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The Best Mattress of 2025 Data-Backed Reviews for Better Sleep
Executive Product DirectorJackson Lindeke
Jackson Lindeke
Executive Product Director
Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.
1,900+ mattresses rated50+ years combined experience100k+ user reviews evaluated
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
Here’s the thing: there’s no single best mattress for everyone. Your ideal bed depends on your body type, sleep position, and what feels right to you. But that doesn’t mean you’re on your own. I’ve spent the last eight years testing mattresses in our Seattle-based studio, sleeping on them at home, visiting factory floors, and interviewing brand executives and product designers to understand what really makes a mattress great. I’ve even helped design a few beds myself—some that launched, and some that didn’t.
So when I say I know what to look for, I mean it. A good mattress should balance comfort, support, durability, and cooling—and it should feel tailored to your needs. Our team has tested close to 2,000 beds, analyzing everything from motion isolation to pressure relief. This guide highlights the best mattresses of the year based on performance, value, and real-world comfort.
Out of all the mattresses we’ve tested, the Helix Out of all the mattresses we’ve tested, the Helix Midnight Luxe is the most well-rounded—which is why it earned our Best Overall award. It’s the most versatile and widely loved model in Helix’s lineup, consistently scoring high among our testers for pressure relief, motion isolation, support, and breathability.
Pros
Contouring foam layers evenly distribute your weight and cradle pressure points
Zoned coils and a reinforced perimeter deliver ample support and a soothing bounce
Two cooling cover options
Cons
Some sleepers over 230 pounds may need a firmer mattress
Off-gassing odor can be overwhelming at first
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,099 – $2,299
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Strong performance across our ratings, durable design, and fair pricing make the Helix Midnight Luxe one of our top overall picks.
It has a medium firm feel that strikes the right balance between plush and supportive, which is probably why it worked so well for so many people on our team. Side, back, stomach, combination sleepers—it fits the broadest range of preferences and profiles.
How It Feels to Sleep On
When I slept on it, I noticed the foam comfort layers did a great job of cushioning pressure points without making me feel stuck. The coils underneath added just the right amount of bounce and helped keep the surface cool and easy to move on.
Inside the Mattress
The top layer is Helix’s proprietary Memory Plus Foam—it’s adaptive, but not slow or sinky. Underneath is a more responsive transition foam that keeps you lifted, followed by a pocketed coil base that adds durability, airflow, and a bit of bounce. It’s a thoughtful design, and it shows in the way this mattress performs night after night.
Comfort is personal, but the WinkBed gets it right in a way few mattresses do. With four firmness options to choose from, it offers a tailored feel that works for a wide range of sleepers. I picked it as our Most Comfortable Mattress because it consistently delivers that “just right” balance of cushioning and support that most people are looking for.
Pros
Four firmness options for sleepers of different body types
Gel-infused foam, a coil core, and a Tencel cover help keep hot sleepers cool
Zoned coils, cushy comfort layers layers, and a pillow top relieve pressure and provide strategic support
Cons
Some customer reviews report sagging after a few years of having the bed
Strong off-gassing smells can be present for the first few nights
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Price Range
$849 – $1,749
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
The WinkBed feels incredibly sturdy and well-made—something that becomes obvious the moment you lie down. During testing, it consistently struck that rare balance of plush comfort and solid support that people love but rarely find.
How It Feels to Sleep On
Each version of the WinkBed shares the same core strengths: pressure relief, responsiveness, and reliable support. The Euro-top provides a plush, breathable surface, while the coil base keeps your spine aligned and helps with airflow. It’s a great match for anyone who wants a mattress that feels instantly comfortable but still holds up through the night.
Inside the Mattress
All WinkBed models start with a quilted Euro-top for that initial cloud-like feel. Underneath is a comfort layer of adaptive foam, followed by a transition layer that varies by firmness—polyfoam in softer models and latex in the firmest. Zoned pocketed coils round out the design, offering targeted support and stronger edges so you feel equally supported whether you sleep in the middle or near the side.
The DreamCloud looks and feels like a luxury hybrid, but its sticker price falls well below average and you’ll get a year-long sleep trial to boot. Cushy foam layers make the surface feel plush and adaptive, while sturdy coils create a robust support system.
