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Written by Kenny Timper, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Kenny is a Staff Writer at Sleepopolis. He tests the good, the bad, and the ugly of all things sleep, so you can skip the trial and error and jump straight into a good night’s rest. As a Certified Sleep Science Coach, his recommendations and insights on healthy sleep have appeared in various publications, including Livingetc, U.S. News & World Report, and the magazine for mattress brand Avocado. Kenny graduated from William Peace University with a degree in English and a minor in communication. Outside of testing and writing about mattresses, he enjoys hiking, biking, or avoiding the pit at your local heavy metal concert.
Livvi DiCicco is a staff writer and Certified Sleep Science Coach. She has been writing, editing, and researching sleep-based content for over a year, and her sleep recommendations and insights have appeared in Bustle, Livingetc, and Authority Magazine. After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in English & Creative Writing, she decided to work in the digital marketing field, continuing her creative works on the side. Her other interests (besides napping and writing) include digital art, history, and boba tea.
Livvi DiCicco is a staff writer and Certified Sleep Science Coach. She has been writing, editing, and researching sleep-based content for over a year, and her sleep recommendations and insights have appeared in Bustle, Livingetc, and Authority Magazine. After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in English & Creative Writing, she decided to work in the digital marketing field, continuing her creative works on the side. Her other interests (besides napping and writing) include digital art, history, and boba tea.
Riley is a staff writer and Certified Sleep Science Coach at Sleepopolis. She’s a firm believer that there’s nothing better than a good night’s sleep. You can find her insights and recommendations on sleep health in publications such as Woman’s World, Yahoo News, Livingetc, and Real Simple. Riley graduated from Elon University with a degree in journalism and creative writing. In her free time, she loves to paint, cook, and spend time with family (especially her pets).
Sosha Lewis is a senior staff writer for Sleepopolis and a certified sleep science coach. Lewis is happy that she is able to combine her love of sleep with her love of writing. Lewis also has had articles featured in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, MUTHA Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, and The Charlotte Observer, and her sleep recommendations have been featured in Livingetc. Her weekly column, Soshally Awkward, is featured on the nationally-syndicated radio show, Bob & Sheri.
She lives in Charlotte, NC with her husband, daughter, and lovable trash-panda of a dog, Olive.
If you dread going to a showroom to hunt for the perfect mattress, you’ll appreciate that bed-in-a-box options offer an easier path to a good night’s sleep.
As the name suggests, a bed-in-a-box is a mattress that ships compressed in a box to your front door. Bed-in-a-box brands give customers an easy way to order a new mattress and eliminate the inconveniences of in-person shopping.
But how do you know if a bed is right for you if you’re not able to try it out in person? That’s where we come in.
For over a decade, our team of mattress experts and certified sleep science coaches have thoroughly tested more than 500 hybrid, innerspring, and memory foam mattresses to help readers just like you find the perfect bed for them. Our efforts have helped more than 145,000 people find their mattress match. If you’re ready to join the ranks, read on to find out our picks for the best mattresses in a box.
Sleepopolis’ Best In Rest – Bed-in-a-Box Mattress
The DreamCloudis the best bed-in-a-box mattress because of its well-rounded scores in pressure relief, support, cooling, and edge support. Combine this with its affordable price (under $1,000 for a queen after discounts), luxury touches (including a cashmere blend cover), and a year-long sleep trial, and it’s easy to see why it earned top billing.
A supportive mattress is crucial for maintaining healthy spinal alignment. Bed-in-a-box mattresses cater to different sleep positions, from side sleepers who need pressure relief to back and stomach sleepers who require firmer support. A mattress with ample support will prevent back pain and promote overall comfort throughout the night.
Edge support is also important for sleepers who tend to lie near the edge of the bed or share their mattress with a partner. A mattress with strong edge support prevents the feeling of rolling off the bed and maximizes the usable sleeping surface.
Price is always a top consideration when selecting the best mattress, and bed-in-a-box mattresses offer a wide range of price points to suit different budgets. I looked for mattresses that combine quality construction with an accessible price tag to ensure you’re getting a good return on your investment.
Your mattress’s materials directly impact its comfort, durability, and performance. I focused on mattresses that feature high-quality memory foam, latex, and hybrid constructions, all of which provide excellent support and comfort. I also considered beds with cooling materials that promote breathability and temperature regulation for hot sleepers.
We’ve developed a rigorous 13-point testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling abilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of certified sleep science coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, who’s quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine, to ensure we keep up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine.
Additionally, Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on each product, and sleep and nutrition experts such as Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD, regularly verify our articles.
Need help finding the right mattress?
Based on your answers, we’ve carefully selected the best mattresses tailored to your needs.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.8
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Classic Hybrid
Firm, Supportive Feel
Cashmere-Blend Cover
Responsive Springs
Summer Spectacular
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This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
Firmness
We rated the DreamCloud a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 7 means that the DreamCloud is fairly firm.
Price
$839–$2,178 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
You should get enough cushioning for your lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
Hot Sleepers
The coils in the support layer leave plenty of room for airflow.
Combination Sleepers
The DreamCloud is responsive enough for you to easily change positions.
Pros of the DreamCloud
Soft memory foam for cushioning at the lumbar region and sturdy coils for spinal support.
Springs that provide a lot of bounce and responsiveness, both of which help you change positions.
Strong edge support, allowing couples to use the whole surface of the bed.
Free returns after at least 30 days and within the 365-night trial period
With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.
What our tester says:
“I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night. Thanks to its medium-firm to firm support, I think the DreamCloud is a durable mattress. It balances support with plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former Sleepopolis senior product editor
Why It’s the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattress Overall
The DreamCloud mattress earned 4s or above in each testing category, including a 4.5 for cooling, 4.7 for motion transfer, and a perfect rating for responsiveness.
