14 Best Mattresses That'll Have You Sleeping Like a Baby

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You spend (ideally!) a third of your day in bed, so picking the best possible mattress to keep you comfortable and well-rested is a huge decision. For starters, they're expensive, so you want to make sure you're investing in one that's worth the money. You also want to ensure it'll lead to good sleep night after night, whether you prefer to sleep on your back, side, stomach or all of the above. With so many options to choose from, it's hard to know which will feel supportive and last for years.

What's the best mattress for most people? Our top-tested model for 2023 is the Saatva Classic Mattress, which is suitable for a wide range of sleepers. We like that it offers quality construction and convenient delivery, but doesn't cost a fortune. Plus, it consistently earns top marks from our testers. If you're on a tighter budget or prefer a boxed model for DIY set up, we recommend the Allswell Luxe Hybrid Mattress.

Our top picks:

While there's no one-size-fits-all mattress, the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab have tested and evaluated hundreds of mattress models to find the best recommendations for every type of sleeper. Our evaluations consist of thoroughly researching the brands, materials and features, having our team of scientists and engineers review the models firsthand and sending them home to sleep testers to see how they perform after extended use. On top of that, we survey our proprietary consumer panel to get in-depth feedback from a wide range of people. In the past three years, we've surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed answers to more than 170,000 questions to help us select the best mattresses you can buy.

How to choose your best mattress:

Before you dive in to our reviews, take a moment to think about what matters most to you when you're shopping for a mattress — it's a highly personal decision, but it's crucial to make the right one. Consider your sleep position, body type, feel preference, budget and any specific needs, like temperature regulation and motion isolation from our sleeping partner. You can find more information about how to choose your perfect mattress — and how to sort through the seemingly endless options — at the end of this guide.

Ahead you can find everything you need to know about the best mattresses of 2023 (with prices listed for Queen sizes), including feedback from consumer testers and the experts at the GH Institute Textiles Lab.

Best Mattresses in a Box | Best Online Mattresses | Best Cheap Mattresses | Best Innerspring Mattresses | Best Memory Foam Mattresses | Best Hybrid Mattresses | Best Organic Mattresses | Best Latex Mattresses | Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers | Best Mattresses for Back Pain | Best Cooling Mattresses

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Classic Mattress

Saatva's mattress is built like a traditional innerspring model with quality materials that are made to last. It receives top marks from our panel — especially from people who have owned it for more than five years — earning it the top spot in our guide. It also has an online direct-to-consumer platform that's easy to shop, but unlike most online mattresses that ship compressed in a box, this one comes with white glove delivery and set up. Saatva also offers a generous year-long return period so you can make sure it's a good fit. If you don't love it, you can return it for a $99 pick-up fee. And though it's certainly not cheap, it's more affordable than other luxury models you'd find in mattress stores, making it a worthy investment.

Who it's best for: People who prefer a traditional, bouncy mattress over the sinking-in feel of memory foam. Its three firmness levels make it suitable for all sleep positions, and the innerspring interior makes it more breathable for hot sleepers. It's also ideal for people that need the full-service set up and mattress removal.

Tester notes: Over 100 reviewers on our panel gave it top ratings for comfort, support and overall sleep quality. It also received rave reviews for its customer service, from the ease of ordering and in-home set up to quickly resolving any issues that came up during the process. Users told us it sleeps cooler, feels firmer and offers more edge support than memory foam mattresses. One described it as "firm, but not hard" while another said it's "comfortable and just the right amount of plush." Some praised it for being "the best mattress ever," and said it led to "the best sleep I've ever had."

Tips from our experts: Don't second guess your firmness preference. Several users told us they were tempted by Luxury Firm because it's so popular, but wished they had gone with Plush or Firm from the start. Also keep in mind: We've seen Saatva prices increase several times a year, so the costs may continue to rise in 2023. Its most recent price increase occurred this past December.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Saatva Is Our Pick for the Best Overall Mattress

Luxe Hybrid

Buying an affordable mattress doesn't mean it has to feel cheap. This one from Allswell is a fraction of the cost of others, but it still has standout features and exceptionally high ratings from our testers that set it apart from other low-cost models. And while mattress prices have skyrocketed due to industry-wide supply chain issues, Allswell pricing has remained fairly low and consistent. It's a hybrid mattress with both memory foam and coils for a mix of comfort and support. Your purchase includes free shipping, and the mattress arrives in a box for you to set up on your own.

