Best Mattresses – Top Mattress Brands (2021 Buyer’s Guide)
Chances are you spent one-third of your life on a mattress – if not more. Unfortunately, many people sleep on an ill-fitting or worn mattress every night, which can have serious consequences.
Your preferred mattress will depend on your height, weight, and personal preferences. However, not all mattresses are of the same quality or worth their price.
To separate the best or worst mattresses, our research team has spent hours evaluating dozens of mattresses. We used several factors to discover the very best mattresses for 2021 & beyond. Any of the mattresses on our rankings can provide you with maximum comfort & a good night’s sleep, which can have profound benefits to your overall health.
The Best Mattresses for 2021 & Beyond
If you’re in the market for a mattress, then these are the very best mattress brands worth their price:
Ghostbed
Ghostbed Natural
Nature’s Sleep
Eight Sleep
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Casper
Tempur-Pedic
Sleep Number
US-Mattress
ChillSleep
Puffy Mattress
Sleep EZ
Naturepedic
DreamCloud Sleep
Layla Sleep
Plush Bed
Purple
Sweet Night Mattress
Happsy
Nolah
AirWeave
Helix Sleep
Zoma Sleep
Sweet Zzz
Amerisleep
Swanwick Sleep Glasses
Ghostbed
Ghostbed is a trendy new online mattress company that sells several popular mattresses like Ghostbed Classic, Ghostbed Luxe, Ghostbed 3D Matrix, and Ghostbed Flex.
Every single one of Ghostbed’s mattresses was designed for superior comfort, durability, and support. Some specialty mattresses have built-in technology to keep you cool at night. The Ghostbed 3D Matrix is the premier mattress and the most expensive. Still, it has proprietary technology to provide additional back and joint support, transfers heat off your body, and has responsive latex that contours like memory foam.
If you’re unsure which mattress may be right for you, Ghostbed has a mattress quiz to help match one of their mattresses to your personal preferences. They’re currently endorsed by numerous celebrities such as Venus Williams.
Their mattresses currently start at $600, come with a 101-day sleep trial, and are backed by 35,000+ reviews. In addition to selling mattresses, Ghostbed also sells bedding, pillows, bed frames, and much more. If you’re looking for a quality mattress company, you simply cannot go wrong with Ghostbed.
Ghostbed Natural
Ghostbed Natural is a sister brand of Ghostbed. The only real difference between the two brands is that Ghostbed Natural uses eco-friendly cooling mattresses. However, they still have the same high-quality manufacturing standards that the prominent Ghostbed Brand has.
Ghostbed Natural is one of the mattress brands you can buy online that has been certified USDA organic. They obtained this certification by using natural, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton clover. All of their mattresses are made in the United States as well.
Ghostbed Natural mattresses come with a 101-night sleep trial and a whopping 25-year warranty, precisely like the leading brand. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly mattress, you can’t beat Ghostbed Natural.
Ghostbed Natural Mattresses start at around $1,225 for a queen-size bed. This beats many of the leading competitors like PlushBed, Avocado Latex Mattress, and Birch Natural Mattress.
Nature’s Sleep
Nature’s Sleep actually manufacturers Ghostbed & Ghostbed Natural, which makes Nature’s sleep the third mattress company on our list from this same manufacturer. However, besides selling Ghostbed mattresses, Nature’s Sleep also sells its mattresses and accessories.
Some of the most popular mattresses sold by Nature’s Sleep include the Lilly 14″ mattress, the Willow 14″ mattress, the Laurel 12″ mattress, the Canyon 10″ mattress, the Brook 10″ mattress, and the Prairie 8″ mattress. All of these mattresses are designed to provide superior comfort to give you a fantastic night’s sleep.
In addition to mattresses, Nature’s Sleep also offers luxury mattress toppers, bedding options, pillows, bed frames, and more. Nature’s Sleep also offers superior customer support and genuine commitment to quality, much like Ghostbed.
Nature’s Sleep mattresses start at $1,099+. However, they are a genuinely elite mattress company given their quality, making them well worth the money.
Eight Sleep
Eight Sleep is a three-year-old mattress company that has quickly grown into one of the most popular mattress companies on the Internet.
Eight Sleep sells the Pod Pro mattress, which is its most well-known mattress. The Pod Pro is marketed as the only mattress that can actively regulate temperature. It can do this because it features patented hydro-powdered cooling technology and health & wellness tracking. This makes it ideal for those who want their bed to adjust the temperature as it changes throughout the night.
As many customers have found, sleeping on the Eight Sleep Pod is an entirely different experience from other mattresses. Each side of the Pod can be individually set anywhere from 55 to 110 degrees. Plus, it allows you to track your health metrics throughout the night using the Eight Sleep app. It also provides you with the GentleRise Wake Up Technology (which features gentle vibrations) to help you wake up easier. It also enables you to fall asleep faster with the Pod Smart Temp 2.0 system.
If you are looking for an advanced mattress controlled by advanced technology, then Eight Sleep may be the right mattress for you. Its cooling and heating system is next to none on the market right now, making it a perfect mattress for those who struggle with temperature regulation.
Eight Sleep starts at $2,995 and comes with a 10-year warranty. You can also take advantage of the 100-night sleep return policy, which allows you to return your mattress free of charge within 100 days of purchasing.
