Best Mattresses of 2024: Our Expert-Tested Top Picks

Selecting the right mattress can directly affect your wellbeing as it can affect your sleep, your physical health and even your mental health as you will wake up feeling relaxed and refreshed. Whether it's chronic back discomfort, joint stiffness, or muscle soreness, a well-chosen mattress can significantly relief pain. The amount of options available in the market can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the most suitable mattress that can best serve your needs. In this article, our team of experts will delve into the essential factors to consider when choosing a mattress tailored to your specific needs, sleeping style and budget.

• Best Overall - Layla Hybrid
• Most Comfortable - Helix Midnight
• Best Luxury - Puffy Monarch
• Best Organic - Silk & Snow Organic
• Best Cooling - Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe
• Best for Back Pain - Nolah Evolution 15
• Best for Couples - Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
• Best Latex - Birch Luxe Natural
• Best for Heavy People - Emma Hybrid Comfort
• Best for Side Sleepers - SONU Sleep System
• Best Firm - Plank Firm Luxe
• Best Soft - Minocasa Zero

What to Consider When Choosing a Mattress

Body Weight

• Lightweight Sleepers (<130 lbs): May prefer softer mattresses that provide sufficient pressure relief without feeling too firm. A softer mattress allows lighter individuals to experience contouring and comfort layers.
• Average Weight Sleepers (130-230 lbs): Typically find comfort in medium to medium-firm mattresses that offer a balance of support and contouring, suitable for various sleeping positions.
• Heavier Sleepers (>230 lbs): Often benefit from firmer mattresses that offer enhanced support and durability. Thicker mattresses with high-density foams or coils can provide the necessary support to prevent excessive sinking.

Mattress Type

- Memory foam mattresses, celebrated for their pressure relief and contouring properties, mold to the body's shape, providing unparalleled support for side sleepers and individuals with joint pain.

- In contrast, innerspring mattresses, with their supportive coils, offer a firmer and bouncier feel, coupled with enhanced airflow that appeals to hot sleepers.

- Hybrid mattresses skillfully merge the contouring benefits of memory foam, latex, or gel with the robust support of innerspring coils, delivering a versatile balance of comfort and support that caters to a wide array of sleeper preferences.

- Lastly, latex mattresses stand out for their remarkable responsiveness and cooling properties, presenting a durable and natural option favored by eco-conscious consumers and those in pursuit of a more resilient, bouncier feel.

Mattress Firmness

Firmness is subjective and depends largely on personal preference, sleeping position, and body weight. A universal scale from 1 to 10 (with 10 being the firmest) helps to standardize the firmness levels, but the ideal choice is one that aligns with your sleeping style and comfort preferences, ensuring both support for proper alignment and enough give to relieve pressure points.

Mattress Size

The size of your mattress can greatly affect the quality of your sleep, especially if you share your bed. Consider your room size, body size, and whether you sleep alone or with a partner.

• Twin and Twin XL: Ideal for children or single adults with limited space.
• Full: Suitable for single sleepers who prefer more room.
• Queen: Offers ample space for couples without taking up too much room.
• King and California King: Best for couples looking for maximum personal space, families who share the bed with young children, or pet owners.

Comfort Preferences

Temperature Regulation:

Temperature regulation is crucial for a comfortable sleep environment. Look for mattresses with cooling technologies if you tend to sleep hot. Materials like gel-infused memory foam, latex, and certain fabrics in the mattress cover can help dissipate heat. Some mattresses also feature breathable constructions that allow for air circulation, preventing heat buildup.