Who it's best for: Price-conscious shoppers that are looking to spend under $1,000 without sacrificing comfort. We've noticed that it's also more well-received by younger adults (especially new homeowners or apartment renters in their 20s) because the lack of edge support and the DIY set up can be a deterrent for older individuals.

Tester notes: The feedback from our survey respondents and testers was that this mattress was absolutely a great value, and some even said it got rid of their neck and back pain. The most common complaint we got was that there was less edge support when getting in and out of bed. Still, users couldn't believe how expensive it felt. One described it to us by saying, "this mattress is supportive and plush, and it feels like a fancy hotel bed," while another raved, "It feels like sleeping on a real, plush hotel mattress, but at a fraction of the price."

Tips from our experts: While pricier models are frequently marked down, we haven't seen this one go on sale. Considering it's already priced low, don't wait for a holiday weekend to shop. Also note that this model received far better feedback than other inexpensive bestsellers on Amazon.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Allswell Luxe Hybrid Is Our Best Value Mattress

Original 10”

The best mattresses for back pain are made of memory foam and have a medium firmness level, giving you pressure relief and cradling comfort. Not only does this Nolah model check off those boxes, but our testers swore it eased their discomfort. It's made up of three layers of foam (with pressure-relieving foam on top and more dense, supportive foam on the bottom), but there's also a "hybrid" variation with cutouts in the foam to mimic the flexibility and responsiveness of coils.

Who it's best for: Sleepers struggling with pain, like hip pain, back pain, pregnancy-related pain and sciatica. Though it can be used for a range of sleep positions, it's intended specifically for side sleepers (which is also the sleep position recommended for people with back pain).

If the 10-inch height is too low for you or you prefer a true hybrid with more layers, Nolah's Evolution 15-inch model is also loved by our reviewers with back pain. It's double the price, but boasts ergonomic support to help maintain proper spine alignment.

Tester notes: One user told us this model "offers back support while still cradling pressure points. It has been significantly helpful in relieving back pain for my husband, who has scoliosis." Another owner that's had it for four years said said it has kept its shape well, and a recent tester of the newer hybrid variation said, "On the first day of testing, I went to bed with a strained back from hours of sitting at my desk. When I woke up the next day, the pain was completely gone." And though memory foam is known to trap heat, reviewers told us this one sleeps surprisingly cool.

Tips from our experts: If you're not used to sleeping on an all-foam mattress like this one, it may take some getting used to. Testers told us it felt too soft at first, but they ultimately loved sleeping on it and found it to be supportive. Also note that 10 inches is on the lower side for a mattress, so if you have trouble getting in and out of bed, you may want to consider a taller model from the brand.

Elite Hybrid

This model combines the benefits of memory foam with innersprings and has turned into a tester favorite thanks to its comfort that you have to feel to believe. It's made with several layers of foam and coils, including foam with five zoned sections to promote alignment. Each section has varying firmness levels depending on where you need more pressure relief or more support. It also has reinforced edge support, which is not typically found in boxed mattresses.

Who it's best for: Side and back sleepers, back pain sufferers and anyone that has struggled to find a comfortable mattress.

Tester notes: Our testers gave it perfect scores across the board, saying "it is the most comfortable mattress we have ever slept on." After several months of testing, they say they have a better, more uninterrupted sleep than any other mattress they've tried before. One also noted, "This is undoubtedly the best mattress we have ever owned. We have traveled all over and have never had the sleep experience we now have every night."

Tips from our experts: The brand makes some claims about using "eco-friendly materials" and natural minerals that promote recovery. We couldn't verify these claims in our research, but we still stand behind the mattress for its incredible comfort.

Dusk Luxe

The Goldilocks of mattresses — i.e., not too hard yet not too soft — this medium firmness pick provides a happy balance for couples with different needs. It's a hybrid model with layers of foam over coils and has luxurious add-ons like a moisture-wicking cover, zoned sections for ergonomic support and a built-in pillowtop for added comfort.

