Price Range:
$799 – $1,549Best Mattress 2023: Expert Tested in our Sleep Lab
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Our in-house sleep product experts have tested more than 1,300 mattresses over nearly a decade in our Seattle Product Testing Lab. Combined with consumer, focus group, and tester feedback, we’ve found the best mattresses for every sleeper.
This guide kicks off with detailed information about our picks for the best mattresses of 2023, and then, for those who want to get into the ins-and-outs of the mattress buying process, covers the key topics that a savvy mattress shopper should be aware of. Let’s get started.
Our Verdict – What’s the Best Mattress of the Year?
An ideal mattress strikes a perfect balance across our testing criteria, and is universally enjoyed by the broadest group of sleepers. We found the Helix Midnight kept us cool throughout the night, while excelling at pressure relief and support. It was preferred by many testers regardless of their sleep position or body type.
Best Mattresses – Our Top Picks
- Best Overall – Helix Midnight
- Most Comfortable – DreamCloud Mattress
- Best Value – Nectar Mattress
- Best Luxury – Saatva Classic
- Best for Side Sleepers – Softer WinkBed
- Best for Couples – Helix Dusk Luxe
- Best Cooling – Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
- Best for Back Pain – Luxury Firm WinkBed
- Best for Spinal Alignment – Nolah Evolution 15
- Best for Combination Sleepers – Layla Hybrid
- Best for Muscle Recovery – Bear Elite Hybrid
Best Mattress 2023 Video
Watch our video below to get a closer look at our best mattress picks for 2023.
Real Testing By Real Experts
Every sleeper is different, so we strive for an objective rating system that helps you understand each product – the good and the bad – so that you can make the best purchase decision. The R&D team behind our tests use advanced tools and methodologies to feed a quantitative dataset of over 1,300 mattresses. We blend that data with feedback from real experiences from our at-home sleep product testers, focus groups, and consumer audiences. For more information about our mattress testing process, jump down to our methodology section below.
If you’re just getting started in your search, read our guidance on finding the perfect mattress and answers to common shopping questions.
Memorial Day Mattress Sales Are Still Going On
Memorial Day is over, but plenty of mattress sales are still taking place. Check out our product reviews below for discount information. You can also head to our list of Memorial Day deals and discounts to see which brands are still offering savings.
Our Recommendations








Best Mattress Overall
Helix Midnight

Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
10 Year, LimitedTrial Length:
100 nights (30-night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King-
Pros
- Strong contouring performance promotes spinal alignment
- Balanced performance at an affordable price point
- Medium firm feel provides a versatile option for most sleepers
-
Cons
- May be too soft for sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds
- Foam layers can absorb too much heat without the cooling cover upgrade
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
25% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with mattress purchase
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The Helix Midnight balances responsiveness with gentle cradling on your shoulders and hips, which are often pain points for sleepers on the lighter weight end of the spectrum. It’s a cool mattress to sleep on, and the strong motion isolation insulates you from a co-sleeper’s movements.
Why It’s Best Overall
Well-rounded performance, quality construction, and affordable pricing put the Helix Midnight at the top of our best mattress picks. We attribute these qualities to the bed’s mid-range firmness, which hits the sweet spot between plush and firm, and a memory foam hybrid construction that earned above-average marks from our testers for pressure relief, motion isolation, breathability, and overall support.
Helix offers a wide selection of hybrid mattresses, each one designed for people with specific body types, sleep positions, and firmness preferences. Our testers singled out the Helix Midnight thanks to its balanced feel that combines pressure relief and sturdy coil support – all at a very reasonable price-point.
How It Performed
The Helix Midnight has a medium firm (6) feel. The foam layers alleviated pressure buildup and isolated motion well during our tests, while the coils helped the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature and allowed testers to move across the surface with ease. We found that the even blend of pressure relief and ease of movement appealed to side, back, and stomach sleepers on our test team. It was also a hit with combination sleepers who frequently switch their position during the night.
What It’s Made of
The first two layers of the Midnight are made of foam. The top layer is Helix’s Memory Plus Foam, which cradled testers’ pressure points while keeping a degree of responsiveness. The second layer is transitional polyfoam that prevented testers from significantly sinking into the mattress. Under this is a pocketed coil support core, which provided a sturdy foundation and a bit of “bounce” to the mattress, making it easier to move on.
You can fill out a survey on the company’s website to determine which mattress best meets your needs, so this may be a good option if the Midnight sounds too soft or too firm. The sleep trial for the Midnight runs 100 nights, and Helix backs the mattress with a 10-year warranty that covers defects in materials and manufacturing. Shipping is free for customers in all 50 states.