Pros
Thick foam layers give the DreamCloud a closer hug than most competitors
A cashmere blend makes the cover soft and breathable
Sturdy springs prevent you from sinking
Cons
May not provide enough support for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
Combination sleepers may have trouble moving on the mattress
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$319 – $1,098
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
The DreamCloud feels way more expensive than it is—and that’s exactly why I chose it as our Best Value mattress. It’s a hybrid with a cashmere-blend cover, multiple foam layers, and a strong coil base, but the price stays well below most luxury competitors. Add in a full-year sleep trial, and it’s honestly one of the best deals out there.
How It Feels to Sleep On
It has a medium firm feel that worked especially well for side and back sleepers on our test team. I liked that it offered pressure relief without too much sink, which also made it comfortable for changing positions. It runs cool, too—the coils help with airflow, and the cover is breathable and soft to the touch.
Inside the Mattress
The top layer is quilted polyfoam sewn into that cashmere-blend cover, which gives it a cushy, upscale feel right away. Then comes a layer of gel-infused memory foam for contouring, followed by a more responsive foam that keeps the surface from feeling sluggish. The pocketed coils are zoned for targeted support and solid edge strength, and a high-density base layer adds durability and helps with motion control.
The Saatva Classic is a traditional innerspring mattress that feels like something you’d find at a 5-star hotel. Unlike many of the identical cheap foam beds on the market, the Saatva has a true luxury feel and is one of the most breathable beds we’ve ever tested.
Pros
Two coil layers deliver generous support and bounce
Three firmness options to suit most sleep positions and body types
Free in-home setup and a full year to try out the mattress
Cons
This mattress is quite springy, so couples may feel each other move
Some owners report sagging foam layers within the first three years
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,195 – $2,690
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
The Saatva Classic has the kind of high-end feel you’d expect from a luxury hotel mattress—elevated, supportive, and thoughtfully built. That’s why we named it our Best Luxury Mattress.
It’s one of the most breathable beds I’ve tested, and it stands out in a sea of lookalike foam beds for its traditional innerspring design and real craftsmanship. With multiple firmness and height options, it also gives you flexibility to choose what luxury means to you.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The Saatva has a balanced, responsive feel that adapts well to different sleeping positions. I found the Euro-top cushioned pressure points without compromising support, and the dual coil layers made it easy to move around.
It stays cool, too—plenty of airflow moves through the coils, which helped it perform really well in our temperature regulation tests.
Inside the Mattress
The top layer is a quilted Euro-top made with breathable organic cotton and soft foam layers, including a targeted memory foam pad under the lower back for extra lumbar support.
Below that is Saatva’s coil-on-coil system: individually wrapped coils on top to contour to your body and reduce motion transfer, and a thicker, more durable coil base underneath.
A high-density foam perimeter reinforces the edges, so the whole surface feels stable and supportive—right up to the edge.
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid features plush foams over supportive coils, creating a medium firm feel that’s ideal for many people with back pain. Our tests show this mattress also promotes even alignment and reduces pressure buildup along the spine.
Pros
Plush foams contour evenly but not too closely, keeping your body on an even plane
The top layer is hole-punched to keep air flowing close to the surface to help you stay cool
Thicker springs along the perimeter keep the edges firm when you get in and out of bed
Cons
Expect some off-gassing smells for the first few nights
People who weigh more than 230 pounds may sink a little too much, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,349 – $2,299
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
Side sleepers need pressure relief around the shoulders and hips without losing support through the middle—and the Leesa Sapira Hybrid nails that balance. The medium firm feel of this bed works really well for side sleeping. I also like how versatile it is—strong edge support, good airflow, and a stable feel made it a great fit for couples during testing, too.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The top foam layers contour gently, which helps take pressure off the shoulders and hips, while the coils underneath keep everything lifted and aligned. Side sleepers over 130 pounds gave it especially high marks, but I also found it comfortable when switching between side, back, and stomach. It sleeps cool, moves well, and has just enough bounce to feel responsive without being too firm.