Who it's best for: Sleeping partners with different preferences or any sleeper that changes position throughout the night. For several hundred dollars less, the Dusk version (without the "Luxe" in the title) has similar features, but less support layers. Helix's most popular line is the Midnight, which promotes pressure relief for side sleepers, though our testers and analysts were most impressed by the Dusk Luxe model.

Tester notes: Recent testers gave it high scores in all areas — from ease of set up to comfort and support to overall sleep quality — and noted that they feel properly supported whether they're on their side, backs or stomach. One reviewer highlighted, "It's a good mix for me (a side sleeper) and my partner (a back sleeper)."

Users also say has a contouring feel against pressure points, and one described it by saying, "It feels plush but doesn't feel like it's swallowing me up, and there's just enough bounce that allows me to shift and turn over in the night." They did note that they can sometimes feel their sleeping partner move if they're too close together.

Tips from our experts: Helix offers so many choices, which can make it feel a bit overwhelming when you shop. If you're not sure if the Dusk Luxe is right for you, we recommend taking the brand's sleep quiz to help you sort through the options.

Tempur-Cloud

Tempur-Pedic mattresses are known for their high-quality foam that offers superior pressure relief and motion isolation, but the brand's models can get very expensive. Fortunately, its newest mattress is a boxed model that uses three layers of its proprietary foam for top-notch pressure relief and a more attainable price tag. Perfect for side sleepers, it takes weight off of your pressure points and helps keep your spine in neutral alignment. The brand says it may feel a bit too firm when you first lie down, but it slowly adapts to your body shape to feel like a personalized fit.

Who it's best for: Side sleepers that need pressure relief for their hips and shoulders without too much sinking in. It's also ideal for people who want to invest in the unique feel of Tempur-Pedic's foam without having to overspend.

If you're a hot sleeper, we also recommend the Tempur-Luxe Breeze Mattress. This model uses unique phase change technology that's been tested to keep you feeling up to eight degrees cooler while you sleep. It costs over $5,000 for a Queen, but it comes with full-service delivery and set up and our testers say it looks and feels as good as new, even after years of sleeping on it.

Tester notes: Our panelists gave it high scores for comfort, support and overall sleep quality. "We were delighted with the comfort," said one tester. "The foam is lovely if you like that feeling of sinking into a warm hug when you sleep. We can’t deny that we slept well on this mattress." Another user told us, "I feel like my entire body is supported in a very gentle way,"

Users also note that the foam holds up surprisingly well over time. A tester compared this model to a previous mattress-in-a-box they slept on and noted, "It was definitely a major upgrade."

Tips from our experts: Save 30% off this mattress at full price using the code CLOUD30 at checkout. Note that this mattress also comes in a hybrid version with coils, but our testers tend to like the all-foam models from Tempur-Pedic better — after all, it's what the brand does best.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Pedic's Tempur-Cloud Delivers Luxurious Memory Foam to Your Door

Tempur Luxe Breeze Mattress

This mattress helps keep you cooler when you fall asleep and it stays cool throughout the night. Most cooling mattresses have materials that feel cool to the touch or marginal temperature-regulating properties, but this one uses unique phase change technology that's been tested to keep you feeling up to eight degrees cooler while you sleep. Tempur-Pedic is also famous for its high quality foam that prevents motion transfer, and this particular mattress is made up of several innovative layers.

It's expensive, but included in the price is a white glove delivery service that sets up the mattress in your home and will haul away your old mattress if you no longer need it. There's also a less expensive ProBreeze version that gets up to three degrees cooler (instead of eight) and comes in a medium firmness level.

Who it's best for: Hot sleepers who are willing to splurge on a mattress with proven cooling benefits.

What it's made of: A zip-off outer cover that's machine washable, a layer of phase-change material that absorbs heat to help you feel cooler all night, comfort foam with added phase-change material and pressure-relieving foam with ventilation for breathability, which is exclusive to this model.

