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The Most Comfortable Mattress
Expert Tested and Sleeper Approved
Sleep Foundation
Why Trust Us
Our mission to create a healthier, more well-rested world demands that our product reviews be best-in-class. You won’t find more expertise on mattresses and sleep products anywhere else.
The Sleep Foundation product testing team uses an industry-leading evaluation process paired with real world consumer feedback to come up with objective recommendations so that you can feel confident in your product decisions.
There’s perhaps nothing better than crawling into a comfortable bed at the end of the day, but what exactly makes a mattress comfortable? While comfort is subjective, our product experts have tested hundreds of mattresses and found there are a few characteristics that the most comfortable mattresses share. In our picks below, we’ll explain what kind of support level you should look for based on your body weight and sleeping position. We’ll also cover other factors that affect your comfort, like pressure relief.
Want to learn more about how we choose our top mattress picks? Visit our guide to best mattress of 2025. Are you looking for a mattress that helps alleviate pain? Check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain for more information.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Mattress – Helix Midnight Luxe
- Best Value Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
- Best Mattress for Back Pain – WinkBed
- Best Mattress for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution 15
- Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Classic
- Best Mattress for Pressure Relief – Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Couples – DLX Premier Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers – Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
- Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Layla Memory Foam Mattress
In-Depth Reviews
Best Overall Mattress
Helix Midnight Luxe
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This luxury hybrid combines temperature regulation with comfort and support. It’s one of the most well-rounded options from the Helix brand, a higher-end model that pleases side and back sleepers in equal measure.
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Pros
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Top-notch balance of support and contouring
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Pocketed coils make very little noise
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Well-priced for a high-quality hybrid mattress
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Cons
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Not enough support for stomach and back sleepers over 230 pounds
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May be too warm for hot sleepers
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$1,099 – $2,155
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a foam hybrid model that offers a balance of conforming and support. We found that the medium-firm (6) feel appeals to a wide range of sleepers across body types and sleep positions.
How It Performed
Thanks to the responsive pocketed coils, pillow-top design, and thick foam comfort system, the Midnight Luxe performed well during our motion isolation tests, preventing too much movement from rippling across the surface. Our testing showed that the mattress also sleeps cool, due in part to the strong airflow through the coils. We recommend the mattress for most sleepers up to 230 pounds, though we observed that side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds benefit the most from the bed’s balance of pressure relief and support.
Construction Breakdown
The Midnight Luxe has a quilted pillow-top design, beginning with polyfoam and gel-infused memory foam layers that contour closely to the body to relieve pressure points. Beneath is a polyfoam transitional layer that prevents you from sinking too far into the bed. Next is a substantial pocketed coil support core, providing significant support and allowing for airflow throughout the mattress. The coil layer also provides extra support in the lumbar area as well as along the bed’s perimeter.
For the cover, you may choose between a breathable Tencel cover or a GlacioTex Cooling cover, which is a fabric that keeps the surface cool using phase change technology. Note that the latter carries an additional cost.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Helix ships free to the contiguous U.S. Plus, they offer a 100-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.
Best Value Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam
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Cushioned with six foam layers, the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam offers a close, even contour to soothe your pain points and sore spots while you sleep. Cooling materials help the surface stay cooling, elevating this mattress over many competing all-foam models.
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Pros
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Extremely affordable price point
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Close conforming memory foam surface is great for side sleepers
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Isolates motion well, limiting disturbances for couples
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Cons
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While cool for a foam bed, it will still retain more body heat than hybrid and latex mattresses
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Not as durable as some higher-end mattresses
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Price Range
$349 – $699
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam checks a lot of boxes for people with acid reflux. Supportive foam layers prevent most people from sinking too deeply into the mattress, allowing their heads to remain properly elevated, and cooling components in the cover and comfort system minimize heat buildup on the surface. As an all-foam mattress, the CopperFlex is also a solid match for an adjustable bed.
How It Performs
Most of our testing team gave high marks to the CopperFlex, with side sleepers of at least 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds awarding the mattress its most favorable ratings. Stomach sleepers under 130 pounds should also find the CopperFlex comfortable and sufficiently supportive, whereas back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may need a firmer mattress.
We were greatly impressed with the CopperFlex during our tests for motion isolation and pressure relief. Both can be attributed to the bed’s all-foam construction with plush layers in the comfort system, which absorb movement and cradle the body to reduce pressure buildup. Our team also found the mattress sleeps cool — some heat retention may occur, but the CopperFlex outperforms most competing foam models.
