All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
So you’re on a hunt for the best mattress-in-a-box. Welcome to our world. We’ve spent countless hours researching, talking about, and sleeping on leading online mattresses far and wide, answering questions from how to choose the right mattress type for you to how to clean it and what to put it on. We’ve even philosophized about Amazon’s best-selling mattress and accessorized our dream sleep setup. You can see the full results of our long-standing obsession in our Guide to Good Sleep, but the ultimate conclusion of our collective efforts is this: There is no such thing as a “one size fits all” mattress.
This is primarily because there is no such thing as a single type of mattress customer. Are you a hot sleeper? A stomach sleeper? A tosser-and-turner? There are so many sleeping positions, sleep styles, and body types—and all of them factor into the kind of mattress that will feel good to you.
But even if you’re able to conclude that, say, you’re a back sleeper, lover of memory foam mattresses, and in need of a serious firmness level, the right purchase may not be obvious—there are way too many direct-to-consumer mattress companies to choose from for that kind of clarity. Given that a high-quality mattress can cost over $1,000 and should last you a decade or more, this is an investment you definitely want to get right.
That’s where we come in. We sleep-tested leading online mattresses so we could provide clarity and insight into which bed-in-a-box might be right for you.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Dreamcloud Premier Hybrid Mattress; $1,832, now $1,099
- Best plush: The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress; $1099, now $659
- Best firm: Bear Elite Hybrid; $2,305, now $1,499
- Best budget-friendly: Allswell Supreme Mattress, $487
- Best cooling: Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress; $1,079, now $699
- Best all-natural: Avocado Eco Organic Mattress; $1,299, now $1,170
And here is the complete list of the mattresses we reviewed. Click through if you’d like to jump straight to a specific mattress:
- DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress
- Dreamcloud Premier Hybrid Mattress
- Helix Midnight Luxe
- Cocoon Chill Memory Foam Mattress
- Casper Nova Hybrid
- Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
- The Propel Hybrid by Brooklyn Bedding
- Avocado Eco Organic Mattress
- Nest Bedding Sparrow Signature Hybrid Memory Foam Mattress
- Layla Hybrid Mattress
- Allswell Supreme Mattress
- Purple Hybrid Premier 4
- Happsy Organic Mattress
- The Mattress by Parachute
- My Green Mattress Natural Escape
- Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
- The Burrow Lyric Hybrid Mattress
- The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress
- Original Mattress by Casper
- Casper Element Pro
- Mint Mattress by Tuft & Needle
- Amerisleep AS3 Mattress
- Puffy Cloud Mattress
- Leesa Studio Mattress
- Earthfoam Organic Mattress
Please note that all prices are for queen-size bed-in-a-box mattresses. Check retailers for additional price and size information. All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Hybrid Mattresses
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• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Four various types of memory foam for contouring cushion, one of foam-encased pocketed micro coils for support, and a hand-tufted cashmere blend cover • Warranty • 365-night sleep trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Madeline O’Malley, market director
How did the delivery go? The delivery process was very standard. The Dreamcloud mattress arrived quickly, which was great. But it was no different from any other package in that it was left with my doorman, who carried it up to my apartment.
What was the setup like? I was assembling a bed frame at the same time I was setting up my mattress, so I had already hired a Task Rabbit [handyman] to assemble the frame. He kindly unboxed my mattress as well. It was very heavy, so I definitely would’ve needed help had I done it on my own.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress is a great middle ground between firm and soft. I don’t sink in much, but it’s also quite squishy. My body doesn’t leave an imprint when I get up; the mattress springs back to its shape immediately.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would say this mattress is an 8. I sleep really well on it, and I’m also able to work on my laptop in bed without everything moving around. It serves my purposes well, but it isn’t the most indulgent sleep I’ve ever had either. I typically love a really squishy, sink-in mattress, and this is definitely not that.
How well did you sleep? I slept very well! I’m usually extremely tired by the time I get home, so it always feels luxurious to get into bed each night.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! It’s a high-quality mattress that feels more expensive than it is. There’s a body and girth to it that I haven’t found in previous mattresses I’ve owned. I think it’s a great value.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Six layers: Four various types of memory foam for contouring cushion, one of foam-encased pocketed micro coils for support, and a hand-tufted cashmere blend cover • Warranty • 365-night sleep trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Michael Shome, global visuals director
How did the delivery go? The delivery was incredibly fast and efficient. Customer service was easy and pleasant. To get the mattress in place, one needs some support. If you live alone, you’ll definitely need to recruit a friend to help move the mattress in place.
What was the setup like? The mattress arrived neatly compressed in a compact box but as expected, it is quite heavy. Two people are required to maneuver the mattress.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress is moderately firm but the plush Euro Top adds an extra layer of coziness and comfort. The DreamCloud Premier King has a super cozy cashmere top and seven decadent layers of adaptive support. There is also a one year trial period for mattress buyers looking for longer term flexibility and assessment. Too often mattresses lose their support after consecutive nights of sleep which makes the trial period quite valuable.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 8
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would certainly recommend this to a friend and have already suggested it to my parents. They often complain about the annoyance of disturbed sleep from transfer movement. The DreamCloud truly minimizes sleep disturbance from your neighbor.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Six layers: Luxury memory foam for pressure point relief, copper gel memory foam, wrapped coils for support throughout • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 15-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial.
Mattress tester: Gaby Ulloa, contributor
How did the delivery go? As simple as it gets! The box was delivered right to my front door. That said, this particular Helix mattress is two inches thicker than their standard model. And while it’s definitely an added bonus, it made moving the box around and rolling the mattress out a bit tougher. Pro tip: make this a two-person project.
What was the setup like? After my friend and I managed to get the mattress out of the box, I removed the plastic wrap carefully (making sure to not cut into the mattress) and then watched in awe at how quickly it expanded into its full shape. I noticed a slight chemical smell and decided to stay the night elsewhere. Full disclosure: this was more due to the fact that I still had one night left in my old apartment before I had to turn in the keys rather than the smell, which faded fairly quickly.
How firm is the mattress? It’s marketed as a medium firmness mattress and I definitely agree. It provides the perfect “not too soft, not too firm” situation and allows me to sink into a deep night’s sleep while still feeling completely supported. The real test, though, was when my six-foot-nine partner spent the night. I never once felt him move around and he, too, agreed the support was ideal.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the most comfy)? 9.5! I really do love this mattress but I’m holding out that 0.5 for a mattress I once slept on but truly cannot afford….
How well did you sleep? Honestly so well... Normally, whenever I sleep on a new mattress (or even my mattress back at my mom’s house which I am very familiar with), I usually wake up with some sort of back pain. That never happened with the Midnight Luxe. I wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested each day.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Absolutely! No doubt about it.