Most Comfortable Mattress
DreamCloud Mattress

Price Range:
$499 – $999Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
Lifetime, limitedTrial Length:
365 nights (30-night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King-
Pros
- High-profile mattress with standout edge support
- Medium-firm balance of contouring and support
- Breathable cashmere-blend cover
-
Cons
- Foam layers can sink and hinder movement
- High profile may necessitate deep-pocket sheets
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
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Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The DreamCloud is a good compromise for anyone who needs extra support but also likes a plusher feel. The foam layers offer ample cushioning for your body, but you should never feel like you’re sinking into the mattress.
The DreamCloud’s luxurious construction utilizes multiple types of foam along with pocketed coils to give you a comfortable combination of contouring, support, and responsiveness. This makes the mattress a great option if you tend to sink too deeply into your mattress, or if you don’t enjoy overly firm sleep surfaces.
How It Performed
The DreamCloud’s medium firm (6) feel met the needs of many of our testers and was a top choice for side and back sleepers in particular. The balanced performance served most combination sleepers and couples, as well.
Hybrids are considered one of the best mattress types for hot sleepers, so it’s no surprise the DreamCloud performed well in our temperature neutrality tests. The pocketed coil support core circulates air and helps maintain a cool interior temperature. The DreamCloud also takes cooling a bit further with a luxury cover made from blended cashmere, which we found breathable and excellent at wicking moisture.
What It’s Made of
The DreamCloud starts with a layer of polyfoam quilted into the bed’s cashmere-blend cover. A two-tiered comfort system follows, beginning with a layer of gel-infused memory foam that kept our bodies supported by modestly cradling heavier zones and pressure points. The next layer is made of polyfoam and has slightly less contouring and more bounce. Our testers noted this was a nice way to balance the memory foam’s conforming feel.
The support core is made with individually wrapped coils divided into zones that adapt to your body, offering enhanced support to your lower back and deeper contouring for the shoulders and hips. The springs shore up stability at the edges and create notable bounce that enhances ease of movement across the whole mattress surface. A layer of high-density polyfoam underneath the coils fortifies the mattress and limits noise from the coils.
The DreamCloud’s sleep trial lasts for a full year, giving you 365 nights to truly see how well it works for you. Over the long haul, you can rest easy knowing that you’re covered by DreamCloud’s lifetime warranty.








Best Value Mattress
Nectar Mattress

Price Range:
$359 – $1,138Mattress Type:
FoamWarranty:
Lifetime, LimitedTrial Length:
365 nightsSizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King-
Pros
- Adaptive foam layers contour closely to align the spine and reduce pressure
- Excellent motion isolation for couples
- All orders include a generous 365-night sleep trial
-
Cons
- People over 230 pounds may sink too much
- Foam layers may absorb and trap heat
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
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Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The Nectar is a mattress made for memory foam lovers. Our test team felt close contouring from head to toe, but the Nectar also delivered great support. The bed doesn’t retain as much heat as some all-foam competitors.
The Nectar is a stellar example of a high-quality mattress that won’t break the bank. Nectar Sleep also offers other perks if you’re shopping on a budget, such as a generous sleep trial and hassle-free warranty coverage for as long as you own the mattress.
How It Performed
During tests, we found the Nectar’s conforming properties made it a good match for side sleepers of all sizes. Many back and stomach sleepers on our team, particularly those between 130 and 230 pounds, also felt comfortable on this mattress. The Nectar has a balanced, mid-level firmness and materials that offered testers comfortable plushness without sacrificing support. The mattress earned strong ratings across performance categories such as pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature control, yet it costs much less than the average memory foam model.
What It’s Made of
The Nectar features a 2-inch comfort layer of memory foam over transitional and support layers of denser polyfoam. Although the mattress is very supportive, you’ll feel deep body-contouring from the first layer that we liken to sleeping “in” – as opposed to sleeping “on” – the mattress. A quilted cover accentuates the comfortable design by creating a luxuriously plush feel on the surface.
Nectar’s 365-night sleep trial, which is among the longest in the industry, and lifetime warranty are exclamation points on the value offered by this quality mattress that is available at a very accessible price point.