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is one of the best foam mattresses currently on the market. Their queen memory foam mattress is their flagship product and comes with bonus accessories like a mattress protector, sheet set, and a cooling pillow.
In addition to their regular Nectar mattress, Nectar also sells their Premier Copper Memory Foam Mattress. This mattress uses conductive copper fibers to add an inch of comfort layer and 2 inches in the base to support your back and muscles.
Nectar is genuinely more than a mattress company. They also sell bedroom furniture, bed frames, pillows, sheets, mattress protectors, and even a dog bed. Nectar also offers a 365 return policy once a mattress is opened. They also provide their “forever warranty” policy, which covers you from manufacturer defects for life.
Overall, Nectar Memory Foam mattresses are of fantastic quality and are very affordable. A queen mattress will only cost you $799, which offers you tremendous value given the quality.
Casper
Casper is arguably the most well-recognized name in the mattress industry, and chances are you’ve seen their commercials on TV or online. They offer a wide range of popular mattresses, pillows, sheets, and different bundles.
To order your Casper mattress, you need to begin your journey by taking a quiz. Once you complete the quiz, Casper will recommend one or several mattresses to accommodate your personal preferences. Popular mattresses include the Nova Hybrid, Wave Hybrid, and the Casper Original.
Casper has recently upgraded its mattress line with advanced technology as well. They have 4D sleep technology to help you align your body, AirScape to prevent managing your body temperature to avoid overheating, and Casper Signature Feel to help you fall asleep faster.
Casper also offers regular discount codes so that you can order one of their mattresses at a very reasonable price. Their mattresses start at only $626, come with a 10-year limited warranty, and Casper offers a risk-free 100-night sleep trial to make sure your mattress is the right one for you.
Tempur-Pedic
Tempur-Pedic has been around for several years and is one of the most popular mattress companies in the United States. The company has dramatically expanded on the technology in their mattresses, with innovations like the Tempur-Pedic Sleeptracker-AI, which automatically responds to snoring.
Tempur-Pedic calls itself the most highly recommended bed in America, which is hard to argue. Some of their most popular options include the Adapt Collection for $2,299+ and the Breeze Collection for $3,999+. Some of the popular specific mattress types include Tempur-ProAdapt, Tempur-Cloud, & Tempur-Adapt.
Like the best mattress companies, Tempur-Pedic offers a 90 trial on all of its mattresses. A 10-year warranty and free delivery back each purchase. It remains one of the best mattress companies for quality materials, comfort, and superior support.
Sleep Number
Sleep Number was arguably the first mattress company to offer complete customization so you can sleep better. Today, Sleep Number sells high-quality, customizable mattresses backed by proven science.
Some popular mattresses include the Classic Series for $999+, the Performance Series for $2,099+, the Innovation Series & Memory Foam Series, priced at $3,199+. In each series, you’ll find individual mattresses like the m7 Smart Bed, the p5 Smart Bed, and the Sleep Number 360 ILE Limited Edition Smart Bed, amongst several other options.
Like many other companies on our list, Sleep Number starts your journey with a sleep quiz. Once you complete the quiz, Sleep Number offers you a customized sleep solution. If you decide to, you can customize your sleep even further with the Sleep Number mobile app.
Sleep Number offers adjustable comfort, automatic movement sensing, a 100-day sleep trial, and a 15-year limited warranty, providing you with everything you could want in a mattress company.
US-Mattress
US-Mattress isn’t a mattress company but a mattress retailer selling high-quality mattresses like Serta, Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, and other major mattress brands.
US-Mattress is ideal for searching for a mattress if you compare the leading brands or find deals without being locked into one specific brand. They also sell bedding, furniture, and other accessories if you need more than just a mattress.
With discounts readily available, and several brand-name mattresses, US-Mattress is an excellent option if you’re looking to shop around the best mattress brands.
ChillSleep
ChillSleep was developed for hot sleepers who struggle to regulate their temperature overnight. ChillSleep promises to help you fall asleep much faster and wake up feeling refreshed by enabling you to manage your temperature more effectively.
The main difference between ChillSleep and other mattress companies on our rankings is that ChillSleep uses a reversible “Chili Cool Mesh.” The mesh side is perfect for keeping hot sleepers cool, but when flipped to the other side with a cotton blend is for those who want a warmer feel.
In reality, ChillSleep isn’t a mattress. Instead, its’ a hydro-powered blank to help you control your temperature more effectively. ChillSleep products start at $489, and other popular products include a weighted blanket, a cool sleep system, and much more.
Puffy Mattress
Puffy Mattress offers a wide array of mattresses that are designed for any type of sleeper. Puffy Mattress was awarded the best mattress for sleepers with back pain in 2021, and Puffy is regarded as one of the absolute best mattress companies for people with pressure relief, joint pain, and general aches and pains.
This award warning mattress company sells different types of mattresses – Puffy Mattress, Puffy Lux Mattress, and the Royal Puffy Mattress. In addition, Puffy sells several different bed frames, pillows, sheets, and other accessories to compliment your new mattress perfectly.
Puffy Mattresses are manufactured in the USA and designed for superior comfort and support. They offer a 101-night sleep trial, all orders ship in 2 to 5 days, and are backed by a lifetime warranty on all their mattresses. You can order a Puffy Mattress for as little as $599.