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• Mattress type • Hybrid or memory foam • Layers • Four layers of body-hugging memory foam and a cooling cover • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, and a 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Cade Hiser, vp of programming and development
How did the delivery and setup go? The delivery was super simple and fast. The overall setup was even faster! From right out of the box, it rolled out nicely onto the box spring on top of my bed frame. There were no complicated instructions or anything like that. The mattress was ready for sleep that evening.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress was honestly a bit firmer than I expected. The Sealy website rates it about a 6/10 on their firm scale, but I’d put it closer to an 8. The two foam layers make a difference.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would give this mattress an 8 out of 10 in terms of overall comfort. It may take some getting used to at first if you are new to firmer mattresses like myself. The memory foam layers adjust to your sleep position, which makes falling asleep easy.
How well did you sleep? I’ve never slept better. While my previous mattress was on the firmer side, it was not a memory foam or very cool mattress. With the Cocoon Chill Memory Foam mattress, I do not wake up in the middle of the night like I used to, tossing and turning. I also stay sleeping at a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I’m not sure that I would change anything about this mattress. It is exactly what I was looking for.
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on? I can really tell the difference in my sleep and I wake up feeling refreshed and energized. I used to wake up in the middle of the night and would have so much trouble falling back asleep. With this mattress, I wake up significantly less in the middle of the night and if I do, I never have trouble falling back asleep. It really has made sleeping easy!
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Four layers: two breathable Airscape™ layers meant to cool and regulate temperature, one of Zoned Support™ Pro for ergonomic relief, and a polyurethane foam layer that houses the encased springs • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Nora Taylor, contributor
How did the delivery go? Delivery was great! They said it would get here on Tuesday and it got here on a Tuesday. The box was bulky but not impossible to get into the apartment.
What was the setup like? Easy and strangely fun. This was my first mattress in a box, so I was expecting a much longer expansion time, closer to an inflatable mattress, but it was like, ‘Boop, here’s your new bed!’
How firm is the mattress? I would say it’s not firm at all, but it is supportive. You sink luxuriously into the top layer but wake up feeling like you slept on something really sturdy. I’m a side sleeper, so the wrong mattress can lead to some uncomfortable hips in the morning, but that has not been the case with this mattress at all.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would say a 9.5. It’s so plush compared to what I’m used to, it feels like staying in a fancy hotel rather than just regular life! It also says it has cooling technology, and while I can’t say I noticed feeling more comfortable temperature-wise, I haven’t felt uncomfortable, so that’s something.
How well did you sleep? Great! The first night I had it I was reluctant to fall asleep since I just wanted to stay up and absorb the luxury, but after that I slept really well.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? If you are a fan of a plush mattress top, I would 100% recommend it. You get to sink into bed but get enough support that your body isn’t thrown out of whack. Also, the actual mattress is this really appealing heather gray, so it looks nice in between sheet changes.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Seven layers: Pressure-relieving and breathable foam, support foam, graphite-infused foam, spring coils • Warranty • 120-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Audrey Lee, commerce editor
How did the delivery and setup go? Nolah’s a bed-in-a-box brand, obviously, which makes delivery a breeze. My mattress arrived compressed in a tall box that was waiting on my doorstep once I arrived home from running errands one day. Unless you’re very strong, I would suggest having help to bring the box into your home, especially if stairs are involved, as the box weighs about 80-90 pounds.
Setup involved releasing the compressed bed from its cardboard box, onto my bed frame, and cutting through the many layers of tightly-wrapped plastic to let it unfurl and expand to its full size. The whole process took under 10 minutes, though Nolah suggests waiting a full 24 hours for your mattress to reach peak firmness.
How firm is the mattress? I chose the “luxury firm” option, though there are options for a more plush and an even firmer feel. I found this was the perfect choice for me and would recommend it to most people who find themselves wanting something with a medium-firm feel.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? This mattress gets a very enthusiastic 10 from me!
How well did you sleep? Falling asleep in this bed feels like a treat, especially after a long day. In the past, I’ve experienced adjustment periods where my body needs time to get used to a mattress, but not with Nolah, which let me get a full night of luxurious sleep from the get-go.
If you could change anything about it, what would it be? I honestly wouldn’t change a thing. I honestly wouldn’t change a thing. This might be the best hybrid mattresses I’ve had the pleasure of sleeping on.
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on? There’s so much to love about this mattress. In the past, my mattress preferences have leaned more towards soft than firm but Nolah’s “luxury firm” Evolution mattress has me second-guessing myself. The first time I flopped onto the bed, I immediately felt like every element in the mattress was working together to provide the perfect balance of comfort and support. This is mainly thanks to the substantial seven-layer construction which includes a layer of individually-wrapped coils, breathable Airfoam, and a plush pillow top cover that cradles your body in a particularly soothing way. I would buy this mattress again in a heartbeat. If you’re a side sleeper like me, run, don’t walk.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Five layers: Made of 100% natural latex rubber from sustainable farms, GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool, plus pocketed support coils • Warranty • 100 night trial period, 10-year warranty, free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Katarina Kovac, commerce producer
How did the delivery go? The delivery was seamless. It showed up at my door in a box that I thought was entirely too small to fit a king-size mattress; the fact that it was compressed in there blew my mind. I opened up the box with no issues and laid the mattress out in my living room to let it breathe before putting it on my bed frame (which I didn’t even need to do, as there was no chemical off-gassing). I couldn’t believe that there was no smell when I laid the mattress out, and it only made me more aware of how other products I’ve had in the past have had to lay outside for a couple days before I was even able to use them due to the chemical smell. The quality of the actual materials was visible just from handling it out of the box.
What was the setup like? I did have to call some friends over to help, as it was a king-size mattress and there was no chance I was going to be able to lift it up a flight of stairs alone. It was totally easy with the help of one other person—two being a plus, but not at all necessary.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress is on the firmer side and is best for back or stomach sleepers, but if you add a topper like the Alpaca Wool Mattress Topper, it should be perfect for side sleepers as well.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? For me, a back sleeper who doesn’t like her mattress too soft, a 10.
How well did you sleep? I slept like a baby with this mattress. Often gravitating toward a more firm sleeping experience, this mattress was perfect as it wasn’t too soft to where I sank in but wasn’t too firm to where it felt like a rock. The back support was there, and as someone who’s 5'11", that was sincerely appreciated. The American Chiropractic Association has endorsed Avocado mattresses since 2020, which gets five stars of approval from me.
