popular models. Second, it feels firmer than other foam mattresses, making it ideal for those who want foam without a super cushy feel. Another perk: It's almost always in stock on Amazon (since it's not made to order) and arrives within days, which is a big deal if you need a mattress quickly — the industry is notorious for its shipping delays.

Even though it's lower priced, our reviewers gave this pick high marks across the board, from the ordering process and setup to the comfort and support. Several commented on liking its firmness, and one user who's had it for five years told us, "my Tuft & Needle mattress is so much more comfortable than any mattress I've ever had in the past. My husband and I both experience much less back pain." Our reviewers also highlighted the motion isolation and said they couldn't feel movement from sleeping partners. The only real complaint was that there wasn't much edge support, so it may sag when you sit on the sides.

Mattress type: Memory foam | Height: 10 inches | Firmness: Firm | Trial period: 100 days

RELATED: The Best Mattresses on Amazon

Best Mattress for Back Pain

Nolah Original 10”

Original 10”
Now 35% Off
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Testers swore it eased back pain
  • High scores for comfort and support
  • Users say it sleeps cooler than other foam models

Cons

  • Low height may be troublesome for those with mobility issues

The best mattresses for back pain are made of memory foam and have a medium firmness level, giving you pressure relief and a cradling feel. Not only does this Nolah model check off those boxes, but our testers swore it eased their discomfort. And though memory foam is known to trap heat, reviewers told us this one sleeps surprisingly cool. If you're not used to sleeping on an all-foam mattress like this one, it may take some getting used to. Testers told us it felt too soft at first, but they ultimately loved sleeping on it and found it to be supportive.

One user told us this model "offers back support while still cradling pressure points," and added, "it has been significantly helpful in relieving back pain for my husband, who has scoliosis." Another owner who's had it for four years said it has kept its shape well, and a recent tester of the newer hybrid variation said, "on the first day of testing, I went to bed with a strained back from hours of sitting at my desk. When I woke up the next day, the pain was completely gone."

The one thing to keep in mind is that it's only 10 inches high, which may make it more difficult for some people to get in and out of bed. Nolah's Evolution 15-inch model is a taller, more expensive hybrid model that was also loved by our reviewers with back pain.

Mattress type: Memory foam | Height: 10 inches | Firmness: Medium | Trial period: 120 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Sleep Testers Swear Nolah's Mattress Alleviates Back Pain

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Best Firm Mattress

Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress

Estate Mattress
Now 8% Off
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Unique innerspring coils for firm support
  • Doesn't sink in under pressure
  • High-quality and hand-crafted materials

Cons

  • Over $2,000
  • Less pressure relief for those who need it

Firm mattresses are especially good for stomach sleepers and heavier body weights, as these types of sleepers need a sturdy surface that won't sink in under pressure. This one from Stearns & Foster is made with a complex coil system that's available in multiple levels, but the firm is labeled as a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale. And though it's expensive, it uses high-quality materials and is handcrafted, so you can expect it to last longer than some more cheaply-made beds. We also love how it can be used with adjustable bases and the fact that it includes in-home delivery and setup.

We reviewed surveys from over 150 owners of this brand, and it was especially loved by those who prefer a firm feel. When comparing the mattress to previous ones they owned, users highlighted the firmness and support as the main upgrades, though it does lack the pressure relieving benefits of foam. One tester noted that the mattress feels "thicker and firmer, and seems to have more support," while another told us, "I like how firm this mattress is as well as the quality of the outer material." At over $2,000 it's an investment, but if you need a super firm pick, this is the right one.

Mattress type: Innerspring | Height: 14.5" (or 15" with a pillowtop) | Firmness: Soft, Firm, Pillowtop Soft, Pillowtop Firm | Trial period: 90 days

RELATED: The Best Firm Mattresses for Extra Support

Best Soft Mattress

Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress

Lux Hybrid Mattress

Pros

  • Plush with contouring support
  • Our reviewers said it improved sleep quality
  • Kept its shape well in at-home tests

Cons

  • Testers didn't seem to notice the claimed cooling effect

Puffy's mattress feels plush and indulgent, yet still supportive — i.e., it's a soft mattress that doesn't sink in or sag under pressure. Like several others we recommend, it's a hybrid that combines coils and foam layers and conforms to your body, making it an ideal mattress for side sleepers or anyone who needs pressure relief.