It has a true medium-firm feel, which should appeal to multiple sleeper types.
It’s quite affordable; you can purchase a queen for about $700.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Even when someone got in and out of bed, our tester couldn’t really feel it.
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Cooling: 4/5
Our tester never noticed the mattress heating up during our cooling test.
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Response: 4.5/5
For an all-foam bed, the DreamCloud is pretty responsive, making it easier to move around on.
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Edge Support: 4.2/5
The edges of the DreamCloud Memory Foam only slightly dipped when we sat on them.
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Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
Both side and back sleepers should glean plenty of pressure relief from this bed, though the latter group will likely feel more comfortable overall.
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Firmness: 7/10
The DreamCloud Memory Foam feels a little firmer than true medium-firm.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
When Dr. Tedesco tried out this mattress, he noted that he felt “very supportive in the extremities.” He primarily recommended it for back sleeping. “It’s nice and soft for hips and holds my legs in place. Initially, I feel some misalignment, but once I sink in, I feel supported.”
He added, “I don’t think it would be great for heavyweight people, but smaller people should really enjoy this mattress.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
excellent
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
unpleasant
excellent
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
For those seeking a high-quality mattress that can accommodate many different types of sleepers, the DreamCloud is a standout option. It strikes an impressive balance between pressure relief and support, making it a great option for anyone from back sleepers to stomach sleepers. And while the DreamCloud is packed with premium features, buyers shouldn’t let the “luxury” title worry them. The versatile hybrid mattress is often priced under $1,000, meaning you get a lot of bed for your buck.
Choose the DreamCloud if …
You primarily sleep on your back. All of our testers gave this mattress a 5/5 for back-sleeping pressure relief.
You share the bed. The DreamCloud is fairly responsive, which makes moving around easy, but it also absorbs motion, so you can do so without disturbing your partner.
Keep looking if …
You’re a side sleeper who needs extra support. A few of our testers complained that they were sinking in a touch too far in this position, compromising their spinal support.
You’re looking for multiple firmness options. The DreamCloud only comes in one standardized medium-firm feel, which could fit most sleepers’ preferences. But if you’re after something softer or firmer, check out the WinkBed, which comes in four different firmness options.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Nectar
Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress
Medium-firm
Cooling
CertiPUR-US Certified
Summer Spectacular
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We rated the Nectar as a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it is right at the industry standard of medium-firm.
Price
$934–$2,121 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, the Nectar will provide a nice mix of cushioning and support.
Budget Shoppers
This affordable mattress is a great pick for those looking to save.
Pros of the Nectar
The Nectar offers a memory foam feel while still being responsive, making it perfect for combination sleepers.
Back sleepers should feel supported, but pleasantly cushioned on the Nectar.
This memory foam bed is good for sex, as it is surprisingly responsive.
Cons of the Nectar
Stomach sleepers likely won’t get enough support for spinal alignment from the Nectar.
It incorporates some cooling materials but it’s not by any means the best cooling mattress.
The Nectar isn’t supportive enough to be one of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers, which accommodate folks weighing 250 pounds or more.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Full refund and free returns within the 365-night trial period
The Nectar Classic is a memory foam mattress that provides solid support for most light to average weight sleepers. The cushioning memory foam allows for plenty of pain relief around the lower lumbar spine. Most back sleepers and side sleepers should enjoy the pressure relief. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“I think memory foam lovers should be happy on the Nectar. This bed has a classic memory foam feel, so there’s lots of sinkage, contouring, and pressure relief. This can be great for anyone with shoulder pain or hip pain since it gives them cushioning at sensitive pressure points.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why It’s the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattress for Couples
The Nectar offers excellent motion isolation, meaning most movement is absorbed before it can travel across the bed’s surface and cause a disturbance on the other side.
For an all-foam bed, the Nectar is fairly responsive, which makes moving around during sleep or sex easier.
Its medium-firm feel should appeal to a range of sleeping styles and body types, making it perfect for couples willing to compromise.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
We found that the soft foam in Nectar’s construction effectively dampened motion, making it a solid choice for couples.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
Our mattress experts noted that its surface felt slightly cool to the touch and didn’t retain much heat during testing.
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Response: 3/5
Despite the innerspring coils in its construction, the Nectar Hybrid isn’t the most responsive option.
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Edge Support: 3.4/5
During testing, we found that the Nectar Classic Hybrid’s edge support was about average, meaning sleepers with mobility concerns will likely need something more stable.
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Pressure Relief: 3.9/5
The Nectar Classic Hybrid impressed us in the pressure relief category, especially for back sleepers.
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Firmness: 6/10
At 6 out of 10 on our firmness scale, the Nectar Classic Hybrid is a touch softer than the industry standard of medium-firm.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
When our chief medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco, tried out the Nectar, he had this to say: “I’m someone who loves to lie on the flat ground. This reminds me of that.” He preferred sleeping on his back on this mattress, calling the alignment in this position “great.”
He added, “I feel like I’m lying on the mattress, not in it, though I can feel a little bit of softness where my head goes. I feel like everything is being supported evenly, and I’m not noticing pressure anywhere.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
unpleasant
good
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
good
good
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
The Nectar Classic mattress boasts a balanced memory foam feel that provides light cushioning with robust support. Unlike many all-foam beds, it’s fairly responsive and features a cool-to-the-touch cover. Its top-notch motion isolation should make it perfect for light sleepers, though we noticed it didn’t have the strongest edge support, so I wouldn’t recommend it for folks who like to sleep or sit along the perimeter.
Choose the Nectar if …
You primarily sleep on your back. The Nectar’s blend of softness and support earned high marks for back sleepers.
You run hot, but like a memory foam feel. This bed features a cool-to-the-touch cover to combat foam’s heat-trapping tendency.
