Product Details
Best Overall
Nectar Premier
Price Range: $799 - $1,698
Mattress Type: Foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 365 nights
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Who it's best for:
- People with sharp pain or pressure points along the spine
- Side and back sleepers
- Couples
Highlights:
- Precise body-contouring and excellent pressure relief
- Foam layers provide very good motion isolation
- 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty
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Memory foam mattresses are a good investment if you seek relief from aches, pains, and pressure points – though some models perform decidedly better than others. We consider the Nectar Premier a standout mattress due to its construction, which provides exceptional pressure relief.
What It’s Made of
The mattress includes a 3-inch comfort layer of soft, adaptive memory foam. We found that this material contours closely, allowing it to alleviate discomfort and evenly distribute your weight. The foam is infused with cooling gel and phase change material, so we noticed very little heat retention on the surface. Next is a transitional layer of polyfoam that limits sinkage and helps evenly distribute your weight. The support core features high-density polyfoam, which reinforces and stabilizes the mattress.
How It Performed
Due to its medium firm (6) feel, we consider the mattress a good fit if you are a side or back sleeper. Both of these positions are associated with pressure-induced pain. The side sleepers on our team noted ample cushioning around the shoulders and hips, which can improve your alignment and reduce pressure points. Our back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds also felt comfortable on the mattress and didn’t sink too much beneath the surface.
The Nectar Premier is also an excellent choice if you share your mattress with a partner. The foam layers absorb movement and prevent your motion from transferring across the surface – a common source of sleep disturbances for couples. The mattress is also completely silent and won’t produce any disruptive squeaks or creaks.
Although the Premier’s sticker price is a bit on the expensive side, you’ll receive a few extra perks with your Nectar purchase. These include free ground shipping on all orders within the contiguous U.S., a sleep trial that allows you to test out the mattress for up to 365 nights, and a lifetime warranty against structural defects to give you extra peace of mind.
Bottom Line
During our tests, the Nectar Premier excelled at improving spinal support and pressure relief. The mattress has enough give to cushion your lumbar region, but deep sinkage won’t be a major issue thanks to its medium firm feel.
Best Value
DreamCloud Mattress
Price Range: $799 - $1,499
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 365 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: Lifetime, limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Side sleepers
- Couples seeking a bed with good motion isolation
- Those who sleep hot at night
Highlights:
- Soft cashmere-blend cover
- Foam hybrid design provides a strong balance of cushioning and support
- 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty
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The DreamCloud Mattress is a hybrid bed that balances cushioning and support at an affordable price. With a thicker-than-average comfort system, this mattress has a medium firm (6) feel and should prove comfortable for many types of sleepers. Most of our testers across different weight and sleep position groups found the DreamCloud comfortable and supportive in equal measure.
What It’s Made of
One feature that sets the DreamCloud apart from other hybrid models is the cashmere-blend cover, which makes the surface breathable and soft to the touch. The cover is quilted with adaptive polyfoam, followed by a layer of gel-infused memory foam. Our testers noted deep contouring from these two layers.
Beneath is a transitional layer of polyfoam that prevents your body from sinking excessively. The support core contains a pocketed coil system that helps reduce motion transfer when you and your partner move around in bed.
How It Performed
The thick foam comfort system should provide excellent contouring if you need a bed that cushions areas of high pressure buildup. Meanwhile, the coil system provides support to help keep your body from sinking too deeply.
During our tests, the DreamCloud was particularly popular with the side and back sleepers on our team. Side sleepers can benefit from the combination of support and contouring, since they need cushioning for the hips and shoulders while receiving support for the lower back. Back sleepers should also find this bed supportive enough to promote even alignment and reduce pressure along the spine.
The DreamCloud also performed well during our motion isolation tests. We attributed this to the thick foam layers, which help offset bounce generated by the coils. As a result, you and your partner should be able to sleep soundly without being disturbed when the other person moves in bed. We also awarded the DreamCloud favorable ratings for temperature control. The mattress sleeps quite cool due to the air circulation through the coil system and the moisture-wicking properties of the cashmere-blend cover.
DreamCloud offers a generous lifetime warranty and 365-night sleep trial with this bed. Shipping is also free if you reside in contiguous U.S.
Bottom Line
Our team was impressed by the motion isolation of the DreamCloud, which is stronger than what we’ve found in some other hybrid beds. The mattress is great for anyone who shares the bed with restless sleepers.