Construction Breakdown
The CopperFlex contains six individual layers, beginning with a thin strip of adaptive polyfoam quilted to the cover. Two memory foam layers give the comfort system a cushy, adaptive feel, and a copper fiber infusion helps the mattress stay cool. The transitional foam is divided into three firmness zones to feel firmer and more supportive beneath your torso and hips. A support core consisting of two high-density polyfoam layers provides great overall stability, and the cover is made of GlacioTex fabric that’s designed to dissipate body heat on contact.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Customers in the contiguous U.S. enjoy free ground shipping. Brooklyn Bedding’s sleep trial lasts 120 nights but includes a 30-night break-in requirement before returns can be initiated. If you choose to keep the mattress, it’s backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
Cushioned with six foam layers, the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Memory Foam offers a close, even contour to soothe your pain points and sore spots while you sleep. Cooling materials help the surface stay cooling, elevating this mattress over many competing all-foam models.
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Who it’s best for
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Zoned support system helps prevent lower back pain
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Gave a well-rounded performance in our sleep lab
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Available in four firmness levels
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Highlights
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Not as responsive as some couples may like for sex
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Has a slight chemical-like odor at first
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People with pressure point pain may need more contouring
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Price Range
$849 – $1,749
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
The WinkBed is a foam hybrid designed to cushion the body without sacrificing support. Available in four firmness levels, the mattress should be comfortable regardless of your body type or primary sleep position. The adaptive foam layers can also reduce soreness and pressure points if you experience back pain at night.
How It Performed
After testing each firmness level for the WinkBed, we noticed specific strengths for all four options. The medium soft (4) model contoured closely to distribute our testers’ weight and alleviated pressure along the spine. This design was most popular among our side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. If you want a more balanced feel, you should consider the medium-firm (6) feel, which provides light conforming and excellent overall support. Our back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds awarded the most favorable ratings to this design.
The firm (7) and Plus (8) models should provide adequate reinforcement if you weigh more than 230 pounds, regardless of your sleep position. These versions of the WinkBed also earned excellent ratings for edge support, and none of us had trouble moving across their surfaces. Another area where the WinkBed performed well is temperature control, due to its cooling Tencel cover and steady air circulation through the coils.
Construction Breakdown
Standard WinkBed models are available in medium-soft, medium-firm, and firm designs. These mattresses feature adaptive polyfoam quilted into their covers, followed by polyfoam comfort layers. The WinkBed Plus is constructed with responsive latex instead of a second foam layer. As a result, the Plus felt bouncier and more supportive than the other three models.
All WinkBeds contain pocketed coil support cores. This layer is divided into different zones based on coil gauge, or thickness, creating more pushback beneath your torso and hips and gentler cradling for lighter areas of your body. A cover made of breathable, moisture-wicking Tencel fabric encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
WinkBeds offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each mattress comes with a sleep trial of up to 120 nights. If you’re unsatisfied with your initial firmness selection, you may exchange the original mattress for a new model at no extra cost. The replacement model is also backed by a 60-night trial. WinkBeds provides a lifetime warranty to all buyers.
The Evolution 15 is Nolah’s top-of-the-line mattress. It’s a hybrid mattress that focuses on zoned support to relieve high-pressure areas for side sleepers.
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Pros
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Available in three distinct firmness options
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Zoned support system relieves pressure and supports the lower back
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Thick perimeter coils help maintain robust edge support
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Cons
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Tall profile might require deep-pocket sheets
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Better for people who like an adaptive surface instead of a responsive one
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Stomach sleepers over 130 pounds may prefer a mattress with stronger support
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$974 – $2,078
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
The Nolah Evolution 15 is a quintessential foam hybrid with a thick comfort system that enhances cushioning along your spine, while a zoned support system prevents your body from sagging uncomfortably. Thanks to these features, we recommend the Evolution 15 if you frequently feel pain or stiffness due to uneven spinal alignment.
How It Performed
The Evolution 15 comes in three firmness levels — medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). Our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the softest model’s deep contouring for pressure points. The mid-range model was the most versatile, earning its highest ratings from side sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds, back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. Our back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds enjoyed the firmest model’s even support.
Couples who value motion isolation may prefer the softest model, which absorbed most noise and movement transfer in our tests. We recommend the two firmer models for those who prioritize a responsive surface for sex. All three models excelled in temperature regulation, thanks to the breathable coils and cover material.
