Every sleeper has a different idea of what makes a mattress comfortable, so the key to finding a compatible bed is understanding your sleep needs based on body type, sleeping position, and personal preferences.
Most Comfortable Mattress
Helix Midnight Luxe
The Helix Midnight Luxe offers a plush pillow-top surface with support from a robust coil system. This model has just the right amount of contouring and responsiveness to cradle the body without sacrificing sturdiness.
To help you identify the most comfortable bed for you, we’ll explore some of our top mattress picks and the types of sleepers they’re best for. We’ll also cover different factors that can affect a bed’s comfort level, ways to make your current mattress more comfortable, and points to consider when shopping for a new bed.
For an even more comprehensive guide to choosing a mattress, check out the best mattresses of 2024. We also offer guides that cover specific sleep needs, including the best mattress for back pain and the best mattress for side sleepers.
Find Your Perfect Mattress
We know mattresses work differently for different types of sleepers. Use the filters below to help narrow down your options for your best bed.
Read on to see why the following five options made our top picks list of 2024’s most comfortable mattresses.
Sleep Doctor’s Picks
Best Overall Mattress
Helix Midnight Luxe
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a high-profile hybrid with a balanced medium firm (6) feel. A thick comfort system helps prevent pressure buildup, while the pocketed coil core keeps your body on an even plane. This balance of contouring and support best suited our back and stomach sleepers.
Buy from Helix
Back Sleepers
Medium Firm
Plush, Supportive Surface
Fair Value
Pros
- Pillow-top design and foam comfort layers create a plush, cradling surface that relieves pressure buildup
- Sturdy pocketed coils are zoned to enhance support and pressure relief in different areas of the body
- Foam layers reduce motion transfer
Cons
- Sleepers who overheat easily may need to upgrade to the pricier cooling cover
- Back and stomach sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds may prefer a firmer mattress
The Helix Midnight Luxe has a well-rounded design that’s versatile enough to suit many different types of sleepers. Its hybrid construction prioritizes pressure relief without sacrificing support. With above-average durability, the Midnight Luxe is an excellent pick for shoppers who want a comfortable mattress that’s also long-lasting.
Why We Like It
Side sleepers on our team weighing between 130 and 230 pounds noted that the bed’s medium firm (6) feel provided an excellent balance between gentle contouring and sturdy support. Back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also reported feeling comfortably supported, although heavier individuals within these sleep position groups felt that they sank too deeply into the memory foam comfort layer.
How Does It Feel?
The mattress is encased in a soft, stretchy, breathable Tencel cover with a plush pillow-top surface. The comfort system has two layers: one made from memory foam and the other from polyfoam. Our tests showed that the memory foam contoured closely to our bodies, cradling our hips and joints to alleviate pressure point discomfort. The polyfoam layer added cushioning and kept us from sinking too deeply into the support core. The support core contains pocketed coils that give the mattress greater breathability and bounce without too much noise. We found that very little motion transfers across the bed, since each coil moves independently. The coil core has a reinforced perimeter to increase edge support, allowing our testers to use the entire mattress surface. A final layer of polyfoam serves as a base to support the coils as they compress.
Best Value Mattress
Nectar Mattress
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
A competitive price-point, year-long sleep trial, and lifetime warranty make the Nectar Mattress a great option for value seekers. The mattress also has great overall performance for an all-foam model, thanks to its firmer-than-average feel. Most of our testers weighing up to 230 pounds felt comfortable.
Buy from Nectar
Side Sleepers
Medium Firm
Close-Conforming Foam
Good Value
Pros
- Medium firm all-foam design relieves pressure buildup while maintaining support
- Memory foam helps prevent motion transfer
- Lengthy 365-night sleep trial
Cons
- Back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may find the surface too soft
- Foam might release temporary off-gassing odors after unboxing
The all-foam Nectar Mattress delivers top-notch pressure relief and motion isolation at an affordable price-point. For people seeking a sturdy, crowd-pleasing all-foam mattress at an approachable price, the Nectar fits the bill.