Best Luxury
Saatva Classic
Price Range: $935 - $2,450
Mattress Type: Innerspring
Firmness: Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial length: 365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King
Who it's best for:
- Side and back sleepers
- People who sleep hot
- Those who experience painful pressure buildup during sleep
Highlights:
- Three firmness options
- Zoned memory foam provides targeted support
- Excellent edge support from robust coil system
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The Saatva Classic is a hybrid bed that comes in three firmness options to suit a wide variety of sleepers. The mattress has multiple layers and a thoughtful design that gives it a luxurious and comfortable feel regardless of the firmness level.
What It’s Made of
The Classic comes in soft (3), medium firm (6), and firm (8) designs. We tested all three firmness levels and found each one distinct from the other two. The ideal firmness for you will likely depend on your body weight and primary sleep position.
The composition of the bed varies slightly between firmness levels, but all mattresses feature a Euro-top quilted with polyfoam and fiber fill. Beneath are thin layers of polyfoam and zoned memory foam, which provide additional support for your back and pressure relief throughout your midsection. These layers are followed by a layer of pocketed minicoils that enhance pressure relief.
The support core contains steel coils and a foam wall that lines the perimeter of the bed for enhanced edge support. All beds feature a cover made of breathable organic cotton. In addition to the firmness options, you can choose between a mattress profile of 11.5 or 14.5 inches.
How It Performed
Most of the side sleepers on our team felt most comfortable on the soft and medium firm models. We attributed this to the cushioning these beds provide for the shoulders and hips. The back sleepers on our team preferred the Classic’s firmer models due to their sturdier support systems. Our stomach sleepers found the firm model sufficiently supportive and it didn’t sink excessively around the midsection.
The materials and coil construction allow air to ventilate fairly well in this bed, so the mattress performed well during our temperature control tests. If you tend to sleep or sit close to the edge of the bed a lot, the excellent edge support on the Saatva Classic helps prevent excessive sagging around the perimeter. Our team was able to bounce, lay, and sit to tie our shoes on the edges of the bed without issue.
Saatva ships mattresses for free throughout the contiguous U.S. and includes free White Glove delivery with all orders. Customers receive a 365-night sleep trial with their purchase, as well as a lifetime warranty.
Bottom Line
An innovative coil-on-coil design and multiple firmness options to suit different sleepers set the Saatva Classic apart from other hybrids on the market today. We also loved the bed’s ultra-supportive perimeter and excellent cooling properties.
Most Comfortable
Nolah Evolution 15
Price Range: $999 - $1,699
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial length: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Hot sleepers who enjoy the feel of foam
- Back and stomach sleepers
- People who weigh over 230 pounds
Highlights:
- Available in three firmness levels
- Euro-top surface feels plush
- Foam engineered with cooling features
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The Nolah Evolution 15 is a hybrid mattress available in three different firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). We tested all three options and found unique strengths with each one. All Evolution 15 models feature thick foam layers that adapt to the body to relieve your pressure buildup and zoned pocketed coils that deliver targeted support for your entire body.
What It’s Made of
The Evolution 15 begins with a quilted Euro-top that adds cushioning without sacrificing support. Our team was impressed with the close contouring we received from this mattress. The comfort system also includes a comfort layer of proprietary AirFoamICE polyfoam that contours closely to the body.
A transitional layer of firmer polyfoam prevented us from sinking deeply into the mattress. The support core contains a pocketed coil system that is zoned to provide additional support to your midsection and gentle cradling around your head and feet.
How It Performed
While foam beds are known for trapping heat, the AirFoamICE polyfoam in the comfort layer is engineered to draw heat away from your body. None of our testers experienced uncomfortable heat retention while lying on the mattress despite its thick foam layers. The coil system also helps facilitate airflow throughout the bed’s interior, making the mattress a good fit if you’re a hot sleeper who prefers the feel of foam.
Because of its multiple firmness options, the Nolah Evolution 15 is compatible with a wide range of sleep positions and body types. The back and stomach sleepers on our team felt most comfortable on the two firmer models, which offer stronger overall support, whereas our side sleepers preferred the softest option for its deep contouring.
Nolah offers free shipping within the contiguous U.S. The company provides you with a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. You can reduce your up-front costs by opting out of the trial period, meaning you won’t be able to return the mattress. Old mattress removal and setup are available for an additional fee.