I could not be happier knowing that I now sleep on a 100% organic mattress that is not only ethical in its materials but also its production. Additionally knowing that I’m not breathing in toxic chemicals when I lay my head at night is huge. The wool fabric was super warm and soft to the touch, and my sheets fit on it perfectly.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Why or why not? Yes, I would undoubtedly recommend this mattress and brand as a whole to a friend. The price point of the Eco Organic Mattress is amazing for the quality and materials used, and the mission statement aligns with what I believe most people truly want.
I’ve seen Avocado mattresses on various digital platforms from holistic wellness influencers and have always been really intrigued. Since becoming more conscious about not only the products I put in my body, but also on it and around it, I’ve come to find out that a lot of mattresses have chemical off-gassing (flame retardants, formaldehyde, benzene, etc) which have caused various health issues in many people who were unaware upon purchasing. Finding a mattress that is 100% organic is genuinely a feat in these modern manufacturing days, but Avocado has come to the rescue, made entirely from non-toxic, natural, and organic materials. They also maintain environmentally conscious, ethical, and sustainable practices from start to finish, so you can feel great about where your dollars are going.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Customizable layers, including coils and quilted gel memory. Choose the firmness level of your foam layer and switch it out for a different layer down the road should your sleep preferences change • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, lifetime warranty, and a 365-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Briana Feigon, contributor
How did the delivery and setup go? Easy peasy. The mattress arrived at our doorstep in a big box and my fiancé helped hold the box up while I cut it open. The mattress was sealed airtight in a large, thick plastic wrap, so I sliced it open and the two of us dragged the mattress to the desired location in our room and let it grow to its full size! Don’t get me wrong, it is not light, and I would definitely say it was a job for two, but we were snuggled on our new mattress in less than…30 minutes? Including making the bed! Just the fact that you can pick out a mattress online and sleep on it days later is pretty mind-blowing to me.
How firm is the mattress? Firm. My bed is my favorite place in the world, and it’s not uncommon to witness me spending an entire afternoon under the covers with a stack of books, chatting on the phone with a girlfriend, or eating a grilled cheese sandwich. I like a firm mattress because it feels nice to be on, both when I’m asleep and also when I’m awake and doing things in bed. What I really like about the Sparrow is that it is firm while still being cozy and plush.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 11. I am in heaven. When a mattress is too soft, I wake up with lower back pain, and this Nest mattress is so incredibly comfortable, I really couldn’t recommend it enough! Since this was an upgrade from a queen, it took us a few weeks to find the perfect bed frame to put it on. I was worried that having the mattress on the ground for the first couple of weeks might impact it’s comfort level…Not at all. It’s been equally comfortable both on the ground and once we found a great bed frame to put it on.
How well did you sleep? Superb. Like a sloth.
If you share the mattress with any other sleepers, can you speak to motion transfer? I have to say, I basically forget that my fiancé Henry is in bed with me. Honestly, the biggest drawback to having a king-size mattress is that we never cuddle anymore in bed. I joke with him that I need a loudspeaker to talk to him from one side of the bed to the other.
I haven’t noticed any motion transfer. I tend to precariously balance an open book on a pillow in front of me, while holding a mug of hot tea. Even if Henry plops into bed, I have yet to experience any tea spillage!
If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I do notice sometimes that I wake up quite hot in the middle of the night. I can’t say for sure if this has to do with the mattress, it could very well be my blankets or simply our house, but that’s the one thing that comes to mind.
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on? It’s awesome. I will absolutely be keeping this mattress for years to come. Henry and I are both thrilled with it. It’s also nice to know, if you’re looking for a mattress to share with a partner, that you can choose the firmness options for each side of a Nest (in king or California king sizes). I was worried that Henry would want a firmer mattress, and if that had been the case, we could have customized each of our bed sides to fit our firmness preference.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Five layers: Infused memory foam and an individually wrapped coil system that provides ample support. The flippable mattress has a soft side and a firm side, so you can tailor the sleeping experience to your needs • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 120-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Cheryl Dearborne, contributor
How did the delivery and setup go? The delivery was faster than I expected and the setup was easy. I did need help carrying it up the stairs–it’s very heavy, but it is a mattress after all. The mattress inflated quickly, it didn’t have a strong smell out of the box, and I slept fine the first night.
How firm is the mattress? I used the firm side of the mattress, and it supported me properly while still providing a soft cradle.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10
How well did you sleep? I am currently sleeping better than I ever have before. My sleep is more regulated.
If you share the mattress with any other sleepers, can you speak to motion transfer? I haven’t shared the mattress as of yet, but it seems like it would be good with motion transfer because of the foam, it is a very sturdy mattress.
If you could change anything about the mattress what would it be? I like the mattress and wouldn’t change it. It came with two pillows I don’t care for, as I need a firm foam pillow that cradles my neck properly.
How does this mattress compare to other mattresses you’ve slept on? This is my favorite mattress yet. I have slept on mattress brands including Casper, Purple, and Tuft & Needle, but, for me, this tops them all (though the Tuft and Needle came close).
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Six layers: Including cooper-infused memory foam, high density support foam, and pocketed spring coils for cooling comfort • Warranty • 90-day returns
Mattress tester: Rebecca Grambone, associate social media manager
How did the delivery go? Although Allswell offers white glove delivery service, I opted out since I only have to travel up one flight of stairs. The delivery process was not as smooth as I would have liked it to go. I received a delivery confirmation even though the mattress had not been delivered and then after going back and forth with customer service, a mattress appeared downstairs in my apartment about a week later, unannounced. Aside from the delivery process, the mattress was compressed which made moving it up to my apartment easier.
What was the setup like? The setup was pretty simple. Once we removed the boxed outer layer, the mattress popped right out and expanded on its own. I did have help, but feel that I could have done it alone if I really needed to.
How well did you sleep? At first, the mattress was harder than what I am used to, but soon over time, it formed to my body. I feel supported yet super comfortable, and, as promised, it keeps me very cool. Their cooling technology actively draws and releases excess heat away from your body through the cooling top cover and copper foam. I look forward to going to bed every night because I’m so comfortable and find that I’m not waking up in the middle of the night to adjust my body or find a cozier position.
Even though Allswell is a newer name, one thing that really stood out to me about this brand is how customizable their mattresses are. They have several options based on your ideal sleep situation. Whether you have a boxspring, a flat platform bed frame, an adjustable frame, or a slatted frame, all their mattresses are designed to be compatible with a variety of sleeping setups.
How firm is the mattress? I would say that this mattress is a middle ground mattress. It’s not too plush but not too hard–it’s just right!