Construction Breakdown
The Euro-top quilted with polyfoam is followed by two layers of polyfoam. The top polyfoam layer features a graphite infusion meant to conduct and dissipate heat away from the body, and a thinner polyfoam transitional layer acts as a buffer between the foam layers and the coils.
The support core consists of pocketed coils, which are zoned to provide extra support to your midsection and prevent excessive sinkage. Additional coils are zoned along the perimeter of the mattress for extra edge support. The support core rests on a polyfoam base layer to prevent shifting. A quilted cover made from proprietary ArcticTex fiber designed for cooling encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Nolah ships free to customers living in the contiguous U.S. Mattresses come with a 120-night sleep trial, and you can return it anytime after the 30-night break-in period for a full refund. You can also waive the sleep trial for a discount at checkout. Whether or not you opt for the trial, the Evolution 15 is backed by a lifetime warranty.
A well-regarded mattress that excels in virtually all categories, the Saatva Classic is our pick for the most comfortable luxury. mattress It uses pocketed coils and innovative micro-coils to create a responsive, supportive sleep surface. As an added luxury, Saatva includes free White Glove delivery with your purchase.
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Pros
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Three firmness options and two height profiles to choose between
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Top-notch performance during our sleep lab tests
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Extra lumbar pad keeps your spine aligned and back supported
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Cons
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More expensive than some other innerspring models
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Returns incur a fee
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You may notice when your partner moves on their side of the bed
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Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,195 – $2,690
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
The Saatva Classic is a comfortable option for anyone who prefers the responsive, springy feel of classic innersprings but also wants some body contouring from their sleep surface. If you tend to sleep hot, the double layer of coils promotes strong airflow to help keep your bed cool at night.
How It Performed
You can choose between three firmness levels for your Classic: soft (3), medium firm (6), or firm (8). You can also choose between two thickness options. This wide range of options ensures most people can find a comfortable feel regardless of body type or general preferences.
During our tests, the deep cradling of the soft model felt most comfortable to testers who sleep on their side and weigh up to 130 pounds. The medium-firm model offered a balance of cushioning and support that earned high marks from our side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. The firm model felt most comfortable to testers who weigh over 230 pounds, as well as back and stomach sleepers above 130 pounds.
We found temperature control was one of the Classic’s biggest strengths, due to the breathable organic cotton cover and the dual coil design, which allows plenty of steady airflow through the mattress. As a result, we recommend the mattress for people who tend to sleep hot.
Construction Breakdown
The mattress features a Euro-top cushioned with polyfoam and memory foam, resulting in a plush feel on the surface. Beneath is a transitional layer composed of pocketed minicoils that respond to your body while also providing pushback to balance out the contouring foams above. A support core of sturdy hourglass coils made the Classic feel exceptionally stable during our performance tests, especially along the edges.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Saatva is one of the only online mattress brands in the country to offer free White Glove delivery for all customers. This service includes full assembly in a room of your choice and removal of your old mattress. You’ll also receive a 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty with your purchase.
The Bear Elite Hybrid succeeds at sleeping cool and regulating temperature where many competing foam hybrids fall short. A cover woven with phase change material, gel-infused comfort layer, and steady airflow through the coil system ensures the utmost breathability and heat resistance.
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Pros
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Thick foam layers conform close to the body and relieve pressure
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Multiple cooling features paired with hybrid design allows tons of airflow
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Available in three different firmness options
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Cons
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Relatively high price point
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Could be a bit hard to move around on for heavier sleepers
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,231 – $2,548
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night break-in period)
Mattresses with thick foam layers often trap more heat since they adapt so closely to the body, but this isn’t the case for the Bear Elite Hybrid. This mattress is a foam hybrid with a breathable cover, strong internal airflow through its coil system, and cooling technology that help offset the foam’s heat-retaining properties. Hot sleepers on our team felt comfortable throughout testing.
How It Performs
Three firmnesses are available: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8), which appealed to many of our testers. Our testing found the softest model best suited for side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds who enjoyed the extra cushioning. The medium-firm model was the most versatile, appealing to side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Our side and back sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds and stomach sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds appreciated the firmest model’s support.
The Elite Hybrid foam layers absorb most movement to prevent nighttime disruptions for you and your partner when the other person changes positions or tosses and turns. The foam layers also earned the mattress high marks in our pressure relief tests, significantly reducing pressure buildup in our testers’ joints.
Construction Breakdown
The Bear Elite Hybrid contains a comfort layer of memory foam infused with copper, which is intended to reduce heat buildup. Zoned transitional polyfoam offers a firmer feel under heavier areas of the body to prevent excessive sinkage, especially in the midsection.