Bottom Line
We found that the Nolah Evolution 15’s Euro-top design cushions the body and provides sturdy, zoned support. Three firmness levels make the mattress suitable for most sleepers regardless of body type or sleep position.
Best for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight
Price Range: $799 - $1,549
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 100 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: 10 Year, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Back and side sleepers
- Hot sleepers
- Those who sleep close to the edges of their mattress
Highlights:
- Balanced, medium firm foam hybrid design
- Thicker perimeter coils limit sinkage along the edges
- Sleeps cool thanks to steady airflow through the support core
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Helix specializes in making mattresses geared toward different body types and sleeping positions. The Helix Midnight has a medium firm (6) feel and thick foam comfort layers. While the Midnight is specifically designed for side sleepers, some of the back and stomach sleepers on our team also found the comfortable and sufficiently supportive.
What It’s Made of
The Helix Midnight has a comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam that cushions your hips and shoulders. Although the mattress has a medium firm feel, we noticed close contouring and deep cushioning during our mattress tests. A polyfoam transitional layer limits sinkage and adds some cushioning to the comfort system.
The pocketed coil support core features a reinforced perimeter. We noticed generous push-back and very little sinkage when testing the mattress for ease of movement and edge support. A knit polyester cover encases the mattress.
How It Performed
We found that the Midnight’s medium firm feel and foam hybrid design is best suited to side sleepers. Our side sleepers weighing between 130 and 230 pounds found the mattress especially comfortable. If you’re a back or stomach sleeper weighing under 130 pounds, you may also appreciate the pressure-relieving comfort layers.
As with most hybrid models, the Helix Midnight’s pocketed coil support core creates a responsive surface that facilitates movement on top of the mattress. While the foam layers conform closely, we didn’t feel trapped or stuck when moving across the mattress.
Airflow through the coils helped us stay cool during our temperature tests. Thicker coils line the perimeter for enhanced support, which allowed us to lay and sit along the edge without sinking. This feature makes the mattress a strong choice if you share your bed with a partner, or if you have a hard time getting in and out of bed.
Helix provides a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty for the Midnight. Shipping is free to all 50 states.
Bottom Line
We think the Helix Midnight is a great pick for side sleepers. The foam comfort layers cushion the shoulders and hips – two common areas of pressure buildup for people who sleep on their sides – while the coils maintain even support for the body.
Best for Back Pain
WinkBed
Price Range: $1,149 - $2,049
Mattress Type: Innerspring
Firmness: Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Trial length: 120 nights (30 night requirement)
Warranty: Lifetime, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- People who prefer bouncy sleep surfaces
- Hot sleepers
- Back and stomach sleepers
Highlights:
- Adaptive polyfoam Euro-top relieves pressure buildup in the joints
- Zoned coil system for superb perimeter reinforcement
- Good internal airflow and breathable Tencel cover
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The WinkBed is a standout queen size mattress thanks to its exceptional support. We were impressed by the hybrid’s zoned coil design, which should be ideal if you live with back pain and need targeted support for good sleep posture. You should also consider this mattress if you are a back or stomach sleeper who is prone to spinal misalignment and subsequent pain.
What It’s Made of
The WinkBed is available in four firmness levels. Options for standard models include medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7). Additionally, the WinkBed Plus (8) is designed specifically for people who weigh more than 230 pounds.
Standard models feature a plush Euro-top quilted with gel-infused polyfoam, which adapts to your body and relieves pressure buildup in your joints. All of our testers noticed even contouring while lying on the mattress. A cooling gel infusion is meant to dissipate excess heat from your body and regulate your temperature. Next is a transitional layer of denser SupportCell polyfoam that kept our bodies on an even plane. Instead of SupportCell, WinkBed Plus models contain a layer of responsive latex.
The support core contains standard pocketed coils that reinforce the perimeter and protect the edges from sinkage. The coils are zoned around the midsection to reduce sagging and minimize aches and pains in your lumbar region and hips.
How It Performed
We personally tested all four versions of the WinkBed. The medium soft model earned its most favorable ratings from our side sleepers, as well as back sleepers weighing under 130 pounds. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the medium firm feel. If you weigh more than 230 pounds, we recommend either the firm or Plus models.
