The Helix Dusk mattress is a bed-in-a-box hybrid model made with foam layers and pocketed coils. The Helix Dusk is offered in both a standard model and a Luxe model. In this review, I’ll cover the feel, construction, performance, and more for both mattresses. Read on to learn all about these mattresses and decide if one could be right for you.
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Helix Dusk Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Where the Helix Dusk is Featured
Here at Sleepopolis, we use a series of hands-on tests to determine which mattress roundups a bed belongs to and who it might be good for. Here are some of our mattress roundups that include the Helix Dusk:
Helix Dusk Mattress Overview
The Helix Dusk mattresses are both hybrid models made with layers of cushioning foam and supportive coils. Both mattresses have reinforced edges, which indicates durability and longevity. These mattresses have a classic medium-firm feel, with the standard model leaning just a touch softer. Overall, we gave the Helix Dusk a 4.1 out of 5 stars based on its materials, policies, and performance.
These mattresses have an off-gassing and decompression period after unboxing. Typically, all Helix mattresses have a fairly strong off-gassing smell, but as long as you leave your new mattress in a well-ventilated room, any odor should dissipate after 24-48 hours. Keep in mind that the Helix Dusk Luxe is fairly heavy, so you might want a friend to help you unbox it and move it into your space.
Want to learn more about the Helix brand? Check out our interview with Adam Tishman, a co-founder of Helix Sleep.
What Is the Helix Dusk Mattress Made Of?
Next, let’s take a look at what’s inside these mattresses. We’ll take you through each layer of the standard Helix Dusk and Helix Dusk Luxe models so you can get an idea of what’s different about these two beds.
Standard Helix Dusk
Cover – The Light Breathe Knit cover included on the standard Helix Dusk is made of a soft, light material that encourages breathability throughout the mattress.
Comfort Layer – The next layer is made of High-Grade Helix Responsive Foam, which has a medium feel to it. This material does a good job of cradling and contouring to your body. It adds some comfort and pressure relief to this mattress.
Transition Layer – The transition layer of the standard Helix Dusk is also made of High-Grade Helix Responsive Foam. However, this layer has a lower IFD (Indentation Force Deflection), providing more ergonomic support and helps relieve pressure around the shoulders and hips.
Support Layer – Below is a support layer made of individually pocketed coils. These innerspring coils offer tons of bouncy support, which is great news for back sleepers. They also help promote airflow throughout the bed, allowing for an overall cooler feel to this mattress.Base Layer – Last but not least comes the base layer. This layer is made of a DuraDense polyfoam, which gives the coils in the support layer something to bounce off of.
Helix Dusk Luxe
Cover — The Helix Dusk Luxe’s cover is made of Tencel, an eco-friendly fabric that offers even more temperature regulation than the standard Helix Dusk mattress cover.
Pillow Topper — Below this cover is a pillow top layer made of gel foam. This layer offers some extra cushion and initial pressure relief to sleepers.
Comfort Layer — Next up is the comfort layer, which includes the same High-Grade Helix Responsive Foam included in the standard Helix Dusk model. However, the Helix Dusk Luxe also includes Helix Dynamic Foam in its comfort layer. This material is a latex-foam hybrid alternative that gives this mattress a responsive, bouncy feel.
Transition Layer — Next up is a layer made of Memory Plus Foam, which helps provide additional pressure relief around sensitive areas like the lower back, shoulders, and hips.
Support Layer — Next up is the Helix Dusk Luxe’s pocketed coil layer. Unlike the coils in the standard model, the Helix Dusk Luxe coils are zoned for support. This means that they’re softer around the shoulders for extra pressure relief, and firmer at the hips for extra support. This is great news for anyone struggling with back pain and indicates that the Helix Dusk Luxe model offers better lumbar support than the standard model.
Base Layer — Rounding things out is the same DuraDense foam layer that’s included in the standard Helix Dusk model.