Mattress Materials:

• Eco-friendly options: For those conscious about the environment and personal health, eco-friendly mattresses are made from natural or organic materials (like organic latex, cotton, or wool) that are sustainable and free from harmful chemicals. These materials are not only better for the planet but can also reduce allergies and improve sleep quality.
• Antimicrobial properties: Mattresses with antimicrobial materials or treatments can prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. This feature is especially beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. Look for mattresses that incorporate natural antimicrobial substances like bamboo, wool, or specific foams treated with antimicrobial agents.
• Zoned: Zoned support mattresses are designed to provide variable support levels across different areas of the mattress to accommodate the body's natural curves. This means more support where you need it, such as under the hips and less in other areas like under the shoulders, which can greatly enhance comfort and spinal alignment, particularly for side sleepers.
• Adjustable: Adjustable beds allow you to modify the position of your mattress, providing personalized comfort that can alleviate health issues like snoring, acid reflux, and back pain. Combining an adjustable base with a compatible mattress can significantly improve sleep quality and comfort.
• Motion Isolating: If you share the bed, consider a mattress with excellent motion isolation qualities to ensure that movements from one side of the bed don't disturb the other sleeper. Memory foam mattresses typically excel in this aspect, but many hybrid models also offer good motion isolation thanks to individually pocketed coils.
• Responsive: A responsive mattress swiftly adapts to your body movements during sleep, providing continuous comfort and support. Latex and certain high-resilience foams are known for their responsiveness, offering a balance of comfort and support without the feeling of being 'stuck' that some memory foam mattresses can create.
• Support and Pressure Relief: Finally, the right mattress should offer a balance of support and pressure relief. Support refers to the mattress's ability to maintain an even, stable surface that promotes proper spinal alignment. Pressure relief, on the other hand, minimizes stress on pressure points such as the hips, shoulders, and knees. Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are often praised for their ability to contour the body while providing targeted support and relief.

Budget

Consider your mattress as a long-term investment in your health and wellbeing. A good mattress can last up to 8-10 years, if not more. Therefore, it might be worth allocating a slightly higher budget if it means getting a durable mattress that suits your needs and delivers comfortable, restful sleep night after night. The best value involves more than just the purchase price. Consider factors such as durability, material quality, warranty, and the presence of sleep trials. A mattress that may cost more initially but offers extensive warranties and sleep trials can provide greater value in the long run.

Sleeping Positions

• Side Sleepers: Require a mattress that supports the body's contours and relieves pressure from the shoulders and hips. A medium to medium-soft mattress typically offers the best support, allowing for slight sinking to accommodate the body's natural curve.
• Back Sleepers: Need a mattress that supports proper spine alignment without allowing the hips to sink too deeply. Medium-firm to firm mattresses are often ideal, providing enough support to keep the spine neutrally aligned while supporting the lower back.
• Stomach Sleepers: Should look for a firmer mattress to prevent the abdomen from sinking too deeply, which could misalign the spine. A firm surface helps maintain a neutral spine position, reducing the risk of back pain.

Different Mattress Types

• Memory Foam: Known for its pressure relief and contouring properties, memory foam mattresses adapt to the body's shape, offering excellent support for side sleepers and those with joint pain.
• Innerspring: Feature coils for support and are typically firmer, offering a bouncy feel. They tend to provide better airflow, making them a good option for hot sleepers.
• Hybrid: Combine the contouring of memory foam, latex, or gel with the support of innerspring coils, offering a balance of comfort and support suitable for most sleeper types.
• Latex: Known for its responsiveness and cooling properties, latex mattresses are durable and provide a natural alternative, often preferred by eco-conscious consumers and those seeking a bouncier feel.

Others

• Futon Mattresses: Traditionally Japanese, futon mattresses offer a versatile sleeping solution that doubles as seating, making them perfect for small spaces or minimalist lifestyles. They typically feature a foldable design for easy storage and are firmer than standard mattresses, supporting a neutral spine position which can be beneficial for back sleepers.
• Waterbeds: Known for their distinctive feel, waterbeds use water chambers to provide support instead of traditional coils or foam. They can be heated for added comfort and are adjustable in firmness, catering to personal preference. Waterbeds excel in distributing body weight evenly, which can significantly reduce pressure points, potentially offering relief for sleepers with back pain.
• Air Mattresses: Not just for camping, high-quality air mattresses provide customizable support through adjustable air chambers, allowing for individualized firmness levels on each side of the bed. This adaptability makes them a favorable choice for couples with differing sleep preferences and individuals seeking precise back support.
• Adjustable Mattresses: Offering the ultimate in customization, adjustable mattresses work with beds that can change position with the push of a button. They allow sleepers to elevate their head or feet, which can alleviate snoring, improve circulation, and reduce back pain. Some models come with additional features like built-in massage or heating, catering to a wide range of needs and preferences.