Inside the Mattress
The comfort system starts with a ventilated polyfoam layer for breathability, followed by memory foam that hugs the body more deeply. Beneath that is a firmer polyfoam transition layer to keep you from sinking too far. The support core is made up of 6-inch pocketed coils that are reinforced along the edges for added stability. A final base layer of high-density foam provides structure, and the whole thing is wrapped in a soft, breathable knit cover.
With dense memory foam and zoned polyfoam comfort layers, the Bear Elite Hybrid offers excellent pain and pressure relief. You can choose from three firmness levels based on how much you weigh and which sleep position you prefer (I’m 180 pounds and love the medium firm version).
Pros
Two foam layers cradle your body to ease aches in your shoulders, lower back, and hips
A copper infusion in the surface and airflow through the coils mean is sleeps exceptionally cool
“Zoned” support pushes back against your midsection while cushioning lighter areas of your body
Cons
You may have a hard time moving across the mattress
Replacement mattress doesn’t come with a trial
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people shop for a new mattress—and the Bear Elite Hybrid stood out for how well it supports the spine while still relieving pressure.
I picked it as our Best Mattress for Back Pain because of its zoned foam design, which gives extra support where you need it most (like your lower back), without sacrificing overall comfort.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The Elite Hybrid is available in three firmness levels, and our team tested each one.
The medium feel (5) offers a softer, more cloud-like surface that worked well for lighter side and back sleepers on our team.
The firm version (8) felt much more solid and supportive—great for back and stomach sleepers over 130 pounds.
The medium firm (6) struck the best balance for side sleepers in that same weight range.
Across the board, I was impressed by how well it handled both pressure relief and spinal alignment. It also sleeps cool, thanks to the breathable coil system and a Celliant-blend cover that stays cool to the touch.
Inside the Mattress
The comfort system starts with gel-infused memory foam that cushions pressure points while pulling heat away from the surface.
Below that is a zoned polyfoam layer that reinforces the midsection to prevent sinking, while staying gentler around the shoulders and hips.
The support core uses pocketed coils for targeted support, with thicker coils along the edges for better stability. A dense foam base keeps everything durable and quiet, and the whole mattress is wrapped in a breathable, Celliant-blend cover.
If you sleep hot at night but are still looking for a pressure-relieving mattress, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora is among the best in the market. This luxury bed comes in three firmness options and is meticulously designed to reduce body heat retention.
Pros
Cooling foam and fabric, as well as airflow through coils, ensure the bed stays cool
Soft, Medium, and Firm options cover a wide range of sleep positions and preferences
Optional pillow-top available for extra pressure relief and cushioning
Cons
Returns incur a $99 fee
Some customers have noticed weaker support along the edges
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Price Range
$839 – $2,051
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
If you sleep hot, you know how frustrating it is to find a mattress that actually stays cool through the night. That’s what made the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe stand out—and why I named it our Best Cooling Mattress.
Between the breathable coil system, copper-infused foam, and phase change material in the cover, this bed is packed with features specifically designed to pull heat away from your body. It also comes in three firmness options, which makes it one of the more versatile cooling beds I’ve tested.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The foam layers have a responsive, almost latex-like feel, so you get some pressure relief without feeling stuck. I found the medium firm (6) model struck the best balance for most sleepers, but there’s a softer version that works well for side sleepers under 130 pounds and a firmer option for back or stomach sleepers over 230.
Edge support is strong, and the surface stayed cool throughout our tests—even during heat-mapping.
Inside the Mattress
The comfort system starts with CopperFlex foam, which is infused with copper for added cooling and antimicrobial benefits.
Beneath that is TitanFlex polyfoam, which adds bounce and responsiveness. Softer models include a third layer of gel-infused memory foam for extra contouring, while the firm model swaps that out for a denser foam called VariFlex to boost support.
All versions use a thick pocketed coil system for airflow and structure, with high-density foam at the base for added durability. The whole thing is wrapped in a breathable cover treated with TitanCool—a phase change material that actively works to maintain a comfortable surface temperature.
Side sleepers tend to prefer thick foam layers that reduce pressure on the shoulders and support the mid-section. The Nolah Evolution 15 has a plush Euro-top, ample foam cushioning, and sturdy support, creating a cloud-like experience for most side sleepers.