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I’d rate this mattress at an 8.5. It did take a bit of time to break in but was worth the wait.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would definitely recommend this mattress to a friend because I can tell that my sleep has improved ever since I switched to it. I wouldn’t change anything about this mattress; however, I will note that this mattress wouldn’t be a good option for someone who likes something more plush.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Three layers: Spring coils and Purple's proprietary GelFlex Grid designed to be simultaneously soft and firm, supportive, but flex around your pressure points • Warranty • 100-night sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Shoko Wanger, contributor
How did the delivery go? My experience with Purple was 100% positive, and I never felt like I was left hanging or in the dark. When the delivery day rolled around, the mattress was brought to our front door in a long vinyl tube, and my husband and I dragged it up the stairs together. It was heavy, but the tube had handles attached to each end that made the job easier.
What was the setup like? The mattress comes with a little paper card explaining the best way to unfurl it, which eased any concerns I had about un-packaging a heavy item the wrong way. I cut the vinyl tube open, removed the plastic wrap, and pulled the mattress onto our bed frame. I was surprised, given the heaviness of the mattress in the tube, that I was able to do this relatively easily without help. It took a few minutes for it to settle, but then it was good to go.
How firm is the mattress? Not firm at all, but it is a really surprising and effective blend of soft and supportive. In fact, the first time I sat on it, I was shocked at how squishy it felt. My toddler son even hopped on with me and immediately said, “Bouncy!” But then, when I lay down, I was surprised again—I wasn’t sinking into it the way I expected I would; instead, I felt buoyant.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would give it an 8. The very unique feel of it does take some getting used to (that softness is due to something called a GelFlex Grid, and when you lie down, you really do feel both the stretchy gel texture and the grid)—but it’s definitely comfortable. I’m normally partial to a firmer bed, but that aforementioned combo of cushiness and support is almost addictive.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! I would recommend it most highly to someone who prefers a softer mattress and who sleeps hot.
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• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Four layers: Wool, cotton, certified latex, and pocketed springs, 100% organic and nontoxic • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 120-night sleep trial.
Mattress tester: Kristi Kellogg, contributor
How did the delivery go? Delivery was great. I was able to track it in progress, and it arrived on my porch without incident. The mattress was securely and neatly packed.
What was the setup like? This was my first bed-in-a-box, and I was shocked by how slim and compact the box was when it arrived. It’s amazing how effectively packed the mattress is. This was a two-person project, so my husband and I tackled it together. After slicing through the tape, we removed the plastic surrounding the mattress, and it transformed into a full-size mattress in less than a minute. Right out of the box, it had a bit of an alfalfa smell, but it aired out and completely disappeared within a few days.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress is firm and solid. It’s just as firm as a regular coiled mattress. I like my mattresses extremely firm (otherwise I get back pain), and this one lived up to my standards.
How well did you sleep? Like a baby. I’m a side sleeper and my husband is a back sleeper, and we both had zero complaints.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Absolutely! This is a great mattress that I would happily commit to again.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Six layers: Pure New Zealand wool, 100% organic cotton, and tempered steel (with five times the coils of a standard mattress) • Warranty • 90-day sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free white-glove delivery and returns
Mattress tester: Kristen Flanagan, digital deputy director
How did the delivery go? The delivery process was super straightforward. Parachute offers free white-glove delivery service for all mattress orders, which is amazing, especially if you live on the fifth floor, like I do. The delivery window was from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., but they showed up at noon. (Lucky me!) The delivery guy was really nice—he played with my dog and made sure that the mattress was unpacked properly, taking care not to get it dirty.
What was the setup like? The mattress comes rolled up and wrapped in plastic, inside a cardboard box. The delivery guy used a box cutter to remove all of the packaging. (I think he saw the look on my face when he started slashing the box open because he said, “Don’t worry, I do this all the time!”) It took him less than five minutes to unpack it, let it fluff up, and put in place. He took all of the packaging materials with him, which was a nice perk of the white-glove service.
How firm is the mattress? It’s designed to be medium-firm, which I was nervous about, but it turns out I love a firm mattress. My husband and I bought a Sleep Number bed when we first started living together because he likes a firm mattress and I thought I liked a soft mattress. The Parachute mattress is a happy medium for both of us. There is plenty of give, but you don’t sink into it or leave an imprint. My back feels very supported. The hand tufting makes the top soft but not too mushy. I imagine if you’re used to a super cushiony mattress you might not like this one at first, but Parachute has converted me into a medium-firm mattress person.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 9, but again, if you are used to a squishy mattress, there might be an adjustment period here.
How well did you sleep? I’m a light sleeper, so this feels like a loaded question…but! I have noticed that when my husband or I (or let’s face it, our dog) changes position in the middle of the night, there’s less movement across the whole mattress, which is great. Because it’s firmer than our previous mattress, we’re not bouncing each other around in the middle of the night.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would highly recommend it, especially if you’re concerned about the materials your mattress is made from. The Parachute mattress is made of pure New Zealand wool, 100% organic cotton, and tempered steel. I am super sensitive to harsh chemicals and itchy fabrics, which makes this a great option for me. It’s also a beautifully made product, so you feel like you’re getting your money’s worth.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Three layers: Innerspring mattress topped with three inches of organic latex, top-most layers made with organic wool and cotton quilting • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 120-night sleep trial period.
Mattress tester: Kristi Kellogg, contributor
How did the delivery go? Delivery was a breeze. The mattress showed up in a box slightly that was as tall as me, and I was able to push it into my garage without event. This is my second mattress-in-a-box, and I was once again taken aback at the fact a huge mattress is able to compress and roll up into a box. It’s amazing.
What was the setup like? Setup was also a breeze. We let the mattress stay in the box for a few days, and then took the mattress upstairs to unbox it.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress is considered “medium firm,” as is the firmest in the My Green Mattress lineup. I love a firm mattress, and this one feels very good to me. I feel super supported, and haven't experienced any back pain sleeping on it. If you prefer a more pillowy experience, it’s worth noting that My Green Mattress sells plush mattress toppers that give you an extra two inches of softness and pressure point relief.
How well did you sleep on this mattress? I slept great. The mattress is so supportive, and I'm finding myself waking up less throughout the night.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 11.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Ab-so-lutely. It’s such a high-quality mattress and super comfortable. Since it’s a direct-to-consumer brand, you really get a great deal (and if you manage to buy it around Black Friday or Labor Day, you’ll probably get to save even more).
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• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Six layers: Cooling and supportive coil technology and three varieties of foam—including copper-infused memory foam (available in three firmness options) • Warranty • 120-night free trial, free shipping, lifetime warranty
Mattress tester: Audrey Lee, commerce editor
How did the delivery go? Bed-in-a-box brands like Bear make ordering new mattresses a cinch. My Bear mattress arrived compressed in a tall box that was waiting on my doorstep within 10 days of placing my order. If you’re very strong (unlike me), you might be able to bring the mattress from your doorstep/lobby into your home with no problem—otherwise, I would suggest having help, especially if stairs are involved since the box still weighs about 70–80 pounds.