The two most common highlights from our reviewers were that they experienced fewer aches and pains from it (especially compared to innerspring beds) and that the mattress kept its shape nicely without forming indents. One tester said, "I feel like I'm sleeping on a cloud, but I still feel supported," while another told us, "it's not too hard and not too soft." Just note that although the brand claims to use cooling features, it wasn't noticeable to some testers.

Mattress type: Hybrid | Height: 12 inches | Firmness: Medium plush | Trial period: 101 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Puffy's Lux Hybrid Mattress Feels Like Sleeping on a Cloud, According to GH Testers

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Best Cooling Mattress

Purple Mattress

On Sale
Mattress

Pros

  • Testers consistently tell us it sleeps cool
  • Elastic grid is squishy yet supportive
  • Good pressure relief and motion isolation

Cons

  • Some users experienced shipping delays

There are a lot of similarities between most mattress materials, but Purple is unique because of its GelFlex Grid: An elastic top layer that feels squishy yet surprisingly firm and provides both support and pressure relief, along with excellent motion isolation and breathability. In fact, this air flow helps it feel cooler than other mattresses, even those with added cooling features.

Testers noted that the cooling capabilities were obvious, saying it felt noticeably cooler than other beds they'd owned and ultimately led to better sleep. On top of that, our panelists swore it felt like the perfect combination of soft and firm. As one put it, "It's 'springy' and conforms to my body while still being supportive." Others described it as feeling like "sleeping on air," and, "like floating in every sleeping position." They also told us they couldn't feel their partners moving throughout the night thanks to its motion isolation. The main issue with this one is that several told us the delivery took longer than expected.

Mattress type: Memory foam | Height: 9.25 inches | Firmness: Medium firm | Trial period: 100 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why The Purple Mattress Is Our Pick For The Best Cooling Mattress Available

Most Popular Mattress

Serta Perfect Sleeper Hybrid Mattress

Perfect Sleeper Hybrid Mattress
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • High praise for comfort and support from testers
  • Available to try out in stores
  • Great price for a hybrid model

Cons

  • Some long-term Serta owners said the mattress felt less comfortable over time

Serta's Perfect Sleeper line is one of the most popular mattresses in online searches and it's also one of the most commonly purchased models among our panel of consumer testers. We especially love this hybrid version because it's comfortable, supportive and costs less than $1,000. It also arrives via a delivery service rather than getting compressed into a box.

We heard from well over 1,000 Serta matttress owners in our latest survey and the Perfect Sleeper line in particular received high ratings for support, though some long-term owners did complain that it hasn't held up as well as they hoped. Still, most were happy. When we recently tested this specific model, our at-home tester gave it perfect scores in all areas and couldn't think of a single complaint. She told us, "I have chronic shoulder and back pain. This mattress has such great support that I no longer wake up feeling achy. I now wake up feeling refreshed."

Mattress type: Hybrid | Height: 12 inches | Firmness: Plush, Medium, Firm | Trial period: 120 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Serta's Perfect Sleeper Mattress Offers an Exceptional Value for Shoppers

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Best Organic Mattress

Avocado Green Mattress

Green Mattress
Now 15% Off
Credit: Mike Garten

Pros

  • Certified organic materials
  • Comfortable and firm support
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Pillowtop and in-home setup cost extra

If you prefer to skip memory foam and synthetic fabrics, this latex mattress is made of natural and organic materials. It's also certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) so you know the entire manufacturing process follows strict guidelines on the materials and ingredients used. The best part is that it doesn't skimp on quality by going green; in fact, it earned one of the highest scores for delivering quality sleep among our panel.

Latex also offers more of a floating feel compared to the sinking-in feel of memory foam. Users told us they love sleeping on it and said it keeps their body weight evenly distributed. One of our reviewers shared, "I like that it's made of organic and natural materials, that it's extremely comfortable and that it's held up even after years." Users also said the brand's customer service is top notch and they had no issues to report.