Pros
Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm options allow you to pick the best firmness for your needs
Thick foam layers and sturdy coils deliver plenty of pressure relief without sacrificing support
Cooling cover fabric, specialized open-cell foam, and airflow through coils make the bed comfortable for hot sleepers
Cons
Some customers are underwhelmed by the edge support
When you’re dealing with pressure point pain, you need a mattress that cushions without letting you sink too far. That’s why our team picked the Nolah Evolution 15 as our Best Mattress for Pressure Relief.
The Euro-top has a plush, cloud-like feel, but underneath, there’s enough structure to keep your spine aligned. With three firmness options, it’s also easy to find the right balance of contouring and support based on your sleep style.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The plush (5) version offered deeper contouring and was a favorite among testers under 130 pounds. If you need more support, the luxury firm (6) or firm (7) models are better bets—I found the luxury firm hit that sweet spot for cushioning pressure points without feeling too soft.
Zoned coils helped reinforce the lower back and hips while offering gentler cradling for the shoulders, which made a big difference for side and combination sleepers. It also sleeps surprisingly cool, thanks to graphite-infused foam and strong airflow through the coil system.
Inside the Mattress
The comfort system starts with Nolah’s AirFoamICE, a proprietary polyfoam that feels similar to memory foam but sleeps cooler. That’s layered beneath a plush Euro-top and supported by a denser transition foam to prevent sagging.
The coil system is zoned to give more support where you need it most—like the midsection—while easing up around lighter areas. Reinforced edge coils also give the mattress a stable, usable perimeter.
For those who like a robust mattress, the Plank Firm Luxe is a high-quality hybrid with excellent support and a flippable design. Stomach sleepers and/or those over 230 pounds will likely find it incredibly comfortable, and it regulates temperature very well.
Pros
Dual-sided design offers a different firmness level on each surface: firm and extra firm
High-density foam and sturdy coils give you exceptional support and firmness
Foam traps minimal heat since it barely hugs your body
Cons
You’ll need to pay $99 to return the mattress
Some side sleepers find the bed is too firm to cushion the shoulders and hips
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Firm (7), Extra Firm (9)
Price Range
$693 – $1,299
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
If you like your mattress on the firmer side—or really firm—the Plank Firm Luxe is hard to beat. We chose it as our Best Firm Mattress because it’s one of the few beds out there that’s flippable, with a firm feel on one side and an extra firm feel on the other.
Both sides felt incredibly supportive during testing, and it was especially popular with back and stomach sleepers who want a no-sink surface and solid spinal alignment.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The firm side (7) has a little bit of give without compromising on support, while the extra firm side (9) is dense and ultra-flat—ideal for people who want zero plushness. Our mattress esters over 230 pounds found both sides comfortable, depending on sleep position.
I also noticed how stable the edges felt and how easy it was to move around, which is a bonus if you don’t like feeling “stuck” in your mattress. Temperature control was strong across both sides, and it only got better with the optional cooling cover.
Inside the Mattress
The firm side has quilted fibers on top, followed by layers of responsive and high-density polyfoam that offer just a hint of contouring.
Flip it over and the extra firm side uses a thinner quilted layer and a single dense foam layer for maximum firmness. Between both sides is a pocketed coil system that adds structure, bounce, and airflow.
The whole mattress is wrapped in a breathable knit cover, and you can upgrade to a phase change material (PCM) cooling cover if you want even more temperature regulation.
If you want some options for the feel of your bed, the Layla Hybrid’s flippable design provides just that. Each memory foam surface of this bed has a different feel, accommodating different sleeper types and personal preferences.
Pros
Flippable construction with a medium soft feel on one side and a firm feel on the other
Coils are more robust beneath your midsection and along the perimeter, so sinkage isn’t severe anywhere on the surface
Excellent overall temperature control thanks to a breathable cover, cooling gel infused into the foam, and steady airflow
Cons
Initial off-gassing odor is strong compared to other foam hybrids
The Layla Hybrid is pretty heavy — at least two people are needed to flip the mattress
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Reversible: Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,099 – $1,699
Trial Period
120 nights
I love this bed as our Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers because of its flippable design: one side is medium soft (4), the other is firm (7), so you can choose the feel that matches your sleep habits. It’s a versatile option that adapts well if you switch positions often or aren’t totally sure what firmness you prefer.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The medium soft side has a deeper cradle that works well for side sleepers under 230 pounds, especially if you deal with pressure points at the shoulders or hips.