What was the setup like? Thankfully, the setup was also super simple and standard to any bed-in-a-box. After releasing the compressed bed from its cardboard box and onto my bed frame, I cut through several layers of tightly-wrapped plastic to let it unfurl and expand to its full size. The whole process took under 10 minutes, and I waited a full 24 hours before sleeping on the mattress to let it fully inflate.
How well did you sleep? The Elite Hybrid feels like sleeping on a very cooling cloud that has lots of added support. As I’ve gotten older, I find myself gravitating towards firmer beds because they really help my back, so I chose to try out the mattress in the extra firm option. Though I can confirm the bed is ultrasupportive, it still feels comforting thanks to several top layers of cushioning foam. The mattress stands 14 inches tall in total, and what’s nice is you can tell all the different components are working together to deliver a stellar sleep experience. It’s also extremely breathable and very cooling, so though I’m not typically a hot sleeper, it’s definitely a godsend in the summer when you’re looking for any and all ventilation.
Bear’s Elite Hybrid is their “most luxurious mattress,” designed with both coils and foam to help you feel supported but still comfortable. When Bear says their mattresses are cooling, they really mean it, and during the summer months it was definitely a treat. I also really liked that while the mattress is firm, the top layers offer a lot of comfort (as a side sleeper, waking up with shoulder pain from an uncomfortable bed is a real bummer). Not to mention the Elite Hybrid has great edge support, which, if you’re like me and work from bed from time to time, being able to sit up without sinking in too much is greatly appreciated.
How firm is the mattress? Since I opted for the extra firm option (Bear describes this option as a 7.5/10 in terms of firmness), I was expecting something that had less sink to it, though I will say the foam top layers make it pretty cushy!
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? A very solid 9—in a perfect world, I would even love something a touch more firm.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Anyone looking to upgrade an old mattress should definitely consider the Elite Hybrid. There’s lots of love about the bed, but I’d say its cooling ability is where it shines the brightest, making it perfect for hot sleepers.
• Mattress type • Hybrid • Layers • Four layers: Breathable and cooling foam and coils • Warranty • Free shipping, one-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Rachel Davies, associate digital features editor
How did the delivery go? The mattress arrived rolled in a box that was about five feet long. Delivery was very straightforward but the box was heavy to move around so the process was not without strain. Overall, it was manageable to move around between two people and a lot easier than if it was a flat mattress.
What was the setup like? I had a friend with me but I think it also would have been fine to set up alone. Getting it out of the box was super simple—once I had the box in the right spot. It arrived vacuum sealed so after taking it out of the box and wrap, I let it rest for a few hours before putting it on the bed frame (I was able to sleep on it that night and it definitely firmed up more overtime).
How well did you sleep? This mattress has gotten more comfortable as I’ve slept on it, but even at peak stiffness it was never really uncomfortable and I could always fall asleep (I think it took about a week or two to fully adjust). I’d previously owned an IKEA hybrid mattress for years and the Burrow mattress feels well-made and more comfortable too. I will say, though, I still think the (much more expensive) Tempur-Pedic mattress I’ve slept on provides me with the best night’s sleep, but for the price, the Burrow mattress feels like a really good value.
I also love the handles on the side which make it easy to move—ideal for city living when you’re not 100% sure you’ll be staying in the same building year after year. I like the support it gives the sleeper while still being soft. I hate spring mattresses after having one for all of my childhood/teenage years, but I do think some memory foam or hybrid mattresses are TOO soft. This is definitely a true hybrid—soft and cozy on top, but still supportive through the night. That being said, if you’re someone who likes a really firm mattress, this is probably still too soft for you.
How firm is the mattress? It’s pretty firm, but has a softness to it. I prefer something super plush, so it’s not perfect for me but it’s still cozy.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10?
I would say it is an 8. Not the comfiest mattress I’ve ever laid on but still quite comfortable!
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Why or why not?
I think this is a great mattress for someone who prefers a firm mattress but also likes a plush top. It’s a great kind of “compromise” mattress too, if it’s going to be for a couple that is split between firm and plush.Truly the perfect middle ground, and very comfortable for the price point. If anything, I will say that sometimes my sheets slip off of the mattress and I have to readjust them because of the softness of the top of the mattress. It’s not a deal-breaker—and I’ve definitely had this problem with other soft memory foam mattresses—but I do dream of a mattress that never gives me this problem.
Memory Foam Mattresses:
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Four layers: CertiPUR-US certified quilted gel memory foam, gel memory foam, and “adaptive hi core” memory foam, with a foam base and a cooling Tencel cover to prevent overheating • Warranty • 365-night sleep trial, lifetime warranty, and free shipping and full refunds.
Mattress tester: Nick Mafi, features editor
How did the delivery go? The delivery process was very easy. The Nectar mattress appeared in my apartment lobby in a box that seemed far too small to hold a queen-size mattress.
What was the setup like? After bringing it up to my apartment and opening the package, I moved the deflated mattress to my bed frame. From there, the mattress (which was packaged in plastic wrapping) quickly expanded to fit my queen-size bed frame. I allowed the mattress 72 hours to fully inflate, per the directions, before sleeping on it.
How firm is the mattress? My body sinks into the all-foam mattress a bit more than I had anticipated, but that’s likely due to the fact that it’s been over a decade since I’ve had any sort of memory foam mattress.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would say an 8. The mattress is comfortable, but I wasn’t used to the give of a memory foam bed at first.
How well did you sleep? To my surprise, I am actually sleeping better on this mattress than I was on my old one.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, absolutely. My biggest concern was that I would take the time and energy to get a new mattress and regret my decision, which would mean I would have to go through the whole process again. Luckily, that didn’t happen, and I’ve been very happy with the mattress.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Three layers of foam: 1.5 inches of breathable open-cell foam, 1.5 inches of pressure-relieving memory foam, and 1.5 inches of Zoned Support foam—plus a seven-inch foundation of end-to-end, pocket-coil springs, and three targeted zones of support for proper spinal alignment • Warranty • 100-night trial, 10-year limited warranty, and free shipping and refunds
Mattress tester: Keith Pollock, contributor
How did the delivery go? It was very easy! The box was left right at the front door.
What was the setup like? It took two people to unpack the Casper Original and get it onto the bed frame. After that, it was simple: I just removed the plastic wrap and it puffed right up. I would say it took about 20 minutes in total. However, I did notice the mattress had a subtle chemical smell at first. It wasn’t bad—just a slight odor—but it took a few days to go away.