Why We Like It
While the Nectar received good overall marks from the majority of our team, some testers enjoyed it more than others. Side sleepers in particular praised its pressure relief, while back and stomach sleepers weighing less than 230 pounds also found that it offered a comfortable sleep experience. However, our stomach and back sleepers over 230 pounds noted that it felt too plush for their tastes. The Nectar stood out during motion isolation tests because of the close contouring of its memory foam. The thick foam layers prevent vibrations from moving across the mattress, allowing couples to change positions without waking each other. Sleepers with pressure-induced aches and pains may also appreciate the mattress’ contouring.
How Does It Feel?
Each of the Nectar’s three layers has a distinct purpose. The uppermost layer is made of gel-infused memory foam designed to contour closely to your body without absorbing too much heat. Our testing team observed that the polyfoam layer beneath is slightly more responsive and works to limit sinkage. Together, these two layers disperse your weight to help prevent pressure points. The support core consists of 7 inches of polyfoam that provide stability and durability. This polyfoam is firm enough to help keep your spine aligned while you sleep. The mattress cover uses a blend of polyester, nylon, and polyethylene, which is designed to wick away heat.
Best Luxury Mattress
Saatva Latex Hybrid
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a great choice for eco-conscious shoppers willing to spend a bit more on a mattress made with certified organic materials. Organic cotton, wool, and Talalay latex create a comfort system with responsive contouring that our testers across sleeping positions.
Buy from Saatva
Combination Sleepers
Medium Firm
Responsive Latex
Fair Value
Pros
- Latex and wool comfort layers over pocketed coils create a balance of responsiveness and cushioning
- Breathable materials excel at temperature regulation
- Latex comfort layer features five firmness zones designed to promote spinal alignment
Cons
- Above-average price-point
- May produce too much motion transfer for some co-sleepers
Saatva is known for crafting luxury mattresses using high-quality materials, and the Saatva Latex Hybrid is no exception. This model uses wool, latex, and pocketed coils to provide responsive pressure relief. Combining breathable latex and high-quality pocketed coils with luxury touches like a hand-tufted cover and zoned construction, the Saatva Latex Hybrid is an appealing choice for those who are willing to pay a little extra for comfort and support.
Why We Like It
During tests in our sleep lab, our team took note of the bed’s sturdy perimeter coils that enhance edge support and provide stability when getting in and out of bed. Our tests also showed that the Latex Hybrid’s breathable comfort layers and coil-based support core do a great job of regulating temperature by promoting airflow and allowing excess body heat to escape. The Saatva Latex Hybrid’s combination of edge support and responsiveness make it easy to move around on, both during sleep and during sex. Additionally, the individually wrapped coils cut down on motion transfer, and a cotton and wool base limits shifting. The mattress received stellar ratings from the stomach and back sleepers on our team who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. They noted that it provided just the right amount of cushioning without sacrificing support to the midsection. It was least popular among team members who weigh less than 130 pounds and sleep primarily on their side. These sleepers didn’t receive sufficient pressure relief and said they would prefer a slightly softer bed with greater contouring.
How Does It Feel?
The hybrid construction of this medium firm (6) mattress begins with a hand-tufted, GOTS-certified organic cotton cover. Next, a layer of GOTS-certified organic wool wicks away moisture and helps regulate the surface temperature. The comfort system continues with a 3-inch layer of Talalay latex that has five firmness zones designed to support the spine. Talalay latex contours gently but is typically bouncier than synthetic foam, which was clear in our mattress tests, with team members noting that the surface of the Saatva Latex Hybrid was easy to move on. A zoned pocketed coil core provides extra pushback beneath the heavier parts of your body to help keep your spine aligned. The increased lumbar support may be particularly beneficial for people who experience back pain.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Layla Memory Foam Mattress
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Layla Memory Foam Mattress is an all-foam flippable model with two distinct firmnesses: medium soft (4) and firm (7). Both sides offer great contouring for sore joints, helping to reduce aches and pains in the morning. Thanks to the versatile construction, this model felt comfortable for most of our side sleepers.
