I'm just days away from moving into a new apartment, and life is a little hectic. I've been running around checking things off my list, as well as preparing myself (and my bank account) for some bigger purchases, including a new mattress – until I spotted an incredible discount on the TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress Topper and realized that it would save me from forking out hundreds of extra dollars.

Although I've been hunting for ways to save money in the move, I know that my bed is one thing I couldn't compromise on. But when I saw the deals at Amazon on some of the best mattress toppers, I realised that I wouldn't have to. A mattress topper can instantly improve and refresh an existing mattress for a fraction of the price of a brand new mattress. But reading our tester's TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Topper review stopped me in my scrolling tracks as she gave it a near-perfect score. In the name of research, I did, of course look further but came back to the TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress Topper convinced that it will be a brilliant investment, and a far more affordable way to upgrade my new apartment, particularly with nearly 30% off.

According to our tester, the TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress Topper can 'transform the look and feel of your mattress' with just three inches of memory foam. It claims the top spot in our mattress toppers guide, and at such an unbeatable price, I can't think of a better time to give it a try.

As a restless sleeper, I'm of the opinion that the best mattress and topper is one that suits every sleep position, and the TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress Topper ticks that box. Our tester adds that it 'boasts excellent motion isolation and a medium firmness', making it a great choice for any kind of sleeper (not to mention couples with different sleep styles).

After some sleepless nights fretting about the move, getting the keys to my new place without a decent sleep setup was feeling more like a nightmare. So, finding $100 off such a highly-rated mattress topper right now is a gift. Our former Sleep Editor describes the TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress Topper as 'ideal for sleepers who want consistent comfort in any bed,' adding that it's 'excellent for pressure relief, thermoregulation, motion isolation, and edge support.'

With all of that in mind, I feel confident that purchasing this topper is the very best (and most affordable) alternative to seeking out a replacement mattress (and parting with hundreds, if not thousands of dollars more). After all, by the time I finally move, I suspect that I'll want to crawl right into bed – and thanks to my new mattress topper, I can do exactly that.

Shop more mattress toppers

A good mattress topper can extend the life of your mattress, but how do you keep the topper itself in good shape? We've got all the best tips on how to clean and care for mattress toppers – I know I'll be looking these up once my TEMPUR-Adapt Memory Foam Mattress Topper arrives.

Memory foam is made to contour to your curves and cushion your joints. When you sleep on a memory foam mattress, you get great motion isolation and near-perfect pressure relief − but thermoregulation takes a hit. That's bad news for hot sleepers and anyone who lives in a warm climate.

Out of all the mattress types, memory foam is the worst for retaining heat. All that dense foam leaves little room for air to flow. Still, that doesn't mean you have to throw out your memory foam mattress and spend thousands on a brand-new bed. There are easy, affordable ways to keep your mattress cool.

As H&G's resident sleep writer, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress. Together, we represent a wide range of body types, ages, and sleep styles, and we live all across the country, from snow-capped corners of the Pacific Northwest to hot and humid cities in the South. I asked my fellow hot sleepers how to cool down a memory foam mattress. Their wisdom is invaluable, and some of their tips are totally free.

How to cool down a memory foam mattress – 5 expert hacks

To help you cool down your memory foam mattress, while saving you time and money, I've rounded up some of my favorite cooling bedding. I've found the best mattress topper for thermoregulation and the best bed sheets to stop night sweats. Each product you see below is tried and tested by an H&G sleep expert for a minimum of 30 nights to give an accurate indication of long-term performance.

1. Use a cooling mattress topper

The easiest way to keep a memory foam mattress cool is to invest in one of the best cooling mattress toppers and pads. A mattress topper goes (you guessed it) on top of your mattress but beneath your fitted sheet, so it stays close to the surface and feels cool to the touch.

'When considering mattress topper types to help with cooling I would first recommend opting for one made of latex or poly foam,' says Derek Hales, a fellow mattress tester and Editor-in-Chief at NapLab, the sleep product testing platform. 'Both of those tend to be cooler than memory foam.'

Some memory foam types make better thermoregulators. I've seen memory foam mattress toppers infused with cooling gels or conductive materials, such as copper or graphite. 'Look for memory foam toppers that have a more substantial infusion of cooling materials,,' says Derek. 'You want something with thick cooling pad layers and phase change materials to absorb your body heat.'

2. Use a cooling mattress protector

The problem with a mattress topper is that it changes the look and feel of your mattress. The best cooling mattress protector, by contrast, is a lightweight layer, more like a fitted sheet. It's designed to dissipate heat, wick moisture, and block odors without adding any extra inches to your mattress.

3. Use breathable bedding

As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, my remit extends beyond mattresses: I also know a thing or two about bedding. A set of the best cooling sheets, lying close to your skin, could help you to sleep more comfortably in warmer weather.

There are lots of different bed sheet types, from cooling cotton to luxe linens, but natural materials will always trump synthetic substances for breathability. Consider cotton, linen, bamboo, eucalyptus, and wool for your cooling sheet set.

If you opt for cotton, make sure you check the specs to find out which weave you're working with. Cotton percale is crisp and cool, woven one-thread-over, one-thread-under, nice and loose to boost breathability. Cotton sateen, by contrast, is three-threads-over, one-thread-under. This forms a tighter weave, which tends to trap a little heat, though it makes for a luxuriously weighty sheet.

4. Let your bed breathe

'Air out your mattress,' suggests Jack Dell'Accio, CEO and founder of the organic bedding brand, Essentia. 'Do not redress your bed immediately in the morning. Allow the mattress and sheets an opportunity to properly dry out to avoid moisture trapping. Clean, dry bedding will help with temperature regulation and also help avoid dust mites.'

