A mattress is a large, rectangular pad for supporting the reclining body, designed to be used as a bed or on a bed frame, as part of a bed. Mattresses may consist of a quilted or similarly fastened case, usually of heavy cloth, that contains materials such as hair, straw, cotton, foam rubber, or a framework of metal springs. Mattresses are usually placed on top of a bed base, which may be solid, as in the case of a platform bed, or elastic, such as an upholstered wood and wire box spring or a slatted foundation.
There are many different types of mattresses available, including innerspring, memory foam, and hybrid. Innerspring mattresses are made with a support system of metal coils, which provide support and help distribute body weight evenly. Memory foam mattresses are made with a layer of viscoelastic foam, which conforms to the shape of the body and relieves pressure points. Hybrid mattresses combine both innerspring and memory foam layers to provide a combination of support and conformance.
The 8 Best Mattresses of 2023：Tested and Reviewed
- BEST OVERALL MATTRESS：Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt 12-Inch
- BEST VALUE MATTRESS：Casper Sleep Original Foam Mattress
- BEST MATTRESS FOR COUPLES：Nectar Full Mattress 12 Inch
- BEST MATTRESS FOR BACK PAIN：Nectar Premier Copper 14″ Queen Mattress
- BEST HYBRID MATTRESS：Tuft & Needle – Original Queen Mattress
- BEST FIRM MATTRESS：Zinus 6 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
- BEST SOFT MATTRESS：Leesa Sapira Hybrid 11″ Mattress
- BEST ORGANIC LATEX MATTRESS：Sweetnight Queen Mattress
Mattresses are available in a range of sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king. They may also be available in specialty sizes, such as twin XL (extra long) or California king. In general, a mattress should be chosen based on personal preference and comfort, as well as the size of the bed and the bedroom. It is important to test out a mattress before purchasing it to ensure that it is comfortable and provides the right level of support.
#1.Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-ProAdapt 12-Inch
Pros
- Sleeps cool
- Cover zips off
- Decent edge support and excellent motion isolation
- In-home delivery
Cons
- Very Expensive
- Heavy
- Shortest trial period on the list
It’s available in soft, medium, firm, and medium-hybrid designs according to your sleep needs. The addition of coils in the hybrid has introduced Tempur-Pedic to a whole new audience as the responsive nature of the coils adds increased mobility to change positions in bed and get out of bed, plus increased breathability. Our tester, with a preference for hybrid-style beds, loved the benefits of getting to experience both the contouring nature of the foam, with the extra support from the individually wrapped coils.
In terms of pressure relief, the ProAdapt cradled our body in a way that it is floating, for a zero-gravity weightless feeling, with minimal pressure on our pressure points. As body temperature adapts to the foam, you will likely experience a slight sinking feeling as the foam adjusts to the contours of your body, but in no way will you ever feel stuck. We like to think of the Tempur-Pedic as firm where you need it, and soft where you want it.
The bed is well suited to all, those with different sleep types can find comfortable alignment; couples who don’t want to be bothered by others’ movements, or those who are prone to overheating, thanks to a washable cooling cover. Perhaps our only gripe is a higher price point and heavy construction makes it hard to move. To counter, Tempur-Pedic offers an in-room setup, and the mattress does not need to be rotated or flipped.
#2.Casper Sleep Original Foam Mattress
Pros
- Easy ordering and DIY set up
- Ergonomic support
- Users say it maintains its shape over time
Cons
- Upgrades to other models get much pricier
As a result, it’s one of the most popular mattresses among our panel and in the bedding industry. The purchase includes free shipping and you set it up on your own, which people often prefer because it’s contact-free and more convenient. Even though this memory foam mattress doesn’t have any coils, it has some unique layers that make it stand out from others on the market because they’re ergonomically designed for spine alignment.
Who it’s best for: People who prefer the cradling comfort of memory foam and are willing to spend a little more to get ergonomic support. The foam and split zones are better suited for side and back sleepers.
What it’s made of: A stretchy knit cover that’s made from recycled water bottles, a layer of Casper’s signature AirScape (foam with thousands of small perforations throughout for increased breathability), memory foam with Zoned Support (meaning it’s softer under your shoulders and firmer under your lower back and hips for proper spine alignment) and a supportive base foam to prevent sinking and sagging.