Buy from Layla
Couples
Medium Firm, Firm Sides
Close-Conforming Foam
Good Value
Pros
- Flippable design with two firmness options
- Memory foam comfortably cushions the hips and shoulders of side sleepers
- Softer side has above-average pressure relief and motion isolation
Cons
- Co-sleepers may have a hard time deciding which side to use
- Foam may emit a temporary smell for the first few days
The flippable Layla Memory Foam Mattress has an all-foam construction that relieves pressure points for side sleepers across all weight groups. The mattress is relatively lightweight, making it easier to switch between its medium soft (4) and firm (7) surfaces. If you’re not sure what firmness is right for you — or if you’re seeking a versatile mattress for a guest room — the Layla Memory Foam’s reversible design gives you two options in one well-constructed bed.
Why We Like It
Our testing team includes people of all weight groups and preferred sleeping positions. Side sleepers weighing less than 230 pounds opted for the enhanced contouring of the medium soft (4) side of the mattress, while those over that weight felt better supported by the firm (7) side. Though there were differing opinions among our lighter back and stomach sleepers about their preferred firmness level, testers over 130 pounds who primarily sleep in those positions were in unanimous agreement that the firm side is better.
How Does It Feel?
Both surfaces use memory foam to alleviate pressure buildup. A copper gel infusion in the material is designed to transfer heat away from the body and inhibit odor-causing microbial growth. The medium soft side has a 3-inch layer of memory foam layer that provides deeper contouring. An additional layer of zoned polyfoam enhances the medium soft side’s cradling and support. On the firm surface, a 1-inch layer of memory foam sits directly on top of the polyfoam core, offering slight cushioning with minimal sinkage. The mattress includes a cover that’s designed to feel cool. Combined with the copper gel-infused memory foam, the Layla Memory Foam Mattress has enough features engineered for temperature regulation to appeal to hot sleepers who prefer foam. Its flippable design is also ideal for sleepers with changing firmness preferences.
Best Mattress for Couples
Pillar Split Firmness Mattress
The Sleep Doctor’s Review
The Pillar Split Firmness Mattress features a medium soft feel on one side of the bed and a medium firm feel on the other. This dual-firmness design makes the mattress especially well-suited to co-sleepers who have unique firmness preferences due to differences in body type or sleep position.
Buy from Pillar
Couples
Soft, Medium Firm Sides
Plush, Supportive Surface
Fair Value
Pros
- Provides the benefits of a traditional split mattress without the potentially bothersome gap in the middle
- Distinct medium soft and medium firm sides offer appeal to co-sleepers with differing sleep preferences
- Zoned coils distribute body weight evenly and promote ease of movement
Cons
- Couples with different firmness needs who don’t want to swap sides can’t rotate the mattress, which may limit its lifespan
- Foam might produce off-gassing odors at first
Finding the right mattress can be difficult for couples with different firmness needs — especially if they’re shopping with limited budgets. The Pillar Split Firmness Mattress is designed with a plush, adaptive medium soft (4) feel on the left side, and a more supportive medium firm (6) feel on the right. If this setup doesn’t correspond to your preferred sides of the bed, simply rotate the mattress after unboxing it. While the Split Firmness Mattress is on the expensive side, it may be a wise long-term investment if one or both of you loses sleep due to not feeling comfortable in bed.
Why We Like It
The Split Firmness Mattress’ design is an asset for anyone whose preferred firmness is different from their sleep partner’s. Our team found that the left-hand side was most comfortable for side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds, while the firmer right side accommodated people in these weight groups up to 230 pounds. Stomach sleepers under 130 pounds also preferred the latter. Thick coils in a zoned configuration help ensure good ease of movement and little to no resistance when you change sleep positions. Since the coils promote steady airflow, the mattress should also sleep fairly cool. If you need extra temperature control, you can upgrade to a cover made of GlacioTex phase change material that dissipates body heat on contact.