Tester notes: Our testers told us the temperature-regulating factor is obvious and it has held up well over time. As one tester put it, "I’ve had it for years and it still feels brand new." They also say the motion control is a game-changer. It's very pricey so it's not for everyone, but testers have noticed a definite improvement in sleep quality: "We have slept so well since getting it," raved one.

Other Tempur-Pedic mattresses: If you're just looking for a basic model without the cooling features and in-home set up, the brand's Tempur-Cloud mattress uses its signature foam and ships to you in a box for DIY set up. The Tempur-Adapt mattress collection is a pricier foam option with more support than the Tempur-Cloud and white glove delivery.

Pro tip: When shopping for cooling mattresses, look for transparent claims that reference real data instead of unrealistic promises.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Are Tempur-Pedic Mattresses Worth It?

Original Mattress

Casper is known for revolutionizing the way we shop for online mattresses, and its name is practically synonymous with "mattress-in-a-box." As a result, it's one of the most popular mattresses among our panel and in the bedding industry. The purchase includes free shipping and you set it up on your own, which people often prefer because it's contact-free and more convenient. Even though this memory foam mattress doesn't have any coils, it has zone layers that make it stand out from others on the market because they're ergonomically designed for spine alignment.

Casper started off with this Original model that they called the "one perfect mattress." The Original has gone through some updates itself since it first launched, and it's still the brand's most popular pick and the one we think offers the most bang for your buck. The company has also since introduced several hybrid variations at different price points.

Who it's best for: People who prefer the cradling comfort of memory foam and are willing to spend a bit over $1,000 to get ergonomic support. The foam and split zones are better suited for side and back sleepers.

Tester notes: The brand as a whole earned high scores across the board from more than 130 Casper mattress owners in our most recent survey, and users noted how well it has kept its shape over time. Most people told us they love this specific model and especially highlighted the ease of ordering and set up as well as the 12-inch height that isn't too tall and fits sheets nicely. One user on our panel liked how well "it conforms to your body," while a second one pointed out, "It helps with motion transfer much more than the old innerspring mattress I had." Another reviewer told us, "It is extremely comfy — so comfy that we bought two more for other beds."

Tips from our experts: We found this mattress was more well-liked by our under-40 crowd of testers.

T&N Original Mattress

If you like the speed and accessibility of shopping on Amazon, it makes sense to consider getting your mattress there, too. This popular model is affordable for under $1,000 and arrives in a box at your home within days, which is a big feat since the mattress industry is notorious for shipping delays. It has a simple, no-frills design with just two foam layers.

The brand boasts its proprietary T&N Adaptive Foam technology that's supportive and resilient yet contours your body without feeling stiff. Plus, graphite and ceramic gel are added to the foams to help pull away body heat, which is a key feature as memory foam alone can cause overheating.

Who it's best for: Shoppers that need a mattress delivered quickly (rather than waiting for a scheduled delivery service), side and back sleepers, memory foam enthusiasts and price-conscious buyers.

Tester notes: Even though it's lower priced, our reviewers gave it high marks across the board – from the ordering process and set up to the comfort and support. Several commented on liking its firmness and one user that's had it for five years told us, "My Tuft & Needle mattress is so much more comfortable than any mattress I've ever had in the past. My husband and I both experience much less back pain." Our reviewers also raved about the brand's customer service, commenting that the representatives were friendly and helpful. They also highlighted the motion isolation and said they can't feel movement from sleeping partners. The only real complaint was that there wasn't much edge support, so it may sag when you sit on the sides.

Notes from our experts: If this mattress sounds appealing but you're worried it may feel too firm, you can always add a mattress topper for a plush sleeping surface.

Estate Mattress

This pick from Stearns & Foster is made with a complex coil system that's unique to the brand for premium support. It's available in multiple firmness levels, but the firm is labeled as a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale. On top of that, it uses high-end materials (like a smooth and moisture-wicking Tencel outercover) and is handcrafted, so you can expect it to last. We also love how it can be used with adjustable bases, and the fact that it includes in-home delivery and set up.

There's the option to add a pillowtop when you buy — a pillowtop firm is still rated as an 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale — or upgrade to the brand's Lux Estate model, which is more expensive but uses layers of memory foam at the surface for more pressure relief.