Pocketed coils reinforce the sleep surface to keep your body on an even plane. The coils rest on a polyfoam base layer for additional stability. Another notable feature of the mattress is its cover made from Celliant Sleep Recover Technology. This proprietary fabric is designed to sleep cool and help your body recover during the night.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. Bear’s 120-night sleep trial gives you ample time to test out the mattress, and you’ll also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.
The DLX Premier Hybrid is sold in six designs, including three split options with one distinct firmness on the left side and another on the right. This makes the mattress a stellar choice for couples with differing preferences on the type of sleep surface that feels best.
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Pros
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Available in three firmness options, including split options with different firmness on each side
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Hybrid design allows for plenty of airflow
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Thick foam layers provide good pressure relief and motion isolation
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Cons
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High price point
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Not very responsive, could be hard to move around on for some people
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Price Range
$1,699 – $2,499
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Picking out a mattress with your partner can be difficult if your firmness preferences differ from theirs. DLX Mattress eases this process with the Premier Hybrid, a foam-over-coil mattress available in six firmness configurations. You can opt for a standard medium soft (4), medium firm (6), or firm (8) design. Alternatively, you can arrange for the mattress to be split down the middle with a different firmness level on each side.
How It Performs
Most side sleepers on our testing team enjoyed the deep contouring and cushioning of the medium soft Premier Hybrid. This design hugs your body closely, so side sleepers get the extra padding they need for their shoulders and hips.
That said, some of our side sleepers over 230 pounds needed more support and preferred the medium firm model. This was also true of our back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. If you’re looking for maximum reinforcement, the firm design should meet your needs.
Since the Premier Hybrid contains 4 inches of foam cushioning, the mattress isolates motion better than most competing hybrids. The viscose fiber layer also does a good job of keeping the surface cool — most testers noticed minimal heat retention, even on the softer models.
Construction Breakdown
The Premier Hybrid’s comfort system consists of viscose fiber batting sewn to the bottom of the cover, followed by three foam layers. Each foam layer is progressively firmer and denser, so you get some nice cushioning near the surface and extra pushback to keep your body on an even plane. Pocketed coils in the support core are reinforced with high-density base foam, resulting in excellent overall stability — though the firm model feels sturdiest. Thicker coils along the perimeter help reduce sinkage when you sleep close to the edges or get in and out of bed.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
DLX Mattress offers complimentary shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. The company’s sleep trial lasts 120 nights. Those who decide to keep their mattress also receive a lifetime warranty covering structural defects as long as they retain ownership.
Best Mattress for Hot Sleepers
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
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The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid offers a soothing blend of cushioning, support, bounce, and temperature control. You can choose from three firmness levels based on your body type and primary sleep position.
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Pros
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Foam comfort system excels at pressure relief
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Airflow through coils and open-cell composition of foam help maintain comfortable temperature
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Responsive coils facilitate ease of movement
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Cons
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Coils produce some motion transfer
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Foam may emit some off-gassing odors at first
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Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Price Range
$1,199 – $1,919
Trial Period
100 nights (30 night requirement)
If you share the bed with a sleep partner who has different firmness preferences, consider a mattress that falls in the middle of the firmness spectrum, like the Leesa Sapira Hybrid. With a medium-firm (6) feel and thick foam layers over sturdy coils, this mattress should appeal to people across a range of sleep preferences and sleep positions.
How It Performed
During our tests, the Sapira Hybrid earned high marks from our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and our back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. Side sleepers enjoy the close yet even contouring and pressure relief along the spine. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers can lie comfortably without sinking too deeply around the midsection.
Steady airflow through the comfort and support systems helped the Sapira Hybrid excel during our temperature control tests, as did the open-cell foam layers and breathable cover. The responsiveness should provide enough bounce for sex, but the foam layers absorbed a good deal of movement when we tested the mattress for motion isolation.
Construction Breakdown
The Sapira Chill Hybrid’s comfort system consists of gel-infused adaptive polyfoam, standard polyfoam, and transitional memory foam layers. How dense and supportive these materials feel depends on which firmness level you select, though all provide at least a little cushioning on the surface.
The pocketed coil support core is zoned to create extra pushback beneath your torso and hips. A base layer of high-density foam provides additional stability. A knit polyester cover bearing Leesa’s signature stripe pattern encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Leesa offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. Your order comes with a 100-night sleep trial. If you opt to keep it, your purchase is covered under a lifetime warranty against workmanship defects.
Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
Layla Memory Foam Mattress
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If you can’t settle on a firmness preference, why not try it both ways? The Layla Memory Foam is infused with copper gel for cooling and pressure relief and offers a medium-soft and a firm side in a flippable design that’s surprisingly easy to manage, as it’s lighter than other reversible mattresses.
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Pros
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Memory foam layers isolate motion effectively
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Deep cushioning relieves pressure point pain
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Flippable construction with two firmness levels
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Cons
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Lacks responsiveness and bounce
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No edge reinforcement
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May require a partner to flip
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Mattress Type
Foam
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)
Price Range
$749 – $1,249
Trial Period
120 nights (4 week minimum)
The Layla Mattress is a versatile model featuring a reversible design with two distinct feels. Sleepers can choose between the closely contouring medium soft (4) side or a more supportive firm (7) side.
How It Performed
Thanks to the two different feels, the Layla performed well across many sleeping positions and weight groups. Our testing team found the softer surface great for side sleepers, those under 130 pounds, and people with pain in their joints. Meanwhile, the firmer side ranked highly among back and stomach sleepers on our team, especially those between 130 and 230 pounds.
Foam mattresses are prone to heat retention, but the Layla slept quite cool compared to many other foam models we’ve evaluated with heat-mapping tests. Both sides ranked above average in temperature regulation, but the firm side performed particularly well in this area. We attribute this to the firmer feel and less sinkage, which limits heat-trapping. Copper and gel infusions are also designed to keep the foams cooler.
Couples may appreciate the softer side for its strong motion isolation. We noticed that the thicker comfort layers on this side absorbed most movement transfer, reducing sleep disruptions for co-sleepers.
Construction Breakdown
The softer side starts with a 3-inch layer of copper- and gel-infused memory foam. This layer deeply contoured to the body during our tests, which relieved pressure buildup in the joints and lower back. Underneath is a 2-inch polyfoam transitional layer that is zoned to support the midsection and prevent excessive sinkage. We found this layer also evenly distributed weight to help you maintain healthy spinal alignment.
On the firm side is a thinner comfort layer made from the same copper- and gel-infused memory foam. The shared support core is composed of a 4.5-inch layer of high-density polyfoam. This layer helps prevent you from sinking too deeply into the mattress. A cover made from a stretch blend of polyester, rayon, viscose, and poly-lycra encases the mattress.
Trial, Shipping, and Warranty
Layla ships free to the contiguous U.S., and mattress purchases are backed by a 120-night sleep trial. Purchases also come with a lifetime warranty covering structural defects.
Watch Video: We Tested the Most Comfortable Mattresses of 2025 – Here Are Our Favorites
Watch the video below to get a more in-depth look at our top picks for most comfortable mattress.
Which Mattress Types Are Most Comfortable?
There are a huge number of mattresses available today, making it difficult to know which one is right for you. Before settling on a model, it’s good to understand mattress constructions so that you can choose the mattress type that’s most comfortable for your individual needs, and steer clear of those that don’t suit your preferences.
A mattress’ type is determined by two main parts of its construction:
- The comfort system: the top layers of the bed that you sleep on and feel directly
- The support core: the base section of the bed that supports your body as you sleep
“Think of your mattress layers as a coordinated system,” says Dr. Dustin Cotliar, M.D., MPH. “The comfort layers contour to your body’s unique shape, while the support core prevents excessive sinking. This balance is important for maintaining proper spinal position throughout the night.”
Foam
If you’re tired of tossing and turning to get comfortable, or you wake up every time your partner moves in bed, then foam beds are for you.
Foam mattresses have support cores and comfort systems made entirely from foam. You can find models with polyfoam, memory foam, or layers of both. They’re known for providing excellent pressure relief and motion isolation. Foam mattresses tend to retain more heat than other mattress types and they can have a chemical-like smell at first.
When you lie on a foam bed, the surface adapts to your body’s shape to cushion impact zones and absorb movement. Some softer foam beds can give you a hugging sensation and the feeling that you’re sleeping “in” rather than “on” the mattress.
Hybrid
If you want a blend of strong support and cushioning, a variety of options, or you want to find the perfect combination for your needs, then you’ll likely find what you’re looking for in a hybrid bed.
Hybrids have some of the most versatile mattress constructions. Typically, a hybrid has a support core made from pocketed coils. Some hybrids have zones built into their cores to target support for different areas of the body, or their edges are reinforced with stronger coils for more structure.