How Does It Feel?
Our testers noticed deep contouring on the medium soft side. Since the comfort system has multiple foam layers, you’ll notice close cushioning and a slow response to movement. The medium firm side is also somewhat adaptive, but should provide adequate support for people who weigh up to 230 pounds — side and back sleepers in particular. Transitional polyfoam provides additional cushioning while maintaining an even surface for your body. The coils are zoned to push back against the extra weight from your midsection and cradle lighter areas of the body. Perimeter reinforcement also helps ensure minimal sinkage when you lie close to the edges of your mattress or get in and out of bed.
When it comes to mattresses, comfort is a matter of finding that perfect balance between support and cushioning. Everyone has their own idea of balance, but I found the Helix Midnight Luxe has an especially well-rounded design that should appeal to lots of sleepers — especially anyone looking for a middle-of-the-road firmness level.
What Makes a Mattress Comfortable?
A comfortable mattress is one that offers the right balance of cushioning and support for your sleeping position and body weight. Personal preferences also play a role in choosing the most comfortable mattress. For example, some sleepers enjoy a responsive surface while others prefer the cradling feel of memory foam.
Comfortable Mattress Types
Mattress type is determined by the materials used in a bed’s construction. We’ll explain the most common types of mattresses and how their materials affect the feel and comfort of the bed.
| Mattress Type | Description |
|---|---|
Foam | Foam mattresses typically feature memory foam or polyfoam layers in the comfort system and high-density polyfoam in the support core. This type of mattress often hugs the body and offers strong pressure relief, though foam quality can vary greatly between models. |
Innerspring | Traditional innerspring mattresses contain a connected system of coils under a thin layer of padding. The result is a bouncy, supportive surface that offers little in the way of cushioning or contouring. Many modern mattresses labeled as innerspring incorporate hybrid mattress elements to enhance comfort. |
Hybrid | Hybrid beds consist of comfort layers — usually foam or latex — over a coil support system. This type of mattress typically balances cushioning on the surface with sturdy support from the coils. Hybrids are generally bouncier than all-foam mattresses. |
Latex | Latex is a durable, often all-natural material that generally provides a supportive and responsive surface. Latex mattresses tend to conform less closely than foam models and are typically more expensive. |
| Airbed | Not to be confused with temporary air mattresses, airbeds are constructed with comfort layers atop inflatable air chambers. You can adjust the firmness of the mattress by using a remote or app to add or remove air from the chambers. Some airbeds have separate controls for each side designed for couples with different firmness needs. |
Determining the Right Firmness Level
Choosing the right firmness for your bed is crucial for comfortable sleep. When considering firm versus soft mattresses, keep in mind that a comfortable mattress firmness is subjective. How a mattress feels depends on your body type as well as your sleeping position.
Heavier people compress mattress layers more deeply, so even a medium firm mattress may feel too soft. On the other hand, lightweight sleepers may find that the same mattress offers just the right amount of support. Side sleepers tend to prefer softer, more conforming mattresses, while back and stomach sleepers generally need more support and gravitate toward firmer mattresses.
What Else Should You Consider in a Comfortable Mattress?
Beyond overall feel, there are several other important factors that can help you zero in on the most comfortable mattress.
Spinal Alignment
Mattresses that promote proper spinal alignment should distribute your body weight evenly and deliver ample support to your lumbar region. Improper spinal alignment can lead to discomfort and back pain.
Temperature Control
Temperature control refers to how well a bed regulates heat on the mattress surface. A mattress with poor temperature control may result in overheating, night sweats, and sleep disruptions. Some materials like latex and wool are naturally breathable, while foam has a tendency to trap heat. Many manufacturers infuse foams with cooling gels to mitigate heat retention. Some brands also incorporate breathable or specialized cooling covers to reduce the potential for overheating.