Who it's best for: Stomach sleepers, heavier body weights or anyone that prefers a firm mattress. It's also good for in-store shoppers that want to feel it in person at their local mattress store.

Tester notes: The brand has a luxury price point, but users on our tester panel agreed that they slept well on their Stearns & Foster mattresses. In fact, we reviewed responses from over 150 owners of this brand and it was especially loved by those that prefer a firm feel. When comparing the mattress to previous ones they own, users highlighted the firmness and support as the main upgrades. One noted that the mattress feels "thicker and firmer, and seems to have more support," while another told us, "I like how firm this mattress is as well as the quality of the outer material."

Tips from our experts: If you're indecisive with all of the varieties, skip the pillowtop. You can always layer on a mattress topper if you want a plush surface..

Lux Hybrid Mattress

Puffy stands out for feeling plush and indulgent, yet still supportive — i.e., it's a soft mattress that doesn't sink in or sag. It's a hybrid model that combines coils and foam layers that conform to your body, making it an ideal mattress for side sleepers or anyone that needs pressure relief. The mattress ships in a box within days for DIY set up at your convenience.

Who it's best for: Side sleepers, back pain sufferers or anyone that prefers a plush, cushiony feel for their mattress.

Tester notes: As one tester described it, "I feel like I'm sleeping on a cloud, but I still feel supported." The two most common highlights from reviewers are that users experience less aches and pains from it (especially compared to innerspring beds), and that the mattress keeps its shape nicely without forming indents. One said, "It's not too hard and not too soft," while another noted, "I am able to sleep more deeply on it." Just keep in mind: The brand claims to use cooling features, but it wasn't noticeable to some testers.

Tips from our experts: Users told us that earlier versions of this mattress sagged at the edges, but found that newer updates provided more edge support and it's no longer an issue.

Mattress

There are a lot of similarities between most mattress materials, but Purple is unique because of its GelFlex Grid — i.e. its elastic top layer that feels squishy yet surprisingly firm. It provides both support and pressure relief, along with excellent motion isolation and breathability.

Who it's best for: Hot sleepers thanks to its breathability, couples thanks to its motion isolation and heavier body weights thanks to its 600-pound capacity (or 300 pounds on each side). It's also good for people who are tired of the same old mattress feel and want to try something unique.

This version is the base model, which is coil-free and ships in a box for you to set up on your own. The brand also carries a Purple Plus mattress, which has an extra layer of foam and a softer feel than the original, plus hybrid variations that have individual coils for more firmness, bounce and air flow.

Tester notes: For starters, testers noted that the cooling features were obvious, saying it feels noticeably cooler than other beds they've owned and leads to better sleep. On top of that, our panelists swear it feels like the perfect combination of soft and firm. As one put it, "it's 'springy' and conforms to my body while still being supportive." Others describe it as feeling like "sleeping on air" and "like floating in every sleeping position." They also told us they can't feel their partners moving throughout the night thanks to its motion isolation. The main callout with this one is that several told us the delivery took longer than expected.

Tips from our experts: Avoid using a mattress pad or topper with this bed. While you can still use a thinner mattress protector to extend its life, you don't want any excess material getting in the way of the bed's cooling and performance features.

Green Mattress

If you prefer to skip memory foam and synthetic fabrics, this latex mattress is made of natural and organic materials. It's also certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) so you know the entire manufacturing process follows strict guidelines on the materials and ingredients used. The best part is that it doesn't skimp on quality by going green; in fact, it earned one of the highest scores for delivering quality sleep among our panel.

The mattress is on the firmer side (the brand calls it a 7 out of 10), but you can opt for a pillow-top for an extra cost that'll make it feel a bit more plush (which the brand calls a 6 out of 10). Avocado also stands out for its generous year-long return policy, whereas most brands offer around 100 days. This mattress ships for free for you to set up on your own, or you can pay a $249 fee to have it delivered and set up for you.

Who it's best for: Eco-conscious consumers that prefer organic materials over memory foam or anyone that enjoys the floating feel of latex.