We found that air circulation is another strength of the WinkBed. The coils generated steady air circulation throughout the mattress core, while a cover made of breathable Tencel fabric prevented excess body heat from building up on the surface. Tencel also has moisture-wicking properties to help you stay dry on humid nights.
Ground shipping is free of charge throughout the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 120-night sleep trial, during which you can test out the WinkBed and – if need be – exchange your initial choice for another firmness level. The mattress is also backed by a lifetime warranty.
Bottom Line
The WinkBed’s zoned pocketed coil core should provide even support and pressure relief for people with back pain. During our tests, we also stayed very cool on this bed thanks to the Tencel cover and air flowing through the coils.
Best Cooling
Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
Price Range: $999 - $2,249
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial length: 120 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: 10 Year, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Custom Sizes
Who it's best for:
- People who tend to sleep hot
- Those who carry extra weight in the chest, stomach, or hips
- RV owners
Highlights:
- Phase change material reduces heat buildup on the sleep surface
- Available in three firmness levels and 10 sizes
- Zoned coils reinforce the midsection and cradle lighter areas of the body
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The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe excels at cooling and thermoregulation. Phase change material (PCM) infused into the cover and comfort system is engineered to dissipate body heat on contact. Steady air circulation throughout the coil layer also helps the mattress maintain a comfortable core temperature.
What It’s Made of
The Aurora Luxe begins with two polyfoam comfort layers. In addition to the PCM, the topmost layer is infused with copper for extra breathability. The second layer is composed of TitanFlex, a proprietary material that combines the cushioning of foam with the responsiveness of latex. A transitional layer of gel memory foam completes the comfort system, contouring to the body while also preventing you from sinking too deeply into the mattress.
The Aurora Luxe’s support core consists of pocketed coils over a high-density polyfoam base layer. The coils are divided into three zones based on gauge, or thickness. Thicker coils beneath the torso and hips provide sturdy reinforcement to areas of the body where people tend to carry a disproportionate amount of weight, while thinner springs cradle the head, shoulders, and legs. The coils are also stronger along the perimeter to prevent deep sinkage when you get on and off the mattress. Measuring 13.5 inches thick, the mattress is considered a high-profile model.
How It Performed
The Aurora Luxe is available in three firmness levels: medium soft (4), medium firm (6), and firm (7). Our team tested each option and found unique strengths for each one. The medium soft feel is best suited to side sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. These models offer the closest body contouring, and can alleviate pressure in the shoulders and hips. The back and stomach sleepers on our team weighing at least 130 pounds preferred the strong support of the firm feel. Anyone who wants a balance of cushioning and reinforcement should consider the medium firm feel, which was most popular among our side sleepers weighing 130 to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds.
We were impressed with the Aurora Luxe’s cooling abilities, as well as the enhanced edge support from the zoned coil system. Above-average motion isolation is another strength of this mattress. The three foam layers absorb a significant amount of movement, resulting in little to no motion transfer when you or your partner move in bed. Comparatively, many hybrids feel overly responsive and generate a fair amount of transfer that can disrupt sleep for couples.
The Aurora Luxe is available in 10 sizes. These include the six standard mattress sizes, as well as a split California king for couples who use an adjustable bed base and three RV-friendly options. Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order will include a 120-night sleep trial, and you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty if you decide to keep the mattress.
Bottom Line
“The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe offers excellent cooling compared to other mattresses we’ve tested – even similarly constructed hybrid models. PCM makes the surface feel cool to the touch, and none of us experienced uncomfortable heat buildup despite the thick foam layers.”
Best for Couples
Bear Elite Hybrid
Price Range: $1,721 - $3,565
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial length: 120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Who it's best for:
- Hot sleepers
- People who experience pressure point discomfort
- Side and back sleepers
Highlights:
- Available in three distinct feels
- Cooling-specific features keep sleepers a comfortable temperature
- Zoned polyfoam layer enhances lumbar support
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The Bear Elite Hybrid offers exceptional temperature neutrality at a reasonable price-point. Shoppers can choose between medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) models, which each share the same materials but have slightly different feels. Although we tested all three firmness levels and each one has a distinct feel, we noticed excellent cooling across the board during our temperature control tests.
What It’s Made of
This model’s hand-quilted cover has phase change material (PCM) and Celliant fibers woven into the fabric. Together, they can effectively combat heat retention by wicking excess moisture and regulating surface temperature. Underneath the cover is a layer of copper-infused memory foam that cushions your body without feeling too warm.