Mattress type: Latex hybrid | Height: 11, 13 or 15.5 inches | Firmness: Plush, Medium, Firm | Trial period: 365 days

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Avocado's Green Mattress is the Best Organic Mattress on the Market

Best Adjustable Mattress

Sleep Number p6 Smart Bed

GH Seal
p6 Smart Bed
Now 19% Off
Credit: Sleep Number

Pros

  • Dual-sided firmness control
  • Hundreds of users on our panel swear by it
  • Earned the Good Housekeeping Seal

Cons

  • Expensive, and delivery costs extra

Perfect for couples (especially ones who don't agree on firmness), Sleep Number mattresses are filled with adjustable air chambers so each side of the bed can be customized to whatever firmness level you choose. Plus, biometric sensors in the mattress can tell if you've switched positions and it'll automatically adjust so you stay at your preferred firmness all night. The mattress also has sleep-tracking capabilities to give you feedback through its app.

While the air chambers and high-tech features are available in all Sleep Number mattresses, this model also includes a 5-inch layer of foam for pressure relief and support. Also keep in mind: This one is backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal's limited warranty.

It's expensive, but Sleep Number got high scores for comfort, support and sleep quality from our consumer testers and more than 300 people on our survey panel. Even those who had the bed for close to 10 years gave it rave reviews, showing that it's a worthy investment in the long run. One Sleep Number owner told us, “I was initially hesitant because of the cost, but as soon as I laid on it, it changed my mind,” while another said, “I really feel like it gives me a custom sleep experience."

Mattress type: Adjustable | Height: 11 inches | Firmness: Adjustable | Trial period: 100 days

RELATED: The Best Smart Beds That Are Actually Worth It

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How we test mattresses

hands pressing on a saatva mattress to assess perceived bounce and pressure relief

Each year, the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab analysts evaluate dozens of mattress models. We've accumulated feedback on hundreds of mattresses over the past few years alone. We start by reviewing each bed's materials, specifications, added features and any noteworthy claims. We also vet the brands to check for common complaints and make sure they're trustworthy. Sometimes mattress brands do a great job of marketing to get on your radar, but we've eliminated ones with red flags for quality or customer service.

Next, product experts and consumer testers get hands-on with the mattresses for setting up and sleep testing. We ask for feedback after several weeks, then again after extended periods to see how the mattresses hold up over time. We also survey Good Housekeeping readers for additional feedback on the mattresses they own.

best mattress in a box, a boxed mattress showing up at a doorste
Courtesy of Lexie Sachs

Users tell us whether the mattress was easy to order, if it arrived quickly and about the setup process, regardless of whether it was DIY or via delivery service. If there are any problems that arise during the delivery process, we get intel on how (and if) those issues were resolved by the brand. Our testers rate the mattresses for comfort and support and give their mattress a firmness rating, which is important because sometimes the brand's claimed rating doesn't match what users feel in real use. They also tell us about edge support and note whether it sinks under their weight or holds up to pressure. Regardless of cooling claims, we ask reviewers to rate how comfortable their body temperature remained while sleeping on the mattress.

Final scores check whether the mattress affects sleep quality and whether or not users wake up feeling sore. Our respondents also give the mattress an overall satisfaction score and can compare the mattress to previous beds they've slept on. In the past few years, we've surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed responses to more than 170,000 questions. We continue to update this page as we receive new insights and new mattresses are introduced to the market and tested by our experts.

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How to shop for mattresses

good housekeeping textile analysts demonstrate how to shop for the best mattress by lying down on a model in a store
Jill Sollazzo

Choosing your best mattress is a personal decision — i.e. there isn't one model that's best for everyone. Here's what to consider as you shop:

✔️ Sleep position: The goal is to keep your spine in neutral alignment, so factoring in how you sleep can help narrow down your search. Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress, side sleepers should opt for a softer surface to avoid stress on the pressure points like your shoulders, hips and knees, and back sleepers (and anyone who changes positions) would fall somewhere in between at a medium firmness.

    ✔️ Body type: Heavy people need a firmer bed for support, while lightweight frames are better suited with a softer mattress. Take into account both your weight and sleep position when deciding on the right firmness level.