Tester notes: This mattress proves you don't need to sacrifice performance for an organic mattress. Users told us they love sleeping on it and said it keeps their body weight evenly distributed. As one of our reviewers put it, "I like that it's made of organic and natural materials, that it's extremely comfortable, and that it's held up even after years." Users also said the brand's customer service is top notch and they had no issues to report.

Tips from our experts: Avocado is currently offering a $200 discount on this mattress with code SNOOZE. Also note: Some mattress brands that claim to be natural and organic are misleading. In reality, no memory foam mattress (or one with other synthetic materials) can be natural or organic. Make sure the entire mattress is certified organic from a trusted source, like this model.

Perfect Sleeper Mattress

This mattress is one of the most sought-after models online, and it's also one of the most commonly purchased beds on our panel of consumer testers. It feels almost customizable because there are a variety options to choose from, including six firmness levels and three foam levels for more pressure relief. The mattress gets delivered to your home through a delivery service — i.e. not in a box like many others that you buy online. You can find Serta mattresses at retailers all over the country so you have the option to try it before you buy.

Who it's best for: Shoppers who like having a variety of options to pick the best fit for their individual needs.

Tester notes: We received responses from well over 1,000 Serta owners in our latest call for feedback. The Perfect Sleeper model in particular received high ratings for support, though some long-term owners did complain that it hasn't held up as well as they hoped. Still, most were happy and users shared feedback like "I love the comfort. It supports my body and pressure points, giving a peaceful rest so that I feel recharged in the morning."

Tips from our experts Last year, Serta recalled select models from this line for failing to meet federal flammability standards. You can find out more details from the CPSC recall announcement.

360 p6 Smart Bed

Perfect for couples (especially ones that don't agree on firmness), Sleep Number mattresses are filled with adjustable air chambers so each side of the bed can be customized to whatever firmness level you choose. Plus, biometric sensors in the mattress can tell if you've switched positions and it'll automatically adjust so you stay at your preferred firmness all night. The mattress also has sleep tracking capabilities to give you feedback through its app.

While the air chambers and high-tech features are available in all Sleep Number mattresses, this model also includes a five-inch layer of foam for pressure relief and support. You can purchase the mattress with or without a coordinating base, which allows you to change the bed's position. Full service delivery costs an extra $249, but includes assembly and mattress removal, along with technicians reviewing how the bed works and answering any of your questions. Timing is also flexible so you can choose a delivery slot that works best with your schedule.

Who it's best for: Couples with different sleeping preferences and anyone looking for adjustable features. It's perfect for people who are willing to make a long-term investment in their bed.

Tester notes: It's expensive, but Sleep Number got high scores for comfort, support and sleep quality from both our testers and more than 300 users on our survey panel. Even those that had the bed for close to 10 years gave it rave reviews, showing that it's a worthy investment in the long run. One Sleep Number owner told us, “I was initially hesitant because of the cost, but as soon as I laid on it, it changed my mind,” while another said “I really feel like it gives me a custom sleep experience."

Tips from our experts: Sleep Number mattresses are backed by the prestigious Good Housekeeping Seal so you know it's been heavily vetted by our Lab experts.

How we test mattresses

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab analysts start by reviewing the bed's materials, specifications, added features and any noteworthy claims. We also vet the brands to check for common complaints and make sure they're trustworthy. Sometimes mattress brands do a great job of marketing to get on your radar, but we've eliminated ones that have red flags for quality or customer service.

Next, product experts and consumer testers get hands-on with the mattresses for setting up and sleep testing. We ask for feedback after several weeks, then again after extended periods to see how the mattresses hold up over time. We also survey Good Housekeeping readers for additional feedback on the mattresses they own. In the past few years, we've surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners and reviewed responses to more than 170,000 questions.

The responses from our panel include both quantitative scores and qualitative feedback, looking at all aspects from ease of ordering and set up, to comfort and support, to how well the mattresses have held up over time. We continue to update this page as we receive new insights and new mattresses are introduced to the market and tested by our experts. Between our evaluations, consumer testing and survey responses, here's how we evaluate the mattresses:

• Ordering and delivery: Users tell us whether the mattress was easy to order and if it arrived quickly. They also have the opportunity to share any potential problems that came up in this process and how those issues were resolved.