How firm is the mattress? The mattress offers great support—it isn’t too soft or too firm. I also didn’t feel my dogs moving around next to me during the night, which was nice.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 9!
How well did you sleep? The first night, the mattress took a bit of getting used to. After that, though, I slept great.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, I would recommend it. The setup was easy and it’s really comfortable.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Three layers of foam: a durable base layer, premium memory foam layer, and breathable Airscape™ foam to top it off • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial.
Mattress tester: Clementine Le Coz, contributor
How did the delivery go? After ordering my mattress, I was provided with a tracking number and promised delivery less than a week later. Not even four days later, the mattress promptly arrived. I would be hard-pressed to find any aspect of the delivery to improve, as it was as smooth, quick, and efficient as I could have imagined.
What was the setup like? Casper’s “mini-fridge”-size box is deceivingly heavy and therefore cannot be lifted off the ground (at least by the average person). Once inside the apartment, the mattress itself needs to be extracted from its box and unwrapped (which was the easiest part). Once released from the confines of its packaging, the mattress springs itself open–be it on a bedframe, or in my case, the floor–to reveal a queen-size mattress immediately ready to sleep on.
How well did you sleep? It might sound too good to be true, but the Element Pro has unlocked blissful nights without interruptions, relieved my muscle aches, and contributed to the daily anticipation of bedtime after hours of working in and running around the city. I don’t usually like to admit it when I’m wrong, but my belief that I’d sink straight to the bedframe with a memory foam mattress was misguided. Every night I'm still surprised at the firmness and support the Element Pro offers, while its soft, comforting pillowy layer invites a deep sleep. If you distrust memory foam mattresses as I once did, I encourage you to take the leap.
How firm is the mattress? Thanks to the three layers of memory foam utilized in the Element Pro, the mattress feels firm enough to uphold rather than submerge your body, while retaining a softness that pleasantly conforms to the shape of your body. The question of the mattress’s firmness was my main worry when ordering the Element Pro, as my only experiences with memory foam mattresses had been in hotels, bed & breakfasts, or friends and family’s houses, and all of these had proved much too soft for my liking. Casper has dispelled my fears, as this mattress is the firmest memory foam mattress I have experienced, without feeling as hard as certain spring mattresses for instance.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 10/10. The mix of soft and firm in all the right places and the support this mattress provides me with all night long have made my sleep on the Element Pro some of the best I’ve experienced on a new mattress.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would recommend this to a friend, family member, neighbor or stranger. The memory foam technology contributes to providing a personalized sleeping experience to all those that try this mattress. Any type of sleeper would be ecstatic to experience a night on this luxurious cloud. While the $995 Element Pro may seem like a splurge for those on a budget, I promise if you’re ready to invest in yourself and your sleep, it seems unlikely you’ll find this level of luxury attached to that price tag.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Four layers, including copper-infused foam for added airflow and superior antimicrobial benefits • Warranty • 20-night risk-free sleep trial, 10-year warranty, Free ground shipping nationwide
Mattress tester: Keith Pollock, digital executive director
How did the delivery go? No hiccups at all. Arrived in a box at my apartment door, on time.
What was the setup like? It was simple—I was able to unbox the mattress easily by myself, and set it up on my bed frame. The mattress felt light and easy to maneuver.
How firm is the mattress? The Propel mattress is firm but also soft, with a layer of foam that has responsive contouring. But really, the benefit this mattress offers is its textile technologies, which claim to create a better overall sleep experience by ensuring a sleep temperature of 88 degrees. I can’t quite confirm that this is happening…maybe it is? But I will say the bed is quite comfortable. The description of the mattress online sounds scientific and also a bit mystical, so I was intrigued to try it.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? I would give it an 8.
How well did you sleep? It is extremely comfortable and I was able to adjust to it instantly.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes, I would recommend it. The price is good, and I have been sleeping very well.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Three layers: Signature T&N Adaptive foam with 30% extra heat-wicking graphite and more gel beads for added breathability compared to the Original Mattress • Warranty • 100-night sleep trial, 10-year limited warranty, free shipping and returns
Mattress tester: Anna Fixsen, AD PRO features editor
How did the delivery go? Until recently, I had been sleeping on the first mattress I had when I arrived in NYC seven years ago: a hand-me-down twin box spring. You can only imagine how excited I was for my Tuft & Needle Mint to arrive. My order stated that I would receive the mattress in four days, but all told, it took about a week. But for free delivery, I really couldn’t complain. The mattress showed up in my lobby in a cardboard box the size of a five-year-old. A note of caution: I live on the fourth floor of a Brooklyn walk-up, and despite my undying faith in kettlebell workouts, I definitely needed to call my boyfriend for reinforcement.
What was the setup like? Once I had lugged my mattress upstairs and split open the box (actually, two boxes), the setup process was pretty simple. Basically, the bed comes in a roll like a plastic-wrapped Ho Ho. I got overly enthusiastic and tore into the plastic without placing the mattress on my bed first, as the instructions noted. It inflated unexpectedly quickly—so quickly I was nervous I would inspire a remake of The Blob. But after it began to look more mattress-like, I managed to single-handedly slide it onto my bed frame. After some Netflix bingeing (the instructions said to wait a few hours), I climbed in for the night.
How firm is the mattress? I am a side sleeper and personally prefer a medium-firm, supportive feel, so I went into this test expecting an overly squishy mattress. But the Mint did not disappoint. The invisible support layer is made of cushy gel beads that distributed evenly. It has just enough give, however, to (dare I quote Goldilocks?) feel just right.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? For the first few nights, I would give the mattress an 8 out of 10. My previous mattress was an old-fashioned spring mattress, so it took a bit of adjustment to get used to the denser foam feel. But in the instruction packet, Tuft & Needle told me this might be the case. After a few days, my body adjusted to the feel of the mattress. So all told, I would rate it a 9 out of 10! The Mint mattress provides a luxuriously supportive sleep.
How well did you sleep? I am usually a big toss-and-turner, but I slept noticeably better in this bed than on my previous mattress. I found that I could find my comfy place quickly and fall asleep faster.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Absolutely—especially for side sleepers like me.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Four layers: Cooling, plant-based memory foam that’s balanced, breathable, and pressure-relieving • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 20-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial period.
Mattress tester: Rachel Logie, senior SEO analyst
How did the delivery go? The delivery was great. It went super smoothly! It came neatly and safely packaged in a box and was delivered to my porch.
What was the setup like? The setup was very easy. I just opened the bag surrounding the mattress and waited for it to expand. Then it was good to go! Plus, it smelled fresh and clean right out of the box.