The first thing I do when I get out of bed is open the window. I pull back my comforter and let fresh air circulate through my bedroom while I run through my morning routine. By the time I'm ready to leave the house, my bedding smells and feels fresher, and it only takes a few seconds to straighten the sheets. This way, I still find time to make my bed and keep my bedroom looking neat and tidy.

It also helps to clean a memory foam mattress topper.

5. Adjust the temperature in your bedroom

Common consensus among sleep scientists dictates that the best temperature for sleep is 65°F. If you're lucky enough to own a home with an HVAC system, try lowering the temperature in your bedroom an hour or so before you sleep.

If you've tried everything, and you're still struggling to sleep in the heat, then it might be time to replace your current mattress with one of the best cooling mattresses. I've ranked and reviewed six of the best options from Tempur-Pedic, Saatva, Zinus, and more.

The importance of sleep cannot be understated, and new technologies are emerging that provide promising tools for tracking and improving sleep.

Whether you are having trouble sleeping, want to feel more energized during the day, or simply want a better understanding of your sleep patterns so you can fix your sleep schedule, these technologies are the bedroom tricks that can make sleep simpler.

We consulted with sleep and tech experts to find out which technologies they recommend and why. Below, we've listed the intelligent tracking devices that offer valuable insights to enhance your sleep hygiene alongside ambient technology designed to create an environment that is physically and psychologically conducive to sleep.

Innovative bedroom technologies 

'Healthy sleep relies on holistic lifestyle habits,' explains Michael Laauwe, founder of Positive Thinking Mind. 'This means having an optimal mindset, environment, and routine in place.' But some well-chosen tech can help you on your way to a more restful night's sleep. 

Technologies for tracking sleep

'Using sleep tracking devices can be beneficial because you can learn more about your sleep habits and if any unknown sleep disruptions are causing poor sleep,' explains Julia Siemen, certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor. 

'Using this data, you can make constructive tweaks to your routine, from adjusting your sleep environment to establishing better habits – such as reducing late-night screen time, trying to have a consistent sleep schedule, and avoiding large meals and caffeine too close to bedtime.

'Ultimately, sleep tracking helps create better sleep and daytime habits by helping determine the positive and negative aspects of your rest for better sleep consistency.'

1. Smart mattresses with sleep tracking

Smart mattresses, such as the Tempur-Pedic Smart Base, don't just take comfort to the next level; they also come equipped with sensors that monitor your sleep patterns, body movements, and even your breathing and heart rates. 

With the help of these trackers, you can gain insightful knowledge about your sleep habits and make necessary adjustments to achieve better quality rest. 

Another benefit of these mattresses is their customizable settings, such as mattress firmness and temperature. This tech combines both sleep tracking and sleep improving tech, allowing you to utilize data to make changes to the bed itself.

2. Wearable trackers

'If you want a more detailed analysis of your sleep patterns, a good smartwatch or dedicated sleep-tracking wearable can help,' says Lucas Coll, consumer tech expert and Founder of Gadget Grab.

'Many smartwatches, like the Apple Watch, have built-in sleep-tracking functions and other health-related features. These can track metrics such as sleep cycles, total resting time, quality of sleep, resting heart rate, and so on. 

'This gives you a comprehensive overview of how well you're sleeping, helping you to discern what adjustments you might want to make to your sleep schedule or bedroom environment.'

Additionally, if you want a non-intrusive sleep-tracking device, a ring sleep tracker, like this ULTRAHUMAN ring AIR sleep-tracker, from Amazon, is lightweight and small, making it a more comfortable alternative to a smartwatch. 

3. Under-sheet sleep trackers

'I've had a lot of success with under-sheet sleep trackers for unobtrusive sleep monitoring throughout the night,' says Kelly Indah, a tech expert at Increditools.'Products like the Withings Sleep Sensor, from Amazon can slide under your mattress sheet and track metrics like sleep stages, heart rate, breathing disturbances, and snoring.

'Because it sits below the sheet, it prevents any discomfort from wearing a device,' she continues. 'The sensor also provides more advanced tracking than many wearable devices, including the ability to detect sleep apnea. From my experience, these contactless devices are great for those who want robust sleep data without any discomfort or hassle from wearing trackers.'

Technologies for improving sleep

These technologies have been designed to create an environment conducive to better sleep by regulating circadian rhythms, maximizing comfort, and minimizing disruptions that can interfere with falling asleep and having quality sleep.

1. Blue light-blocking lamps

'Blue light-blocking lamps can be extremely helpful for regulating your sleep-wake cycle,' recommends Kelly Indah. 'Blue wavelengths of light suppress natural melatonin production, so limiting blue light exposure in the evenings signals to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

'They also provide customizable scheduling and dimming options to gradually decrease light levels at your chosen bedtime,' she continues. Being able to manually control the lighting environment to match your circadian rhythms is key for improving sleep quality.

'I've found that using smart lamps as part of my bedtime routine to get the best night's sleep for a few hours before bed helps me feel drowsier and fall asleep faster when it's time for bed. The red and yellow-tinted lighting are less disruptive and provide a soothing ambiance without negatively impacting melatonin.'

This hooga blue light blocking red night light is Amazon's top choice.

2. Sunlight alarms

'Studies in the last decade have shown the importance of the circadian rhythm, and it should not be taken lightly,' says Jean-Baptiste Beau, founder and CEO of the dream app, Oniri. 'Many devices can simulate dusk or dawn lights and sounds, and it helps satisfy our natural need for external stimuli.'

'A good sunlight alarm (paired with good curtains) is the best device to improve your sleep quality,' says Lucas Coll.

'The human body isn't naturally wired to wake up to loud artificial noises. So, rather than jolting you awake in the middle of a sleep cycle with an abrupt noise, these alarms emit warm light in increasing intensity before your wake-up time to gently nudge you awake according to your body's natural circadian rhythm. 

3. Smart beds

These innovative beds go beyond traditional mattresses by offering customizable adjustments to key factors like temperature, firmness, and elevation, catering to individual preferences and what settings produce the best quality sleep for you according to your sleep tracking.