The polyfoam transitional layer has five zones that increase and decrease pushback beneath different parts of your body to relieve pressure without sacrificing support. Strategically placed cutouts in the foam allow air to circulate easily throughout the mattress for additional cooling. The pocketed coil support core boasts individually wrapped coils that isolate motion and enhance spinal alignment. A high-density polyfoam base adds extra stability.
How It Performed
The Bear Elite Hybrid has multiple materials to help you sleep at a comfortable temperature. In addition to its temperature-regulating technology, this model has plenty of air flowing through the support core – a less flashy feature than the cooling cover but equally important for fighting heat retention. As our testers lied on the mattress, our temperature sensors detected very little heat buildup.
We also found that the foam comfort system relieves pressure exceptionally well, which can be an important factor if you’re a side sleeper or if you live with joint pain. Bear provides you with a 120-day sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. Those in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free shipping.
Bottom Line
The Bear Elite Hybrid provides excellent overall support without feeling too firm for comfort. The mattress also excelled during our temperature control tests, and this can be attributed to its assortment of cooling materials.
Best for Combination Sleepers
Birch Mattress
Price Range: $1,349 - $2,099
Mattress Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Trial length: 100 nights (30-night requirement)
Warranty: 25 Year, Limited
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for:
- Shoppers who want a sustainable product at a reasonable price
- Those who sleep hot
- Combination sleepers and those who value ease of movement
Highlights:
- Made from sustainably sourced materials
- Organic wool helps to regulate sleep temperature
- Excellent value for a natural latex hybrid
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The Birch Mattress is a hybrid bed that stands out for its eco-friendly construction. This is also an excellent choice if you are looking for a mattress that can help prevent overheating at night. By using latex instead of foam, the Birch feels responsive and gently contours to the body. Our testers across sleeping positions felt comfortable with little to no sinkage, making the mattress a solid choice for combination sleepers.
What It’s Made of
The mattress is crafted with sustainable materials, including a natural cotton cover, wool batting, and Talalay latex. The latex is Rainforest Alliance-certified and adds a springy, cushioning feel. Together, these layers form a responsive medium firm (6) surface that’s ideal if you’re a side, back, or combination sleepoer. The support core consists of individually wrapped coils with reinforced edges, resting on a final layer of wool batting for added stability.
How It Performed
Wool is known for its exceptional moisture-wicking abilities, and the organic wool layers in the Birch help regulate temperature while providing a soft yet elastic cradle. The mattress performed exceptionally well during our temperature control tests. The coils also provided adequate support for the side, back, and combination sleepers on our team – particularly those weighing 130 to 230 pounds.
The mattress is certified to be free of harsh chemicals by GREENGUARD Gold, and the cover is certified organic according to the Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS). Given its all-natural construction, the Birch mattress releases little to no off-gassing odors and should be a solid choice if you are sensitive to smells.
The mattress is backed by a 100-night sleep trial, and Birch offers a 25-year warranty. Mattresses ship free and are available for purchase in all 50 states.
Bottom Line
Talalay latex is one of the Birch Mattress’ standout features. This material helps the mattress surface feel resilient and responsive, something you don’t always see from a mattress that also relieves pressure this well. Additionally, cotton, wool, and latex have cooling properties to help you stay comfortable while you sleep.
Why You Can Trust Us
Our testing team at Sleep Foundation has years of experience evaluating mattresses of all types and sizes. Since every sleeper has different needs and preferences, our team includes back, side, stomach, and combination sleepers with different body types. This versatility allows us to represent as wide a range of sleepers as possible.
How We Evaluated These Mattresses
We’ve tried out hundreds of queen size mattresses using a hands-on testing process that incorporates different criteria based on comfort, quality, and performance. Our top picks reflect the beds that performed best against competing models.
To learn more about our product research methodology, scroll down for detailed descriptions of our mattress testing criteria.
- Motion Isolation: When someone changes positions or gets up at night, this movement can transfer across the surface and potentially awaken anyone sharing the bed with them. Mattresses that absorb motion and minimize this transfer are generally better for couples and co-sleepers.
- Temperature Control: This criteria concerns a mattress’ ability to promote airflow, dissipate body heat, and maintain a reasonable surface temperature any time of year. Ventilated foam or latex layers, open coil systems, breathable cover fabrics, and active heat-releasing components like phase change material can all help a mattress sleep cool.