Tester notes: The brand as a whole earned high scores across the board from more than 130 Casper mattress owners in our most recent survey, and users noted how well it keeps its shape over time. Most people told us they love this specific model and especially highlighted the ease of ordering and set up as well as the lower 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.”
Other Casper mattresses: Casper started off with this Original model that they called the “one perfect mattress.” The Original has gone through some updates itself since it first launched, and it’s still the most popular pick and the one we think offers the most bang for your buck. The company has also since introduced several hybrid variations at different price points, including the Original Hybrid, Nova Hybrid (which feels more plush) and the Wave Hybrid (with more spinal support).
#3.Nectar Full Mattress 12 Inch
Pros
- Exceptional value for money
- Molds to your body for custom support
- Cushioning around the shoulders and hips
Cons
- Not as bouncy as a spring mattress
At the lower-end of the mid-range market, this bed-in-a-box mattress is extremely competitively priced at $799-$899 for a queen size. That’s over $400 cheaper than Casper’s entry-level mattress, and it also comes with up to $499 worth of free bedding. Only the Cocoon By Sealy Chill mattress, below, comes close for pure value for money.
Like all good-quality foam mattresses, the Nectar is very good at isolating motion – our reviewers weren’t disturbed by their partners climbing in or out of bed. However, foam can be warmer than other mattress materials, so although our reviewers didn’t overheat at night, we’d recommend that very hot sleepers choose a hybrid mattress instead, such as the Saatva above, or a dedicated cooling mattress like the Cocoon Chill below.
Still, for most people it’s a great choice. If you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive mattress and want the most bang for your buck, the Nectar is easily the best mattress around. And the year-long trial and free returns make it easy to try for yourself.
What we discovered during testing:
“For comfort, quality and sheer value for money, we think the Nectar Memory Foam is the best mattress you can buy. Ours was exceptionally comfortable to sleep on – and supportive too.”
#4.Nectar Premier Copper 14″ Queen Mattress
Pros
- Tallest and coolest Nectar mattress
- Made with cooling copper-infused materials
- Generous trial and warranty periods
Cons
- Not made in the USA
- Memory foam isn’t for everyone
There are five specialized layers designed cradle your body to relieve pressure and provide support for your joints, including a 9-inch base layer of breathable foam, a dynamic layer of memory foam that gives just the right amount of bounce and a gel memory foam layer that hugs your body and adjusts to your sleeping temperature so you’re less likely to overheat. Everything is wrapped up in a quilted cooling cover that’s infused with copper fibers, so it stays cool to the touch and helps wick away heat and moisture.
#5.Tuft & Needle – Original Queen Mattress
Pros
- Comfortable and firm support
- Under $1,000
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Lacks edge support
This popular model is affordable for under $1,000 and arrives in a box at your home within days, which is a big feat since the mattress industry is notorious for shipping delays. It has a simple, no-frills design with just two foam layers.
The brand boasts its proprietary T&N Adaptive Foam technology that’s supportive and resilient yet contours your body without feeling stiff. Plus, graphite and ceramic gel are added to the foams to help pull away body heat, which is a key feature as memory foam alone can cause overheating.
Who it’s best for: Shoppers that need a mattress delivered quickly (rather than waiting for a scheduled delivery service), side and back sleepers, memory foam enthusiasts and price-conscious buyers.
What it’s made of: A knit outer cover that feels soft and smooth, softer cushioning foam on top for cradling comfort and firmer foam on the bottom for support.
Tester notes: Even though it’s lower priced, our reviewers gave it high marks across the board – from the ordering process and set up to the comfort and support. Several commented on liking its firmness and one user that’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 raved about the brand’s customer service, commenting that the representatives were friendly and helpful. They also highlighted the motion isolation and said they can’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.
#6.Zinus 6 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
Pros
- Good pressure relief
- A great budget mattress
Cons
- Hot sleepers will find warm
- Not great for heavier people
This all-foam mattress has three layers, and comes in four different depths: 6, 8, 10 and 12 inches. The thinnest costs around $189 for a queen size on Amazon, while the thickest costs around $415. No wonder its one of the best affordable mattresses you can buy.