By adapting to your requirements, smart beds create an optimal sleep environment, promoting relaxation and comfort throughout the night.

'Don’t grow dependent on metrics alone,' advises Michael Laauwe, Founder of Positive Thinking Mind. 'Apply the personalized intel strategically rather than obsessing over scores, using these devices as a stepping stone to better sleep quality. An integrative solution works best - combine sleep hygiene basics, stress relievers, and the occasional digital detox from tech. That's the balanced recipe for deeply recharging sleep.' 

Inflating an air mattress isn't the best way to accommodate guests, but sometimes it's the only option – especially if you're working with a smaller space or a tighter budget.

The question is how to make an air mattress more comfortable. As a host, the last thing you want is for your guests to wake up with aching backs and creaking joints, wishing they'd just checked into a hotel. The trick to making an air mattress more comfortable is to elevate the experience. When you treat your guests to the best bedding and a fully inflated air bed, they won't mind sleeping on the floor.

As H&G's resident sleep writer, I'm always looking to learn how to sleep better. Between camping trips and moving house, I've also slept on my fair share of air beds, and I want to share my hard-won wisdom with you so that you can make your air mattress more comfortable.

How to make an air mattress more comfortable

Setting up a well-dressed air bed is one of the best ways to host guests without a guest room. I asked an expert panel of interior designers to teach us how to style an air mattress to make a good first impression.

1. Ensure the mattress is fully inflated

'The most important thing is to ensure that your air mattress is adequately inflated,' says Tadas Pukas, bedding expert at Minimalistic Linen. 'You want to create a firm, supportive surface, but you don't want it to feel too stiff – otherwise, you might as well roll out a mat and let your guests sleep on the floor. A well-inflated mattress prevent backaches and ensures a stable sleeping environment.'

Before your guests arrive, inspect your air mattress for signs of damage. Pay special attention around the seams, where small cracks start to appear. Inflate your mattress and gently press down, listening out for any air that might escape through a hidden hole. If you find a leak, patch it up using the patch kit that came with your air mattress or a bike tire patch kit. In a pinch, you could make your own patch using any thin plastic material and adhesive tape.

2. Add a mattress topper

Perhaps you've heard complaints that your air bed feels firm and inflexible. Maybe it's the opposite problem and your air mattress is insufficiently supportive for your guests. Once you've checked for leaks and patched up any holes, your next move should be to invest in the best mattress topper. One of these thick layers of foam could totally transform the look and feel of your air mattress, making it more comfortable for your overnight guests.

As H&G's resident sleep writer, I'm often asked: 'can you use a mattress topper on an air mattress?' My answer is 'yes', so long as the topper comes with straps to ensure a secure fit. Bedding designer Parima Ijaz agrees: 'mattress toppers are designed to add support and plushness to your mattress, and they're so much easier to transport and store than a full-size bed.'

To save you time and money, I've picked out a few of my favorite mattress toppers to make your air mattress more comfortable. Each of these toppers is tried and tested by an H&G sleep expert for comfort, support, breathability, and motion isolation. Adding a mattress topper is such an easy way to elevate your air mattress, and it should only set you back $100-$200.

3. Treat your guests with the best bedding

'You could layer your air mattress with the world's best mattress topper − but if you lumber your guests with a flat pillow and the spare set of sheets from the back of the linen closet, then you're undermining all your hard work,' says Parima.

'The best way to make an air mattress more comfortable is to treat your guests to the best bedding,' she continues. 'One of the best duvet inserts made from down or down alternative provides toasty warmth, ultra-soft comfort, and long-lasting wispy light fluff to soothe you right to sleep.'

For Stephanie Meyer, interior designer and owner of AVCO Design, it's all about the sheets. 'Properly fitted sheets won't slide or bunch,' she says. 'A set of the best bed sheets should offer all-season comfort. I like to offer two pillows per guest, as well as a middle-weight duvet and a couple of extra throw blankets to accommodate guests who run hot or cold.'

4. Move the mattress off the floor

There's something quite sad about the sight of an air mattress dropped in the middle of the floor. Founder of ML Interiors Mina Lisanin suggests raising your air mattress off the ground with a folding frame to – literally − elevate the experience.

'This makes your air mattress look more like a traditional bed, and it should stop your air mattress from sliding or shifting across the floor when you move,' explains Mina. She suggests the Zinus SmartBase Mattress Foundation for its durability and stability.

If you don't have the space for a frame, then Stephanie thinks you should situate your air mattress on a rug, instead. 'This eliminates creaking and movement as the vinyl bottom interacts with slick hard floors,' she explains. 'Just keep in mind that you should leave the air mattress pump or plug in an accessible spot for guests to reinflate as needed.'

5. Add throws and pillows

Mina encourages shoppers to 'incorporate decorative pillows and throws in co-ordinating colors and textures to complete the luxurious look of your elevated air mattress. Brands like West Elm and Pottery Barn offer a wide range of bedding accessories to complement your style and make your air bed feel more inviting.'

Interior designer and home blogger Elizabeth Grace suggests that you 'go the extra mile by providing your guests with thoughtful extras like a bedside table, a reading lamp, and a cozy throw blanket. These small details can make a big difference and help your guests feel more at home.'

FAQs

Why are air mattresses so uncomfortable?

Because they aren't designed for long-term use. An air mattress can comfortably accommodate a guest for a night or two, but not much longer. An air mattress doesn't have the same supportive coil of foam or springs as a real mattress – only air.

How long should an air mattress stay inflated?

A good air mattress, fully inflated and used correctly, should stay inflated for at least one week, possibly two if it's good quality. An air mattress that deflates any quicker than this may not have been inflated correctly, or may have a slow puncture that needs to be addressed to prevent backaches in the morning.