Helix Dusk Mattress Firmness
We score a mattress’s firmness by having several Certified Sleep Science Coaches lay on the mattress and rate it between 1 and 10 and then averaging the scores. 1 represents the softest mattress and 10 represents the firmest. A score of 6.5 is our standard for a true medium-firm mattress. Remember that firmness is subjective and is largely dependent on your body type and preferred sleeping position.
We rated the standard Helix Dusk a 6 out of 10 rating on our mattress firmness scale, meaning this mattress is on the softer side. We gave the Helix Dusk Luxe a 6.5 out of 10, so it has more of a medium-firm feel. The inclusion of the thick, Helix Dynamic Doam and zoned support coils makes the Luxe model a bit more supportive than the standard Helix Dusk model. Both models offer a nice body-contouring feel due to the combination of High-Grade Helix Responsive Foam and Helix Dynamic Foam.
Helix Dusk Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Sleeping Position and Body Weight
We recognize that people come in all shapes and sizes, and people of every size deserve a mattress that works for their body type. We use the weight categories light, average, and heavy to more easily categorize sleepers based on how mattresses will perform for their body type, as most mattresses are designed for the group we call “average” (130 to 250 pounds).
As a general rule, lighter sleepers don’t require as much support as average weight sleepers, and mattresses will tend to feel firmer to them. On the other hand, heavy sleepers tend to need more support than average weight sleepers and tend to sink into the mattress more.
As far as sleeping positions go, side sleepers tend to need a softer mattress while stomach sleepers usually need a firmer, more supportive one. Back sleepers are usually somewhere in the middle.
Is the Helix Dusk a Good Mattress for Light Sleepers (Under 130 pounds)?
- Light Back Sleepers – Both Helix models should do a great job supporting lightweight back sleepers. Plus, the responsiveness and bounce of this mattress makes it easy to change positions during the night.
- Light Side Sleepers – Lighter side sleepers will likely find that both Helix Dusk models are a bit too firm for their needs. We recommend that these sleepers opt for a softer mattress model, like the Helix Moonlight.
- Light Stomach Sleepers – The standard Helix Dusk model is probably going to be too soft for these sleepers, but the Helix Dusk Luxe could be supportive enough for lightweight stomach sleepers. It should be able to keep their hips lifted up in line with their shoulders, promoting a healthy spinal alignment.
Is the Helix Dusk a Good Mattress for Average Weight Sleepers (130–250 pounds)?
- Average Weight Back Sleepers – I think either of these mattresses would be a nice choice for strict back sleepers, and they should do a solid job of promoting healthy sleep posture.
- Average Weight Side Sleepers – The standard Helix Dusk model could work for most side sleepers, but people with very sensitive joints might prefer a softer bed. The Helix Dusk Luxe will be too firm for these folks.
- Average Weight Stomach Sleepers – Both of these beds are too soft for these folks. I suggest that stomach sleepers find a model with plenty of support, so their hips don’t sink down lower than their shoulders during the night. We recommend that these sleepers check out our roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Is the Helix Dusk a Good Mattress for Heavy Sleepers (over 250 pounds)?
- Heavy Back Sleepers – Heavier people are likely to sink further into these beds and experience them differently than someone under 250 pounds. That said, the Helix Dusk Luxe should still be supportive enough for heavy back sleepers.
- Heavy Side Sleepers – Heavy side sleepers could also feel comfortable on the Helix Dusk Luxe. However, we still believe that the Helix Plus will offer them better pressure relief.
- Heavy Stomach Sleepers – I don’t think either of the Helix Dusk models will be supportive enough for these sleepers. Instead, we recommend that they check out one of our best mattresses for heavy people.
Helix Dusk Mattress Performance
Here at Sleepopolis, our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches run a series of tests on each mattress we review. These tests show us how a mattress performs in areas such as pain relief, motion transfer, cooling, and more. The results allow us to make specific recommendations to individual sleepers to help them make an informed decision when purchasing a mattress. Below, I’ll dive into how the standard Helix Dusk performed on these tests.