Sleep EZ
Sleep EZ is one of the oldest mattress manufacturers in the United States. They’ve been making quality mattresses since 1976.
Sleep EZ sells mattresses with 100% pure natural latex instead of a combination of synthetic and latex materials. These latex mattresses are designed to provide the ultimate support for your back while relieving pain in pressure points. This makes Sleep EZ mattresses ideal for stomach, back, or side sleepers.
Like many other mattress companies on our list, Sleep EZ offers a 90-day risk-free money-back guarantee. However, Sleep EZ is organically certified, which separates them from most of the competition.
Sleep EZ mattresses start at around $650, making Sleep EZ one of the more affordable mattress companies on our list. If you’re looking for a high-quality mattress manufactured by a respected company, then Sleep EZ mattresses are right for you.
Naturepedic
Naturepedic has been selling top-quality mattresses since they launched in 2003. They claim to offer safer, healthier sleep because they’ve eliminated flame retardants and polyurethane foam. Instead, they use certified organic materials in their mattresses.
Naturepedic mattresses are most famous for adults looking to buy mattresses for their children. They have baby mattresses for as little as $259 for the Classic mattress, but they also have a breathable mattress for $349. These beds for babies and children are designed to limit exposure to chemicals, which Naturepedic claims is healthier and safer for children.
Naturepedic sells its mattresses online and in cities across the United States. Their organic mattresses start at only $259, which offers you fantastic value, given their quality. All of their mattresses come with a 10-year limited warranty.
If you’re looking for organic mattresses, then Naturepedic may be the right mattress company for you and your family.
DreamCloud Sleep
DreamCloud is a newer mattress company that sells numerous mattress sets, pillows, sheets, and other bedding materials. They currently have three mattresses available, including the DreamCloud, DreamCloud Premier, and the DreamCloud Premier Rest.
DreamCloud mattresses start at $699 and max out at $1,099. DreamCloud continually has discounts and sales available as well if you’re on a budget, though. A 365-day sleep trial backs all DreamCloud mattresses, and they offer one of the best money-back guarantees in the mattress industry. They currently have 0% APR financing, numerous discounts on mattress sets, and a 10-year warranty on all of their mattresses.
If you’re looking for a quality mattress that won’t break the bank but can still provide you with excellent support and comfort, then DreamCloud mattresses may be suitable for you.
Layla Sleep
Layla Sleep is another Internet-only mattress company that specializes in high-quality foam mattresses. They continually offer discounts throughout the year and have free shipping & returns, two musts in the mattress industry.
Layla Sleep can compete with some of the Internet’s larger retailers by offering mattresses with better material than memory foam. Layla claims their mattresses have a copper infusion and are flippable, which separates them from the competition. They also provide all of their customers with a 120-night sleep trial to return if they are dissatisfied.
Layla Sleep mattresses start at $1,499 and come with a full money-back guarantee if you are dissatisfied.
Plush Beds
Plush Beds is an online retailer of organic mattresses, toppers, beds, bedding, and pillows for customers in the United States. Plush offers a 100-night risk-free guarantee on their mattresses and labels all of their products certified organic. They aim to stand out from the competition by only using premium, organic materials to manufacture their beds.
One highlight of Plush Beds is that they use entirely USDA-certified materials in their mattresses – materials like latex, cotton, and wool. Their most popular option included the Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress, which comes in nine different sizes and has two different firmness levels.
Plush Beds start at $1,299, which is right in the middle of their range. It comes with a 25-year warranty, which becomes limited after the first ten years.
Plush claims fewer than 1% of the mattresses currently available for sale can match their organic certifications. Therefore, if you’re looking for natural ingredients and organic materials, Plush Beds is one of the best options to satisfy your needs.
Purple
Purple is a famous internet mattress company that primarily sells the Purple Mattress, its flagship product.
This mattress features two inches of breathable GelFlex Grid, designed to help relieve various pressure points on your hips and shoulders. It is also designed to keep your body cool because it features 1,400+ air channels, helping circulate air and allowing heat to escape.
The Purple Mattress is one of the Internet’s best-rated mattresses, having thousands of satisfied customers. It starts at $1,999 and comes with a 21-night sleep trial. Purple offers a 10-year warranty on all of their mattresses as well.
Purple was chosen as the #1 mattress company for customer satisfaction for several years in a row by J.D. Power and remained one of the absolute best mattress companies on the Internet.
Sweet Night Mattress
Sweet Night Mattress has a wide range of incredibly affordable mattresses. Their mattresses are arguably the most affordable on our list, starting at only $253. Their popular mattresses include the Whisper Memory Foam Mattress, the Breeze Memory Foam Mattress, the Dreamland Hybrid Mattress, and the Sunkiss Memory Foam Mattress.
Despite their affordability, Sweet Night Mattress still does not skimp on quality. You can still find a comfortable, high-quality mattress with excellent support by ordering a Sweet Night Mattress.
Sweet Night offers a ten-year, five-year, or three-year limited warranty on all of its products. In addition to mattresses, you can order bed frames, toppers, pillows, and other accessories. They also offer affordable bundles if you’re looking for a complete bedroom set.