Final thoughts

If you find that your guests just can't get comfortable on an air mattress, you could consider a futon mattress, instead. Flexible, durable, and affordable, it's a great way to accommodate guests without using up too much floor space.

If you're searching for an orthopedic mattress, the chances are that you suffer from chronic aches and pains and you're looking for a supportive bed to ease your pains overnight so that you feel looser in the morning. However, you might be going about your search in the wrong way. Orthopedic support isn't one-size-fits-all and it will take time and money to find the mattress that meets your needs.

Out of all the mattress types, an orthopedic mattress might be the most controversial. 'Orthopedic' doesn't refer to the filling of a mattress, but the feeling. It's a subjective term, rather than an objective one, which makes it much harder to standardize across brands.

As H&G's specialist sleep writer, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress. Between us, we represent every sort of sleeper: we've got side sleepers; front sleepers; back sleepers; some of us suffer from chronic pain and others live with sleep conditions. In all our time testing, we've learned that orthopedic support should be specialized to your unique sleep needs.

What is an orthopedic mattress?

This article should tell you everything you need to know about an orthopedic mattress, from what it is (and what it isn't) to what it costs. I asked sleep scientists and medical professionals to outline the pros and cons of an orthopedic mattress to help you answer the question: which mattress should I buy?

What is an orthopedic mattress?

Before we begin, it always helps to define our terms. The adjective 'orthopedic' relates to the branch of medicine that deals with the correction of deformities in our bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It follows that an orthopedic mattress is meant to tackle those aches and pains in our bodies, especially our joints.

However, the term 'orthopedic mattress' has more to do with marketing than medicine. According to Dr. Robert Oexman, Chief Science Officer at iSense, 'there is no industry standard for an orthopedic mattress. The term was first used around 1950 to describe a new mattress developed by one of the major mattress makers in the US. The manufacturer hired an orthopedic physician to evaluate the properties of the new mattress. The mattress was considered to have a firm feel'.

So far, so good. Dr. Robert goes on to explain that 'there were no objective tests performed to declare that the new firm mattress was good for any specific medical condition. However, since the orthopedic physician said that it was a good mattress, the manufacturer declared that a firm mattress was good for all sorts of orthopedic conditions, such as back pain.'

Here's the crux of Dr. Robert's argument: 'there is no definitive research to show that a firm mattress is good for lower back pain. Research has shown that people with back pain need different types of support based on the cause of the pain, as well as the individual's body type'.

Dr. Robert also warns that 'there is no industry standard for declaring a mattress firm, medium-firm, medium, or soft': these terms are too subjective. There isn't a set of standardized tests: every mattress manufacturer runs their own experiments on their own beds. While it is possible to find a bed that eases your aches and pains and promotes proper spinal alignment, it isn't as easy as buying the first 'orthopedic mattress' you find.

What are the pros of an orthopedic mattress?

Now that we've established what an orthopedic mattress really is – a marketing term, rather than a mattress type – we can talk about it more accurately. I find it helpful to think about an orthopedic mattress as an ergonomic mattress, designed for optimal interaction between your body and your bed, or simply as a supportive mattress. Inside an orthopedic mattress, you might find springs and foam arranged in ergonomic zones to offer targeted support to each area of your body.

The whole point of an orthopedic mattress is to ease pain, relieve pressure, and promote better posture. According to licensed chiropractor, Dr. Matt Tanneberg, an orthopedic mattress 'allows your spine to be in a neutral, stress-free position throughout the night. This will help to minimize the aches and pains of waking up in the morning'. Dr. Matt thinks that an orthopedic mattress is 'the best of the best' for pain relief and muscoskeletal support.

Orthopedic support looks different for every sleeper. Someone who suffers from lower back pain will appreciate lumbar support, but that might not be the best bet for someone who suffers from neck and shoulder pain. Ideally, you're looking for an orthopedic mattress with adjustable firmness for custom support. Dr. Robert recommends the iSense Classic Mattress for pressure relief and body contouring. If you're prepared to spend, then you could always upgrade to the iSense Hybrid Premier Mattress. That way, you get the plush comfort of memory foam with the airflow and support of an innerspring.

I've rounded up a few of my favorite orthopedic mattresses to ease your aches and pains. Most are on the more expensive side, but that's the price you have to pay for sturdy support. Each of these beds is assessed by an H&G sleep expert for comfort; support; breathability; motion isolation; edge support; and weight-bearing capacity, and they've come out with top marks.

What are the cons of an orthopedic mattress?

I've said it before, but it bears repeating − 'orthopedic' is not a protected term, which means that any mattress brand can promote their beds as 'orthopedic', even if they don't explicitly target aches and pains. To make sure you're getting a good deal, read the fine print. A truly orthopedic mattress would feature ergonomic zones for targeted support and some sort of squishy foam for pressure relief.

Your average orthopedic mattress is also very expensive. A Queen-sized bed from Tempur-Pedic, for example, could set you back more than $3,000, and even the price of a Twin bed is four figures. Out of all the best places to buy a mattress, I recommend Helix for sleepers with back pain and buyers on a budget. You'll find supportive hybrid beds for (just) under $1,000.

Final thoughts

Once you've invested in the mattress that meets your needs, orthopedic or otherwise, it's important to take good care of it. I suggest you invest in the best mattress protector to safeguard against spills and stains.

If you know you need a new bed, but you don't have a few thousand dollars lying around, then you could always buy the best mattress topper, instead. There are firm toppers to align your spine, softer toppers to bear your weight, and foamy toppers to relieve some pressure for a fraction of the price of a brand new bed.

Most of us can manage one night in a bad bed. If you wake up with aches and pains from a motel mattress, or you can't get comfortable on your friend's air bed, then that isn't a cause for concern – it just means that you know what you need from a mattress, and this bed doesn't fit the bill.