Helix Dusk Mattress Pain Relief Performance
We measure pain relief by testing how well a mattress can alleviate tension in pressure building areas like the shoulders, hips, and lower back. To get a better picture of how well the Helix Dusk can relieve pressure, I rolled out a specialized testing mat onto the mattress and then moved into a variety of sleeping positions. The mat translates the pressure buildup into a graphic that uses thermal imaging to map out pressure. Areas ranging from blue to green indicate low pressure and areas with yellow to red indicate high pressure.
Before taking a look at the pressure map, consider your typical sleeping position. For example, I don’t recommend the Helix Dusk mattress to strict stomach sleepers, as it’s not firm enough to keep the hips inline with the shoulders and maintain a neutral spinal alignment. In short, take your sleeping position into account, as this will largely determine how the mattress will perform for you.
Based on the graphic above, we think the Helix Dusk could be a great option for those combatting back pain. The zoned coil structure in the Helix Luxe model could be very pressure relieving for those needing additional support. The map doesn’t show a buildup of pressure in the shoulder and hip area, but we didn’t find these mattresses to be especially pressure-relieving on our sides. If you struggle with hip or shoulder pain, we recommend checking out one of our best memory foam mattresses or best mattresses for hip pain, as these provide extra pressure relief.
Motion Transfer
Motion transfer refers to how well a mattress is able to absorb movement. This is an important factor to consider if you’re sharing a bed with a partner, pet, or child. When a mattress has low motion transfer, you’re unlikely to be disturbed by any movement on the other side of the bed. We test motion transfer by conducting a seismometer test, which gives us an idea of how the mattress absorbs motion.
Seismometer Test
This test involves dropping a 10 pound steel ball from heights of four inches, eight inches and 12 inches, then measuring the disturbance it causes: the bigger the lines on the graph, the bigger the disturbance and the higher the motion transfer. These three heights represent three types of motion: tossing and turning, getting in and out of bed, and jumping on the bed.
These are pretty average motion transfer results. These hybrid mattresses are pretty bouncy, so they absorb less motion than an all-foam mattress. These weren’t the worst results by any means, but the mediocre motion isolation is something couples should keep in mind, especially if one or both partners are especially light sleepers.
Responsiveness
We test a mattress’s responsiveness by laying down on it and seeing how easy it is to move around. Hybrid mattresses with coils (such as the Helix Dusk) tend to have a high response to pressure and have a bit of bounce. Responsive mattresses are usually good for sex since they make it easy to change positions and move around. These traits also make them good for combination sleepers who switch sleeping positions at night.
We found these beds to be springy and responsive, which is great for sex and for combination sleepers who switch between sleeping positions. You shouldn’t feel stuck in the bed, as the layer of coils provides enough bounce to easily move around. The latex foam in the Luxe model provides additional responsiveness due to the bouncy nature of latex.
Cooling
Several factors contribute to a mattress’s cooling ability. First and foremost, we consider its construction. The knit cover on the standard model encourages breathability throughout the mattress, and the Tencel cover on the Luxe model adds additional temperature regulation. The gel foam and latex foam in the Luxe model also add cooling. The coil layer in both mattresses adds a lot of airflow.
Overall, we found these mattresses to be quite cooling, with the Luxe model sleeping slightly cooler. Sleepopolis is currently in the process of testing mattress cooling using a thermal gun, but we have not used it on the Helix Dusk mattress yet. Stay tuned for those results.
Keep in mind that several outside factors can affect cooling, including the temperature of your bedroom, how close your bed is to an air vent or window, and your body’s own temperature, which can vary from person to person.
Edge Support
Edge support is how well a mattress supports you when you lay along the edges. A mattress with good edge support will be just as strong and study at the perimeter as it is in the center. This is an appealing feature for couples who like to spread out, heavier people who want to avoid premature sagging, and those who love using the entire surface of the bed.