What Mattress Firmness Suits you

Soft

Soft mattresses are often likened to sleeping on a cloud due to their plush, cushioning surface. They are particularly suited for:

• Side Sleepers: The softness allows for ample give, accommodating the body's curves and relieving pressure on the shoulders and hips.
• Lighter Individuals: People who weigh less can benefit from a soft mattress as they might not compress a firmer mattress enough to allow for proper spinal alignment.
• Those Seeking Pressure Relief: If you have sensitive pressure points or chronic pain issues, a soft mattress can provide the gentle cushioning needed.

Medium

Medium firmness strikes a balance between soft and firm, making it a versatile choice for many sleepers. It is well-suited for:

• Combination Sleepers: Individuals who switch positions throughout the night will find the medium firmness supportive regardless of their sleeping position.
• Couples: When sleep partners have different sleeping preferences, a medium mattress can provide a compromise that satisfies both.
• Average Weight Individuals: This firmness level offers a blend of support and comfort that can accommodate a wide range of body types.

Medium-Firm

Medium-firm mattresses offer a slightly higher level of support compared to their medium counterparts and are beneficial for:

• Back Sleepers: The firmer support helps maintain proper spine alignment while still providing enough cushioning for comfort.
• Heavier Individuals: People with a higher body weight may find that medium-firm mattresses provide the necessary support without excessive sinking.
• Those with Back Pain: The additional support can help alleviate back discomfort by promoting a neutral spine position.

Firm

Firm mattresses provide substantial support with minimal cushioning on the surface. They are best suited for:

• Stomach Sleepers: A firm surface prevents the abdomen from sinking too deeply, which can lead to spinal misalignment.
• Heavier Individuals: A firm mattress can offer the robust support needed to prevent excessive sinkage, maintaining proper posture throughout the night.
• Those Who Prefer Surface Sleeping: Some sleepers prefer to lie on top of the mattress rather than "in" it, for which a firm mattress is ideal.

Extra Firm

Extra firm mattresses are the most supportive and have the least give. They are particularly suitable for:

• Very Heavy Individuals: Offering the highest level of support, extra firm mattresses prevent sinking and help distribute weight evenly.
• Those Requiring Maximum Support: Individuals with specific orthopedic needs may find that an extra firm mattress provides the structured support necessary for comfort and spinal alignment.

Types of Mattresses for Specific Pain Conditions

Neck Pain

For those experiencing neck pain, the key is to find a mattress that supports the natural curvature of the spine while keeping the neck aligned with the rest of the body. Mattresses that are too firm can push the neck out of alignment, whereas mattresses that are too soft can allow the neck to sink too deeply, both exacerbating pain.

• Memory Foam Mattresses: These provide excellent support and adaptability to the shape of the body, ensuring the neck is properly supported. A contoured memory foam pillow can also add additional support for the neck.
• Latex Mattresses: Known for their firmness and support, latex mattresses can help maintain proper alignment while offering a bit of give that can be beneficial for neck support.

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain sufferers need a mattress that offers a balance of support and softness to alleviate pressure points in the shoulder area. A mattress that is too firm can aggravate shoulder pain by putting excessive pressure on the shoulders, while a mattress that is too soft may lack the necessary support, leading to misalignment and increased pain.

• Memory Foam Mattresses: Their conforming properties can provide relief by distributing body weight evenly and reducing pressure points, making them a great option for people with shoulder pain.
• Hybrid Mattresses: Combining the best aspects of innerspring and foam mattresses, hybrids often feature a foam top layer that can cushion the shoulders while the coil support system offers overall support and durability.