If you're consistently struggling to sleep on your own mattress, that's when you know you've got a problem − when you aren't getting the support you need overnight, and you're feeling worse for wear in the mornings. While you could buy a new mattress, it will set you back hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Before you spend big money, it's worth trying to make your uncomfortable mattress more comfortable. Even if this is just to tide you over while you waut for your new mattress.

As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress. Together, we've tested some great beds, as well as some real duds. In order to get through the testing period, we've had to find ways to make those uncomfortable mattresses more comfortable, and we'd like to share our hard-won wisdom with you. There's no point suffering in silence on an uncomfortable mattress when a quick hack or an affordable upgrade could totally transform your sleep.

How to make an uncomfortable mattress more comfy

There are so many things you can do to make an uncomfortable mattress more comfy. Flipping or rotating your mattress is one quick fix, and it's totally free. Still, if you've got some cash to spare, it's worth investing in a good night's sleep. To save you time and money in your mission to makeover your mattress, I've picked out a few of my favorite products, each of which is tried and tested by an H&G sleep expert.

1. Turn your mattress

This is the quickest and easiest way to make an uncomfortable mattress more comfy. All you need is a friend or family member who's willing to help you with the heavy lifting.

'Turning' a mattress is a catch-all phrase that encompasses two maneuvers – flipping and rotating. The theory is that we tend to sleep in the same area of our mattress, night after night. This puts certain areas of the mattress under considerable strain and sometimes leads to premature aging, while other areas of the mattress look and feel as good as new. By flipping or rotating the mattress, you can get the feeling that you're sleeping in a brand-new bed without spending a cent.

Flipping a mattress only works if the internal materials of your mattress are the same on top as they are at the bottom. I learned this the hard way when I tried to flip my hybrid mattress: the supportive steel springs started digging into my stomach, and the memory foam topper gave insufficient support. I worked out that I'd get much more out of my mattress if I rotated it, instead: that way, I could keep the structure of the mattress intact.

Recently, I asked a panel of mattress manufacturers: 'how often should you turn your mattress?' Their advice: roughly once every three months. A few minutes of heavy lifting once a quarter for a much more comfortable mattress: to me, that feels like a fair trade.

2. Try a mattress topper

Perhaps you've tried to flip or rotate your mattress and you haven't felt any major changes in comfort. Or, maybe, you're working with a much older mattress: you know your bed has past its prime, but you're not quite ready to throw it out. In such cases, I'd encourage you to invest in the best mattress topper.

A mattress topper could totally transform the look and feel of your mattress for a fraction of the price of a brand-new bed. You get all sorts: plush memory foam models to soften up inflexible innersprings, as well as firmer toppers to toughen up sagging mattresses. The best mattress toppers come with straps for a secure fit.

Below, you'll find a few of my favorite mattress toppers to solve common sleep problems. Here at H&G, we assess each mattress topper against the same criteria: comfort; support; cooling properties; and motion isolation. Now, comfort is such a subjective term: what feels right for me might feel totally wrong for you. That's why I've combed through our back catalog of reviews to find the most comfortable mattress toppers, according to a wide range of expert testers.

3. Check your bed base

Take a step back and consider whether your mattress is actually the problem. It could be that your bed base is causing you discomfort. After all, your bed base is under significant strain from the weight of your mattress, plus the wear and tear of nightly use. Maybe your bed frame slats are splitting or your box spring coils are sagging.

If you spot a problem with your bed base, and you decide to buy another, then I'd encourage you to consider an adjustable bed. It's a great option for anyone who struggles with mobility, and needs a little help getting into and out of bed, as well as anyone who suffers from chronic pain and would benefit from a certain sleep posture.

4. Get the best bedding

Perhaps the problem with your mattress is that it tends to trap heat, so you're always waking up in a hot sweat. You could spend thousands of dollars to buy one of the best cooling mattresses – or you could save your money and buy some of the best cooling bedding.

Don't underestimate the importance of a pillow. Side sleepers need something firm and thick to prevent neck strain, while back and stomach sleepers might appreciate a flat pillow for optimal spinal alignment. An adjustable pillow, like the one below, should suit every style of sleeper, and it would work great in a guest bedroom.

5. Support the sagging

Over the years, your average memory foam mattress will start to sag and soften in the center. At first, you might appreciate the sinking feeling, but you'll soon notice that you're losing support. When a mattress is too soft in the middle, it can throw your hips and shoulders out of alignment and aggravate any back problems.

One quick fix is to cut a piece of plywood to fit your bed frame and slot in under your mattress. This should firm up the structure of your mattress and lend you more support where you need it most.

You could also try sleeping with a pillow between your knees to lift your hip and maintain the proper alignment of your spine. Still, this is only a temporary fix: if your mattress is starting to sag in a way that affects your comfort and support, then it's time to start looking for a new mattress.

6. Put your mattress on the floor

If your mattress is too soft, and your bed frame isn't giving you sufficient support, then you could always try putting your mattress on the floor. Hear me out: hard flooring makes a great level base for a mattress and should provide consistent, solid support from the center to the edges.

I asked my expert panel of mattress manufacturers and sleep scientists: 'should you put a mattress on the floor?' They all agreed that putting a mattress on the floor could lend support to a soft mattress, where the gaps between a slatted bed frame could create inconsistency in support.

Before you throw out your bed frame and move your mattress to the floor, I'd urge you to check your mattress warranty. Some mattress manufacturers won't allow you to make a claim unless you've been using a particular type of bed base for optimal support. In most cases, the floor won't cut it.

FAQs

How can I make a dorm mattress more comfortable?

If you buy one thing for your college bedroom, make it the best mattress topper for dorm beds. I bought a mattress topper for freshman year and I carried it across campus every time I moved. There are firm toppers to toughen up soft, sagging mattresses, as well as plush toppers for a reprieve from firm, inflexible beds.

How can I make an air mattress more comfortable?

I've written an entire article teaching you how to make an air mattress more comfortable. If you don't have time to read the whole thing, then here are the highlights.