Happsy
Happsy offers premium organic mattresses designed to improve your sleep quality and overall health. According to their website, Happy mattresses use gots-certified organic wool, cools-certified organic latex, individually pocketed springs, and gots-certified organic cotton.
Despite their premium, organic materials, Happsy mattresses are still for sale at an affordable price point. Their twin mattresses start at $849, whereas a queen-sized mattress will only cost $1,399.
Customers well rate Happsy mattresses for those looking for an organic, natural mattress. They offer a 120-night sleep trial, and if you decide you do not like their mattress, you can request a refund – no strings attached. If you do keep your mattress, your mattress is covered by a 20-year warranty as well.
Nolah
Nolah is an award-winning mattress company that makes all of its mattresses in the United States. Nolah won the 2021 Gold Award as the best mattress for side sleepers.
All of Nolah’s mattresses are free from memory foam chemicals that trap heat to deliver a night of much cooler sleep. In addition, they claim their mattresses can provide up to 4x better pressure relief on your hips, shoulders, and backs – all while being much more durable than their leading competitors.
Nolah is very straightforward about their mattresses. They have a 10″ Original Mattress, a 12″ Signature Mattress, and a 15″ Evolution Mattress. Their mattresses start at $849, and the company offers a 120-sleep trial and free shipping and returns on all mattresses. If you’re looking for affordable, high-quality mattresses, then you can’t go wrong with Nolah (especially if you’re a side sleeper).
AirWeave
AirWeave is a unique mattress company from Japan that does not use any springs or foam in its’ mattresses. Instead, all AirWeave mattresses use breathable “Airfiber” to relieve pain and keep your spine aligned. This results in an extra firm mattress with a unique feel and touch compared to the other mattress brands on our list.
Many of the mattresses on our rankings are designed to be soft. The AirWeave mattress is intended to be harder to support your mattress better to give you an extra firm feel and more support.
AirWeave mattresses start at $1,300, which puts them in the medium range on our list. Like many other companies on our list, AirWeave offers a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year limited warranty on all their mattresses.
If you’re looking for a firm mattress that provides spine alignment and pain relief, then AirWeave may be the right mattress company for you.
Helix Sleep
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of Helix. They advertise heavily on podcasts, XM radio, and similar media platforms. Since they launched a few years ago, Helix has quickly become one of the leading online retailers for mattresses.
One of the unique things about Helix Sleep is that it is one of the few mattress companies that is doctor recommended. Dr. Lulu Guo, a sleep medicine doctor, has publicly endorsed Helix mattresses for multiple sleeping positions. These mattresses also prevent overheating during the night.
To find the right Helix mattress for you, you’ll take a sleep quiz first. Helix will then offer what they think is the best mattress to accommodate your individual preferences. Some of the top-selling mattresses include Helix Luxe, Midnight Luxe, Dusk Luxe, and Plus.
Helix mattresses start at $999, and each purchase comes with a 100-night risk-free trial to test out your mattress. Helix also offers a ten or 15-year limited warranty as well.
Zoma Sleep
Zoma is a mattress company that advertises itself as the “mattress company” for athletes. This is because they claim their mattresses can help ease pain & pressure and help you recover faster because of better quality sleep. They even have endorsements from several professional NBA and MLB players, and the number of endorsements continues to grow.
Like many companies on our list, Zoma also sells bedding, bed frames, and other accessories in addition to their top-quality mattresses. They only sell two mattresses – the Zoma Hybrid and the Zoma Mattress.
Both of these mattresses are made of breathable fabric that wicks away heat & moisture. They also provide superior comfort to help you sleep faster and provide pressure relief to reduce back and neck pain.
Zoma mattresses start at around $799 for their mattresses, which provides you with plenty of bang for your buck. They offer a 100-night trial to test out your mattress, and every mattress has a 10-year full warranty. If you’re an athlete looking for better quality sleep to recover faster, then Zoma could be right for you.
Sweet Zzz
Sweet Zzz is a premier mattress company that sells a range of organic mattresses, bamboo sheets, and other eco-friendly bedding products. Its two flagship mattresses include the Hanna Hybrid mattress and the Natures Novel Latex Mattress. They are both backed by a 100-night guarantee and use premium natural materials without breaking the bank.
Sweet Zzz’s mattresses are handmade and use organic cotton, natural latex, and other eco-friendly and natural materials. They’re made right here in the United States and combine the best of both worlds – with excellent material quality and the ultimate comfort.
Sweet Zzz mattresses start at $479 and come with a lifetime warranty if the mattress has a manufacturer’s defect.
Amerisleep
Amerisleep is a lesser-known mattress company, but it features top-quality mattresses with hybrid technology for maximum bounce and pressure relief. It also has several eco-friendly cooling mattresses. These mattresses are primarily made from breathable Bio-Pur memory foam with eco-friendly plant oils for superior responsiveness and pressure relief.
Amerisleep’s top-selling mattress is the AS3. They also have the AS5 for extra cushioning and support and the AS2, which is the best mattress for those suffering from back pain. In addition to mattresses, Amerisleep sells bedding, pillows, and bed bases.