The firm side offers more lift and support, which made it a better match for stomach and back sleepers—especially those over 230 pounds. Both sides use zoned transition layers that help with alignment, so I didn’t feel like my hips were sinking too low, even when changing positions throughout the night.
Inside the Mattress
Each side of the Layla Hybrid has a copper-infused memory foam comfort layer designed to relieve pressure and pull heat away from the body. Underneath that is a zoned polyfoam layer that reinforces heavier areas while keeping lighter zones cushioned.
In the middle, a shared pocketed coil system provides bounce, airflow, and edge support—so you can use the full surface without feeling like you’re going to roll off.
It’s all wrapped in a breathable, stretchy cover that moves with you as you shift positions.
The eco-friendly Birch Mattress features springy natural latex over robust pocketed coils. This creates plenty of bounce, so you can move across the surface with ease and shouldn’t feel much heat buildup.
Pros
Wool and latex comfort layers offer a soothing balance of cushioning and bounce
Breathable comfort and support materials ensure excellent temperature control
Reinforced perimeter coils protect the edges from deep sinkage
Cons
Couples may notice motion transfer in response to movements and position changes
Sticker price is on the expensive side
Mattress Type
Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,099 – $1,799
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
If you’re looking for a mattress made with natural materials that doesn’t sacrifice performance, the Birch Mattress is a standout. We chose it as our Best Organic Mattress because it combines eco-conscious construction with genuinely great support, pressure relief, and breathability.
It uses natural latex, organic cotton, and wool—so it’s free from polyurethane foams and synthetic chemicals—and still holds its own against other hybrids in terms of durability and comfort.
How It Feels to Sleep On
The medium firm feel has a nice mix of bounce and light contouring. Side sleepers over 130 pounds on our team liked how it kept their hips and shoulders aligned without feeling too stiff, and back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds found it supportive without being rigid.
I also noticed how easy it was to move across the surface—there’s plenty of responsiveness, and it stayed cool all night thanks to the breathable wool and latex layers.
Inside the Mattress
The comfort system starts with a wool blend that adds breathability and moisture-wicking right under the organic cotton cover. Beneath that is a layer of natural Talalay latex, which feels springy and adaptive without the sink of memory foam.
The support core is made of individually pocketed coils, including thicker coils around the edges for added support. Underneath everything is a final layer of wool batting for extra stability and fire resistance—all without synthetic additives.
Watch our video below to learn about our lab’s top mattress picks for 2025.
How to Choose the Right Mattress for You
When you’re trying to choose a mattress, things like brand reputation and build quality definitely matter, but at the end of the day, it comes down to you. Everyone sleeps differently, and no one-size-fits-all mattress exists (though some of these picks come close).
My team and I take this to heart when we test beds, which is why we look at how they perform for back, side, and stomach sleepers across all body types. Below, I’ll go through the things we recommend you consider when shopping for a mattress, but it’s ultimately you who is the best judge of what feels good.
Here’s my best piece of advice for mattress shopping: Test mattresses wherever you can. Try beds in stores, hotels, even friends’ houses. (Seriously — just ask! It’s only awkward if you make it.) A few minutes of real-world testing can give you a general sense of how different mattresses feel. I once overnighted on a friend’s hybrid guest bed, and that helped me realize I liked something firmer than I thought.
Mattress Types
Before we dive into brands and reviews, it helps to understand the different mattress types out there. Based on the descriptions below, you can start to get a feel for the type that most appeals to your preferences, as well as your body weight and sleeping position.
For me, finding my right fit comes down to balancing pressure relief, support, and firmness — enough to keep my spine aligned and prevent soreness. As such, I’ve had my best sleep on hybrid mattresses.
Foam Mattress
If you love the feeling of being cradled by your mattress, foam might be just the thing for you. These mattresses are made entirely of foam — usually memory foam or polyfoam — and they’re amazing for pressure relief and motion isolation.