- Pressure Relief: Many sleepers feel sharp pressure points in the shoulders, hips, and other sensitive areas along the spine. The best mattress for any person will cushion the body and reduce pressure without sinking too much around the midsection.
- Off-Gassing: Off-gassing refers to “new mattress smells” you may notice after unboxing your new bed. Most off-gassing odor dissipates in a matter of days, but some mattresses produce stronger, longer-lasting smells many people find unpleasant.
- Ease of Movement: A mattress that feels responsive and sturdy from edge to edge will probably be easier to move across than a model that sinks or lacks support in the middle. If your mattress falls in the latter category, then changing positions during the night may also be difficult.
- Edge Support: Most mattresses sink at least a little when you sit along or sleep near the edges. That said, some models feature support layers that provide pushback and resist sagging to make the perimeter feel more secure.
- Sex: For this category, we take several factors into account based on feedback we’ve received from sleep partners. Criteria we test for include ease of movement, edge support, temperature regulation, and noise.
- Body Weight: For most people, the firmness level they prefer for their mattress depends a lot on their body type and support needs. Your mattress should cushion the body enough to reduce pressure and promote spinal alignment without buckling or sinking too much beneath your weight.
How to Choose a Queen Mattress
The best queen size mattress for your situation will depend largely on whether you’re sleeping alone or sharing the bed. In our buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss factors like noise, motion isolation, edge support to consider when sleeping with a partner. We’ll also explore the benefits and drawbacks of different mattress types, and which kind of mattress suits each type of sleeper.
What to Look for in a Mattress
With so many beds on the market, the mattress industry is full of obscure, misleading, and confusing marketing terms. However, arming yourself with a little basic knowledge about how a mattress works can help you sift through most of this language and find the mattress that best meets your needs. We consider the following elements most important when choosing a new mattress.
Price
Price is the first thing most shoppers look at, and it’s an easy way to narrow down the field of choices. The good news is that comfortable mattresses come in virtually every price-point, so no matter your budget, you should be able to find a mattress that adapts to your sleeping style. Since queen size mattresses are considered the standard, it’s easy to compare and contrast prices to make sure you’re getting the best queen mattress for your money.
Sleeping Position
If you’re a side sleeper, then you’re more vulnerable to pressure build-up at the hips and shoulders, while stomach sleepers and back sleepers can experience back pain if a mattress isn’t supportive enough. Thus, choosing a softer mattress if you’re a side sleeper or a firmer mattress if you’re a back or stomach sleeper will usually lead to more comfortable sleep. If your sleeping partner tends to adopt a different sleeping position, you may agree to compromise on a more neutral feel.
Mattress Type
Almost all mattresses on the market today fall into one of five categories: all-foam, latex, hybrid, innerspring, or airbed. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best mattress type for you will depend on your specific needs.
Contouring
Mattresses that contour closely often alleviate pressure points and contribute to proper spinal alignment, especially in side sleepers. However, mattresses with deep contouring and a slow response to pressure may also restrict your movement and cause you to feel trapped in the bed. We recommend finding a firmness level that provides adequate cushioning without sinking too much beneath your weight.
Firmness Level
Mattress firmness is typically rated on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. The majority of sleepers prefer a mattress that falls between a 5 and a 7, as this offers the best balance of support and pressure relief. As a general rule,we recommend plusher mattresses with more pressure relief for side sleepers and people who weigh less than 130 pounds. In our experience, stomach sleepers and people who weigh more than 230 pounds prefer firmer mattresses that prevent the hips from sinking, while back sleepers and those between 130 and 230 pounds typically feel most comfortable with a medium or medium firm feel.
Quality Materials
The foams, latex, springs, and other components used to make a mattress vary greatly in quality. Better-quality materials often cost more, but they provide superior support and comfort relief. They also tend to perform for years before they start to sag or develop permanent body indentations.
Pressure Relief
No matter how supportive, a mattress with zero cushioning likely won’t provide the comfortable surface you need to drift off to sleep. That’s why most mattresses feature softer materials such as memory foam, latex, or wool in the top layers. Pressure relief is particularly important if you’re a side sleeper, since your hips and shoulders bear the brunt of your weight. If pressure relief is a top priority, we recommend mattresses with thick comfort systems of foam or latex layers.
