Choosing the right mattress can feel overwhelming. Between confusing firmness scales, marketing claims, and “best mattress” lists that recommend everything, it’s hard to know what actually matters.
This guide was created by a former top-performing mattress sales professional to help you choose the right mattress the first time—without sales pressure or hype. Every recommendation below is based on real-world performance, common return reasons, and what actually works for different sleep styles and body types.
There is no single “best mattress” for everyone. Instead, this page highlights the best mattresses for specific needs, so you can quickly find what works for you.
How We Test Mattresses
Our reviews are based on firsthand, hands-on testing and real-world sleep experience. We evaluate mattresses using consistent criteria, including pressure relief, spinal alignment, motion isolation, temperature regulation, and durability. We do not use any fancy gimmicks, proprietary scoring systems, or manufacturer-provided ratings. Each mattress is tested the same way so comparisons are fair, transparent, and based on actual performance, helping readers make informed, trustworthy buying decisions. Read our full mattress testing methodology!
Table of Contents
How We Choose the Best Mattresses
- Comfort & pressure relief
- Support & spinal alignment
- Cooling & materials
- Durability
- Sleep position compatibility
| Mattress | Best Pick | Type | Firmness (1-10) | Best For | Price Tier | Key Features | Trial | Warranty | Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Midnight Luxe | Best for Couples | Hybrid (foam + coils) | 6-7 | Couples + side sleepers | $$$ | Plush pillow top feel; zoned lumbar support; strong motion isolation | 100 nights | 15 years | Check Price |
| Casper Dream Hybrid | Best Balanced Hybrid | Hybrid | 6 | Combination Sleepers | $$ | Adaptive foam feel; balanced support;good pressure relief | 100 nights | 10 years | Check Price |
| Lull Mattress | Best Budget Option | All-foam | 5-6 | Budget shoppers + side sleepers | $ | Soft pressure relief; simple foam build; great value | 100 nights | 10 years | Check Price |
| Helix Midnight | Best Overall Value | Hybrid | 6 | Side/back combo sleepers | $$ | Balanced medium feel; strong pressure relief; great value | 100 nights | 10 years | Check Price |
| Purple Restore | Best Cooling Feel | Hybrid (Grid + coils) | 6 | Hot sleepers + combo sleepers | $$$ | Grid-style pressure relief; high airflow; unique responsive feel | 100 nights | 10 years | Check Price |
| Saatva Classic | Best Luxury Innerspring | Innerspring (coil-on-coil) | 6-7 | Back sleepers + edge support | $$$$ | Strong edge support; responsive hotel-like feel; multiple firmness | 365 nights | Lifetime | Check Price |
Best Overall Mattress
After reviewing over 50 mattresses in 2025 Elite Sleep Reviews came up with the winner of the Best Overall Mattress!
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a standout choice for sleepers who want a balanced hybrid feel with targeted support. Its zoned coil system delivers extra reinforcement under the hips and lower back, which helps maintain a neutral spine — a key benefit for both back and stomach sleepers. The plush Euro-top and premium comfort foams offer pressure relief without excessive sink, while the coil layer enhances airflow and responsiveness. This combination makes the Midnight Luxe a great all-around mattress for those who want supportive performance without feeling “stuck” in foam.
👉 Best for: Back & stomach sleepers, combination sleepers, couples
👉 Firmness: Medium-firm
Best Hybrid Mattress for Balanced Comfort
Casper Dream Hybrid is a strong choice for sleepers who want a balanced hybrid feel that combines pressure relief with responsive support. Its medium-plush comfort works well for side and combination sleepers who want cushioning without excessive sink.
The hybrid construction improves airflow and durability compared to all-foam models, while zoned support helps maintain spinal alignment. It’s especially well-suited for couples and sleepers who want comfort without committing to a very soft or very firm mattress.
👉 Best for: Side sleepers, combo sleepers, couples
👉 Firmness: Medium-plush (5.5–6.5/10)
f you’re comparing hybrid options, you can also see how it stacks up in our Casper Hybrid vs Casper Dream Hybrid comparison.
Best All-Foam Mattress: Lull Mattress
The Lull Mattress is a balanced all-foam mattress that offers reliable pressure relief, strong motion isolation, and a medium feel that works well for side and back sleepers. It’s a solid option for shoppers who want memory-foam comfort without an overly soft or sinking feel.
Best for:
- Side sleepers
- Back sleepers at average weights
- Couples who want motion isolation
- Budget-conscious shoppers
Not ideal for:
- Strict stomach sleepers
- Very hot sleepers
- Heavier sleepers who need extra support
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers need a mattress that relieves pressure at the shoulders and hips while still supporting the spine. On the sales floor, side sleepers were also the group most likely to return a mattress that was too firm or didn’t have enough pressure relief.
The best mattresses for side sleepers typically have:
- A medium to medium-soft feel
- Enough cushioning to prevent shoulder and hip pain
- Supportive materials underneath to avoid sagging over time
- Feel: Medium
- Best for: Most side sleepers, especially couples
- Why it works: Balanced pressure relief and support without feeling too soft
Helix Midnight is one of the most consistently successful mattresses for side sleepers because it cushions pressure points while still keeping the spine aligned. It’s a strong choice for sleepers who want comfort without sinking too deeply.
👉 Best for average-weight side sleepers who want a balanced feel.