I tend to toss and turn, and memory foam mattresses help reduce movement across the surface so I’m not waking myself (or anyone else) up all night. The downside? Foam can retain heat, so it might not be ideal if you’re a hot sleeper, unless you find one with built-in cooling tech.
Innerspring Mattress
This is the classic mattress you might have grown up sleeping on. Innerspring mattresses have a core of metal coils and sometimes a thin comfort layer on top. They’re highly breathable and offer great support with a bouncy, responsive feel.
If you like to feel like you’re more on the bed than in it — or you want something that sleeps cool — an innerspring could be your match. Personally, I like a little more cushioning, but for some people, especially those with heavier bodies, the firm feel is perfect.
Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses combine the best of both worlds: coils for support and latex or foam layers on top for comfort. This is what I sleep on now, and I love the balance it gives me — it’s supportive without being too firm, and soft without making me feel like I’m sinking.
Hybrids are great for just about any sleep style or body type, especially if you’re looking for a little bit of everything: pressure relief, airflow, bounce, and durability.
Latex Mattress
Latex mattresses are known for being durable, bouncy, and naturally breathable. They offer gentle contouring without that deep, sink-in feel you get from memory foam. If you sleep hot (like I do) or want something made from natural or organic materials, latex is a great option. Plus, this type tends to be hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold, and that’s a huge bonus if you’re sensitive to allergens.
Airbed Mattress
Not to be confused with the kind of inflatable air mattress you pull out of a box for guests or drag into a tent on camping trips, airbeds have adjustable air chambers inside that let you customize the firmness level. Some even let you and your partner set different firmness levels on each side. These can be pricey, but if you want full control over your comfort (or have chronic pain or medical conditions), airbeds are worth considering.
Firmness Level
Firmness is one of the first things you’ll notice when you lie down on a mattress — and it’s also one of the most personal. It refers to how soft or firm the mattress feels under your body, and finding the right level is key to comfort and spinal alignment.
We measure mattress firmness on a 10-point scale, where 1 is the softest, and 10 is the firmest. To find your ideal firmness, take into account your sleep position, body weight, and personal preferences, which I’ve laid out below.
Sleeping Position
One of the most important things I learned — both from testing mattresses and from dealing with my own sleepless nights — is that your sleep position plays a huge role in choosing the right mattress for you, as it helps determine where your body needs the most support.
Side Sleepers
If you sleep on your side like I do, you want a balance of comfort and support. You’ll want a mattress that cushions your shoulders and hips — pressure points that bear the most weight in this position — without letting you sink so far that it throws your spine out of alignment.
I’ve found that medium (5) mattresses usually strike the right balance for side sleepers like myself (I’m 180 pounds), especially when they include memory foam or a plush comfort layer that molds gently to the body.
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, support is everything. You’ll need a mattress that keeps your spine aligned by supporting your lower back without feeling too stiff. Medium-firm (6) models usually do the trick — they’re firm enough to prevent sinkage under your hips but still provide some cushioning for comfort. I also recommend beds that offer added lumbar support or zoned construction for back sleepers.
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleeping is the trickiest position: It puts your spine in a vulnerable position, so you need a mattress that keeps your hips from sinking too far. A firmer feel is key here.
I’ve tested quite a few beds that felt amazing for side or back sleeping, but just didn’t cut it for stomach sleepers. If this is your go-to position, stick with something supportive and firm (7 to 9), like an innerspring or a firmer hybrid.
Body Weight
Your body weight plays a big role in how a mattress feels and performs. What feels soft to a lighter sleeper might feel overly firm to someone heavier, and vice versa.
Heavier individuals tend to sink deeper into the mattress, so they often need firmer support to keep their spine aligned and prevent sagging. On the flip side, lighter sleepers may not compress the comfort layers as much, so they typically do better with soft mattresses that provide adequate cushioning.
As a general guideline, we’ve put together the following table, based on a decade of testing results with team members of a variety of body types.
Scroll L – R for more details
Weight
Firmness Recommendation
Firmness Scale Rating
Under 130 pounds
Soft to medium mattress
3 to 5
130 to 230 pounds
Medium to medium-firm mattress
5 to 6
Over 230 pounds
Firm mattress
7 to 8
Mattress Sizes
What mattress size should you get? If you’re not sure, use this chart to compare dimensions and see who each size is best for.