Edge Support
Many mattresses lack support around the perimeter, which can be a problem if you regularly sleep near the edge of the bed. If you plan to share your queen size mattress with a sleeping partner, buying a mattress with strong edge support will make it possible to use your entire half of the bed instead of forcing you and your partner to crowd toward the middle. During edge support tests, we’ve found that innersprings and hybrids perform best thanks to their coil systems.
Temperature Regulation
Certain mattress materials are known to trap heat, causing your sleep surface to feel uncomfortably warm. If you or your partner sleep hot, look for mattresses made with breathable materials that allow room for airflow. Hybrid, innerspring, and latex mattresses tend to perform best during our temperature regulation tests. If you prefer all-foam mattresses, look for models that feature cooling technology such as gel beads or phase change material.
Noise
Whether sleeping alone or with a partner, chances are you’ll appreciate a mattress that doesn’t make noise when bearing weight. If you find yourself waking up to every squeak and creak on your old innerspring, it might be time to try a quieter all-foam or latex mattress.
Who Is Best Suited to a Queen Mattress?
Queen mattresses have been standard in the mattress industry ever since the 1950s. At 60 inches by 80 inches, a queen mattress is roomier than a full size mattress (54 inches by 74 inches), but doesn’t take up as much space as a king size mattress (76 inches by 80 inches). A queen size mattress is ideal for one or two sleepers, or for taller people who find a full size mattress too short.
Though rare, you may also come across alternate queen sizes such as Olympic (66 inches by 80 inches) or split queen (two beds, each one 30 inches by 80 inches).
Single Adults: Many of us outgrow our twin size beds as we reach adulthood, and for some, a full size mattress may feel a little cramped. A queen size mattress allows ample room to sleep comfortably. Many people also find that their roomy queen mattress is the ideal spot to carry out activities like reading, watching television, or just hanging out.
Couples: A queen size mattress is the perfect compromise for couples who like sharing a bed and who value cuddling and sex, but who also need their own space to fall asleep. You and your partner may want to choose a mattress that’s quiet and able to absorb motion to reduce nighttime disturbances. Strong edges are also a plus, as they allow both of you to spread out without fears of falling off the bed.
Teenagers: Teenagers may need more room than a twin size mattress can provide. If you’re buying a mattress for a teen that’s still growing, a flippable model with different firmness levels may be better able to accommodate changes in body weight. We recommend investing in a high-quality queen size mattress for you teen. This way, they may be able to take it with them when they move out.
Queen vs. King
A king size mattress is considerably wider than a queen. Measuring 76 by 80 inches, it’s equivalent to two twin XL mattresses placed together. An alternative to the king is the California king mattress (72 by 84 inches), which is slightly longer and not as wide. Some couples also opt for a split king, in which each side of the bed can be customized with a different feel and separate bedding.
King size mattresses are more expensive than queen size mattresses, and they may take up too much floor space in smaller rooms. For these reasons, it’s rare for a single sleeper to choose a king mattress. This size is steadily gaining in popularity with co-sleepers who want more room to themselves.
Queen and king mattresses are both very common. It shouldn’t be difficult to find appropriate bedding and bed frames, whether online or in brick-and-mortar stores.
Pros and Cons of a Queen Mattress
The pros and cons of queen size mattresses really depend on your individual priorities. A size that’s perfect for some shoppers may be too big or small for others. Likewise, some may find that queen size mattresses are relatively affordable, while those who are upgrading from a twin or full mattress may find the price tag a bit steep. Below, we’ve put together a list of pros and cons associated with queen size mattresses.
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Cons |
- The Perfect Size: Suitable for one or two sleepers, queen mattresses have a practical size that’s comfortable without taking up too much room.
- Widely Available: As it’s one of the most popular mattress sizes, you should have no trouble finding a queen size mattress and the bedding and frame to go along with it
- Affordable: While more expensive than a twin or full size mattress, queen size mattresses fall within a more reasonable price range than king size mattresses.
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- Price: Queen size mattresses are cheaper than king size mattresses, but there’s usually a significant jump in price between a full and a queen.
- Size: The queen size is a compromise between the full and king sizes, and it might not suit sleepers whose preferences tend towards either end of the spectrum.
- Additional Expenses: Those who are upgrading to a queen from a different size mattress will need to factor in the extra costs associated with new linens and a new bed frame.