Best Luxury Mattress
Saatva Classic

Price Range:
$995 – $2,710Mattress Type:
InnerspringWarranty:
Lifetime, LimitedTrial Length:
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King-
Pros
- Patented spinal zone technology helps improve spinal alignment
- Coil-on-coil design is very breathable, resulting in a cool sleep
- Plush Euro pillow top provides pressure relief and contouring support
-
Cons
- Limited motion isolation can cause sleep disruptions for couples
- $99 fee for all returns
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
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Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The Saatva Classic is one of the sturdiest mattresses we’ve tested. The coil layers make the surface feel incredibly supportive and responsive, but the mattress didn’t feel too stiff like a lot of traditional innersprings on the market.
The Saatva Classic blends the superior support of traditional innersprings with the enhanced comfort and sophisticated features of modern hybrid mattresses. The result is a luxurious Euro-top design that alleviated pressure points during testing without sacrificing sturdiness or temperature regulation.
How It Performed
Multiple firmness and thickness options make the Classic an appealing choice for a wide range of sleepers, regardless of body type and sleep position. The two coil layers created responsiveness and made it easy for testers to move on the bed while also lightly contouring to the body for cushioning. Plenty of airflow through the coils kept this mattress cool through our temperature neutrality tests. Firmness options include soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8), so you can choose the firmness that best suits your preferences.
What It’s Made of
The top of the Saatva mattress utilizes several types of foam, including a specialty polyfoam and a memory foam pad under your lumbar area. These foams are quilted into the Euro-top, which has a cover made of smooth, breathable organic cotton.
Underneath the Euro-top is a coil-on-coil design. The top coil layer is 4 inches thick, and the coils are individually wrapped. This allows them to compress under your body while also decreasing motion transfer. The second coil layer forms the mattress’ support core, and is either 4.5 or 7.5 inches depending on the profile you select. This layer uses hefty 13-gauge springs that are bolstered by a high-density foam encasement around the perimeter to give you better edge support.
You’ll receive free White Glove delivery with your mattress, which includes installation plus haul-away of an old mattress. The mattress is also backed by a 365-night sleep trial with a $99 return shipping fee, and a lifetime warranty.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Softer WinkBed

Price Range:
$1,149 – $2,049Mattress Type:
InnerspringWarranty:
Lifetime, LimitedTrial Length:
120 nights (30 night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King-
Pros
- Zoned support system promotes spinal alignment
- Tencel cover and gel-infused foam regulate temperature
- Quilted Euro-top effectively relieves pressure points
-
Cons
- Back and stomach sleepers may need a firmer surface
- Less edge support than other WinkBed models
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
Get $300 off all mattresses
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The Softer WinkBed has everything side sleepers want – a plush surface that gets rid of pressure points, strong support that doesn’t let their hips sink too deeply, and cooling features that prevent overheating.
The WinkBed is a hybrid model with four available firmness options. With a medium soft feel that ranks as a 4 out of 10 on the firmness scale, the Softer WinkBed has the most cushioning of any WinkBed model, so we recommend it for side sleepers of any body type. The mattress contours closely to your hips and shoulders while still promoting proper spinal alignment.
How It Performed
Our in-house testing determined that side sleepers from all weight groups enjoyed the Softer WinkBed, and those weighing less than 130 pounds especially liked how deeply the Euro-top cradled their hips and shoulders.
This model also scored well in the motion isolation category, as the thick foam comfort system absorbs movement before it has a chance to transfer across the bed’s surface. Since the pocketed coils are individually wrapped, they also help cut down on motion transfer by moving independently from one another. Testers did not feel each other’s movements when sharing the bed, so couples should be able to use this mattress without disturbing their partner.
What It’s Made of
The Softer WinkBed’s construction begins with a breathable Tencel cover and plush Euro-Top that’s made from gel-infused polyfoam. The gel helps draw heat and moisture away from your body, while the polyfoam cradles your hips and shoulders to relieve pressure point discomfort. Another layer of polyfoam rests beneath the Euro-top, creating a comfortable buffer that prevents you from sinking too deeply into the mattress.
The support core features individually wrapped pocketed coils. The coils are arranged into five zones that provide increased support under your midsection and less pushback under lighter parts of your body. The coils have a higher gauge around the perimeter, giving this model robust edge support and a surface that’s easy to move on.
If you want to try the Softer WinkBed, you can take advantage of the 120-night sleep trial. You must try the mattress for at least 30 days before initiating a return. The mattress carries a generous lifetime warranty and ships free within the contiguous U.S.