Scroll L – R for more details
Size
Dimensions
Who It’s Good For
Twin
38” x 75”
Solo sleepers or kids, especially in smaller spaces
Twin XL
38” x 80”
Taller teens or adults
Full
54” x 75”
Sleepers who want more room
Queen (most popular mattress size)
60” x 80”
Couples
King
76” x 80”
Couples who want more personal space — great if pets or kids share the bed
California King
72” x 84”
Taller sleepers
Split King
Two Twin XLs (38” x 80” for a total of 76” x 80”)
Couples with different sleep preferences
Personal Preferences
We all sleep differently — and that’s OK! Don’t worry that your quirks or particular challenges will make buying a new mattress too hard; there’s something for everyone out there. Here’s what I’ve learned to look for from testing beds.
Are You a Hot Sleeper?
If you often wake up sweaty or kick off the covers in the middle of the night, you’re probably a hot sleeper. Look for mattresses with cooling features like gel-infused foam, breathable covers, or coil systems that allow air to flow through the bed. I’ve found that hybrids and latex mattresses usually sleep cooler than all-foam beds, but the right materials can make a big difference no matter the type.
Is There Anyone Else in Your Bed?
Sharing a bed — whether with a partner, a pet, or a toddler who occasionally sneaks in — means you’ll want to pay extra attention to motion isolation and space. Foam mattresses tend to absorb movement better, which helps if one of you tosses and turns. And if you’re both light sleepers, opt for a larger size (at least a queen, maybe a king), so you’re not bumping elbows at 2 a.m.
Do You Have Any Aches or Pain?
Whether it’s back pain, shoulder stiffness, or a cranky hip, the right mattress can either help you feel better or make things worse. Pay attention to pressure relief and support — that means a mattress that cushions your sore spots but still keeps your spine straight. From personal experience with back pain, this often comes down to finding the right firmness level for your sleep position and body type.
Do You Have Mobility Limitations?
If getting in and out of bed or changing positions is challenging, you’ll want a mattress that makes movement easier, not harder. Firmer beds and those with responsive materials (like latex or steel coils) tend to provide more support and bounce, so you don’t feel stuck in one spot.
I’ve found that edge support matters, too — a sturdy perimeter can make sitting down or standing up feel a lot more stable.
Are Organic Materials a Priority?
If natural, non-toxic materials are a priority for you, look for beds made with certified organic materials like latex, cotton, or wool. There are more eco-conscious brands than ever now, and many offer GOTS or GOLS certifications so you know they’re legit.
I love that these beds often have fewer synthetic smells and are a more sustainable choice — a bonus if you’re sensitive to chemicals or just like to keep things natural.
Are You Sensitive to Smells?
Some mattresses — especially all-foam, mattress-in-a-box options — can off-gas when they’re first unboxed. If you’re sensitive to chemical smells (like I am), this can be a dealbreaker.
Latex mattresses and beds made with organic materials tend to have much less off-gassing. And if you’re buying a bed in a box, look for ones that are CertiPUR-US certified. It means they’re made without harmful chemicals and should air out more quickly.
Do You Prefer a Specific Mattress Brand?
Brand loyalty is real, especially if you’ve had a great experience in the past. That said, don’t be afraid to branch out if your go-to brand isn’t meeting your current needs.
Mattress companies evolve, and what worked for you five years ago might not be the best match today. I’ve found some of my favorite beds by trying something totally new. I always recommend focusing on your specific needs first and going from there.
Your Budget
Think about how much you’re comfortable spending, but also what kind of features you’re hoping for — materials like latex or advanced cooling tech usually come with a higher price tag.
From my testing experience, I’ve found that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get great sleep, especially if you take advantage of holiday sales or bundle deals.
Mattress Sales
Mattress prices are notoriously dynamic, especially if you’re buying online. I’ve seen some really high-quality mattresses go on sale for hundreds off — sometimes even 50 percent less than the list price.
The biggest mattress sales usually happen around holidays like Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. I always tell people: If you can wait, do. Patience could save you serious cash.