Most Amerisleep mattresses cost around $1,399 for a queen-size mattress. This is slightly more expensive than many of the other competing options on our rankings. However, Amerisleep emphasizes their mattresses are award-winning, have enhanced comfort, and deliver maximum cooling and support. Their mattresses come with a 20-year warranty, which is limited after the first ten years.
Bonus Product: Swanwick Sleep Glasses
In addition to mattresses, if you’re troubled with sleep, then you can try Swanwick Sleep Glasses. Their glasses provide blue light protection to help you sleep faster.
When your eyes receive blue light, it signals to your brain that you should stay awake by tricking your brain into thinking it is still daylight. This is why experts recommend you avoid staring at a screen up to 30 minutes before going to bed.
Swanwick’s glasses solve your blue light problem with stylish, effective glasses that protect you from blue light. Some of the popular options include Classic Night Swannies, Aviator Night Swannies, and Crystal Night Swannies. These glasses start at $69 and offer a money-back guarantee on all orders.
Even if you have the best mattress in the world, you may have trouble going to sleep if you are exposed to blue light before bed. Therefore, Swanwick Sleep Glasses may be the right accessory to a new mattress, especially if you have trouble sleeping regularly.
How We Ranked the Best Mattresses
Every mattress brand will claim to give you a better night’s sleep. We know this isn’t necessarily true. There are several differences between the best and worst mattress companies available in today’s market.
To separate the best & the worst mattresses, our professional research team used the following ranking factors:
Material Type & Quality
The materials used in mattresses can vary wildly. Some of the best mattresses use organic cotton, for example. Others might use pure latex with zero synthetic material. In some cases, mattress companies use memory foam, while others strictly avoid it. Although your preferences vary, we prefer that companies use higher quality materials than cheaper materials. We also prioritized mattresses that rigidly used organic materials and pure latex over mattresses that use affordable but cheaper quality fabrics and blends.
Backed by Clinical Studies or Medical Professionals
We’re still learning a lot about sleep science, which is why some mattress companies use sleep scientists to create their mattresses. Other companies use 3rd party labs to verify the effectiveness and durability of their products. We preferred mattresses that used clinical studies or 3rd party tests to prove their products. We also chose products that had medical doctors to back their claims.
Size Options
The best mattress companies should offer seven different mattress sizes to American customers, including twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king. However, some companies offer more or fewer sizes. We preferred companies with a wide selection of sizes to choose from, although it wasn’t a significant factor if a company didn’t have less standard sizes, such as twin XL or split king.
Sleep Trial & Money-back Guarantee
When shopping for a mattress, you may lay on a show model for a brief second, but you can’t know if it is the right mattress for you. It’s hard to tell whether a mattress is suitable for you until you get a few nights’ sleep on it.
This is why we preferred mattress companies that offered a trial so you could try the mattress for 30 to 120 days. If a mattress isn’t right for you or unhappy with it, you should get your money back. This is why we prefer mattress companies to have a sleep trial or a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Sleep Quiz Availability
One way to get a better idea of whether or not a mattress is right for you is to take a sleep quiz. A sleep quiz can factor in your size and individual tastes to determine which mattress best suits your unique needs. Plus, a sleep quiz can reduce the overwhelming feelings you may have when picking a mattress because of how many options may be available.
Warranty Length & Availability
Good mattress companies should offer a 10, 15, or even 25-year warranty on their products. Some take it even a step further by providing you with a lifetime warranty. If your mattress wears down or falls apart after only a few years, you want to go through a painless process to replace it. We prefer mattresses to have an easy exchange on worn mattresses and preferred companies with at least a 15-year warranty.
Manufacturer Reputation
There are dozens of mattress companies all over the United States. We wanted to make sure the best mattresses were from companies with a stellar reputation for creating high-quality mattresses. We preferred companies with a long history of producing quality mattresses, although we didn’t wholly discount newer mattress companies simply because they were new.
Delivery & Shipping Process
Most of today’s top mattress companies offer free shipping or high-quality delivery services to their customers. Many make it easier to get your mattress delivered directly to your front door. Other companies add another few hundred dollars to the cost of their mattress just to ship it directly to your door. We preferred companies that offered free shipping and made it easier for you to get your mattress without any hassles.
Cost & Value
Some people can only afford a few hundred dollars on a mattress, whereas others can spend a few thousand dollars. Whatever your budget might be, you are entitled to a good night’s sleep. This is why we featured the best mattresses at various price points to ensure you get the maximum value on your mattress, whatever your budget may be.
We verified each mattress to ensure they offered the best value for their price. A cheap mattress shouldn’t imply you’re going to get cheap sleep. Based on our research, a more affordable mattress can still provide you with a good night’s sleep, and our rankings prove that.
Customer Reviews
The best way to determine the best mattresses is to read customer reviews. Despite the fact we used experts, customers still tell the whole story the best. We looked into customer reviews to determine what the average experience of a customer was with each brand.
Did the customers generally experience a better night’s sleep? Did they feel like they relieved back or neck pain? Was the mattress comfortable? Did they like the look and feel of the mattress? Would they recommend the mattress to their friends and family?
We had to answer these questions, and we considered customer reviews to play a huge factor in our rankings.
Benefits of a High-Quality Mattress
Believe it or not, a good mattress can significantly improve your health and wellness. Although you may not have thought about it, chronic headaches, neck pain, or back pain can all be the result of a low-quality mattress.