Hybrid comfort systems vary widely and can feature a number of materials including polyfoam, memory foam, latex, wool, and microfiber. Because there are so many material combinations, you can find hybrids that fit nearly every sleeper’s firmness and cushioning preferences. They often sleep cool and generally have better edge support than foam mattresses. Since they require multiple material types and have complex constructions, hybrids often cost more than foam or basic innerspring mattresses.
Innerspring
If you want a really supportive and bouncy bed without too much cushioning or frills, then you’re probably looking for an innerspring bed.
Innerspring is a term that’s often used interchangeably with hybrid, though the two differ when it comes to their top layers. Like hybrids, traditional innerspring mattresses have coil support cores that provide pushback and responsiveness. Basic innersprings may have a thin layer on top of the support core to prevent you from feeling the springs. More complex constructions may have pillow-tops or Euro-tops that add more cushioning to enhance comfort or pressure relief.
Innersprings with simple constructions can be quite affordable, while those with multi-layer comfort systems may cost significantly more. Hot sleepers generally like how well innersprings regulate temperature, and those who like a traditionally bouncy sleep surface prefer innersprings over foam mattresses.
Latex
If you’re looking for strong, well-rounded performance and a bouncier feel that doesn’t hug too close to your body, then latex beds are right up your alley.
While shopping, you may see all-latex beds that have both comfort systems and support cores made from latex, as well as hybrids that feature latex in their comfort systems. Latex is a naturally springy material, and beds that contain it often feel bouncy and resilient. It doesn’t retain heat and sleeps cooler than foam and other pressure-relieving materials.
The type of tree that produces rubber also makes latex. It can be sustainably grown and harvested and is a worthwhile choice for people looking for an environmentally friendly option. Because it’s a natural material, latex can be fairly expensive. However, it’s quite durable, and many latex mattresses last longer than other mattress types.
Airbed
If you’re not sure what you need from a bed, your needs change often, or you share a bed with your partner and can’t agree on what feels right, then airbeds should be on your radar.
Airbeds have a unique support core that inflates and deflates with a remote-controlled motor. This allows you to choose your mattress’ firmness level and change it whenever you want. They’re highly versatile and are excellent for couples with different preferences, as each partner can choose a firmness for their own side of the bed.
Most airbeds have some type of cover system over top of the air chambers. Materials can include foam, latex, microfiber, and wool. They generally sleep cool and are available with a wide range of features. The catch with airbeds is usually noise and cost – they’re far more expensive than other mattress types and the motors can be loud.
How to Choose a Comfortable Mattress
We’ll make mattress shopping easier by helping you learn what you need from a bed before you start your research.
Choosing the Right Firmness for You
We measure mattress firmness on a scale from 1 to 10. Lower numbers represent softer mattresses while higher numbers are firmer. The right firmness level is largely dependent on your weight, preferences, and favorite sleeping position. A firmness level that’s appropriate for each of these will feel both supportive and comfortable.
“While most people tend to find comfort in the medium-firm range (around 5-7 on the firmness scale), individual needs vary significantly,” says Dr. Cotliar. “Some sleepers require softer or firmer surfaces based on their body type, sleeping position, and any existing musculoskeletal conditions.”
Sleeping Position and Body Type
Side, back, and stomach sleepers typically prefer different firmness levels from one another, though there is some overlap. Stomach sleepers need a firmer (6 to 9), even sleep surface that doesn’t allow their midsections to sink into a mattress. Back sleepers most often like a medium (5) to firm (8) mattress that has both cushioning and strong support. Side sleepers prefer a soft (3) to medium firm (6) mattress that prevents pressure points from building beneath the hips and shoulders.
Your body weight also affects which firmness level you should pick. Sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds typically need stronger support to keep their spines evenly aligned, while sleepers under 130 need a softer surface. Sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds often do best on a mid-range firmness level.
We’ve put together a quick breakdown of our recommendations for firmness levels based on your body weight and sleeping position here:
| Weight | Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers | Stomach Sleepers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 130 lbs. | Soft (3) to Medium (5) | Soft (3) to Medium (5) | Medium Soft (4) to Medium Firm (6) |
| 130 to 230 lbs. | Medium Soft (4) to Medium (5) | Medium (5) to Firm (7) | Medium (5) to Firm (7) |
| More than 230 lbs. | Medium Firm (6) to Firm (7) | Firm (7, 8) to Extra Firm (9) | Firm (7, 8) to Extra Firm (9) |
Spinal Alignment
Improper spinal alignment can lead to acute and chronic pain, so it’s important to choose a mattress that keeps your spine evenly supported from head to toe. To find a mattress with enough spinal support, look for one that’s the right firmness level for your weight and sleeping position.