Both the standard Helix Dusk and the Dusk Luxe have great edge support. Both beds feature reinforced edges, which is a common feature in high-quality hybrid mattresses. You should feel very stable sleeping near the edge of the mattress, and I don’t foresee a risk of premature sagging.
Helix Dusk Mattress Performance For Couples
Based on the performance results above, I think either mattress could be a decent choice for couples. The Luxe model is even featured on our best mattress for couples round up. Two people heat up quicker than just one person, but the cooling features in these mattresses, especially the Dusk Luxe, should reduce the chances of overheating. These mattresses are also fairly responsive, which makes them good for sex. The reinforced edges can make the mattress feel bigger, which is definitely a plus for people sharing a bed.
My only concern for couples is the lack of motion isolation provided by these beds. The motion transfer results were just okay; not the best, but not the worst. If you and your partner tend to sleep pretty soundly, then I think this mattress could work for you. However, if either of you is easily disturbed by your partner’s tossing and turning, you may want to consider a mattress with better motion isolation.
Helix Dusk Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
My Final Thoughts about the Helix Dusk Mattress
As we wrap up this review, I want to leave you with my final thoughts on who would be compatible with the Helix Dusk, and who may want to avoid it.
Who I Recommend the Helix Dusk Mattress For
- I would recommend either of these mattresses to back sleepers who should really appreciate the great balance of support and pressure relief.
- If you sleep with a partner or simply want to fully spread out, you’ll like the excellent edge support these mattresses offer. Strong edge support is also an indicator that these mattresses are durable and will last a long time.
- The standard Helix Dusk is very affordable. The Luxe model is significantly more expensive than the standard model, but we believe that both beds are high value and worth the money.
Who I Don’t Recommend the Helix Dusk Mattress For
- I wouldn’t recommend either mattresses to stomach sleepers – they are likely too soft. But, Helix does offer several other mattress options, such as the Helix Dawn mattress, which should offer the firm support these folks need.
- Neither model will be supportive enough for heavy sleepers (those over 250 pounds). I would recommend the Helix Plus mattress instead, which was designed with these sleepers in mind.
Helix Dusk Pricing and Sizing
Price is a huge factor when deciding whether or not to replace your old mattress. Take a look at the chart below to see the standard Helix Dusk and Helix Dusk Luxe pricing. And be sure to check out our Helix mattress coupons page to snag a deal on either of these beds.
Prices listed are before discount or offer on each size.
| Size | Helix | Helix Luxe |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | $799 | $1,199 |
| Twin XL | $899 | $1,449 |
| Full | $1,049 | $1,749 |
| Queen | $1,199 | $2,049 |
| King | $1,549 | $2,499 |
| California King | $1,549 | $2,499 |
Helix Dusk Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dusk Mattress Policies and FAQs
Does the Helix Dusk come with a sleep trial?
Yes, the Helix Dusk and Helix Dusk Luxe both come with a 100-night sleep trial period. After you’ve tested your new mattress for 30 days, you can return it for a full refund during this trial period.
Does the Helix Dusk come with a mattress warranty?
Yes, the standard Helix Dusk comes with a 10-year warranty. The Helix Dusk Luxe comes with a 15-year warranty.
How does the Helix Dusk ship?
All Helix mattresses ship for free. They will arrive compressed in a box.
Do I need a box spring with the Helix Dusk mattress?
No, any hard flat surface will work to support the Dusk. That includes box springs, platform bed frames, and even adjustable bases.
Where are Helix mattresses made?
Helix mattresses are made in the USA.
Helix Dusk Mattress Vs
It’s always a good idea to compare a bed to a few different mattresses on the market to see how it stacks up. Below, I’ll compare the standard Helix Dusk to two other popular hybrid mattresses: the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress and the Casper Hybrid mattress.
