Get a better night’s sleep with these mattresses
A mattress is a long-term investment in your overall health and well-being. A quality night’s sleep provides myriad benefits to the body and mind, which all begin with the right mattress. The best mattresses may relieve aches and pains, control temperature and contour your body. In contrast, an incompatible mattress can leave you feeling sore and tired in the morning, even if you don’t remember waking up.
It’s crucial to find the mattress that matches your body type, lifestyle and sleeping habits. While buying a mattress is no simple task, our guide is here to help with everything you need to know to find the right one.
Key features of the best mattress
Mattresses are no small purchase, so you must look into a few critical items before shopping. This will point you in the best direction and keep you from becoming overwhelmed.
Mattress type
- Innerspring: These models feature coils and springs to provide support. Typically inexpensive, they are ideal for those seeking pressure relief, along with individuals who prefer to sleep atop a mattress instead of within. The mattress’s effectiveness will vary with the quality and quantity of the springs and coils; individually-pocketed coils are ideal.
- Foam: These options have exploded in popularity over the last 10 years. Foam mattresses are often slightly softer than innerspring options, cradling and conforming to the body to provide complete comfort. Various types of foam may be used, including memory foam that contours, pricier polyfoam that offers more longevity and breathability and luxury latex that champions responsiveness and cool sleep.
- Hybrid: These most expensive options often triumph as the best type of mattress available, and we agree. They combine an innerspring base with one or more foam layers on top to create a versatile and adaptable bed that caters to all users. A hybrid is frequently the best mattress for combination sleepers and the best mattress choice for couples.
Sleeping position
Your sleeping position determines how soft or firm your mattress should be as it impacts the alignment of your neck and spine. Stomach sleepers should seek out something firm that prevents their stomach, and thus spine, from sinking too deep. The best mattress for side sleepers contours the body and gives a bit, typically around medium-soft. Back sleepers, already in the ideal position, will find comfort and support across the spectrum.
Size
There are six standard mattress sizes, including twin, twin XL, full, queen, king and California king. Twin and full options are best for teens or students, along with those with limited space, while most adults and couples should seek out the best queen or king mattress available. Keep in mind that as size increases, so does the price. You’ll also need appropriately-sized sheets and comforters.
Top-rated mattresses
Cooling technology
An increase in temperature or humidity can lead to excessive movement and discomfort during sleep, disturbing not only you but others in the bed. As such, most luxury mattress companies integrate cooling technology. Some foam options are infused with gel or graphite, particularly memory foam that tends to trap heat. Other brands use open-cell foam to increase airflow. Innerspring layers naturally allow for air circulation, though individually-pocketed springs provide maximum movement.
Motion isolation
For those sleeping with a partner, seek out mattresses that limit motion and isolate movement. This is particularly useful for two people on different sleep schedules, allowing one person to move around on their side without disturbing the other.
Edge support
For those who prefer softer mattresses, you may still want to seek out models that are firmer along the side. Some mattresses enhance support around the edge so that you can get into and out of bed easily, especially useful for those individuals who may suffer from chronic pain or need a bit more help.
How much you can expect to spend on a mattress
A quality hybrid queen mattress will cost $800-$1500 depending on how many layers are incorporated. Innerspring and foam models will typically run cheaper.
Mattress FAQ
How do I protect my mattress?
A. We recommend investing in a mattress protector to prevent dust, dirt and other particles from penetrating the surface. Most options also block liquids. If anything seeps in, it can accelerate the mattress’s deterioration and hurt its cooling or comfort features. Rotate your bed every few months to allow for even usage all around. Some users recommend sprinkling the mattress with baking soda and letting it air out for 24 hours to deodorize it as well.
What’s the ideal mattress thickness?
A. Most mattresses are 8-12 inches thick. A 10-inch mattress best serves the average-size person. Heavier individuals will want a thicker option, while slighter individuals can go thinner. A mattress that is too thin will wear out more quickly as coils may struggle over time, and foam may sag. Conversely, a thicker mattress may not provide the comfort features, with individuals resting atop instead of being conformed to by the mattress.
Which mattresses are best?
Top mattress
What you need to know: With its comprehensive features, this mattress is designed to last for years. It’s perfect for those who like a blend of soft and firm.
What you’ll love: It has multiple layers of foam and coils to provide extra comfort. The top layer is cooling, and there is minimal weight transfer.
What you should consider: It’s not ideal for users who want a really firm mattress.
Top mattress for the money
What you need to know: This is a comfortable and affordable foam mattress from a brand that champions simplicity and reliability.
What you’ll love: It’s a 10-inch mattress featuring two layers of high-quality foam, an open-cell design that promotes airflow and supports all sleeping positions.
What you should consider: It may be too thin and soft for some individuals.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: An investment mattress packed with innovative technologies, this option provides support and comfort to all individuals.
What you’ll love: The top hybrid mattress from a luxury brand Features four layers of foam atop a spring foundation. Zoned memory foam, latex and polyfoam all promote airflow and sleep cool.
What you should consider: It’s on the pricier side and, at 13 inches thick, it’s not ideal for smaller individuals.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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