How firm is the mattress? I would say it’s definitely on the softer side. The memory foam bounces back faster than most memory foam mattresses I’ve tried, so you don’t get that “stuck” feeling you sometimes get with other memory foam picks (which I liked). If I had to describe what laying on it feels like, I’d have to it’s like laying on a cloud.
How well did you sleep? While the mattress is very comfortable, I find that I sleep better on a super-firm mattress. I could tell the mattress was super high quality, though, so I use it in my guest room, and my guests have raved about it. My sister, in fact, has been sleeping on the bed for two weeks and absolutely loves it! And though I don’t actually sleep on it, I definitely enjoy lying on it and watching television. The cloudlike feel is perfect for relaxing.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? 8.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? It totally depends on their mattress preferences. If you prefer a softer mattress, go for it! If you’re a person who loves a firm (but still soft) mattress, I’d suggest choosing the AS5 (which is the firmest mattress in the Amerisleep lineup).
Now that you’ve read up on all these mattress reviews, you’re probably in the mood to go shopping for a new bed-in-a-box. Before you start adding to cart, we wanted to clarify a few matters on pricing and the difference between hybrid and memory foam mattresses.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Five layers: Memory foam designed for support, climate control, and cooling comfort • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, lifetime warranty, 101-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Diane Dragan, global content strategy and operations director
How did the delivery go? I had never heard of Puffy, but I loved the name—the Puffy Cloud Mattress—and after reading many of the 12,000 5-star-average on-site reviews, I decided to give it a try. Delivery was easy. When the box arrived, I single-handedly brought it upstairs by elevator. Like most DTC mattresses, though, the box might be awkward or heavy; you may want or need an extra set of hands.
What was the setup like? This is my third DTC mattress in our home, and I was able to set it up alone. Cut the plastic, unroll, let it come to full size, then slide it onto my existing box spring.
How well did you sleep? The Puffy Cloud Mattress has been a great platform both for those who fall asleep easily and stay asleep for hours, and those who take longer and naturally wake easily. The light supportive cradling of the foam layers is comforting (and cool). Perhaps the highest compliment is you never think about the mattress or trying to get comfortable—you just ARE. It really is cloud-like! Unlike other mattresses I’ve tested, your body doesn’t sink into the layers of foam as much as it rests lightly on the surface. It’s also very comfortable to find the position that works for you, which is great for sleeping as well as for lounging.
How firm is the mattress? Here’s the thing: As someone who grew up with springs-based mattresses as the gold standard, and who’s only come around to foam support in the past few years, I have to remind myself that bouncy and firm isn’t always best for all bodies. The Puffy Cloud Mattress, though, is firm relative to other foam mattresses I’ve tested, which I enjoy. It makes turning and shifting easier, without needing to semi-wake to roll over. The other component is longevity. I’ve only had the mattress for a few months, but I did notice that body imprints seem to pop back quicker, so I’m hopeful this will hold up for some time.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10?
This is a crazy comfortable mattress, and I would totally recommend it to others. As the technology seems to get better and better with each version, it’s a 10 for me. I’d buy another Puffy Cloud Mattress without question.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? Yes! Noted above—seems like great quality and performance.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Three layers: Solid base layer for stability, a comfort layer, and a memory foam recovery layer • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Audrey Lee, commerce editor
How did the delivery go? Leesa provided me with tracking to keep up with the mattress delivery. The mattress arrived on my doorstep in a tall, white box with Leesa's signature blue logo. The box was just under four feet tall and weighed around 70 pounds, so I would recommend getting an extra hand to help unless you’re very strong.
What was the setup like? On top of the box flaps are directions on how to set up the mattress, which will look like a giant log out of the box. This entails rolling the vacuum-sealed mattress onto your base, then unrolling the deflated mass of rectangular foam to fit the frame. Besides needing help to tug the mattress out of the box, I was able to unroll and set up everything myself, which took about 10 minutes. I waited 24 hours before sleeping on the mattress and there was a slight odor, but it dissipated within a week.
How well did you sleep? The Studio is Leesa’s budget-friendly option, though you would never know because it certainly doesn’t feel like it comes at a low price point. The mattress has three layers of medium-soft foam that hug your body in a way that’s ultra-supportive while providing excellent pressure relief to boot. I tend to move around in my sleep, ultimately landing on my side, so in addition to solid motion isolation, the Studio’s all-foam construction supplies a nice amount of give without being too soft for my taste. Though one thing the Leesa does lack is edge support—you can’t exactly sit on any of the corners or edges without sinking down. But that being said, I’ve been able to roll comfortably from one end to the other without feeling like I was about to fall off.
How firm is the mattress? This mattress is definitely on the more plush side, I’d liken it to being cradled in memory foam. Before the Studio I slept on mainly box spring mattresses, but it’s safe to say I’m a foam convert now—it's one of the best memory foam mattresses I've ever had the pleasure of sleeping on.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? A true 10/10! If you’re a foam mattress aficionado, you won’t go wrong with this mattress.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I’d recommend the Leesa Studio to any friend who likes a softer mattress. Though it falls into the category of quote-unquote cheap mattresses, it certainly doesn’t feel that way. The setup was easy and I slept incredibly well the first night and pretty much every night since.
• Mattress type • Memory foam • Layers • Five layers: Memory foam made of rubber tree sap (natural latex) in a factory in Sri Lanka as well as sustainably-sourced cotton and wool • Warranty • Free shipping and returns, 10-year warranty, 100-night sleep trial
Mattress tester: Sydney Gore, senior digital design editor
How did the delivery go? The mattress comes compression-wrapped in paper inside in a box that is shipped through FedEx. I sent it to my parents’ house for my bedroom there, but they weren’t home when it was delivered so the box was left in the driveway and they had to drag it into the garage. This would have been the ultimate challenge had it been routed to my apartment instead!
What was the setup like? The box was really heavy so my strategy was to get it from the garage to the hallway upstairs where I would then unbox it so I’d have less of a hassle with carrying it into my bedroom. I definitely couldn’t have pulled this off by myself, I’m lucky that both of my parents were able and ready to help complete the task. Once unboxed, you have to let the mattress air out for about 24 hours so I would recommend planning accordingly.
How well did you sleep? What I love most is that it’s an eco-friendly product that (at least in my case) fully delivers on its promise to be the mattress of your dreams. This has become a really important factor for me at this stage of my life and matters so much more than being “on trend.” I’d feel more uncomfortable sleeping on something that is toxic for the environment.