Helix Dusk vs Brooklyn Signature Hybrid
Like the Helix Dusk, the Brooklyn Signature is a hybrid mattress made from layers of foam and coils. The Brooklyn Signature Hybrid comes in three firmness options – Soft, Medium, and Firm – so you can choose the one that is most compatible with your sleep needs.
- Price: The price of these mattresses are almost identical, but the Luxe model of the Helix Dawn is more expensive.
- Sleeping position: The Brooklyn Signature should appeal to combination sleepers who don’t want a ton of body-contouring. Strict side sleepers will most likely prefer the Helix Dusk.
- Cooling: Both mattresses are good options for hot sleepers needing to stay cool.
- Body weight: The Brooklyn Signature Hybrid is a good choice for heavy back and side sleepers and should feel quite supported.
Read more in our full Brooklyn Signature mattress review.
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dusk vs Casper Hybrid
The Casper Hybrid is a medium-firm mattress that’s a bit firmer than the Helix Dusk. This hybrid mattress offers zoned support memory foam and pocketed coils.
- Price: The Helix Dusk and Caper Hybrid are priced very similarly.
- Sleeping position: Both mattresses are ideal for back sleepers. Both should work for side sleepers, but the Helix Dusk may offer a bit more sinkage and contouring.
- Cooling: Both mattresses include breathable foams and airflow-encouraging pocketed coils, so either could be a good choice for hot sleepers.
- Body weight: Neither of these mattresses are ideal for heavier sleepers. I would recommend trying one of our best innerspring mattresses for additional support.
Read more in our full Casper Hybrid mattress review.
Casper Hybrid Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Other Models from Helix
I’ll also compare the Dusk to a few other popular models from Helix’s mattress line. Like the Helix Dusk, all of these models come in a standard and a Luxe model. I’ll be comparing the standard models below.
Helix Dusk vs Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight is the Helix brand’s most popular mattress model. The Midnight has a medium-firm feel that’s similar to the Dusk’s.
- Price: These mattresses are priced the same, but the Luxe model of the Helix Dusk is more expensive.
- Sleeping position: The Helix Midnight is great for all sleeping positions, even stomach sleepers, who typically need a firmer mattress. However, I felt very comfortable stomach sleeping on the Midnight.
- Cooling: I was impressed by both of these mattress’s cooling abilities.
- Body weight: I don’t think heavy sleepers would be uncomfortable on the Helix Midnight, but it may feel a bit too soft. These sleepers may want to check out our best mattresses for heavy people round up for better options.
Read more in our full Helix Midnight mattress review.
Helix Midnight Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Dusk vs Helix Sunset
The Helix Sunset is a softer mattress than the Helix Dusk. In fact, the Sunset is the softest mattress sold by Helix, landing at a 5.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. The mattresses are similar in construction but different in feel.
- Price: These mattresses are priced the same, with the Luxe version of both being more expensive.
- Sleeping position: Both mattresses are good for back and side sleepers, but side sleepers may prefer the softer Helix Sunset.
- Cooling: Both Helix mattresses sleep cool. The Luxe versions have additional cooling features.
- Body weight: I don’t think either mattresses are supportive enough for heavy sleepers, but the Helix Plus is a great alternative designed specifically for sleepers weighing over 250 pounds.
Read more in our Helix Sunset mattress review.
Helix Sunset Mattress
Product Details
Our Recommendation
Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Our Review Process
At Sleepopolis, our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches personally test each mattress. We start by unboxing the mattress to figure out how difficult (or easy) it is to get the mattress from the box to the bed. Then, we spend time laying on the bed in different positions, taking time to assess it on our backs, stomachs, and sides. Next, we perform our Sleepopolis tests, using specialized tools to measure qualities like motion transfer, bounce, and pressure relief. Our last step is to open up the mattress and take a look at each layer. These steps allow us to give our final verdict on the mattress.