Keep looking if …
You favor strong edge support. The Nectar’s edge support left something to be desired, particularly when our testers sat on the edge.
You weigh less than 130 pounds and have joint pain. These folks will likely need a softer mattress, like the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Helix
Helix Midnight Mattress
Cooling Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Reinforced Edges
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This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
Firmness
We rated the Helix Midnight a 6 out of 10 on the firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. This means it’s slightly softer than the industry standard (6.5 out of 10).
Price
$937–$1,749 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Back Sleepers
Ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation, so you shouldn’t feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Pros of the Helix Midnight
Back sleepers should get some cushioning in the lumbar region, and the coils will help keep their spines neutrally aligned.
Side sleepers should experience nice pressure relief and contouring at their shoulders and hips. For extra pressure relief, we recommend the Helix Midnight Luxe, the standard Helix Midnight’s luxury version.
The Helix Midnight has low motion transfer, which means partners aren’t likely to feel each other moving around at night.
The Midnight is a responsive mattress, so it’s ideal for combination sleepers.
You can return your bed after the 30-day “break-in” period and before the trial period ends for a full refund.
The Helix Midnight is amongst Helix’s line of six standard mattresses. It’s known for its more balanced feel, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of sleepers. We also recommend it for couples, as it scored well on our motion isolation, responsiveness, edge support, and cooling tests. For a plusher and more cooling version of this mattress, see the Helix Midnight Luxe. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“I would recommend this mattress for side or back sleepers because it’s supportive, without putting pressure on your joints.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why It’s the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattress for Side Sleepers
The Midnight’s hybrid construction provides a mix of pressure relief and support that creates the perfect profile for side sleepers.
It also earned a 4.4 for its relatively solid edge support.
This bed-in-a-box comes at a reasonable price point for a high-quality hybrid and includes a lifetime warranty.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 4/5
Aside from gentle movements, our testers could not detect much motion transfer.
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Cooling: 3/5
During testing, we found that the Midnight feels neutral rather than cool to the touch.
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Response: 4/5
While the Helix has layers of soft foam, its bouncy innerspring coils make it easy to maneuver.
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Edge Support: 4.4/5
Our testers felt super secure when lying near the edge of the Midnight in every sleeping position.
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Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The Helix Midnight effectively relieves pressure overall, despite our average-weight tester detecting slight back tension.
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Firmness: 6.5/10
The plush foam layers and reinforced innerspring coils give the Helix Midnight a true medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
When Dr. Joe Tedesco rested on his side on the Helix Midnight, he said, “I don’t feel pressure in my shoulders, hips, knees, or ankles. We’re in a neutral spinal position that’s perfectly straight.” He ultimately dubbed it “a solid mattress for side sleeping,” adding, “it does a good job of supporting you and cushioning the side.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
excellent
excellent
unpleasant
Average
(130-230 lbs)
excellent
excellent
unpleasant
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
good
excellent
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
The Helix Midnight is a well-rounded hybrid mattress designed for side sleepers — and it certainly delivers on this promise. Its medium-firm, contouring feel is great for sleepers who are looking for a balanced sleep surface. The bed also boasts strong edge support, a mix of responsiveness and motion isolation, and excellent pressure relief. However, it did lag behind in our cooling tests, even with the addition of the cooling pillow top.
Choose the Helix Midnight if …
You’re a combination sleeper. Our testers of varying sizes and preferences all enjoyed the mattress in just about every sleeping position, and it has enough responsiveness to make switching between these positions seamless.
You have mobility concerns. Despite its softer upper layers, we were able to sit and lie down along the edge of the mattress without sinking or slipping.
Keep looking if …
You like a super-bouncy mattress. The Helix Midnight feels relatively responsive, but there is more sinkage than true springiness.
You overheat at night. Our testers thought this mattress had “just average” cooling abilities. If you want a cooler-feeling mattress, I recommend the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Leesa
Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
Soft comfort
Gel-infused foam
Zoned support
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This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options available
Price
$1,499–$2,399 (before any discounts)
Sizes
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
Cooling tech and breathable coils make this bed a winner for hot sleepers.
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers should get the contouring they need at the shoulders and the hips.
Back Sleepers
The mattress has the right blend of comfort and support to keep back sleepers’ spines neutrally aligned.
Pros of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
This mattress is versatile, with different firmness levels that could appeal to all sleeping positions.
The Leesa Sapira Chill has a cool sleeping surface and breathable coils — a bonus for hot sleepers.
This mattress scored high on pressure relief and should effectively relieve pressure at the joints.
Cons of the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid
It may be too pricey for shoppers searching for the best cheap mattress.
Leesa doesn’t have the lengthiest trial period or warranty.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns within 100-night trial period
The Leesa Sapira Chill is a hybrid mattress, available in three firmness levels. We tested the Medium-Firm model and felt it was just softer than average. It should be especially comfortable for back sleepers and side sleepers. The bed also has some effective cooling technology built into it, which helps to keep sleepers cool throughout the night. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“Sleepers with joint pain can appreciate the soft, plush feel, which can reduce tension and stiffness at their pressure points. I also think back sleepers and side sleepers will be comfortable on this mattress.” – Riley Otis, staff writer
Why It’s the Best Cooling Bed-in-a-Box Mattress
We were quite impressed with the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid’s cooling capability, especially its icy-cold cover that kept temperatures low throughout testing.
The mid-range model of this bed also has a medium-soft feel that provides excellent pressure relief and contouring.
Despite this softness, we found it was fairly responsive, meaning moving on its surface should be relatively painless.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 3.7/5
The water sloshed around quite a bit during our ripple test, indicating just-average motion isolation.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
This bed lived up to its name with its exceptional cooling abilities.
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Response: 4.5/5
Moving around was largely seamless, save for rolling over on the doughier pillow top.