Best Mattress for Couples
Helix Dusk Luxe


Price Range:
$1,099 – $2,349Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
15 Year, LimitedTrial Length:
100 nights (30-night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King-
Pros
- Pillow-top promotes strong motion isolation
- Foam layers excel in pressure relief
- Zoned coils provide extra lumbar support
-
Cons
- Back and stomach sleepers may sink too much
- Limited edge support due to extra foam layer
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
25% off sitewide + 2 free Dream Pillows with mattress purchase
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
It’s hard to find a bed that makes both co-sleepers happy, but the Helix Dusk Luxe has a superb balanced design that should satisfy lots of couples, even if their sleep needs are different.
The Helix Dusk Luxe is a hybrid model that balances strong support with cushioning layers. We found the medium firm (6) feel and well-rounded design appealed to a wide variety of testers in our lab. This mattress may be attractive to co-sleepers looking for a happy medium to accommodate different body types and sleep preferences.
How It Performed
The memory foam and polyfoam layers delivered strong pressure relief during our tests while protecting against excessive sinkage. The Dusk Luxe was a good fit for our testers who enjoy a little bit of body hug from foam, but not too much. While the coils gave the bed a moderately bouncy feel, the thick foam comfort system absorbed a lot of motion. This may appeal to couples who need a bed that prevents motion from easily transferring across the surface. The bed was well suited for most side sleepers on our team, but back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds also found the bed fairly comfortable.
What It’s Made of
One of this mattress’ standout features during testing was the Euro-top cover, which creates an instantly plush surface to cradle your body. This sits atop a layer of higher density polyfoam, followed by a thicker layer of memory foam that contours to your body. A transitional polyfoam layer further promotes contouring but is also a bit firmer to keep your body from sinking too deep. The bed’s strongest support comes from the core of pocketed coils, which are specially zoned to enhance lumbar support and help ensure your spine is properly aligned.
Helix offers a 100-night sleep trial and a 15-year warranty if you decide to keep the bed. Shipping is free to all 50 states.














Best Cooling Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe


Price Range:
$999 – $2,265Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
10 Year, LimitedTrial Length:
120 nights (30-night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Custom Sizes-
Pros
- Three firmness options
- Thick foam layers and coil core offer strong balance of cushioning and support
- Phase change material helps regulate temperature
-
Cons
- Foam layers may produce strong initial off-gassing
- All returns incur a $99 fee
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
Get 30% off sitewide at Brooklyn Bedding!
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe has a thick comfort layer that offers excellent cushioning for anyone who enjoys a cradling surface. Unlike some other beds that conform closely to the body, the Aurora Luxe has cooling features that help prevent overheating.
With three firmness options and a well-rounded design, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe is one of the most versatile hybrid mattresses we’ve tested. We found the bed’s cooling features made it a strong fit for sleepers who tend to run hot at night.
How It Performed
The Aurora Luxe’s proprietary foams have a more latex-like feel than conventional polyfoam, so you’ll experience significant responsiveness with moderate conforming to relieve pressure. The medium firm (6) model has a balanced feel that appealed to most of our testers, regardless of sleep position and body type. Side sleepers under 130 pounds felt most comfortable on the medium soft (4) model, while back and stomach sleepers and testers over 230 pounds preferred the firm model (7).
The coils allow for plenty of ventilation and enhance the bed’s overall edge support. The surface is also infused with TitanCool, a phase change material that helped keep the bed cool and comfortable during our heat-mapping tests.
What It’s Made of
The Aurora Luxe comes in three firmness levels that correspond to medium soft, medium firm, and firm. All models have a thick comfort system that begins with a top layer of copper-infused CopperFlex foam, a proprietary polyfoam with cooling properties. Beneath is a layer of TitanFlex polyfoam that varies in thickness, depending on the firmness option you choose. If you need more cushioning, you can add an extra foam layer — known as the “Cloud” pillow-top — to the comfort system.
The medium soft and medium firm options have a third layer of gel-infused memory foam, which conforms closely to your body to relieve pressure. The firm option uses VariFlex foam in lieu of memory foam, which we found generated more support. In all models, the support core contains a thick layer of pocketed coils that rest on a thin layer of high-density polyfoam.
Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty with all of their mattresses. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
