Think of it this way: When you’re laying in bed, you should be able to imagine a straight, even line over your spine from your head to your toes. Any dips or curves in your spine can result in discomfort.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief often means the difference between a full night’s sleep and tossing and turning through the night to get comfortable. Some sleepers feel intense pressure beneath their hips, shoulders, lower back, or joints. Health conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia can cause pressure point discomfort, but you can also experience pressure points if you sleep on a mattress that doesn’t have enough cushioning. To combat this, choose a mattress with an appropriate firmness level and materials that contour alongside your body while evenly dispersing your weight, like foam or latex.
Quality and Durability
When a mattress begins to wear out, it can start to lose support. It’s important to replace your mattress when it shows signs of wear, but you can get a few extra years by buying a bed made with high-quality materials. A well-made mattress also typically gives you better sleep night after night than one with low-end materials.
Size and Height
Make sure to purchase a mattress that’s the right size for your needs, especially if you sleep with a partner. Your bed’s height can make a difference in overall comfort too, particularly if you have mobility limitations and have a tough time getting in and out of bed.
Breathability
If you’re a hot sleeper or live somewhere with a warm climate, a breathable bed can make a huge difference. Hybrid and latex models tend to sleep cooler than foam mattresses do because they let air move freely through the mattress rather than trapping it. If you prefer the feel of foam, look for models with gel or copper infusions designed to decrease heat buildup.
Dr. Cotliar notes our sleep cycles are closely tied to body temperature regulation. “The body naturally needs to cool down to initiate and maintain deep sleep phases. Sleeping on a surface that traps too much heat can disrupt this process, potentially affecting both how quickly you fall asleep and the quality of your sleep throughout the night.”
Do You Share a Bed?
Edge support and motion isolation are two of the most important factors for people who share a bed, whether with dogs, kids, or a partner. Strong perimeter support allows you to spread out and sleep comfortably up to the edge of the bed, while motion isolation lets you move on your side of the bed without disturbing your partner.
Sleep Trials, Returns, and Warranties
Many mattress manufacturers allow you to return your bed for a different firmness level or a refund if you do so within the company’s trial window. A 90-day trial period is often seen as the industry standard, but some companies offer longer trial windows. Some charge for returns, while others include free returns with the trial. Warranties may be pro-rated or cover a mattress entirely if it has a defect. Reading over the fine print and checking existing customer reviews can help you get a realistic sense of how well a company’s policies are put into practice.
If comfort is your top priority, look for mattress manufacturers with flexible policies that let you swap mattress models or materials until you find the right one.
Tips for Making Your Bed More Comfortable
Invest in Cozy Bedding
Make sure you have the right bedding for your needs, since your pillows and sheets are arguably just as important as your mattress when it comes to comfort. Even if you have the perfect mattress, scratchy sheets or a flat pillow can make your bed uncomfortable and be distracting while you sleep.
Sheets come in a variety of different options, so it’s important to find a set that feels comfortable on your skin and keeps you at the right temperature as you sleep. Pay attention to things like material, weave, and breathability.
Pillows support your head and neck throughout the night, so it’s important to find one that sets you up to sleep comfortably. Side, back, and stomach sleepers all need their necks held at different heights to maintain spinal alignment and get enough support.
“Even with an optimal mattress, using the wrong pillow height can strain the spinal column,” says Dr. Cotliar. “When your head and neck aren’t properly supported, it creates a domino effect of misalignment that can extend all the way down to your lower back.”
Add a Mattress Topper or Pad
If your mattress doesn’t feel quite right, you can change your bed’s feel easily and affordably by adding a mattress topper or pad. Toppers typically measure 2 to 4 inches thick and can be made out of a variety of materials that each have distinct firmness levels and feels.
Pads are thinner, usually 1 to 2 inches thick, and designed to protect your mattress while slightly altering its feel. Both pads and toppers can help extend your bed’s lifespan and make your mattress feel softer or firmer.
Care for Your Mattress Properly
Treating your mattress with care can go a long way toward increasing your comfort long term. Some models come with washable covers, but you can also use a protector to safeguard against stains and fabric wear and tear. While newer mattresses aren’t typically designed to be flipped, you can usually rotate them 180 degrees to help prevent premature sagging.
