The Best Mattresses of 2024: Tested for Every Sleeping Style

You will spend a third of your life in a mattress, which means choosing the right one is important. Start with your preferred sleeping position and how much support you need. Here are a few tips.

Should you buy a firm or soft mattress? In general, heavier people and back or stomach sleepers will do better with firm mattresses, while lighter people and side sleepers will enjoy softer mattresses. Temperature is also an issue: Soft mattresses sleep warmer as your body sinks into a layer of fabric and foam. Remember that all mattresses have a break-in period, and the way a mattress feels on your first night will not be how it feels after a week or two.

Are you looking for a hybrid or foam mattress? The next big question is whether you want a foam mattress or a hybrid model that creates foam with built-in springs. We tend to recommend hybrids because they are stable and supportive, and generally stay cool. Hybrids are generally less expensive. Foam mattresses tend to be softer, lighter, and cheaper.

What size mattress do you need? The prices below are based on queen size, but almost all mattresses come in standard Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King sizes. You will want to buy a mattress based on the size of your bed frame.

How easy is it to set up a bed-in-a-box? Most of these mats are delivered in a box, vacuum sealed, and then rolled up. Some are quite heavy—up to 150 pounds—so make sure you have someone to help you. After you unpack your bed mattress and cut the vacuum bag open, it will begin to inflate immediately, so open it on or near your bed frame. We’ve got a handy guide on how to set up a mattress you’ve bought online with some extra tips. Mattresses are usually ready to go in a few hours, but most manufacturers recommend giving them two days to reach their normal state.

Should you wait for a sale to buy a mattress? Mattresses are often on sale. If you see one at full price, there is a strong chance of saving hundreds of dollars by waiting for the next big sales event (every few months).

What if you don’t like the mattress you bought online? Most of the mattresses we’ve tested and recommend have at least a 100-night test period and a 10-year warranty. You may want to check the company’s policy as you may be participating in a small refund.