- Weight: If you frequently flip or move your mattress, keep in mind that a queen will be harder to lift than a full or twin mattress.
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What Type of Mattress Is Best for a Queen?
Virtually every mattress on the market can be categorized as one of the types listed below. Mattresses of a given type tend to share some characteristics, but they also vary dramatically depending on the particular design and materials used. Nonetheless, knowing what features you value the most in a mattress may help guide you to a specific type. Our recommendations for different mattress types are listed below.
Hybrid
Definition: Hybrid mattresses have a thick comfort section coupled with an innerspring support core. The comfort layers can be made of polyfoam, memory foam, latex, microcoils, or other pressure-relieving materials. The support core is usually made with pocketed coils in order to reduce motion transfer and provide targeted support for your body.
Highlight: A Fair Compromise. Hybrid mattresses offer a balanced feel for couples with differing comfort preferences. Due to the coil layer, they also tend to have strong edge support that allows you to use the entire surface of your mattress.
Innerspring
Definition: Innerspring mattresses feature a support core made of innerspring coils. Some innerspring mattresses may also have a thin comfort layer.
Highlight: Budget-Friendly Option. Innerspring mattresses are an economical choice, and they make a good starting point if you wish to customize the feel of your mattress. If your innerspring feels too firm – as is often the case – we recommend softening the surface with a mattress pad or topper.
Latex
Definition: Popular with eco-conscious shoppers, natural latex is made from the milky-white liquid of the rubber tree. All-latex mattresses generally feature firmer latex in the support layers and pressure-relieving latex in the comfort layers. Latex can be processed in one of two ways, Talalay or Dunlop, with Talalay usually offering a fluffier, more consistent feel.
Highlight: Ease of Movement. In general, latex offers moderate conforming that helps relieve pressure and absorb motion transfer without overly restricting your movement. Latex is also naturally breathable, which helps reduce heat build-up when you share the bed with a partner.
Airbed
Definition: The core of an airbed mattress consists of an air chamber controlled by a remote control or a smartphone app. Inflating the air chamber makes the bed feel firmer, while deflating it makes it feel plusher. Most airbeds also have one or more comfort layers to provide extra cushioning.
Highlight: Customized Firmness. The primary benefit of airbeds is the ability to set a precise firmness level and adjust it according to your immediate needs. Most queen airbed mattresses allow you to set a different firmness level for each side of the bed.
Foam
Definition: All-foam mattresses are typically made with a high-density polyfoam support core and one or more memory foam or polyfoam comfort layers.
Highlight: Motion Isolation. Couples often opt for all-foam mattresses because they’re quiet and they excel at absorbing motion. This minimizes the chances of you waking up every time your sleeping partner shifts positions or gets in and out of bed, and vice versa. All-foam mattresses also tend to provide above-average pressure relief, making them well-suited to side sleepers.
Last Things to Consider with a Queen Mattress
As with any big purchase, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind before buying your queen mattress.
Who Will Use the Mattress?
Usually, shoppers pick mattresses that are suited to their personal sleeping style and comfort preference. If the queen mattress is destined to be shared by more than one sleeper, it needs to be comfortable for both parties. A mattress for a lighter individual or a growing teen may need to be plusher, while a mattress for a heavier individual or stomach sleeper may need to be firmer. For mattresses that will see a variety of sleepers, such as in a guest bedroom, we suggest aiming for a more neutral feel.
Will You Share the Mattress with Pets and Kids?
If you regularly co-sleep with kids or pets, you should consider their needs as well when purchasing a queen size mattress. In this case, we recommend focusing on motion isolation, noise, and edge support to reduce nighttime awakenings and make room for everybody.
Mattress Warranty and Other Policies
Standard mattress in a box models tend to be shipped for free within the contiguous U.S., although some companies offer White Glove delivery with in-home setup and old mattress removal for an extra charge.
Additionally, most mattresses sold online come with a sleep trial. This is a set period of time during which you can sleep on the mattress in your own home and return it within a given window if you decide it’s not for you. Sleep trials can be anywhere between 90 nights and 365 nights, and they’re an invaluable way to ensure a successful purchase.
After the sleep trial ends, the mattress should be backed by a warranty of 10 years or longer that protects the consumer against manufacturing and workmanship defects. Be sure to read the fine print before buying your mattress to ensure you’re getting fair sleep trial and warranty terms, and no hidden shipping charges.
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