Make sure your air mattress is fully inflated and carefully sealed before you settle down to sleep. Pick the best pillow to give your neck the best possible support. Treat your guest to the best bedding, with properly fitted sheets and a cozy blanket for cold sleepers. Situate your air mattress on a rug, rather than slick hard floors, to prevent squeaking and sliding.

Final thoughts

If you've tried some or all of these tips, and you still can't get comfortable, then the problem might not be your mattress. Even the best mattress can't cure chronic pain: that's the sort of thing you should take up with a medical professional, rather than a mattress manufacturer.

Back when I slept on an old-fashioned innerspring, I used to dream of a plush mattress. I imagined thick layers of pillowy foam that contoured to my curves and let me sink into my mattress, until I felt totally weightless.

The truth of the matter is a little more complicated. I still love sinking into a plush mattress for an hour or two of relaxation, but I can't sleep without sufficient support. I've learned the hard way that even a plush mattress needs a solid base to bear my weight and ease my aches and pains.

Out of all the mattress types, a plush mattress is most suitable for side sleepers who need a bit of give to cushion their hips, knees, neck, and shoulders. If you sleep on your back or side, you'll benefit from a firmer surface. I asked mattress makers and medical professionals to help me explain the pros and cons of a plush mattress and identify the best alternatives.

What is a plush mattress?

As H&G's resident sleep writer, I know that the best mattress carefully balances comfort and support. I've combed through our back catalog of reviews to bring you plush mattresses that are soft yet sufficiently supportive to maintain proper spinal alignment.

What is a plush mattress?

If you've ever tried shopping for a mattress, whether online or in-store, you've probably come across firmness ratings. Some mattress brands rate the firmness of their beds on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A plush mattress would fall around a 3 or a 4. More often, though, you'll read that a mattress feels Soft, Medium, Medium-Firm, or Firm. A plush mattress is just another word for a soft mattress.

Your average plush mattress is filled with foam and boasts all the benefits of a memory foam mattress. A plush mattress is made to mold to the shape of your body and take the weight off your pressure points. I'd expect to find a plush mattress in a high-end hotel or luxury spa for rest and relaxation during a short-term stay.

Plushness is more about feeling than filling, which means that a plush mattress can come in many forms. If you add enough foam, any mattress can be a plush mattress: you might find a pillow-top hybrid mattress or even an innerspring mattress that feels plush to the touch.

What are the pros of a plush mattress?

When I asked licensed chiropractor Dr. Matt Tanneberg whether a plush mattress was a good or a bad thing, he couldn't give a straight answer. That's because the ideal mattress firmness is totally subjective and varies from sleeper to sleeper. Dr. Matt says it all 'depends on what you like in a bed, as well as the position you most commonly sleep in'.

'People who sleep on their sides typically do best with plush mattresses as the extra cushion takes pressure off the major contact points of side sleeping: your hip and your shoulder,' Dr. Matt reveals. That makes a lot of sense: a side sleeper needs a softer mattress so that their joints don't get crushed against a firmer surface.

If you're a light sleeper, or you share a bed with a pet or partner, you might appreciate the motion-isolating properties of a plush mattress. All that thick foam works to absorb movement, which would otherwise bounce across the bed and disturb your sleep in a spring mattress.

Funnily enough, a plush mattress might be a good option for a cold sleeper and cooler climes, for similar reasons: thick foam tends to trap heat, which can keep you warm as you sink into the softer surface.

What are the cons of a plush mattress?

Although you might appreciate the sweet relief of a plush mattress for a few nights in a hotel, it might cause more problems in the long term. You need deep support, every night, to maintain proper spinal alignment. If you insist on sleeping on a plush mattress, make sure the pillowtop rests upon supportive steel coils to bear your weight.

Andy Bloom owns and operates his own mattress store: he has done for more than 30 years. In that time, he's helped countless customers to find their dream beds. As a rule, he wouldn't recommend a plush mattress: 'While some people with back pain may find relief on a plush mattress, others may require a firmer mattress for better support. Generally, we find that medium-firm to firm mattresses are better for people with back pain.'

Final thoughts

You might have made it all the way to the end of this article on window-shopping mode: you'd love to get a plush new bed, but you just can't afford it. You could always invest in the best mattress topper, instead. All it takes is a three-inch layer of foam to totally transform your sleep experience for a fraction of the price of a new mattress.

Q: I have a soft mattress and I think it might be giving me lower back pain. Can you make a mattress firmer or do I need to replace it?

This is a snippet from an email I received recently. It's a good question. It got me thinking about all the uncomfortable nights I've spent on soft, sagging mattresses and the tips I've picked up to make them feel firmer.

You could place a piece of plywood between your mattress and your bed base for more consistent support. You could purchase one of the best mattress toppers as a short-term solution. Turning your mattress is the quickest and easiest way to make it feel firmer without spending a cent.

Even the best mattress will start to sag eventually. Luckily, there are ways to make a soft mattress feel firmer while you wait to buy a new one. I spoke with sleep scientists and mattress manufacturers to learn their tips and tricks to make a mattress firmer for more supportive sleep.

Can I make my mattress firmer? 4 expert tips

I asked Thomas Høegh Reisenhus (Senior Front-End Innovation Manager, Tempur-Pedic) why it's so important to sleep on a supportive mattress. He says: 'A quality mattress is more than the difference between a good night's sleep and a bad one. It's the difference between enjoying good mental and physical health versus struggling with long-term health and performance challenges.' Here's how to fix a sagging mattress to get better sleep overnight and feel looser in the mornings.

1. Invest in a firm mattress topper

A firm mattress topper could prolong the life of a soft, sagging mattress while you wait to buy a new bed. In terms of mattress topper types, you're looking for something like natural latex or high-density memory foam.