    ✔️ Back pain: If you suffer from lower or upper back pain, look for a pressure-relieving mattress with all foam or a hybrid of foam and coils. Medical experts also advise looking for medium firmness for a balance of cushioning and support.

    ✔️ Temperature: Hot sleepers or anyone dealing with night sweats would benefit from a mattress with cooling properties. Memory foam tends to sleep hot, so look for a mattress with coils for airflow or cooling technology like copper particles, gel or phase change technology that's added to the foam.

    ✔️ Trial period: It's difficult to know whether a mattress is a good fit without actually sleeping on it. Fortunately, most mattress companies offer an any-reason return period for at least 100 nights. Before you buy, check whether there are any hidden return fees and how you go about making the return to avoid any headaches later on.

    ✔️ Certifications: It's important to know the difference between the various emblems you see when you shop since they often get mistaken for meaning the mattress is natural or organic. Here's a breakdown of the most common certifications:

    • CertiPUR-US: This certifies whether any foam in the mattress is made without certain harmful chemicals and has been tested for low VOC emissions.
    • OEKO-TEX: The Standard 100 by Oeko-TEX shows whether any fabric (like the outer cover) has been tested to ensure there are no unsafe levels of known harmful chemicals.
    • GOTS: The Global Organic Textile Standard shows that the mattress follows strict standards throughout the entire production process. This is the gold standard when it comes to picking out an organic mattress made of natural materials. Just be aware that this certification is commonly misused by brands who use just one organic component (e.g., an organic cotton outer cover), so you can always check the GOTS public database to be sure.
    • GOLS: The Global Organic Latex Standard is similar to GOTS, but it shows that any latex is certified organic. You'll often see these two organic certifications used together.

    Which type of mattress material is best?

    an image of foam, spring and latex

    Memory foam and innerspring mattresses are the two most common types of mattresses on the market, but it's really a matter of personal preference. You can find mattresses at every firmness level and price for either material. Here's what to keep in mind for each:

    • Innerspring or coil mattresses are primarily made up of metal springs on the inside. They're usually firmer, have more bounce and tend to be more durable than other mattress types. Plus, innersprings allow for more breathability so they often sleep cooler.
    • Memory foam mattresses are made of synthetic foams and provide exceptional pressure relief. They adapt to your body shape and feel like you're being cradled, making them great for side sleepers or people with back pain. Just note that memory foam is known to trap heat.
    • Latex mattresses are similar to memory foam, but they're more resilient than foam so there's less of a sinking-in feel. Latex is made from the sap of rubber trees and may be used in organic mattresses, so they're also ideal for eco-conscious shoppers. The downside is latex is typically more expensive.
    • Hybrid mattresses use a combination of memory foam or latex and innersprings so you don't have to pick just one. The surface uses foam for comfort, while the bottom incorporates the coils for support. Hybrids tend to be more expensive than their all-foam counterparts.
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    When is the best time to buy a mattress?

    linebreak

    Traditionally, holiday weekends have been considered the best time to buy a mattress because of the predictable steep discounts offered at most stores. While that's still true — you can expect to find mattress deals during holiday sales — the reality is that many mattresses are consistently discounted throughout the year. If you see a mattress on sale when it's not a holiday weekend, that doesn't mean you'll find a better sale if you wait for a holiday. The benefit of shopping over a holiday weekend is that the sale timing is consistent — i.e., you can expect to find and compare sales across the majority of mattress brands.

    The best holidays to save on mattresses include Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day and Thanksgiving (i.e. Black Friday and Cyber Monday). The type of sales during these holidays will vary by brand, but in the past year we've found that the best discounts overall were over Memorial Day weekend.

    How much should a good mattress cost?

    linebreak

    Our evaluations show that a good mattress typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000 for Queen-size (which is the most popular mattress size on the market). Unfortunately, we've seen mattress prices steadily increase in recent years. That being said, you can still find a good model for under $1,000 (and even some mattresses under $500), and there are plenty of luxury mattresses over $2,000 that are certainly worth the splurge.

    Headshot of Lexie Sachs
    Lexie Sachs
    Executive Director, Strategy & Operations

    Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

    Headshot of Grace Wu
    Tested byGrace Wu
    Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst

    Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

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