Best Mattress for Back Pain
Luxury Firm WinkBed



Price Range:
$1,149 – $2,049Mattress Type:
InnerspringWarranty:
Lifetime, LimitedTrial Length:
120 nights (30 night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King-
Pros
- Foam comfort system helps prevent pressure points
- Zoned support core provides above-average edge support
- Strong airflow for better cooling
-
Cons
- Potentially not firm enough for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
- Limited motion isolation compared to Softer WinkBed
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
Get $300 off all mattresses
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
Thanks to the combination of adaptive polyfoam and strong coils, the Luxury Firm WinkBed feels comfortable for a wide swath of sleepers. There’s plenty of cushioning to relieve pressure, but enough response to facilitate movement and protect the edges when you get on and off the mattress.
If you experience back pain during sleep, you might benefit from a mattress that provides both even spinal support and top-notch pressure point relief. Achieving this balance can be difficult, which is what sets the WinkBed apart from many of its competitors. You can choose between four firmness options with this hybrid mattress, but the Luxury Firm model is a standout option for people with back pain.
How It Performed
The polyfoam and pocketed coils create a luxe feel that our testers described as well-balanced and welcoming. This set of features allowed the mattress to isolate motion effectively during our performance tests, while the air circulation through the coils helped the bed stay cool. The WinkBed’s substantial support and moderate contouring made it an excellent pick for most testers, but it especially appealed to those who weigh up to 230 pounds.
What It’s Made of
The Luxury Firm has a medium firm feel that ranks as a 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale. The mattress’ top layer is a plush Euro-top quilted with gel-infused polyfoam. The foam surface helped relieve pressure point discomfort during testing by contouring closely to our bodies, helping to cushion joints and evenly disperse weight. A transitional polyfoam layer acts as a comfortable buffer between the Euro-top and support system.
The pocketed coil support core is divided into different zones based on gauge and strength. Thicker coils wrap around the perimeter to limit sinkage and help you feel more stable sleeping close to the edges, while thinner interior coils offer adequate support without making the mattress feel too stiff.
The Winkbed comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a dependable lifetime warranty. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S.








Best Mattress for Spinal Alignment
Nolah Evolution 15


Price Range:
$999 – $2,398Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
Lifetime, LimitedTrial Length:
120 nights (30-night requirement)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King-
Pros
- Three firmness options
- Proprietary AirFoam offers above-average breathability
- Zoned coils ensure strong edge support
-
Cons
- Thick profile may necessitate deep-pocket sheets
- $99 fee for all returns
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
Get 30% off mattresses plus two free pillows with our exclusive code SFSAVE
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
Thick mattresses often feel too soft, but not with the Nolah Evolution 15. The foam layers provide strong support and the coils make the mattress feel quite stable, while still offering the luxurious cushioned feel that is commonly associated with thick beds.
You generally need a balance of cushioning and support to promote even spinal alignment and prevent pressure buildup in areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips. The Nolah Evolution 15 is available in three firmness levels, so most sleepers across different positions and weight groups can find a comfortable option.
How It Performed
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a great choice if you sleep hot at night. The top foam layer contours to your body much like memory foam but without the heat retention. This is largely thanks to graphite infused into the material. We found the coils promoted airflow for added cooling and also protected the perimeter quite well, providing pushback and preventing sinkage when you’re getting in and out of bed or sleeping close to the edges.
Our testers who weigh less than 130 pounds preferred the plush (5) feel due to its deeper contouring, while testers who weighed more received better support from the luxury firm (6) or firm (7) models. The zoned coils provided enhanced lower back support and hip support, along with gentler cradling for the head and shoulders. Thanks to this broad selection, most of our testers found a firmness level that improved their alignment and reduced pressure in sensitive areas along the spine.
What It’s Made of
The Nolah Evolution 15 features a Euro-top padded with foam and a comfort layer of AirFoamICE, a proprietary polyfoam. An additional polyfoam layer offered transitional support and prevented testers’ bodies from sagging excessively. The support core contains pocketed coils divided into zones based on your body weight, so you’ll receive more reinforcement around your midsection and gentle cradling for lighter areas of your body. Thicker coils also reinforce the perimeter.
The mattress comes in six standard sizes, as well as a split king size. Nolah provides free ground shipping to all customers in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a sleep trial with your order that spans 120 nights in length. The mattress is also backed by a lifetime warranty that covers structural defects for as long as you own it.


















Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Layla Hybrid


Price Range:
$1,299 – $1,899Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
10 year, LimitedTrial Length:
120 nightsSizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King-
Pros
- Dual-sided with two firmness levels
- Copper-infused memory foam designed to contour with minimal heat retention
- Zoned transitional layer for targeted support
-
Cons
- Somewhat heavy and difficult to flip
- Sleepers seeking a medium firm feel may not find either side comfortable
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
Get $220 off the Layla Hybrid Mattress + 2 free memory foam pillows with code Sleepy20
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
After testing out the Layla Hybrid, we think this is an excellent choice for side sleepers. The thick memory foam on the soft side is great at easing pressure off the shoulders and hips. We also recommend the bed for couples, since it prevents motion from rippling across the bed.
Due to its unique flippable design, the Layla Hybrid offers two firmness levels in one mattress: medium soft (4) and firm (7). We found this flexible design accommodates a diverse range of sleepers, ensuring optimal support and pressure relief for most people regardless of your body type or preferred sleep position. It’s especially suitable if you experience uncomfortable pressure buildup in joints like the hips and shoulders.
How It Performed
Our testing showed that individuals of all sizes and sleep positions experience good spinal alignment on the Layla Hybrid. We attribute this to the zoned polyfoam transitional layer on each side, which supports the heavier areas of your body, such as the hips and shoulders, while cushioning your head and neck. The firm side was more popular among sleepers on our team weighing more than 230 pounds, who reported better spinal alignment and support beneath their hips and shoulders. Testers up to 230 pounds appreciated the medium soft side’s deep, pressure-relieving cradle.
What It’s Made of
The mattress is constructed with a comfort layer on either side, consisting of low-density memory foam infused with copper meant to help keep the bed’s surface cool. Meanwhile the shared pocketed coil support core allows air to freely circulate, which further prevents heat buildup. The bed also features a reinforced perimeter, allowing our testers to comfortably use the entire sleep surface without experiencing feelings of “roll-off.” A breathable cover made from a stretchy polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra blend encases the entire mattress.
Layla offers free shipping for customers who reside in the contiguous U.S. and backs the mattress with a 120-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.








Best Mattress for Muscle Recovery
Bear Elite Hybrid


Price Range:
$1,721 – $3,565Mattress Type:
HybridWarranty:
Lifetime warrantyTrial Length:
120 nights (30-night break-in period)Sizes:
Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King-
Pros
- Foam-over-coil hybrid design delivers a balance of cushioning, support, and responsiveness
- Available in three firmness levels to accommodate different types of sleepers
- Celliant-blend cover maintains a cool surface at all times
-
Cons
- Initial off-gassing odor can be somewhat harsh
- Foam layers may hinder movement when changing positions
Sleep Foundation Special Offer
35% off sitewide + free accessories
Bottom Line – Our Testing Team Takeaway
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses adaptive foam and sturdy coils to alleviate soreness and help your body recover during the night. Three firmness options make the mattress suitable for a wide range of sleepers, and all models feature a zoned transitional layer to help ensure minimal sinkage.
If you maintain an active lifestyle, you should invest in a mattress that promotes physical recovery during the night. The Bear Elite Hybrid promotes muscle recovery thanks to its tried-and-true combination of adaptive foam and pocketed coils, which delivers deep cushioning and even contouring to alleviate sore spots along the spine. Another key element of the mattress is a zoned transitional layer that pushes back against the weight in your midsection and prevents excessive sinkage.
How It Performed
The Elite Hybrid is available in three firmness levels, and our team tested each one. The medium (5) feel conforms very closely, resulting in a cloud-like surface that was popular among our side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. Back and stomach sleepers on our team weighing at least 130 pounds preferred the firm (8) design, which contours very little and offers sturdy support. If you’re a side sleeper who weighs 130 pounds or more, we recommend the medium firm (6) model for its balance of cushioning and reinforcement.