I specify 'high-density' because you don't want the soft, squishy stuff. You need firm, supportive foam to mold to the shape of your body without letting you sink into the mattress. Density is measured in pounds of foam per cubic foot: the denser the foam, the more supportive it feels. I suggest 5lb memory foam. (Don't worry if some of these terms are new to you: you can always cross-reference against my mattress jargon buster).

Now, the denser the foam, the more it might trap heat. This could prove problematic for hot sleepers or anyone living in warmer climates. If you suffer from night sweats or hot flashes, you should narrow the search to one of the best cooling mattress toppers. You can get memory foam mattress toppers infused with cooling gels to dissipate heat and wick moisture.

For natural cooling and springy support, I recommend a latex mattress topper. 'Latex is a great mattress topper material since it has such responsive support,' explains Jin Chon, co-founder of the luxury bedding brand, Coop. 'Latex is a material that you can sleep on, unlike low-density memory foam, which sinks.' Jin says that a firm mattress topper should help to distribute weight evenly across the mattress and prevent your pressure points from sinking. 'A thicker mattress topper is better than a thin one,' she adds: 'you want three inches or thicker.'

2. Turn your mattress

Take a good look at your mattress and map out the lumps and bumps. Consider whether the whole of your mattress feels soft or only certain areas. It might be that specific zones of your mattress are under considerable strain, leading to sagging and loss of support. Think about it: if you tend to sleep in the same section of your mattress each night, it's no wonder that this section will start to lose support faster than the bits of the mattress you don't touch as much.

'Over time, the materials in your mattress start to compress and break down, making it less supportive,' explains sleep scientist Hafiz Shariff. 'Flipping or rotating your mattress can help to redistribute those materials and restore some of the firmness.'

I asked an expert panel of mattress manufacturers: 'how often should you turn a mattress?' Best practice is once a quarter, so that you can distribute wear and tear evenly across the mattress. Fair warning: you should only flip your mattress if it's double-sided: that is, if the mattress construction is roughly the same on top as it is at the bottom. A classic innerspring is a good example of a double-sided mattress. Otherwise, you should rotate your mattress.

3. Check the foundations

If you tried turning your mattress, but it hasn't made much of a difference, then the problem might not be your mattress, after all. Perhaps the loss of support is coming from your bed base.

Even the best bed frames can become loose and move over time. When you're in bed at night, listen out for squeaking and creaking and feel around to spot the sagging. To get a better look at your base, lift up your mattress and inspect for broken or cracked slats. If you've got an adjustable bed, play around with the controls to create a level, supportive base.

4. Place a plywood board beneath your mattress

This is a trick I've picked up from mattress testing. If your mattress is too soft, but you don't want to buy a new mattress or a new foundation, then you could use a plywood board as a makeshift mattress base. It's an easy, affordable way to create a solid, flat surface and lend more consistent support to your mattress.

You could cut a piece of plywood if you're feeling handy or buy a wooden mattress support from Amazon. Don't worry too much about the thickness of the wood – an inch of plywood could easily do the job. Place the board between your mattress and your bed base, making sure it's sitting in the center for even support either side of the mattress.

FAQs

Will a firm mattress help my back pain?

A firm mattress might help with your back pain. A firm surface could help to distribute your weight evenly across the mattress, stopping your pressure points from sinking in and promoting proper spinal alignment. Still, even the best firm mattress can't cure back pain: that's something you should take up with a doctor.

Can a firm mattress cause back pain?

I asked sleep scientists and chiropractors to explain why your mattress might be causing your back pain and what you can do about it. A firm mattress could cause back pain if it pushes on your pressure points and throws your spine out of alignment. This would be a particular problem for side sleepers, who need a mattress with a bit of give to cushion their joints. It's all about finding the best mattress firmness for you: sufficiently supportive, without feeling inflexible.

If you've tried everything, and you still can't sleep comfortably on your soft mattress, then it might be time to invest in the best firm mattress. I've ranked and reviewed classic innersprings, high-tech hybrids, and high-density memory foam models to relieve pressure, ease pain, and keep your spine aligned.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic: it's like David vs Goliath. Nectar is an up-and-coming box mattress brand, promising plush comfort and ergonomic support at low prices. Tempur-Pedic is a giant mattress brand, and their premium beds come with a premium price tag.

In my experience, the performance of a Tempur-Pedic mattress matches the price, but I can't deny that the Nectar process is so much simpler. When you order a Nectar mattress, it arrives vacuum-packed on your doorstep. All you need to do is carry the box into your bedroom, cut the plastic, and let the mattress inflate. It's quick, convenient, and cost-effective: everything the Tempur-Pedic process isn't.

To settle the debate between Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic, I wanted to test a similar mattress from each store. I landed on the Nectar Premier Hybrid and the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Hybrid. Between the two, I think the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt is the best mattress, but the Nectar Premier is far more affordable.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − which is best on test?

Before we begin, I'd like to introduce our two testers. Millie Hurst, our former Head of Solved, sampled the Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress, while Jaclyn Turner, our former Sleep Editor, tried the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt. Our testers assess each mattress against the same criteria: pressure relief; thermoregulation; motion isolation; and edge support. If you come across any unfamiliar terms, you can cross-check them against my mattress jargon buster.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Head to head

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Pressure relief

WINNER: Tempur-Pedic

It's a close call, but the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt takes the crown for versatility. It's available in four mattress firmness levels to suit every style of sleeper. Each iteration of the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt is founded on stainless steel springs and topped with Tempur-material, which is a special sort of memory foam. Originally developed by NASA to absorb the G-force of astronauts in transit, Tempur-material is designed to bear your weight and take the pressure off your joints. 'I felt a slight sinking feeling as the mattress conformed to my shape, but I always felt supported and I found it easy to move from one side to the other,' says Jaclyn.