Here are some of the main benefits of purchasing and sleeping on a good mattress:
Better Quality Sleep
The main benefit of a good mattress is that you’ll likely sleep much better. A better night’s sleep can reduce your chance of developing several diseases, reduce your stress levels, improve your mood, and improve your overall health or wellness. If you’ve been sleeping on a lousy mattress, then your mattress may be the root cause of your sleep issues.
Better Posture & Form
Do you suffer from back pain all the time? Is your posture out of whack? A good mattress can help improve your posture and form to reduce the pain you feel regularly.
Better Spinal Alignment
The spine is what holds your body together. If your spine isn’t properly aligned when you sleep, you may experience frequent back pain and soreness. Even worse, a bad mattress can cause you to herniate a disc or pull a muscle. A good mattress can align your spine for less pain and better mobility throughout the day.
Better Mental & Emotional Health
Studies have shown that a good mattress can potentially improve your mental or emotional health. Studies have shown that lack of sleep can negatively impact your emotional and mental health by causing irritability and poor mood. A good night’s sleep can improve your mood and help improve your overall mental health.
Fewer Allergies, Breathing Issues, & Asthma Relief
It may be surprising to know this, but your mattress could be the cause of your breathing issues or allergies. An old mattress can often create the perfect environment for allergens to wreak havoc on your breathing and allergies. This is because old mattresses become clogged with sweat, dust, or mites, which can trigger your allergies. A new mattress can reduce allergen exposure to help you breathe more naturally and to reduce your allergies.
Better Memory
Your body requires a significant amount of sleep to consolidate memories you’ve created during the day. If you are not getting enough deep sleep each night, you may struggle to firm these memories, which may cause you to be more forgetful. Studies have found that better sleep can improve memory, which can occur after you purchase a new mattress.
Reduced Stress
Similarly, a lack of sleep has been shown to increase the amount of stress you feel regularly. A bad mattress will only amplify the amount of pressure you already are feeling as well. If you’re tossing and turning all night, it might be time for a new mattress. A comfy, better mattress can help you sleep better to reduce the stress you feel.
Less Snoring
If you snore, it could be a result of a bad mattress. If your mattress is worn or holds your body in an awkward position, it may be causing you to snore more while you sleep. A newer, high-quality mattress can eliminate this issue.
Weight Loss
It’s no secret that sleep and weight loss are directly connected. A lack of sleep can negatively impact your ability to lose weight by preventing muscle recovery and inhibiting the production of hormones needed for weight loss. Poor sleep can also cause increased hunger by suppressing the production of serotonin. A good mattress can change this.
Studies have found that getting a good mattress customized to fit your body can change your life. It may improve your mood, energy levels, and overall wellness and give you the ideal amount of sleep based on your physiology and sleeping preferences.
For example, a 2018 study examined the impact of sleep-related to overall physical and mental health. This meta-analysis studied over a dozen individual sleep studies. Researchers found that improved sleep length and quality were associated with enhanced mood, energy levels, cognitive function, body composition, and a reduced risk of various physical and mental diseases. This is why it is genuinely essential you have the right mattress to help you sleep better.
3 Main Types of Mattresses Available
There are currently are three types of mattresses sold today, which are the following:
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses are standard because they are affordable, durable, and made from synthetic or natural rubber. These mattresses provide adequate support for your body, and they hold their shape well. Latex mattresses typically last longer than other types of mattresses. Most latex mattresses last up to 15 years before they show actual signs of wear.
Memory Foam Mattresses
If you want a softer mattress, then a memory foam mattress may be the ideal type of mattress for you. Many people even describe it as feeling like your mattress is hugging you. Memory foam mattresses are made from denser types of foam to give you an ideal amount of support and comfort.
Innerspring Mattresses
When you think of a mattress, you are likely thinking of an innerspring mattress. Innerspring mattresses have been the most common type of mattress for decades, and they use spring technology in conjunction with layers of foam or cushioning. These mattresses remain the most popular type of mattress today because they have coiled springs which ideally respond to your body and shape. This makes them ideal for couples that prefer different sleeping preferences.
Although these are the three most common types of mattresses available today, some companies have taken things a step further by combining the two. For example, some hybrid mattresses have memory foam and latex to add comfort while reducing the cost.
Questions You Need to Answer Before Buying a Mattress
When you are shopping for a mattress (regardless of in-store or online), you should be able to answer specific questions before you purchase a mattress:
Do I need a foundation?
Almost every innerspring mattress will require you to purchase a box spring so it wears evenly. Although you can still buy one to add comfort, most foam mattresses do not need a box spring. A mattress company or salesperson should be able to tell you if a box spring is required or whether it may still be a good idea to use one.
How long is the warranty?
Almost every mattress will come with a warranty. A mattress will last longer based on how long the warranty is. Even though you may not expect to make a warranty claim, any mattress with an extended warranty will indicate the mattress is of a higher quality.
Is there a money-back guarantee or clear return policy?
Almost every mattress sold online or in-store will have a clear, generous refund policy. This allows you to try the mattress for an extended period to see if you like it and ensure it’s the right mattress for you. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the refund policy before purchasing a mattress, so you aren’t out potentially thousands of dollars.