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Edge Support: 3.9/5
While our tester found the edge support acceptable, there was more sagging in our weighted tests.
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Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
Our pressure map results showed almost no pressure buildup on the Leesa Sapira Chill.
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Firmness: 6/10
We found the Leesa Sapira Chill’s construction to have a softer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Aside from the Leesa’s cooling capability, Dr. Joe Tedesco appreciated this bed’s pressure relief. “It’s very comfortable, especially for side sleepers,” he said. “It’s very soft and allows you to sink into it, contouring your body really well.” He also liked it for folks with hip pain, saying, “It distributes pressure really well across the hip area.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
excellent
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
excellent
excellent
unpleasant
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
unpleasant
unpleasant
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
unpleasant
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
The Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid comes in multiple firmness options, and we found that its Medium model lived up to its name. The upper layers of the hybrid provide excellent contouring, allowing sleepers to gently sink into the mattress and relieve pressure and pain. But it gets its name from its cool-to-the-touch cover, which should allow hot sleepers to sleep soundly through the night. Though it scored just average in motion isolation and edge support, it also earned high marks for its responsiveness.
Choose the Leesa Sapira Chill Hybrid if …
You sleep on your side and back. Both positions received high marks from our pressure-relief testers.
You’re looking for a great mattress for sex. It’s rare that we find a soft-feeling mattress that’s responsive enough to promote ease of movement, which should help rather than hinder during intimate times.
Keep looking if …
You like to sit on the edge of your mattress. Sitting and stacking weights at the perimeter of the Leesa Sapira Chill caused quite a lot of sinkage, which could make you feel unstable in this position.
You’re a light sleeper who shares the bed. We could feel a decent amount of motion transfer during our partner test. For a better bed for couples, check out the Nectar.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Hybrid, combining a plush pillow top with coils and foams for a luxury feel.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. We tested the Luxury Firm and scored it a 7 out of 10, meaning it’s on the firmer side of medium-firm.
Price
$1,149–$2,049 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
A great option for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the WinkBed
Back sleepers should get the support they need
It has a traditional, supportive feel
The WinkBed has cooling capabilities to help people who sleep hot
Sturdy edge support and good motion isolation make this a good choice for couples
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why It’s the Best Bed-in-a-Box Hybrid Mattress
The WinkBed contains both sturdy pocketed coils and a dense, cushy pillow top to create a balance of support and softness.
This combination also gives the WinkBed strong edge support and excellent motion absorption.
This luxury hybrid comes in multiple firmness options, including the WinkBed Plus, a variant specifically designed for sleepers over 230 lbs.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 4.3/5
Our tester didn’t notice much movement during our ripple test.
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Cooling: 3.5/5
Our cooling test found that the WinkBed did not excel at temperature regulation.
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Response: 3/5
It was a little difficult to move around on the WinkBed, despite its hybrid construction.
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Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found the WinkBed’s edges to be very strong.
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Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
While pressure mapping the WinkBed, our testers found some pressure buildup on their side.
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Firmness: 6.5/10
The Luxury Firm WinkBed has a medium-firm feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
After trying out the Luxury Firm model of the WinkBed, Dr. Joe Tedesco particularly recommended the mattress for back sleepers. “If you’re a back or a side sleeper, you’ll feel even support across your entire body. I didn’t have any pressure buildup at all when I was on my back,” he explained. “That’s my personal preferred sleeping position, and I could have fallen asleep after just 10 minutes of lying on this bed.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
good
excellent
unpleasant
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
good
good
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress composed of a cushioning pillow top and a layer of support coils, creating a robust, durable, and comfortable mattress. It comes in multiple firmness options, but we found that the Luxury Firm model provided a true medium-firm feel that’s especially suited to back sleepers. We also awarded it high marks for edge support and motion isolation, though it notably lacked the responsiveness and cooling we tend to see from hybrid beds.
Choose the WinkBed if …
You sleep with a restless partner or pet. In our partner test, our tester noted she could feel someone else in the bed, but it wasn’t enough to disturb or wake her.
You’re an older adult or have mobility concerns. Sitting and lying down on the WinkBed’s edge left us feeling stable and secure.
Keep looking if …
You sleep hot. While our tester didn’t feel significantly overheated on the mattress, our thermal gun recorded a whopping 8-degree increase in surface temperature.
You like a bouncier hybrid. The WinkBed’s thick pillow top dampened any recoil from its innerspring layer. If you want something with more responsiveness, check out the DreamCloud mattress.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Medium mattress is too firm for side sleepers and too soft for stomach sleepers (though the Soft or Firm model may work, respectively)
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 Nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial. Brooklyn Bedding charges a $99 pick up fee
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why It’s the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattress for Combination Sleepers
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid comes in multiple firmness options, so combination sleepers can tailor it to their preferred sleeping positions.
The Medium model has a true medium-firm feel, which can accommodate multiple sleeper types.
The Signature Hybrid is fairly responsive, meaning you can switch positions with ease.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 3.7/4
The springs cause some noticeable motion transfer that may impact those who are easily disturbed.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
The breathable construction and lightweight cover layer make the Signature Hybrid extremely effective at cooling.
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Response: 3/5
The Signature Hybrid’s soft cover layer might make it challenging for some combination sleepers to move around.
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Edge Support: 4.2/5
The sturdy springs along the Signature Hybrid’s edge let sleepers use the entire surface without falling off.
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Pressure Relief: 3.2/5
The soft cushioning of the Signature Hybrid makes it a good option for sensitive joints; however, sleepers with larger bodies may notice excessive sinkage.