Partner Preferences
If you sleep with a partner, you’ll need to take both of your preferences into account when choosing a mattress. Many co-sleepers reach a compromise by picking a mattress with a middle-of-the-road feel. However, if you and your partner have very different sleep needs, you may want to consider a split king mattress with different firmness levels on each side.
Sleep Trial and Warranty
Many online mattress companies offer a sleep trial that lets you try out the mattress for a specified time period and return it if you’re not satisfied. Warranties protect the mattress against manufacturer defects and may span anywhere from a year to a lifetime. However, most policies do not cover damage due to negligence, and many require that you use a compatible bed base.
Policies for sleep trials and warranties vary by company. We suggest reading the terms carefully before making your purchase.
Video: How to Choose the Best Bed for You
Watch our video to learn more about how to find the right mattress.
How to Make Your Mattress Feel More Comfortable
If you’re not ready to purchase a new mattress, there are a number of smaller steps you can take to make your current bed more comfortable.
- Add a mattress topper: A mattress topper can be placed atop your existing mattress to add firmness to a mattress that feels too soft or plushness to a bed that feels too firm. Toppers are also a good temporary solution for improving comfort on a mattress that is showing signs of wear.
- Buy comfy bedding: Quality sheets, blankets, and pillows can enhance your sleep experience by providing a pleasing texture, regulating temperature, or, in the case of the best pillows, promoting better sleep posture.
- Rotate your mattress regularly: By rotating your mattress, you spread the wear across both ends of the bed, which may help prolong its lifespan and performance. A good rule of thumb is to rotate your mattress once or twice a year.
- Break in your mattress: Some mattresses — especially memory foam and hybrid models — need some time to break in before they reach optimal comfort.
- Use an appropriate base: A sturdy and supportive bed base can help ensure your mattress performs as intended. Some mattress companies stipulate which types of bases are compatible with a particular mattress model, so it’s a good idea to check the warranty before making a purchase.
Discover More Mattress Solutions
If you’d like to explore more mattress options, our testing team has put together several other guides, including pages geared toward specific types of sleepers.
How We Test
Our mattress picks are the result of extensive in-house testing of hundreds of models. We use a rigorous testing methodology that relies on testing tools like body-mapping sensors, heat guns, and VOC detectors. To determine the most comfortable mattresses for different types of sleepers, we assembled a testing team that represents a range of body types, sleeping positions, and sleep preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most comfortable mattress is one that balances support and cushioning in a way that suits your particular body type and sleeping position. The ideal mattress for each sleeper varies according to these factors as well as personal sleep preferences.
Comfort is subjective, so determining the most comfortable mattress will depend on a sleeper’s unique needs and preferences. Sleepers who prefer a conforming surface often enjoy foam models, while those who want more bounce might opt for a hybrid or latex bed. Also consider which type of mattress offers the best support for your sleep position and body type.
To make your mattress more comfortable, think about adding a mattress topper, upgrading your sheets and blankets, checking that your bed base is in good condition, or investing in a new pillow. Rotating your mattress regularly can also improve the bed’s performance by preventing too much wear and tear in a single area.
If you’re trying to minimize or avoid back pain, look for a mattress that promotes proper spinal alignment by keeping your midsection from sinking too deeply and distributing body weight evenly. Beds that promote good sleep posture often have zoned support, which relieves pressure buildup in sensitive joints but pushes back in areas that need extra support, such as the lumbar region.
The most comfortable mattress for hot sleepers is typically one that’s constructed from breathable materials like latex, wool, and pocketed coils. Foam mattresses have a tendency to trap heat, though many manufacturers include cooling cover materials or gel infusions that are designed to combat heat retention.
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Director of Product Testing
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- POSITION: Side Sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Hot Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Lion
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