What material is your mattress made of?
You should be clear about what kind of materials were used to manufacture your mattress. This is extremely important if you are allergic to certain synthetic or natural fibers.
Is the mattress cold or hot?
It should not surprise you that certain materials will increase or decrease the heat you feel. For example, while many people like the comfort of a memory foam mattress, they quickly discover that it is far too hot. Different materials will hold temperatures differently than other materials. This is why knowing the materials used in the mattress is essential so you can gauge the temperature regulation of your mattress.
Is there good motion separation with the mattress?
Most of the best mattresses have good motion separation. This means that movement on one part of the bed won’t transfer to the other side – not to wake anybody else in the bed. You’ve probably already seen the videos of mattress sales people jumping on one side of the bed with a glass of wine on the other side. This indicates good motion separation. If you’re sleeping with another person in the bed, you’ll want good motion separation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mattresses
Purchasing a mattress is no minor deal. After all, you’re going to spend about one-third of your life on a mattress, so it might as well be a good one. We’ve compiled a list of your most frequently asked questions, and here are the answers:
Q: Can I return a mattress?
A: Virtually every company will offer a 30 to 120 money-back guarantee on their mattress. This means you can return a mattress within 30 to 120 days in the event you dislike your mattress. You should get a full refund within a few days, and most companies offer free delivery and returns, which makes your life easy.
Q: Are you sure there’s no catch with mattress returns?
A: While many other companies have deceiving return policies, most mattress companies do not. There’s typically no catch in returning a mattress. You can legitimately return a mattress as long as it’s’ in the return period and receive a full refund. Always read the fine print of your mattress, though, so you know exactly when you can return the mattress, whether or not the company will pick it back up, etc.
Q: How does a mattress warranty work?
A: Mattress companies have warranties with varying terms and conditions. Most companies will offer you a limited warranty for 5 to 20 years, but some now offer lifetime warranties. However, you should know that most mattress warranties do not include wear and tear. All mattresses break down over time, and you cannot make claims for physical damage caused for things that are not because of a manufacturer defect.
Q: How often should a mattress be replaced?
A: Most experts recommend that you replace your mattress after 7 to 10 years of use. However, newer mattresses that use high-quality materials can last much longer than ten years. Mattresses with the best material can last up to 15 years.
Q: Which mattress type is the best?
A: Innerspring mattresses have been the most popular type of mattress for decades. However, most leading companies offer several mattresses for additional durability and comfort, including foam, memory foam, and latex mattresses.
Q: Why should I consider a latex mattress?
A: Latex mattresses can last you up to 15 years and have the best longevity and durability compared to other types of mattresses.
Q: Should I consider a memory foam mattress?
A: Foam and memory foam mattresses are great at holding their shape and often provide maximum comfort. They also can last up to 10 years with proper care and regular use.
Q: What’s the difference between latex and memory foam mattresses?
A: A latex mattress uses natural materials, whereas memory foam uses synthetic material (different forms of plastic). Latex is very breathable, and most people find that latex mattresses are cooler than memory foam.
Memory foam is dense and is typically warmer than latex mattresses. Latex also provides more support and tends to “lift you up” while you sleep, whereas memory foam conforms to your body, almost as if it is “hugging” you.
Q: What’s the best type of mattress?
A: Most sleep studies suggest that latex foam will provide you with the best sleep because it is the ideal combination of firmness and support. This is unlike memory foam, which conforms to your body and may not provide you with as much help as you need.
Q: What’s the best type of mattress for a side sleeper?
A: Mattress preferences can vary amongst side sleepers. However, if you are a side sleeper, then you should make sure you look for a mattress that puts no additional pressure on your shoulder or hip when you sleep on your side. If you don’t, the extra pressure may put your body out of alignment, causing pain and discomfort.
Q: What’s the best mattress for front sleepers or stomach sleepers?
A: Most sleep experts recommend that you choose a firmer mattress if you’re a front sleeper or stomach sleeper. If you choose a mattress that is too soft, you may sink too far into the mattress, potentially overextending the arch of your back. This may cause discomfort and back issues.
Q: What’s the best mattress for heavier adults?
A: Foam mattresses including innerspring, memory foam, and latex that provide you with solid support are ideal for heavier people. Foam mattresses relieve the pressure in your body and tend to last longer than innerspring mattresses, though.
Q: I have back issues. What type of mattress is best?
A: If you have a bad back, your pain and discomfort could result from pressure from your mattress. If this is the case, then you should choose a mattress with medium or softer firmness.
Q: Are firmer mattresses better?
A: One of the most common thoughts about mattresses is that firmer mattresses are better than others. However, new studies suggest this is not necessarily the case because people have individual physiologies and personal preferences.
Some mattresses are so firm that they can cause lower back pain by causing the lower back to arch. Other mattresses are firm by lack of support, which can cause shoulder or upper back pain.
Q: How firm or soft should my mattress be?
A: People have different preferences as to how firm or soft their mattress should be. Some people prefer their mattress to be firmer because of their sleeping position or physiology, while others prefer softer mattresses for the same reasons. This is entirely up to your personal preferences.
Q: What is a split-size mattress?