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Firmness: 6.5/10
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid falls right at the industry standard of medium-firm.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
“In general, this is a supportive mattress that is great for a sleeper in back, side, or stomach positions,” said Dr. Joe Tedesco after trying out the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid for himself. He thought the mattress would be a good fit for combination sleepers. “If you don’t like the ‘cradle’ feeling of a memory foam mattress, then you’ll like the support this mattress gives,” he added.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
excellent
excellent
good
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
good
excellent
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
good
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
If you’re after a hybrid mattress that checks all the boxes with the versatility for combo sleepers, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid has it all. This well-rounded bed earned high marks for pressure relief, motion isolation, and responsiveness, the latter of which should benefit sleepers who toss and turn to get comfortable the most. However, it lagged behind in cooling and in seated edge support.
Choose the Signature Hybrid if …
You share your mattress with a partner. The Signature Hybrid’s thick pillow top absorbs and stifles motion before it travels across the surface.
You primarily sleep on your back. While the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid should work for many sleeping positions and body types, the bed earned its highest marks for back sleepers.
Keep looking if …
You tend to run hot. Though the mattress felt cool to the touch at first, our testers noticed it heating up the longer they lay on it.
You’re looking for strong seated edge support. Sleeping along the edge of the Signature Hybrid should go off without a hitch, but we noticed quite a lot of sinkage when seated at the perimeter. For stronger stability, I recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
Designed for Athletes
Soft Feel
Luxurious Foams
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40% Off Sitewide with Code SLEEPOPOLIS40 See Details
As a luxury mattress with many special features, the Bear Elite Hybrid is priced higher. Budget shoppers may want to check out the best cheap mattresses
Shipping
Free Shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
If you return within the 120-night trial period, you can get a full refund.
The Bear Elite Hybrid uses foam and coils for a mix of support, cushioning, and cooling. While designed for athletes prioritizing wellness and recovery, sleepers of all activity levels can enjoy the many luxurious features. Enjoy zoned support for targeted relief, an “on top of” feel allowing for ease of movement, and cooling features throughout. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“I’d recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for most back and stomach sleepers.I think these sleepers will get the needed pressure relief and contouring around the lower back and hips. This mattress does a wonderful job at offering body contouring while still helping the sleeper stay elevated and lifted as well. The layers of foam should provide comfort while the coil system should offer lots of support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester
Why It’s the Best Soft Bed-in-a-Box Mattress
The Bear Elite Hybrid comes in multiple firmness options, including a Soft model, but all should provide excellent contouring and sinkage.
Despite its softer feel, the mattress still has robust edge support, particularly for lying down along the perimeter to spread out.
It also feels relatively cool and breathable, providing relief to sleepers who overheat at night.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Our tester could only vaguely feel their colleague’s movements on this bed.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
There wasn’t much of a temperature increase after we lay on the bed.
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Response: 4/5
It was fairly easy to move between sleeping positions on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
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Edge Support: 4.4/5
We found that the Bear Elite Hybrid’s edges were fairly sturdy.
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Pressure Relief: 4.1/5
Back sleeping is best for pressure relief on this mattress.
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Firmness: 7/10
The materials of the Bear Elite Hybrid resulted in a somewhat firmer feel for the mid-range model.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Dr. Joe Tedesco liked the Bear Elite Hybrid’s soft feel for side sleeping. “The softness provides great contouring, but there is good firmness to still support you when you’re on your side,” he explained. “I don’t notice any pressure buildup at all.”
However, Dr. Tedesco noted this plushness isn’t for everyone: “I would not recommend this for stomach sleepers. The softness of the mattress means I into it too much, creating pressure in my lower back.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
good
excellent
good
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
unpleasant
good
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
good
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
We tested out the Medium Bear Elite Hybrid and found it an excellent match for sleepers who want support and contouring in equal measure. Its cool-feeling, plush pillow top relieves pressure and absorbs motion with ease, benefiting side and back sleepers who share the mattress. It earned 4s and above across the board, although some heavyweight side sleepers may want something more robust to keep their spine aligned.
Choose the Bear Elite Hybrid if …
You sleep on your side or back. These positions should be the most comfortable on the Bear Elite Hybrid’s softer surface.
You’re one half of a couple. The bed excelled in a number of areas that should benefit co-sleepers: motion isolation to ensure you rest undisturbed, responsiveness for ease of movement, edge support to spread out, and cooling to keep the shared space cool.
Keep looking if …
You’re a side sleeper who weighs more than 230 pounds. Even the Medium model was a bit too soft to support our heavyweight pressure relief tester.
You’re on a budget. As the name “Elite” suggests, this luxury hybrid comes at a higher price. Shoppers looking for a cheaper mattress may prefer the Nectar or DreamCloud.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
Nolah
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
ArcticTex Cover
HDMax Support Coils
Summer Sale
30% Off Sitewide, Additional $50 Off with Code SLEEPOPOLIS50 See Details
Hybrid, meaning this bed combines foam and coils in its construction.
Firmness
Multiple Firmness Options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We tested the Luxury Firm and rated it as 6.5 out of 10, meaning it is a medium-firm mattress.
Price
$1,499–$3,198 (before any discounts)
Sizes
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Hot Sleepers
If you overheat while you sleep, this mattress may help you stay cool.
Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
Great for couples due to its good edge support and low motion transfer
Works for back sleepers who need good lumbar support
Side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief
Full refund after 30 days and within the 120-night trial period
The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Why It’s the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattress for Back Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution earned a 4.3 out of 5 rating for back-sleeping pressure relief, and our testers praised its comfortable medium-firm feel for this position.
The edges of this bed also remained strong when our testers rested along its perimeter in each sleeping position.
The mattress earned a rare perfect rating for motion isolation, which should also benefit back-sleeping couples.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 5/5
Our tester noticed no movement during our ripple test, resulting in a perfect score for motion isolation.
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Cooling: 4.5/5
The Nolah Evolution showed above-average cooling capabilities.
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Response: 4/5
Our tester found it fairly easy to roll around on the Nolah Evolution.