Best Mattress for Back and Stomach Sleepers
Helix Midnight Luxe
Best hybrid for balanced support + pressure relief
- Firmness: Medium-firm
- Type: Hybrid
- Best for: Combination sleepers, back + stomach
- Strong zoned support for spinal alignment
- Good cooling performance
- Excellent motion isolation for couples
Why it works: The hybrid coil system provides lift and lumbar support, while memory and comfort foams cushion the shoulders without letting the hips sink.
📌 Ideal for: Back sleepers who want balanced support and stomach sleepers who want pressure management.
Best Cooling Mattress
Sleeping hot is one of the most common mattress complaints. Unfortunately, many “cooling” claims are more marketing than reality. On the sales floor, I saw many returns from customers who bought memory foam mattresses expecting them to sleep cool—only to overheat at night.
The best cooling mattresses focus on:
- Airflow (usually through coils)
- Breathable materials
- Temperature-neutral foams, not just gel infusions
Purple Restore — Best Cooling Mattress
The Purple Restore earns the top spot for cooling performance thanks to its innovative open-grid Hyper-Elastic Polymer™ comfort layer, which allows air to circulate freely throughout the night. This design pulls heat away from the body rather than trapping it, making the Restore one of the best options for hot sleepers who still want pressure relief and support. Its responsive grid adapts to your shape without excessive sink, so you stay lifted and cool regardless of sleep position. Whether you sleep warm naturally or live in a hot climate, the Purple Restore provides noticeable airflow and temperature regulation that most foam and traditional hybrid mattresses can’t match.
👉 Best for: Hot sleepers, couples, pressure relief without heat
👉 Firmness (approx): Medium
Tips for Sleeping Cooler at Night
If you tend to sleep hot:
- Avoid dense, traditional memory foam mattresses
- Look for hybrid or coil-based designs
- Use breathable bedding and mattress protectors
- Make sure your foundation allows airflow
Cooling performance depends on more than just the mattress—but the right design makes a big difference.
Best Luxury Mattress
Saatva Classic — Best Luxury Mattress
The Saatva Classic earns the title of Best Luxury Mattress for its refined craftsmanship, premium materials, and superb balance of comfort and support. Featuring a traditional innerspring design with a plush euro-top and zoned lumbar support, the Saatva Classic delivers luxurious cushioning without sacrificing spinal alignment — a combination that appeals to sleepers who want both softness and structure. Its reinforced perimeter edge support and breathable coil construction provide excellent durability and airflow, while the premium cover and thoughtful design elevate the overall sleep experience. Whether you prefer a classic hotel-like feel or need supportive comfort for multiple sleep positions, the Saatva Classic delivers a high-end sleep experience that justifies its premium status.
👉 Best for: Luxury comfort seekers, back sleepers, couples
👉 Firmness (approx): Luxury Firm (7–8/10)
How to Choose the Right Mattress
Choosing the right mattress depends on your sleep position, comfort preferences, body weight, and temperature needs. No single mattress works for everyone, which is why understanding a few key factors can make a big difference in how well you sleep long-term.
Start by considering firmness, as this plays a major role in spinal alignment and pressure relief. Side sleepers often benefit from softer comfort layers that cushion the shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers usually need firmer support to keep the spine properly aligned. Mattress construction also matters — all-foam beds tend to offer deeper contouring and motion isolation, while hybrid and innerspring mattresses provide added support, airflow, and responsiveness.
Other factors like cooling performance, edge support, and motion isolation can be especially important for hot sleepers, couples, or those who share a bed. Finally, look for a mattress with a generous trial period and warranty, which allows time to adjust and ensures long-term value. By focusing on how you sleep rather than marketing claims, you can choose a mattress that delivers lasting comfort and support.
Best Mattress FAQ’s
What mattress firmness is best for most people?
For most sleepers, a medium to medium-firm mattress provides the best balance of comfort and support. This firmness range helps maintain proper spinal alignment while still offering enough pressure relief for the shoulders and hips.
Is a hybrid or foam mattress better?
Neither is universally better — it depends on your needs. All-foam mattresses are great for pressure relief and motion isolation, while hybrid mattresses offer stronger support, better airflow, and easier movement thanks to their coil systems.
How do I know if a mattress is too soft or too firm?
If your hips sink too deeply or you wake up with lower-back pain, the mattress may be too soft. If you feel pressure buildup at the shoulders or hips or wake up sore, it may be too firm. Proper alignment should feel supportive, not restrictive.
What mattress is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers typically do best on medium to medium-soft mattresses that cushion the shoulders and hips while keeping the spine aligned. Pressure relief is especially important for this sleep position.
What mattress is best for back and stomach sleepers?
Back and stomach sleepers usually need medium-firm to firm support to prevent the hips from sinking and pulling the spine out of alignment. Hybrids and firmer foam mattresses often work best.
Do cooling mattresses really work?
Yes, but effectiveness varies. Mattresses with coils, latex, or breathable grid designs generally sleep cooler than dense memory foam. Cooling covers and airflow-focused construction help regulate temperature throughout the night.
How long should a mattress last?
Most quality mattresses last 7–10 years, depending on materials, body weight, and usage. Hybrids and latex mattresses often last longer than lower-density foam beds.
Is a longer sleep trial better?
A longer trial can be helpful, but what matters most is having enough time to adjust. Most sleepers know within 30–60 nights whether a mattress is a good fit, but longer trials provide added peace of mind.