A: A split-size mattress will come in two pieces. Some people buy split mattresses because one person prefers a certain firmness while another prefers a different level of firmness. Other people purchase split-size mattresses because of narrow staircases and small hallways, making it more challenging to move the larger mattress, like a king-size mattress.
Q: How much should I spend on a mattress to buy a quality one?
A: It is not impossible to find a good mattress for under $1,000. You can also find mattresses in the mid-range price range for around $1,000 to $2,500. Higher-end mattresses can cost you $3,000 or more. Material quality is much more important than price to determine if a mattress is of good quality, though.
Q: Do I need to break in a mattress?
A: Yes, you should expect to break your mattress. Although it typically takes around 30 days to break in a new mattress, newer mattresses may take even longer, depending on the type of mattress you buy. If you are used to a specific kind of mattress, then it could take longer to break-in.
Q: What are the most common mattress sizes available?
A: Mattresses come in various sizes. These are the most common mattress sizes in the United States, which include:
Twin: 38″ x 74″
Twin Extra Long (TXL): 38″ x 80″
Full: 54″ x 74″
Queen: 60″ x 80″
King: 76″ x 80″
California King (Cal King): 72″ x 84″
Split Queen: 30″ x 80″ (2 mattresses)
Split King: 38″ x 80″ (2 mattresses)
Split Cal King: 36″ x 84″ (2 mattresses)
Q: What is an adjustable base?
A: An adjustable mattress means you can change the mattress to multiple different alignments. For example, you can move your mattress to an upright sitting position with an adjustable base mattress. These mattresses are often used to relieve back pain, avoid neck issues while sleeping, or prevent snoring. An adjustable mattress can alleviate sleep-related problems like sleep apnea.
Q: Why does a mattress have multiple different layers of foam?
A: Most mattresses will have between one and four layers of foam, including alternating layers of memory foam or latex material. Hybrid mattresses often use different layers of foam to provide you with the best of both worlds while keeping costs much lower.
Q: How do I pick a good mattress?
A: When you are looking for a new mattress, you should look for a mattress with a good level of spinal support. In other words, you should not feel your back arch when you lie on your back. Your head, hips, and toes should all be in line when you sleep, which means your hips and shoulders have settled just a little bit into the mattress. Also, there should not be any space between your mattress and your lower back.
Q: Which is the best mattress?
A: Any of the mattress companies on our list are among the best mattresses available right now. However, the best mattress varies based on individual needs, physiology, and personal preferences. It is an entirely personal decision, which is why many of the best mattress companies use a sleep quiz to match one of their mattresses to your individual needs.
Q: Can I make my mattress softer?
A: If you want to make your mattress softer, you can add a mattress topper on top of your mattress.
Q: What is a hybrid mattress?
A: Hybrid mattresses are increasing in popularity and use a traditional innerspring design in addition to memory foam. They are becoming more popular because they offer you the benefits of a foam mattress with the affordability of an innerspring mattress. Some hybrid mattresses also will combine memory foam and latex. This provides you with superior comfort while not breaking the bank.
Q: Should I choose a double-sided mattress or a one-sided mattress?
A: Double-sized mattresses are not as standard as they used to be due to concerns about their durability. Most mattresses are only one-sided now, although which you prefer is entirely up to you.
Q: How do I know if I need a new mattress?
A: If you regularly wake up with aches and pains, or you are tossing and turning all night, then you may need a new mattress. Your mattress may be worn and no longer capable of properly supporting your body. This is an indication that you need a new mattress.
Q: How should I clean a mattress?
A: The only way you should clean a mattress is by vacuuming it. You should never soak a mattress or use any harsh cleaning fluids on your mattress. The chemicals in these cleaning agents can disrupt the cooling systems and comfort systems, and moisture can significantly reduce the durability of your mattress. You can further protect your mattress by using a mattress pad.
Q: Should I flip my mattress?
A: Since most new mattresses are one-sided, you typically no longer need to flip mattresses. Instead, you should rotate your mattress every few months to make sure it wears out evenly. If you have a double-sided mattress, you should turn and flip it regularly to ensure even wear.
Q: When should I buy a mattress?
A: Most leading mattress companies have multiple sales throughout the year, typically providing you with 10 to 20% off. However, many popular holidays provide you with the steepest discounts, up to 40% off. Look to purchase a mattress on holidays such as Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, & July 4th. Black Friday & Cyber Monday also offer steep discounts on mattresses.
Q: How does mattress delivery work?
A: Most internet mattress companies offer free delivery, typically within a few days of purchase. They’ll typically ship through UPS or FedEx with your mattress or schedule pickups to return a mattress if you find it not suitable for you.
The Best Mattresses for 2021 & Beyond Final Thoughts
It has never been easier to find an affordable, comfortable mattress that suits your personal needs. If you’re looking for a mattress, then one of the mattress companies on our list will have the perfect mattress to suit your needs.
Competition has never been steeper for mattresses too. Therefore, you should get more value from a mattress through discount codes and bundles from Internet mattress companies.
If you’re ready to buy a mattress, then you should consider purchasing from any of these companies – all of which sell high-quality, affordable mattresses that offer tremendous value.
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Disclaimer:
Please understand that any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely a substitute for sound medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider. Make sure to consult with a professional physician before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the review details shared above. Individual results may vary as the statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.