Hip Pain

For those dealing with hip pain, the mattress must cushion the hips and alleviate pressure points without sacrificing overall support. A mattress that is too firm can exacerbate hip pain by failing to cushion the pressure points, while one that is too soft can cause the hips to sink too deeply, misaligning the spine and joints.

• Memory Foam Mattresses: The contouring effect of memory foam is beneficial for cradling the hips, distributing weight evenly, and reducing pressure on the hips.
• Hybrid Mattresses: With a combination of supportive coils and a comfortable foam layer, hybrid mattresses offer a good balance of support and pressure relief for the hips.

For Back Pain

Memory Foam Mattresses: Memory foam is renowned for its superior contouring properties, providing excellent support to the spine and reducing pressure points. For those with back pain, a medium-firm memory foam mattress can help maintain proper spine alignment throughout the night, potentially easing back pain.

Latex Mattresses: Latex offers a similar contouring effect to memory foam but with a bit more bounce, allowing for easier movement during sleep. Its natural elasticity helps in maintaining spinal alignment, making it a good choice for back pain sufferers.

Hybrid Mattresses: Combining the support of innerspring coils with the comfort of memory foam or latex layers, hybrid mattresses can offer the best of both worlds. A hybrid with targeted support zones can provide extra lumbar support, alleviating lower back pain.

For Joint Pain

Latex Mattresses: The responsive nature of latex can be particularly beneficial for those with joint pain. It cushions the body's joints, reducing pressure and providing relief. Its buoyant quality allows for easy movement, which can be comforting for painful joints.

• Memory Foam Mattresses: By evenly distributing body weight, memory foam can reduce stress on sensitive joints. Look for a mattress with a softer feel to cradle the body's contours and minimize joint discomfort.

For Muscle Soreness

• Memory Foam Mattresses: The viscoelastic properties of memory foam mattresses are effective in alleviating muscle soreness. They conform to the body, helping to relax muscles and reduce tension. A mattress with a comfort layer thick enough to provide deep contouring can be particularly beneficial.
• Hybrid Mattresses: For those who experience muscle soreness, a hybrid mattress with a soft top layer can offer relief by providing both support and pressure relief. The innerspring core ensures that the body stays supported, while the foam or latex layers on top can help soothe sore muscles.
• Adjustable Mattresses: While not a type per se, mattresses that work with adjustable bases can be particularly helpful for all kinds of pain conditions. Being able to adjust the sleeping position can alleviate pressure on the back, joints, and muscles, allowing for a more comfortable and pain-free sleep.

FAQs

How does mattress firmness impact pain relief?

The firmness of a mattress plays a crucial role in pain relief. For example, medium-firm mattresses are often recommended for back pain as they provide a balance of support and comfort. However, the ideal firmness level may vary based on individual preferences and specific pain conditions. It's essential to test different firmness levels to find the one that offers optimal pain relief and comfort.

What type of mattress is best for back pain?

For back pain, mattresses with medium-firm to firm support are generally recommended. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses can be beneficial for back pain, as they contour to the body's shape and offer targeted support. Additionally, adjustable air mattresses allow users to customize firmness levels, catering to individual needs for back pain relief.

Can a mattress help alleviate joint pain?

Yes, the right mattress can help alleviate joint pain by providing proper support and pressure relief. Memory foam mattresses are often a popular choice for individuals with joint pain, as they conform to the body's contours and reduce pressure on sensitive joints. Additionally, mattresses with zoned support or pocketed coils can target specific areas, offering relief for joint discomfort.

What role does mattress support play in providing better sleep?

Mattress support is critical for a better sleep, as it ensures proper spinal alignment and reduces pressure on pain-prone areas. A mattress with adequate support can help distribute body weight evenly, preventing excessive strain on the spine and joints. High-quality materials, such as latex or individually wrapped coils, contribute to the overall support and comfort of the mattress.