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Edge Support: 4.6/5
The Nolah Evolution had a strong perimeter, earning a high edge support test.
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Pressure Relief: 4.3/5
The bed was good at relieving pressure, though some of our testers wanted more sinkage.
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Firmness: 7/10
The springs in the construction made for a slightly firmer feel.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
Medical product tester and physical therapist Dr. Joe Tedesco noted that he didn’t feel “any significant pressure buildup” while sleeping on his back on the Nolah Evolution. “My feet and ankles and hips and knees are aligned; my pelvis is relaxed, and I don’t feel any anterior tilt, which creates some great weightlessness across my midline.” He also believed this weightlessness could help address the anterior tilt, “which is often what creates or exacerbates back pain.”
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
excellent
excellent
good
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
unpleasant
good
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
excellent
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
good
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
The Nolah Evolution Luxury Firm has a luxury hybrid construction that’s a match made in heaven for back sleepers. Its foam top layers contour to the spine and fill in the gap at the lower back, keeping the body aligned and reducing the risk of back pain. It also stood out in all of our performance categories, including edge support, cooling, and motion isolation — the latter of which earned a perfect score.
Choose the Nolah Evolution if …
You’re easily woken up by your partner. The Nolah’s super-cushy top layers ensure movement remains relegated to one side of the mattress.
You rely on a sturdy perimeter. Our tester felt securely supported in every sleeping position (including on her back) when resting on the very edge of the bed.
Keep looking if …
You’re on a budget. A queen-size Nolah Evolution will run you close to $1,600, and that’s with frequent sales and coupons.
You like a super-bouncy bed. Many of our testers commented that this mattress had closer to a traditional, slow-moving memory foam feel than a true hybrid. For better bounce, I recommend the Birch Natural.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Brooklyn Bedding offers returns and exchanges with a $99 return fee
The Titan Plus mattress is a durable mattress made with heavy sleepers in mind. It’s firm and features heavy-duty coils and Titanflex foam that makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. We think that heavy back sleepers and stomach sleepers should be especially comfortable. For more information on the Titan Plus, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“I think the Titan Plus lives up to its name as a good mattress for heavier sleepers. It will offer them the deep compression support and durability they need.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Why It’s the Best Firm Bed-in-a-Box Mattress
The Plank Firm Luxe is flippable, featuring two firmness levels on each side: a more traditional feel at 7 out of 10 and an extra-firm feel at 7.5 out of 10.
This mattress should provide the added support stomach sleepers and folks over 230 pounds need.
Both sides of the mattress are super responsive, since the bed’s firmer feel doesn’t allow for much sinkage.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
Firm Side
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Motion Isolation: 5/5
The memory foam layer closer to the Firm side did a fantastic job of dampening motion.
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Cooling: 3.5/5
Our testers found the Firm side initially cool to the touch, but it retained some body heat over time.
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Response: 4.5/5
The Firm side is only slightly less responsive than the Extra Firm due to the foam layer.
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Edge Support: 3.5/5
The edge support on the Firm side is mostly average; however, you can lie on it with falling off.
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Pressure Relief: 4.4/5
The Firm side of the luxe Plank has exceptional pressure relief for back sleepers.
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Firmness: 7/10
The Firm side of the Plank is only slightly firmer than the industry average of medium-firm (6.5).
Extra-Firm Side
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Motion Isolation: 4.7/5
Despite being closest to the springy coils, the Extra Firm side has surprisingly solid motion isolation for couples.
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Cooling: 3/5
During testing, our team found that the cooling on the Extra Firm side was about average.
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Response: 5/5
The Extra Firm side is closest to the innerspring coils, making it is highly responsive to movement and ideal for combination sleepers.
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Edge Support: 3.2/5
We found more sinkage on the edge of the Extra Firm side; its performance here was about average.
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Pressure Relief: 3.8/5
The Extra Firm side provides less cushioning, meaning some side sleepers may experience pressure buildup.
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Firmness: 7.5/10
Most sleepers will find that the Extra Firm side is significantly firmer than most mattresses.
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
We asked Dr. Tedesco for his take on the Plank Firm Luxe, and he thinks the Firm side is a slam dunk for back sleepers, especially those with preexisting back pain. He said, “My pelvis, hips, and spine are in a neutral position. People with back pain who are back sleepers will feel supported and neutral.” He went on to explain that the Plank Firm Luxe “feels like you’re lying on a board with just enough softness to be comfortable.” For sleepers with back pain specifically, he rated the mattress 4 stars for its ability to provide relief.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
unpleasant
good
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
unpleasant
excellent
excellent
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
unpleasant
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Our Expert Opinion
To prevent sinking too far into the mattress and “bottoming out,” you’ll need plenty of support at the hips to keep them aligned with the shoulders. That’s where firm beds like the Plank Firm Luxe come in. With layers of firm foam paired with sturdy innerspring coils, this bed-in-a-box provides a solid, flat sleeping surface that won’t quit. Folks who have been let down by so-called firm beds will love this mattress.
Choose the Plank Firm Luxe if …
You sleep on your stomach. The mattress should support your hips and keep them from sinking too far, ensuring you remain in proper alignment.
You weigh over 230 pounds. In a similar vein, these sleepers should benefit from added support that the bed’s firmness can provide.
Keep looking if …
You tend to overheat at night. Neither side of the Plank Firm Luxe performed particularly well in our cooling test.