I noticed that I tossed and turned less throughout the night while snoozing on this natural latex mattress because my body sort of locked into position once I dozed off. It’s super comfortable and makes me feel like I’m sleeping on a fluffy bread bed! (Dare I say, snug as a bug in a rug?) The only thing that I would change is the weight of the mattress, I wish it was a little lighter. (It currently weighs 158 pounds which is more than me!) This is less about the mattress, but I would really urge Earthfoam to offer white-glove delivery service for a more pain-free experience on that end.
How firm is the mattress? I prefer a bouncier mattress so the fact that this mattress is spongey made us compatible. It definitely took some getting used to, but after a few weeks I felt like my body fully adjusted to the density of the Earthfoam mattress. You won’t sink deeply into it like quicksand, but you’ll feel supported and it’s soooo soft. I should also mention that the mattress is a bit lower than others I’ve slept on in the past, so you’ll definitely want to add the mattress topper if you decide to purchase it.
How comfortable was the mattress on a scale of 1 to 10? On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate the comfort level of this mattress with an 8.5.
Would you recommend this mattress to a friend? I would highly recommend this mattress, especially if you’re interested in switching to a sustainable product—it’s an amazing alternative! It seemed hard to compete with the smart mattress from Eight that I’ve been happily sleeping on for five years now, but Earthfoam’s mattress exceeded my expectations. I would be willing to buy any sleep product from this brand. If you’re strapped for cash, I would suggest opting for the mattress topper since it’s only $299 and feels exactly the same.
How We Reviewed the Mattresses
Editors at Clever, along with some trusted colleagues at Architectural Digest, identified some of the buzziest beds-in-a-box available and spent hours assessing the luxe bells and whistles of each product. Then, each tester claimed the mattress they were most interested in sampling to see how it measured up IRL. Most of us spent at least a week on our new mattresses, taking notes and catching z’s. (Sleeping for work? It could definitely be worse.)
Each review notes key factors including:
- Firmness and comfort of the mattress
- Quality of sleep we had on it
- Smoothness of the delivery
- Ease of setup and impressions right out of the box
- Value for the price (and the warranty and sleep trial associated with each mattress)
Full disclosure: Most of the companies sent us their mattresses to review for free, but we did take price into account when contemplating whether or not we’d recommend a mattress-in-a-box to someone else. Our reviewers considered everything from delivery process to comfort level, and then we compiled our mattress reviews in one place.
How Do I Unbox My Mattress in a Box?
The easiest way to handle unboxing is to move the box to the room you're going to keep the mattress and unbox it there. (That way, you're transporting a much more manageable box, rather than the uncompressed formed mattress.) Once you've got the box in the room, remove the box. Inside, you'll find a rolled-up, compressed mattress that's been vacuum-sealed. Carefully remove the wrap and it will immediately begin to decompress and swell to it's full size. It's a bit magical to watch it swell, honestly. Fully decompressing can take up to 48 hours, but it will be “mattress sized” within a few hours.
How Much Should I Spend on a Mattress?
We want to stress something important: You can’t judge a mattress by its price tag. A higher mattress price doesn't necessarily mean it's better quality. The best mattress-in-a-box for you has more to do with your body, sleeping position, tendency to run cool or hot, and other factors, not price. This is key to keep in mind when shopping for a mattress online, especially since online mattresses tend to be less expensive (which doesn’t mean they’re not high-quality). Online mattress stores are often able to offer their products at lower prices because they don’t have the same overhead costs as a traditional showroom.
What Is a Memory Foam Mattress?
Memory foam mattresses contour to the sleeper’s body. They’re hefty, high-density, heavy mattresses. The heavier the weight of a mattress, the greater the density—and the greater the density, the longer it tends to last without starting to sink or sag. Memory foam can be ideal for side sleepers, as well as people who suffer from joint pain; memory foam offers solid pressure relief, so you might want to make sure that any mattress you purchase has at least a layer or two of it. Memory foam can also work well for couples, since it minimizes motion transfer (especially if one of you tends to toss and turn at night). If you like a bed you can literally sink into, you might love a memory foam mattress.
What Is a Hybrid Mattress?
A hybrid mattress can contain multiple layers of different materials, including memory foam, polyfoam, cooling gel, and/or latex—some hybrid mattresses even have a pillow top layer for extra cushioning on top. In addition to these layers, hybrid mattresses also contain springs for added support, durability, and breathability. The superior breathability makes a hybrid mattress great for people who tend to get hot at night. Rather than the sinkage you get with a memory foam mattress, you’ll feel like you’re resting firmly on top of it. Hybrid mattresses also tend to offer more edge support.
Cons to consider
A bed-in-a-box may not be the right choice for everyone. It's first important to determine the type of compressed mattress you'd like to explore (we've denoted which on our list are memory foam and which are hybrid designs). A fully memory foam mattress may not be the best option for sleepers who trap more body heat, those who weigh more, or any one are in search of excellent edge support (foam mattresses also tend to degrade faster than spring-coil designs). Very firm hybrid mattresses may not be the best options for those looking for more a more plush surface, like side sleepers. While a boxed mattress is convenient for ground-level living residents, they pose a more difficult set-up situation for prospective buyers who live in spaces with lots of stairs (especially if white glove delivery isn't available). Luckily we also have lots of recommendations for more traditional mattresses brands if you decide that's the best route to take.
How Do I Get Rid of My Old Mattress?
A lot of online mattress companies have their own mattress removal services—but there are still plenty of ways you can get rid of your old mattress yourself. You can drop it off at a mattress recycling center. You can also have LoadUp come and remove your mattress (along with any other bulky items you might have) for a fee. And there’s always another very easy option: Let your family and friends know that you’re getting rid of your mattress. There’s a very good chance one of them will be willing to take it off your hands and give it a second life.
Build The Ultimate Bed-scape With Clever
Pillow, comforters, duvet covers, sheets, and more—we've put all the best bedding to the test so you don't have to:
Best Pillows, Tested and Reviewed: Upgrade your sleep setup with our top picks from Casper, Brooklinen, Purple, Brooklyn Bedding, and more.
Best Duvet Inserts and Comforters of 2023, Tested and Reviewed: Here to give you the lowdown (and down alternative).
Best Duvet Covers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed: Upgrade your sleep setup with one of these editor-approved picks.
Best Quilts and Coverlets, Tested and Reviewed by Clever: From channeled and reversible cotton to easy, breezy linen, here are some of the best light layers to keep you cozy regardless of the season.
Best Bed Sheets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed: From Linen to percale, sateen and silk—we’ve never been more excited to lie down.
Best Mattresses for Side Sleepers, Tested and Reviewed: Pressure relief, temperature regulation, and more, we tested the best offerings for side and combination sleepers.