• Set-up: Whether DIY or delivery service, survey respondents let us know their opinion on the process and whether the mattress took proper shape in a reasonable amount of time.

• Firmness level: Testers give the mattress a firmness rating. This is important because sometimes the brand's claimed rating doesn't match what users feel in real use.

• Edge support: Reviewers sit on the edge of the bed and note whether it sinks under their weight or holds up to pressure.

• Comfort and support: Our testers rate the mattresses for comfort and support, as well as how well they liked sleeping on it initially then over an extended period.

• Temperature regulation: Regardless of cooling claims, we ask reviewers to rate how comfortable their body temperature remained while sleeping on the mattress.

• Sleep quality: Final scores check whether the mattress affect sleep quality and whether or not users wake up feeling sore. Our respondents also give the mattress an overall satisfaction score and can compare the mattress to previous beds they've slept on.

• Additional feedback: Reviewers let us know any specific likes, dislikes and additional comments they have about their experiences with the mattresses.

Which mattress material is best?

Memory foam and innerspring mattresses are the two most common types of mattresses on the market, but it's really a matter of personal preference. You can find mattresses at every firmness level and price for either material. Here's what to keep in mind for each:

• Innerspring or coil mattresses are primarily made up of metal springs on the inside. They're usually firmer and have more bounce, and tend to be more durable than other mattress types. Plus, innersprings allow for more breathability so they often sleep cooler.

• Memory foam mattresses are made of synthetic foams and provide exceptional pressure relief. They adapt to your body shape feel like you're being cradled, making them great for side sleepers or people with back pain. Just note that memory foam is known to trap in heat.

• Latex mattresses are similar to memory foam, but they're more resilient than foam so there's less of a sinking-in feel. Latex is made from the sap of rubber trees and may be used in organic mattresses, so they're also ideal for eco-conscious shoppers. The downside is latex is typically more expensive.

• Hybrid mattresses use a combination of memory foam or latex and innersprings so you don't have to pick just one. The surface uses foam for comfort, while the bottom incorporates the coils for support. Hybrids tend to be more expensive than their all-foam counterparts.

How to shop for mattresses

Choosing your best mattress is a personal decision – i.e. there isn't one model that's best for everyone. Here's what to consider as you shop:

✔️ Sleep position: The goal is to keep your spine in neutral alignment, so factoring how you sleep can help narrow down your search.

• Stomach sleepers need a firm mattress.

• Side sleepers should opt for a softer surface to avoid stress on the pressure points like your shoulders, hips and knees.

• Back sleepers and anyone who changes positions would fall somewhere in between at a medium firmness.

✔️ Body type: Heavy people need a firmer bed for support, while lightweight frames are better suited with a softer mattress. Take into account both your weight and sleep position when deciding on the right firmness level.

✔️ Back pain: If you suffer from lower or upper back pain, look for a pressure-relieving mattress with all foam or a hybrid of foam and coils. Medical experts also advise to look for medium firmness for a balance of cushioning and support.

✔️ Temperature: Hot sleepers or anyone dealing with night sweats would benefit from a mattress with cooling properties. Memory foam tends to sleep hot, so look for a mattress with coils for airflow or cooling technology like copper particles, gel or phase change technology that's added to the foam.

✔️ Trial period: It's difficult to know whether a mattress is a good fit without actually sleeping on it. Fortunately, most mattress companies offer an any-reason return period for at least 100 nights. Before you buy, check whether there are any hidden return fees and how you go about making the return to avoid any headaches later on.

✔️ Certifications: It's important to know the difference between the various emblems you see when you shop since they often get mistaken for meaning the mattress is natural or organic. Here's a breakdown of the most common certifications:

• CertiPUR-US: This certifies whether any foam in the mattress is made without certain harmful chemicals and has been tested for low VOC emissions.

• OEKO-TEX: The Standard 100 by Oeko-TEX shows whether any fabric (like the outer cover) has been tested to ensure there are no unsafe levels of known harmful chemicals.

• GOTS: The Global Organic Textile Standard shows that the mattress follows strict standards throughout the entire production process. This is the gold standard when it comes to picking out an organic mattress made of natural materials. Just be aware that this certification is commonly misused by brands who use just one organic component (e.g., an organic cotton outer cover), so you can always check the GOTS public database to be sure.