You sleep primarily on your side. These folks will want something softer to achieve better sinkage and pressure relief — like the Helix Midnight.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Birch
Birch Natural Mattress
Firm Mattress
Organic
Cooling
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The Birch Natural is a latex mattress utilizing individually wrapped coils for added support. This mattress specializes in cooling and responsiveness, and the firmer nature suits back and stomach sleepers well. Perhaps the most special part about this mattress is the material quality. Not only is the Birch organic, but it has also earned multiple certifications for safe production and materials. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“One of my favorite things about the Birch is how cooling it is. I think any hot sleeper will be satisfied by this breathable bed. It’s definitely one of the most cooling mattresses available thanks to its wool and latex layers. These cooling materials also make it one of my favorite organic mattresses.” – Madison Schaper, Sleepopolis staff writer
Why It’s the Best Organic Bed-in-a-Box Mattress
The Birch Natural contains organic wool, latex, recycled steel coils, and an organic cotton cover, all of which make for an eco-friendly and sustainable mattress.
Latex has a natural buoyancy that gives the mattress its 5-star responsiveness.
Our testers enjoyed this latex bed‘s balance of pressure relief and support, which helped back sleepers rest comfortably.
How Did It Perform During Testing?
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Motion Isolation: 4/5
Despite its springy feel, the Birch Natural does a surprisingly good job of dampening motion.
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Cooling: 4/5
Hot sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about overheating on the Birch Natural mattress.
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Response: 5/5
The combination of bouncy latex and responsive innerspring coils make this mattress easy to move around on.
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Edge Support: 4/5
Sleepers who gravitate toward the edge of the bed should appreciate the Birch’s reinforced perimeter.
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Pressure Relief: 4/5
While the Birch provides solid pressure relief for various types of sleepers, it is ideal for back sleepers.
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Firmness: 7/10
The Birch Natural is slightly firmer than the industry standard of medium-firm (6.5 out of 10).
Dr. Tedesco’s Notes
While our testers mostly preferred the Birch Natural for back sleeping, Dr. Tedesco noted he was “definitely more comfortable on [his] side.” He explained, “The springiness and softness of the latex help me feel much more relaxed in this position. There’s no pressure on my feet, knees, or hips. It feels much more supportive.
He also found the bed “soft enough to recommend for hip or shoulder bursitis.” He also believed side sleepers with arthritis or scoliosis could also benefit, “especially if it’s an older patient,” Dr. Tedesco finished.
How Does It Feel in Different Sleeping Positions?
Body Weight
Side
Back
Stomach
Light
(under 130 lbs)
good
excellent
excellent
Average
(130-230 lbs)
good
excellent
good
Heavy
(over 230 lbs)
good
good
unpleasant
Body Weight: Light (under 130 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
excellent
Body Weight: Average (130-230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
excellent
Stomach Sleeper
good
Body Weight: Heavy (over 230 lbs)
Side Sleeper
good
Back Sleeper
good
Stomach Sleeper
unpleasant
Our Expert Opinion
The Birch Natural mattress is a latex hybrid designed to appeal to the eco-conscious shopper. But it’s more than just a series of certifications; it also feels comfortable. Latex is naturally supportive and pressure-relieving (with some claiming more so than traditional foam), and it gives the bed a super-bouncy, responsive feel. The bed earned 4s and above in all our testing. Only our heavyweight tester experienced pressure buildup while resting on his side, which brought down the score for this sleeping position.
Choose the Birch if …
You love a bouncy bed. It’s easy to launch yourself across the Birch Natural’s surface, thanks to the latex and coils in its construction.
You sleep on your back. This is the best position for this mattress, as our testers praised the bed’s support and alignment, particularly around the lumbar spine.
Keep looking if …
You have mobility concerns. You may want a mattress with stronger edge support for easier transfer in and out of bed.
You have quite sensitive joints. These sleepers may feel some pressure around the hips and shoulders, so I’d recommend a softer mattress for those who need more contouring and cushioning. Take a look at the Bear Elite Hybrid, for example.
Latest Updates: In July of 2026, we refreshed this page to include more up-to-date testing, including insights from our medical product tester, Dr. Joe Tedesco. Though our list remains the same, we formatted our reviews and buyer’s guide in a more easily digestible format, so you can cut through the drivel and get to shopping faster.
Other Beds-in-a-Box I Considered
Many of the mattresses I test at Sleepopolis are beds-in-a-box, so there were definitely some great runners-up that didn’t make it into my top picks. These are two more solid bed-in-a-box options to consider, depending on what your sleep needs are.
Due to this bed’s stretchy and breathable polymer grid, we found it provides good airflow and just enough sinkage at the hips, shoulders, and knees to take pressure off of the joints. While it offers impressive relief for light and average-weight sleepers, those falling on the heavier side likely won’t receive the same amount of support.
During testing, we found this online mattress had stellar pressure relief results for side sleepers on sensitive areas like the hips and shoulders. Since this mattress is focused on a softer feel, we don’t feel it has enough firmness and support for heavier sleepers (230 pounds or more).
How We Tested the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattresses
We put all our mattresses that arrive in our studio through a series of tests to evaluate their construction, performance, and value. Bed-in-a-box mattresses need to be effective, durable, and worth their weight in gold. Therefore, the following three categories are at the top of our list when reviewing and testing new mattresses in a box: support, price, and materials.
Key Testing Categories for Bed-in-a-Box
Support
Support plays a direct role in maintaining spinal alignment and overall comfort during sleep. Proper support keeps your body in a neutral position to prevent aches and pains, especially for back and stomach sleepers. Back sleepers need a mattress that offers enough firmness to support the natural curve of their spine, preventing any sagging in the lower back. Stomach sleepers, like myself, require a firmer mattress to keep their hips from sinking too deeply, which could lead to misalignment of the spine and back pain.
Whether it’s through high-density foams, zoned support systems, or hybrid constructions, the appropriate support is essential for a restful, pain-free sleep.
Edge support is but one aspect of overall support. For couples who tend to spread out during the night, strong edge support allows them to use the entire surface area. Without adequate support along the edges, these folks might feel like they are rolling off the bed or losing stability when sleeping near the perimeter.