Temperature control was a highlight of our hands-on tests. The Elite Hybrid’s Celliant-blend cover is engineered to feel cool to the touch at all times, and the coils promote steady airflow, so our thermal sensors detected minimal heat retention. Motion isolation and pressure relief proved key strengths of the medium design while the medium firm and firm models excelled at edge support and ease of movement.
What It’s Made of
The Elite Hybrid begins with a memory foam comfort layer. Cooling gel infused into the foam helps reduce heat absorption to keep the surface cool. The transitional polyfoam layer is divided into five firmness zones to reinforce the midsection, where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight, while cradling lighter areas of the body.
Pocketed coils and dense base foam make up the support core. Thicker coils along the perimeter provide extra stability when you lie along the edges of the mattress or get in and out of bed. Celliant-blend fabric encases the entire mattress.
Bear offers free ground delivery to customers in the contiguous U.S., and your order includes two free pillows at no extra cost. The company’s sleep trial runs for 120 nights. If you decide to keep the Elite Hybrid after the trial ends, you’ll receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects. You can also purchase an accidental protection plan that covers stains and other types of physical damage.
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 10-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.
Methodology
How We Evaluated These Mattresses
The quantitative portion of our mattress testing methodology involves a series of tests intended to collect data within eight performance categories. This data is collected using testing processes performed consistently across all the mattresses we evaluate. These data-points are then considered within the context of qualitative feedback collected by both our testers and external evaluators. The resulting evaluations are then used to determine our star ratings, individualized recommendations, and accolades across all of our pages.
If you would like more information about our product research methodology and how we test within each performance category, read on:
motion isolation
Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress absorbs movement and prevents it from transferring across the surface. Mattresses with thicker comfort layers tend to isolate more motion, great for those who are frequently disturbed by a sleep partner’s movement. We test motion isolation by performing a series of body movements and weight drops across the mattress, measuring movement across the bed using a seismograph.
temperature control
A temperature-controlled mattress should ensure the sleeper is not too hot or cold. Mattresses made with breathable materials like cotton, wool, latex, and coils are great at regulating temperature. We measure temperature control by pointing a heat gun at the bed after a sleeper lies on it and recording the resulting temperature and cooling duration. We also repeat the process using a water bottle heated to 98 degrees instead of a sleeper, this allows us to control for variations in sleeper body temperature.
pressure relief
A pressure-relieving mattress contours the body to reduce pressure buildup in the joints. Usually these mattresses have thicker memory foam comfort layers that slowly adapt to the body. Pressure relief is measured by placing a pressure pad between the sleeper and the mattress, giving us an accurate reading on which parts of the body are under different amounts of pressure.
off gassing
Mattresses in a box and those made with synthetic materials are more prone to off-gassing odors. These odors are due to volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which are relatively harmless but can be annoying. Our test team utilizes a VOC meter as well as a subjective smell test in order to rate off-gassing.
ease of movement
Mattresses that perform well in this category usually have responsive surfaces that allow sleepers to move without restriction. Combination sleepers benefit from a mattress with high marks in ease of movement. We measure ease of movement by performing a series of body movements and weight drops across the mattress, recording how the mattress responds and what our testers feel.
edge support
Edge support refers to a mattress’ weight-bearing capabilities along the perimeter. A mattress with supportive edges allows sleepers to lie closer to the edge, increasing the bed’s overall usability. Edge support is recorded by placing weight on the edge of the bed and measuring the resulting sinkage.
sex
Many sleepers use their mattresses not only for sleep but also for sex. Mattresses with high rankings in ease of movement, edge support, and temperature control also tend to perform well in this category. Sex ratings are determined by aggregate findings from the following five categories: bounce, contouring, noise, temperature control, edge support.
body weight
Body weight is one of many factors to consider when choosing your ideal firmness level. Sleeping position and sleep preferences are also important, so we recommend trying multiple models to find the most comfortable feel.