It’s available in a few depths, but we wouldn’t recommend anything thinner than the 10 inch for most adults. While it’s not the best mattress in this list, it performs well for the price. The mattress has a classic memory foam feel, with good pressure relief, support and spinal alignment. There’s also minimal motion transfer, making it a good choice for couples.
Don’t expect to see the same premium materials and features here as with the other mattresses in our guide. Aside from the green tea and charcoal-infused memory foam – which is designed to remove odors and help keep your mattress feeling fresh – there are no bells and whistles. But the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam does what it’s meant to do: it’s comfortable, supportive and the price is great. We think it’s one of the best budget mattresses you can buy.
#7.Leesa Sapira Hybrid 11″ Mattress
Pros
- Foam and pockets springs offer breathability and support, ideal motion isolation and edge support for couples, medium firmness will benefit all sleeping styles
Cons
- Heavy and difficult to maneuver
Before I started testing a new mattress every two weeks, I slept on the Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress for a year and loved it. My wife is a back sleeper, while I sleep on my stomach and side, and we both found it offered an outstanding balance of comfort and support while isolating motion.
I have only found two or three mattresses with comparable comfort in the four years since I tested this, but each of these were geared toward side sleepers and too soft for back and stomach sleepers. The Leesa Sapira is great for all sleeping positions. That’s why it’s also our top pick for back pain and among hybrid mattresses.
The mattress has five layers, from top to bottom: cooling foam, contouring memory foam, and airflow-facilitating 14.5-gauge pocket springs nestled between two supportive foam layers. The cooling foam and airflow did a great job of keeping my hot-sleeping body cool even on the muggiest summer nights when the AC struggled to keep up.The Leesa Sapira is ideal for couples since it has good edge support that keeps you comfortable right to the edge of the bed. Plus, the motion isolation keeps you from feeling jostled as your partner moves in the night.
#8.Sweetnight Queen Mattress
Pros
- Cooling
- Good for side, back, and stomach sleepers
- Affordable
Cons
- 30 days may be too short of a trial period for some
You shouldn’t sweat sleeping—or sweat while sleeping, for that matter. So if you tend to perspire while dozing, consider investing in a mattress that’s not only good for your back (duh), but also a pro at keeping you cool.
Believe it or not, temperature can have a major impact on your back pain. too. “Better quality sleep is paramount because fatigue and sleep deprivation can exacerbate pain of any kind.
Why it’s helpful for back pain: This medium-firm foam mattress supposedly offers perfect spinal alignment for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
- 1 Mattress Buying Guide
- 2 Advantages and disadvantages of mattresses
- 3 WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF MATTRESS?
- 4 Which mattress material is best?
- 5 Why You Can Trust Us
- 6 How do I choose the right firmness level for my mattress?
- 7 How do I care for my mattress?
- 8 Can a mattress cause back pain?
- 9 How long does it take for a new mattress to break in?
Mattress Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a new mattress, there are a few key factors to consider to help you find the best option for your needs and preferences.
- Firmness: Mattresses come in a range of firmness levels, from very soft to very firm. Consider your personal preference for firmness as well as any specific needs, such as back support or pressure relief.
- Size: Make sure to measure the space where you’ll be placing the mattress and consider the size of the bed frame or foundation you’ll be using.
- Material: There are many different materials used in mattresses, including memory foam, innerspring, and latex. Each has its own unique properties and benefits, so consider which is the best fit for you.
- Support: A good mattress should provide proper support to your body, particularly to your spine, to help you maintain proper alignment while you sleep.
- Comfort: Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a mattress is whether it is comfortable for you. Consider trying out different mattresses in a store or asking about return policies if you’re shopping online.
- Price: Determine your budget and look for options that meet your needs within that range. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always equate to a better mattress, and it’s important to find a balance between quality and cost.
- Warranty and return policy: Look for a mattress with a good warranty and return policy, in case you end up not being satisfied with your purchase.
By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to find a mattress that meets your needs and helps you get a good night’s sleep.
Advantages and disadvantages of mattresses
There are several advantages to using a mattress:
- Comfort: A good mattress can provide a comfortable and supportive surface to sleep on, helping you get a good night’s sleep.
- Pressure relief: Some mattresses, such as those made of memory foam or latex, can help relieve pressure points and provide support to the body.
- Durability: With proper care, a good quality mattress can last for many years.