For individuals with mobility issues, a mattress with reinforced edges allows sleepers to safely bear weight on the perimeter, making it easier to sit up or get out of bed. Additional support along the edges helps prevent you from feeling like you’re falling off the side when getting in and out of bed.
How the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattresses Scored in Edge Support
Bed-in-a-box mattresses vary in price depending on the materials and brand. Prices range from budget-friendly options to high-end models, with hybrid mattresses or those using premium materials (such as organic latex) typically costing more.
The size of your mattress also influences the price. Beds-in-a-box range from crib size to king size and California king. Some sellers don’t offer exchanges for a smaller or larger mattress, so be sure to measure your bed frame, box spring, and bedroom before buying. And remember, larger may be better if you share a bed with a partner, children, or pets.
Also consider any freebies that come with the mattress — such as white-glove delivery, lengthy sleep trials, or extended warranties. All of the beds on this list come with a lifetime warranty and at least a 120-night trial. Some brands charge extra for white-glove delivery or unboxing, but others offer it if you exceed a purchase threshold.
Note: Prices reflect queen-size mattresses before discounts or sales.
A mattress’s materials largely determine how comfortable and durable it is. All-foam mattresses typically combine memory foam with materials like cotton or wool to create a cozy, pressure-relieving sleep surface. On the other hand, hybrid mattresses blend innerspring coils or pocketed springs with foam layers to offer a balance of support, responsiveness, and cooling.
While different mattress types can yield all sorts of firmnesses, we find that medium-firm mattresses are the best for maintaining spinal alignment and preventing back pain. “The ideal firmness for your needs is also determined by your body type, sleeping position, and any conditions that affect your sleep,” adds Dr. Raj Dasgupta. “Some sleepers may therefore need a softer mattress for more pressure relief, or a firmer mattress for support.”
Note: Some of the beds listed below are available in multiple firmness options. In this instance, we tested the mid-range Medium, Medium-Firm, or Luxury Firm models to appeal to the widest range of sleepers. The Plank Firm Luxe is also a flippable mattress, so it features two firmness levels on each side.
Firmness Ratings for the Best Bed-in-a-Box Mattresses
With what feels like a million bed-in-a-box companies popping up online these days, it can be challenging to find the perfect mattress for you. The trick is knowing what to look for and what you need from a bed based on your sleeping position, body type, weight, and other factors that affect your good night’s sleep.
For example, we also consider a bed’s cooling capability and motion isolation. A cooling mattress keeps temperatures low and ensures sleepers don’t overheat at night. Motion isolation means movement won’t travel across the mattress surface, which is important if you share your bed with a rowdy partner or pet.
We test each of these areas hands-on in our studio, much like the categories outlined above. Our cooling test involves measuring the surface temperature of the mattress after our testers have napped in it. For motion isolation, two testers get into bed and mimic how it would feel to sleep alongside tossing and turning.
At the end of these all-encompassing evaluations, we have a firsthand account to back up our recommendations, ensuring that your new bed in a box ticks all your boxes.
Are Bed-in-a-Box Mattresses Good?
Yes, bed-in-a-box mattresses are a good way for people to get a mattress for cheaper and delivered right to their door. Many of the top-rated online mattresses are sold as bed-in-a-box mattresses. They have all the durability, support, and comfort of mattresses you see in showrooms, but they’re easier to set up and transport.
What is the Highest-Rated Mattress-in-a-Box?
It’s important to note that the highest-rated mattress-in-a-box may not be the one for you. Our top pick is also one of the most popular foam bed-in-a-boxes out there, the Nectar Classic. It’s an affordable medium-firm bed that’s great for folks who want a simple-but-effective, well-rounded, and quality mattress.
But some of the other picks on our list may appeal to fans of hybrid mattresses, folks who want something softer or firmer, or those looking for more frills.
What are the Drawbacks of a Bed-in-a-Box Mattress?
There are a couple of disadvantages of purchasing a bed-in-a-box. The most obvious one is that, in most cases, you won’t be able to test the mattress before you buy it, but luckily, many brands offer sleep trials so you don’t have to fully commit.
Bed-in-a-box mattresses also need time to expand. While it’s easy to lug a box around your house, you may have to wait up to 24 hours for your mattress to fully rise. Some beds spring up almost immediately, but most brands will recommend you take a day before sleeping on the mattress.
On top of that, boxed mattresses often have a “new mattress” smell straight out of the box. It’s known as off-gassing, and though it’s harmless, it’s inconvenient to wait a couple days for the odor to dissipate.
Do I Need a Box Spring or Foundation for a Bed-in-a-Box Mattress?
Depending on what type of boxed mattress you purchase, there may be restrictions on what type of base you’ll need to place it on. Most mattresses these days are compatible with everything from box springs to adjustable bases, so you most likely won’t need to purchase something new.
But be sure to check out your new bed’s product information and warranty to ensure you’re placing your new mattress on the right foundation. The wrong foundation or frame could void your warranty.
References
Radwan, A., Fess, P., James, D., Murphy, J., Myers, J., Rooney, M., Taylor, J., & Torii, A. (2015). Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain; systematic review of controlled trials. Sleep Health, 1(4), 257–267. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2015.08.001
Low, F.-Z., Chua, M. C.-H., Lim, P.-Y., & Yeow, C.-H. (2017). Effects of Mattress Material on Body Pressure Profiles in Different Sleeping Postures. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 16(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2016.09.002
Kenny is a Staff Writer at Sleepopolis. He tests the good, the bad, and the ugly of all things sleep, so you can skip the trial and error and jump straight into a good night’s rest. Kenny graduated from William Peace University with a degree in English and a minor in communication. Outside of testing and writing about mattresses, he enjoys hiking, biking, and avoiding the pit at your local heavy metal concert.