In-Depth Mattress Guides
For more personalized mattress guides, check out the following pages:
Best Mattress by Price
Mattress for Specific Needs
Best Mattresses by Size
What is the Best Mattress of 2023?
In order to determine which mattress ranks highest, our test team considers a number of factors, including performance ratings and quality of construction. We believe the Helix Midnight is the best overall mattress on the market because it performs well in multiple categories and features a thoughtful design. With its mid-range firmness and excellent pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature neutrality, this mattress is likely to appeal to a wide range of sleepers. The approachable price-point makes it an even more attractive option.
If you are looking for a mattress that excels in a specific performance category, our team has tested and researched hundreds of other mattresses to come up with the list of picks above. Whether your priority is a mattress that stays cool at night or you’re looking for a bed that can help relieve back pain, we’ve got you covered with recommendations.
How Do You Find The Perfect Mattress?




Defining the ideal mattress is extremely subjective. Every sleeper has their own idea of the perfect firmness level. Optimal support and bounce can depend on a person’s sleeping position and body weight. The right mattress can also vary based on whether someone shares a bed, whether they sleep hot, and of course, their budget.
Given all these factors, it’s impossible to say that there’s one single best mattress. For that reason, we’ve broken our top picks into individual categories so that you can find the best bets among specific mattress types and aspects of mattress performance.
Learn more about how to choose a mattress and other information you need when learning about mattresses in our mattress information section.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many factors to consider when choosing a new mattress. One of the most important considerations is firmness level. Some people prefer a softer mattress that contours closely to the body, while others enjoy firmer mattresses that provide sturdy support. Your ideal firmness will likely depend on your body type and preferred sleep position. If you share your bed with someone who has different firmness preferences, then a dual-firmness mattress with a different feel on each side may be most suitable.
Pictured Above: Tester uses a weight to test the firmness of a mattress
You will want to consider performance areas, as well. If you tend to sleep hot, a mattress constructed with breathable materials that promote airflow and resist heat retention will probably be the best options. If you tend to sleep near the edges of your bed, then you may need a mattress with strong edge support as opposed to one that sags along the perimeter when pressure is exerted. If you feel sharp pressure points along the spine, we recommend looking into mattresses that cushion and conform to the body. Couples who prefer bouncy mattresses for sex may want a more responsive model instead.
Lastly, you should take pricing into account. A new mattress can cost anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a few thousand. The construction of a mattress often dictates the sticker price. Foam beds and traditional innersprings are usually the most affordable options, all-latex models and hybrids tend to be middle of the road, and airbeds cost the most. If you feel like you need extra time to test out the mattress before deciding whether to keep it, you should consider buying from a brand that offers a sleep trial of at least 120 nights.
Whether or not you find a mattress comfortable is deeply personal and due to factors like your body shape and preferred sleeping position. For example, a back sleeper who weighs over 230 pounds will usually prefer a significantly firmer mattress than someone who weighs less than 130 pounds and sleeps on their side.
Mattresses can also feel comfortable in the short term but uncomfortable after several hours or even days, making it difficult to choose the right mattress without sleeping on it. In addition to finding a mattress that feels “comfortable,” we recommend carefully considering what your body requires before buying a new mattress. It’s helpful to choose a mattress with a sleep trial, as these allow you to double-check that your new bed is comfortable before committing to the purchase.
“When it comes to sleep, everyone’s comfort preferences are different… I recommend investing in an option with a good return policy, so you can try it out for at least a month or so to decide whether it’s comfortable for you.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
We’ve found that most people who sleep on their side prefer foam, memory foam, or hybrid mattresses. Side sleepers are prone to developing pressure points at their hip and shoulder, making it difficult to sleep or trigger next-day aches and pains.
“Side sleepers may prefer a mattress that has softness. It’s also important for side sleepers to find an option that ensures the head and neck are in alignment. Whatever is the most comfortable for you to sleep with is worth the investment.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
Side sleepers benefit from the pressure relief offered by well-cushioned mattresses, including foam and hybrid beds
Mattresses with above-average pressure relief contour gently against your potential pressure points regardless of the mattress’s overall firmness level, providing you with both comfort and support. While not all foam or foam hybrid mattresses relieve enough pressure for side sleepers, they tend to perform significantly better in this category than innerspring or all-latex beds.
There are features that people with back pain tend to universally appreciate — these include lumbar padding, ergonomically zoned support systems, and sturdy edge support. Side sleepers with shoulder or upper back pain should also consider the pressure-relieving qualities of a mattress before buying since poor pressure relief can lead to tension in these areas.
The best mattress for back pain is one that encourages correct spinal alignment and provides excellent support for both your body type and preferred sleeping position. While some specific mattresses are popular among people with back pain, an ideal model for one person may leave another feeling worse the next day.
If you sleep very warm, you should consider purchasing an innerspring or latex mattress. Innerspring mattresses without foam comfort layers provide the best temperature neutrality thanks to their superior airflow, while latex is naturally temperature neutral and stays much cooler throughout the night than synthetic foams.
Our testing team uses heat-mapping tools to measure a bed’s temperature neutrality.
Latex hybrids can be even cooler, as pocketed coils provide airflow in the same fashion as an innerspring. If you prefer the feel of synthetic foams — such as memory foam — look for a foam hybrid with temperature regulation features. These are warmer than an innerspring or latex mattress but still offer better temperature regulation than a standard all-foam bed.
There is no easy answer to this question since the “best” mattress is exceptionally subjective — a bed that is perfect for one person may leave another person sleepless and sore. You should always start by determining your sleep needs, which include personal preferences but should be based on your sleep position and body type. These details, combined with your budget, will help you choose a mattress type, firmness option, and preferred features. After narrowing the field, you can then rely on independent mattress reviews to determine what mattress in a box is best for you.
Six standard mattress sizes are available. Twin and twin XL are the smallest standard sizes. They both measure about 38 inches wide, making them best suited to single sleepers. Full size dimensions are a bit wider, but may still be too narrow for two people.
Queen size dimensions measure roughly 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, making this a suitable size for anyone who shares their bed with a partner. King and California king are the largest standard sizes and should provide ample space for two people, especially if small children or pets also share the sleep space. Even larger sizes such as the Alaska king are available, but not widely — these usually require a custom order.
If you and your partner use an adjustable bed, you may want to consider a split queen, split king, or split California king mattress. These models are divided lengthwise down the middle, allowing each of you to adjust the bed at your preferred angle without affecting the other person’s side.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we'll help you find exactly what you're looking for.