Quality Materials
Even if you’re on a budget, it pays to prioritize materials that will hold up over time. I learned the hard way that cheaper foam can break down quickly and start to sag. Look for CertiPUR-US certified foams, solid coils in hybrid models, and — if your budget allows — latex, which is super durable and naturally breathable. Investing a bit more upfront can save you from having to replace your mattress too soon.
Mattress Policies
Some of the best value you can get with your mattress purchase has nothing to do with the actual mattress, rather, it’s in the policies that come with it. I always look for free shipping, a risk-free sleep trial (ideally 100 nights or more), and an easy return policy. A generous warranty is a nice bonus, too.
I once returned a mattress after 45 days because it just wasn’t working for me, and because the return was easy and totally free, it made trying it a no-brainer. These policies are especially helpful if you’re buying a mattress online and can’t try it in person first.
What I’m Sleeping On
When my wife and I are in between mattress testing sessions, our go-to is the WinkBed. We’ve been sleeping on their softest model for three years, and we love it! It’s the perfect intersection of cushioning, back and hip support, price, and durability. The comfort you’ll get at this price is unbeatable.
That said, if I were in the market today, I would buy the Helix Midnight Luxe. It’s what I tell my friends and family to get, and it’s a perfect middle ground firmness for my wife and I. (She prefers soft, I prefer medium-firm.) The Luxe somehow offers her the pressure relief she needs while also meeting my expectations for stability and lower back support.
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
When we test mattresses, we’re not just flopping down on them for a couple of minutes. In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses, and we’ve used that process to test nearly 2,000 mattresses in the last decade.
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on your body weight and sleeping position, our team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
During our testing, we draw on multiple sources of information that each enhance our overall perspective.
Construction analysis: Drawing from our mattress database, we look at each layer of a mattress to determine how it contributes to overall feel and performance. We select the top-rated beds and put them through the paces with our lab and field tests.
Hands-on product testing: During in-lab testing, we evaluated 35 of our highest performing beds across seven tests to measure performance in categories like motion isolation, pressure relief, and temperature regulation. The body diversity among our testing team allows us to understand how each bed suits different profiles.
Field testing: From there, we sent the 16 best beds home with different members of our testing team (including yours truly) to sleep on for two weeks to gauge how they performed in our own bedrooms. Each field tester then provided a detailed analysis of what it’s like to sleep on each bed.
User reviews: At the same time, we collected data from more than 41,000 verified customer reviews to determine whether our team’s findings matched real-world experiences. We drew insight from these reviews to identify problem areas, fine-tune our ratings, and better understand how each bed holds up over time.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores
When you look at our mattress reviews, you’ll see ratings for six key categories. Not every performance category is equally important to your overall satisfaction with a mattress, so we give some categories greater weight when determining an overall score. Here’s a quick breakdown of the categories and why they’re important.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This is how much vibration a mattress absorbs when someone moves on its surface. We measure this with a vibrometer, and the results help determine whether you’ll be woken up when your bed partner rolls over or gets in or out of bed.
Temperature Control
No one wants to wake up clammy and hot, so we perform temperature tests with a heat gun to see how much a mattress heats up and how quickly any built-up heat dissipates.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief is particularly important for people with chronic pain, but it’s also an essential factor for side sleepers and heavier people. We use pressure mapping technology that shows just how much impact occurs around the heavier parts of the body.
Edge Support
Mattresses with strong edge support provide a more dependable and reliable sleep surface. We perform tests measuring how much the edges sink when you sit or lie down near the perimeter and how long it takes for the edge to return to its original shape.
Ease of Movement
This category reflects how easy it is to move on the bed’s surface. Materials like latex tend to get higher scores for ease of movement. As with testing edge support, we use kettlebells to determine how deeply a mattress compresses and how quickly it bounces back.
Off-Gassing
A mattress that has been compressed to ship in a box can release unpleasant chemical odors due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Though they’re not harmful, they can be annoying, so we analyze how strong the smell is and how long it takes to fade away.
More Mattress Guides
Still haven’t found your perfect mattress? For more help deciding which mattress is right for your specific needs, check out the guides below.
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Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.