- Variety: There are many different types of mattresses available, so you can choose the one that best meets your needs and preferences.
However, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider:
- Cost: Mattresses can be a significant investment, especially if you opt for a higher-end model.
- Size and weight: Mattresses can be large and heavy, making them difficult to move or transport.
- Allergies: Some people may be allergic to certain materials used in mattresses, such as memory foam or innersprings.
- Stains and odors: Over time, mattresses can accumulate stains and odors, which can be difficult to remove.
- Lack of support: If a mattress is too soft or too firm, it may not provide proper support to the body, leading to discomfort and potentially even back pain.
WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF MATTRESS?
Mattresses are generally split into four main types:
1. Traditional innerspring mattresses use a steel coil support system with natural or man-made fillings and covers. The greater the number of coils, the more points of support and the better the bed can contour and support the sleeper, usually described as springy
2. Foam mattresses, including polyurethane, memory, or gel foam, usually contour to the body, isolate motion and offer different comfort, feel and heat dissipation features.
3. Latex Mattresses offer similar qualities to foam, but are usually described as bouncier and more breathable. All-natural latex is considered to be more environmentally friendly too. All natural designs should be designated as Talalay or Dunlop, which refers to their production methods
4. Hybrid mattresses are a combination of foam or latex with coils and offer the best of both qualities with the right amount of firmness and support, and a slight bounce.
Hot sleepers tend to prefer traditional coil or hybrids while those with specific aches and pains appreciate the levels of support that zoned memory foam can provide. Light sleepers with restless partners will enjoy memory foam which is more efficient at combating motion transfer.
Which mattress material is best?
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.
- Memory foam mattresses adapt to your body shape so it feels like your pressure points are being cradled.
- Latex mattresses are similar to memory foam, but latex is made from rubber trees and may be used in organic mattresses.
- Innerspring mattresses are usually firmer and have more bounce.
- Hybrid mattresses use a combination of memory foam or latex and innersprings so you don’t have to pick just one.
Why You Can Trust Us
We’ve personally tested hundreds of mattresses, evaluating them for a wide range of performance metrics that can affect your sleep experience. Our offices are literally filled with stacks of mattresses, as we’ve had just about every major mattress on the market at one point or another.
Each tester on our 18-person panel brings years of research and testing expertise to the mattress evaluation process, many of them having worked intimately with mattress manufacturers. On top of that, we source data from dozens of other internal and external evaluators, whose differing preferences, body types, and sleep positions help to add another layer of important data.
Our sleep lab is equipped with specialized tools and sensors to measure mattress performance, giving us a wealth of quantitative data across our eight mattress performance categories. We combine these quantified, measurable test results with the qualitative experiences from our testers and evaluators, painting a holistic picture of how a mattress performs and who it’s best for.
Mattress FAQs
It’s generally recommended to replace your mattress every 7-10 years, depending on its condition and how comfortable it still is. However, if you’re experiencing discomfort or back pain, it may be time to consider replacing your mattress sooner.1When Should You Replace Your Mattress?
How do I choose the right firmness level for my mattress?
The firmness level that is right for you will depend on your personal preference and any specific needs you may have, such as back support or pressure relief. It’s generally recommended to choose a medium-firm mattress for the most balanced support, but if you prefer a softer or firmer feel, you can choose accordingly.
How do I care for my mattress?
To care for your mattress, be sure to use a mattress protector to keep it clean and dry, and rotate it regularly to prevent sagging. Avoid jumping or standing on the mattress, and try to avoid spilling liquids on it. Consider using a mattress topper to add an extra layer of comfort and protection.210 Ways You Can Make Your Mattress Last Longer
Can a mattress cause back pain?
A mattress that is too soft or too firm can cause back pain, as it may not provide proper support to the body. A mattress that is too old or worn out can also contribute to back pain. If you’re experiencing back pain, it may be worth considering replacing your mattress to see if it helps.310 Warning Signs Your Mattress is Causing Back Pain
How long does it take for a new mattress to break in?
It can take a few weeks for a new mattress to fully break in and feel comfortable. During this time, you may notice some slight changes in firmness and support as the materials in the mattress settle. If you’re not happy with your new mattress after a few weeks, it’s a good idea to contact the manufacturer or retailer to discuss your options.