How We Test: Your Comfort Is Our Science
Our industry-leading product testing team cares deeply about improving your sleep. Having a holistic understanding of a mattress’s role as part of a sleep system is paramount to our testing process. Since a bed’s comfort and feel depend largely on body weight and sleeping position, our testing team represents a wide range of body types, sleep positions, and comfort preferences.
In our Seattle-based Test Lab, we use an objective, hands-on process to evaluate mattresses across performance categories. The following are the key guidelines that inform our performance ratings. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best purchase decision for you.
Construction analysis: We begin testing each mattress by analyzing its design and making note firmness, height, individual layer composition, and sticker price. This allows us to evaluate qualities like support, durability, and value.
Product testing: Firsthand testing is crucial to our evaluation and ratings system. We use a wide range of tools and technology to test mattresses in six performance categories: motion isolation, pressure relief, temperature control, ease of movement, edge support, and odor potential.
Field testing: In addition to lab-based tests, we base our ratings on feedback from field testers who use the mattresses in their own homes. They spend several weeks collecting data — this gives us insights into how the mattress performs night after night for an extended period.
User testing: We curate feedback verified owners have provided in surveys, sleep stories, and product reviews. This helps us evaluate our initial findings and, if needed, tweak our ratings to reflect real-world experiences.
How We Determine Our Overall Scores
To determine a mattress’s overall score, we assign weighted percentages to performance categories based on how important they are to the individual sleep experience. For instance, areas like pressure relief and temperature control tend to matter more to people than something like off-gassing, and because more people sleep on their side and back than on their stomach, we weigh those positions more heavily.
Performance Categories
Motion Isolation
This criteria alludes to the amount of motion a mattress absorbs when a sleeper moves on the surface. We use two testers lying side by side to evaluate motion isolation, who each feel for transfer while the other person moves on the mattress.
Temperature Control
To determine how well a mattress regulates temperature, we perform temperature tests and look closely at its materials and construction. Many mattresses are designed with cooling components meant to reduce heat retention.
Pressure Relief
A bed with strong pressure relief excels at preventing pressure from building up in areas like the shoulders and hips. Beds with even contouring and weight distribution are top performers when it comes to pressure relief.
Off-Gassing
A mattress in a box may release unpleasant chemical odors for a short period after you’ve unboxed it. The initial smell may be strong but typically fades within 2 or 3 days.
Ease of Movement
This criteria reflects how easily a sleeper can move across a bed’s surface. Responsive surfaces made of latex typically perform better than foam surfaces, which can inhibit movement.
Edge Support
We perform sit tests along a bed’s perimeter to measure how well the edges push back against weight. Mattresses with strong edge support have minimal sagging when sleepers sit on or lie close to the perimeter.
Dive Deeper – Mattress Guides by Feel
If you’re looking to expand your search beyond the beds featured here, you can narrow down your search by reading our recommendations sorted by mattress feel.
Best Mattress by Firmness Level
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most comfortable mattress for back pain?
The most comfortable mattress for back pain is one that keeps your spine completely supported from head to toe. If your mattress isn’t supportive enough it can cause your spine to bend, resulting in pain. In addition to strong support, the most comfortable mattress for back pain will also have enough cushioning to prevent stress and pressure in your lower back.
What is the most comfortable mattress for side sleepers?
Most side sleepers prefer a mattress on the softer side that has plenty of pressure relief. Materials like foam and latex contour with your body to absorb impact and decrease pressure build up. Zoned support systems are also excellent for side sleepers, as they increase and decrease pushback on certain parts of your body so that sleepers get enough support without having to use an uncomfortably firm mattress.
What makes a mattress comfortable?
What makes a mattress comfortable is largely related to personal preference, but generally speaking, the most critical factor is getting enough support for your body weight and sleeping position. Once you have a baseline of support, you can consider what else will make your mattress comfortable for you – whether that’s temperature control, pressure relief, or extra support at the edges.
How can you make your mattress more comfortable?
You can make your mattress more comfortable by using a mattress pad that changes the firmness level, by adding cooling features, or by simply buying new bedding. In order to make your sleep environment better, first identify what is making it uncomfortable for you. You can alter a mattress’ feel easily by adding a topper that improves whatever your bed is lacking, whether that’s spinal support, pressure relief, or motion isolation.
How much does a mattress cost?
Mattress costs differ depending on the type and size you choose but typically budget mattresses average $250 to $1,000, mid-range models cost $500 to $1,500, and high-end luxury beds run between $1,200 and $3,000 or more. Innerspring and foam mattresses are typically more affordable than latex and hybrid mattresses.
Still have questions? Ask our community!
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Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.