• GOLS: The Global Organic Latex Standard is similar to GOTS, but it shows that any latex is certified organic. You'll often see these two organic certifications used together.

How much should a good mattress cost?

Our evaluations show that a good mattress typically costs between $1,000-$2,000 for Queen-size (which is the most popular mattress size on the market). Unfortunately, we've seen mattress prices increase across brands due to supply chain issues in recent years. That being said, you can still find a good model for under $1,000 (and even some mattresses under $500), and there are plenty of picks over $2,000 that are certainly worth the splurge.

When is the best time to buy a mattress?

Holiday weekends known for their sales are ideal times to buy your mattress. Brands tend to get the most competitive with their offers during these peak shopping times, so you can expect to see great deals. You can still find discount codes and coupons throughout the year, but the timing will be less predictable and less consistent among companies.

The best holidays for mattress sales include Presidents Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day and Thanksgiving (i.e. Black Friday and Cyber Monday). The type of sales during these holidays will vary by brand. Even within a brand, the sales may vary year to year, but you can expect to consistently find discounts during these holidays.

How long should a mattress last?

While there's no set expiration date on your bed, you should expect a good mattress to last at least 8-10 years. But instead of following a timeline, focus on warning signs that it's time to replace your mattress — like lumps or indents — and whether your mattress is causing difficulty sleeping or pain upon waking.

If you need a quick fix or want to change the feel of your bed, a mattress topper is the easiest way to add a layer of comfort and support. It's also more affordable than buying an entirely new mattress.

Also keep in mind: The better you take care of your mattress, the longer it'll last. Make sure to use a mattress protector to protect it from things like allergens, dust, spills and wear and tear. And it's a good idea to clean your mattress every few months to keep it fresh.

What's the best place to buy a mattress?

When it comes to where to buy, you have the option to shop for mattress in stores or online, along with whether to shop from a major retailer or directly from a brand. Each option has its own pros and cons, and it's ultimately a matter of personal preference. Here's what to keep in mind as you shop:

• Buying a mattress in stores: This biggest benefit is that going in a physical store allows you to experience the mattress firsthand to get a sense of how it feels. The downside is that it can potentially be confusing and more difficult to compare specs and pricing across models. Plus, lying on a mattress for a few minutes is not a clear indicator of how it'll perform overnight.

• Buying a mattress online: Shopping through websites can be less overwhelming than shopping in stores, plus it's easier to compare models across various sites. Most online mattress sites offer generous trial periods so you can ensure it's a good fit (and get a refund if it's not).

• Buying from a mattress store: Some mattress retailers are able to offer their own discounts, shipping services and return policies. For instance, you can buy mattresses on Amazon with Prime Shipping — i.e., the mattress can be at your doorstep within days and you know exactly when to expect it.

• Buying direct from the brand: Some brands only sell through their own website, and other times it may be easier to work directly with the brand's customer service for delivery and potential returns. Just note that brands sometimes promote direct-to-consumer models as a way to save you money. This can be misleading and isn't necessarily true, so don't buy direct for this reason alone.

What does a mattress warranty cover?

Warranties are essentially guarantees against defective mattresses. The idea behind the mattress warranty is that if something is wrong due to the manufacturer — not the consumer — then you should be covered. That being said, it may be difficult to prove that damages like sagging, idents and other signs of wear are a defect. Rather than focus on warranties for the individual mattresses in this article, we highlight the trial periods so that you know whether you are covered by an any-reason return policy.

Why you can trust Good Housekeeping

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding testing, including mattresses. She has been actively research, analyzing and reporting on mattresses since online bed-shopping hit the mainstream in 2014, and has extensively reviewed dozens of models by meeting with brands, surveying real mattress owners and conducting consumer tests. Lexie has also personally tried most of the models featured in this article.

Our most recent mattress test, which involved evaluating over 40 mattresses, was managed by textiles product reviews analyst Grace Wu. Grace regularly evaluates and writes about mattresses of all kinds, including hybrid mattresses, mattresses for adjustable beds and smart mattresses. She holds a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University.