That's not to say that the Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress is uncomfortable: far from it. 'It took me a few weeks to get used to the feeling of being 'hugged' by my mattress, but I've learned to love it,' says Millie. 'There's just enough give to cushion my joints, but not so much give that it throws my spine out of alignment.' The Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress is only available in Medium-Firm, which should suit most sleep positions, but possibly not soft enough for side sleepers.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Thermoregulation

WINNER: Tempur-Pedic

It's no contest: the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt is the best cooling mattress on the market. Jaclyn started testing the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt during a hot and humid Atlanta summer and she found that the stretch-knit cooling cover was enough to dissipate heat and wick moisture. It's also worth noting that the memory foam comfort layer is infused with cooling gel and the gaps between the springs boost airflow through the bed.

According to Millie, 'the Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress was noticeably more breathable than their all-foam models, but I wouldn't go as far as to say it was actively cooling.'

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Motion isolation

WINNER: It's a tie

The Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt boasts excellent motion isolation, which should come as no surprise to anyone who remembers their early 2000s television, and the full glass of red wine that balanced perfectly on top of the Tempur-Pedic mattress. We like to conduct our own version of the red wine test by filling a glass with water and setting it in the middle of the mattress. No matter how much Jaclyn and her dog tossed and turned beside the glass, they never spilled a drop of water.

Minimal motion transfer is unusual for a hybrid mattress, but the Nectar Premier also boasts excellent motion isolation. Not a drop of water spilled in Millie's motion transfer test, and she could share the mattress without waking up when her partner shifted in their sleep or got into and out of bed.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Edge support

WINNER: Tempur-Pedic

The edge support on the Nectar Premier Hybrid is decent: 'I could comfortably perch on the edge of the bed to apply lotion or tie my shoes,' says Millie, 'though I wouldn't want to sleep on the very edge of the mattress.'

The edge support on the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt is more reliable, thanks to a row of reinforced steel coils running around the sides of the mattress. Jaclyn could comfortably sit and sleep on the side of the mattress, which is good news for anyone who struggles with mobility and needs supportive sides to get into and out of bed.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Practical points

WINNER: Nectar

The Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress is far more affordable than the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt: I'd say it's one of the best affordable mattresses on the market. The Nectar Premier costs $1,099 for a Queen – a full $2,300 cheaper than the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt in the same size. You can spend the money you save on sheets, pillows, and comforters: even a new bed frame.

Where Tempur-Pedic offers a 90-night mattress sleep trial, Nectar offers 365 nights, which allows you to test your mattress over the course of a year before you commit to your purchase. Nectar also offers a lifetime mattress warranty covering all the usual defects in manufacture and materials, whereas Tempur-Pedic only offers 10 years.

Still, Tempur-Pedic beats Nectar on delivery. Where Nectar offers free delivery and returns, Tempur-Pedic offers complimentary white glove delivery. Good thing, too, because a Tempur-Pedic mattress is incredibly heavy, and you wouldn't want to try and lift it by yourself.

Nectar vs Tempur-Pedic − Which should I buy?

It all depends how much you're prepared to spend. As seen on test, the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt is unquestionably the better mattress, but it's seriously expensive: even a Twin-sized Tempur costs $1,000 more than a California King at Nectar.

The Nectar Premier Hybrid Mattress isn't quite as exceptional as the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt, but it's still a good mattress. More importantly, it's far more affordable and often listed for less in the mattress sales.

How we test mattresses

As the resident Sleep Editor at Homes & Gardens, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress. Together, we represent a wide range of ages, sleep styles, and body types. We sleep on each mattress for a minimum of 30 nights before we write our initial reviews to get the best indication of long-term performance.

We assess each mattress against the same criteria: pressure relief; thermoregulation; motion isolation; and edge support. To assess pressure relief, we lie on the mattress and flip between our stomach, back, and sides, considering how comfortable the mattress feels in each position. To assess thermoregulation, we switch off our AC to sleep through heat waves and cold snaps, noting any nights where we wake in a sweat.

To assess motion isolation, we fill a glass with water and set it in the middle of the mattress. Then, we take a weight and move it across the mattress, getting incrementally closer to the glass. The more the glass moves and the more water spills, the worse the motion isolation, and the less suitable the mattress for couples or light sleepers. To assess edge support, we sit on the side of the mattress and measure how far we fall. The further we sink, the worse the edge support, and the harder it will be to get into and out of bed, especially if you struggle with mobility.

We also consider the practical implications of buying a mattress: the warranty; the sleep trial; and the details of delivery. Where possible, we like to compare our findings against verified customer reviews. Finally, we compare the performance of the mattress against the price to help you determine value for money.

A few years ago, I bought a hybrid mattress, and regretted it almost instantly. I'd opted for a medium-firm mattress, which crushed my joints instead of cushioning them. Still, I couldn't face the thought of throwing it out and starting the whole shopping process all over again – not when I'd spent so much time and money choosing this one.

So, when I was assigned to test the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper, I jumped at the chance. Four inches of thick foam proved more than enough to cushion my joints and take the pressure off my hips and shoulders while keeping my spine straight. As a hot sleeper, I was keen to put ViscoSoft's cooling claims to the test. I found that the topper worked to dissipate heat and block odors, though that wasn't always enough to stop my night sweats.

As a member of the H&G mattress testing team, I'm part of the search to find the world's best mattress topper. Together, we've tested memory foam models, responsive latex numbers, and plush pillow-tops for pressure relief, thermoregulation, motion isolation, and edge support. I'm pleased to report that the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper excels in (almost) all areas. The pressure relief, in particular, is fantastic, but there are better cooling mattress toppers on the market.

ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper review − tried and tested

I spent a little more than a month sleeping on the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper in my master bedroom. Then, I took it across country to save my sleep on my friend's notoriously uncomfortable pull-out couch. The corner straps are adjustable, so you can make your topper fit any depth of mattress. I even took my topper on a camping trip and used instead of a sleeping pad. All this to say, I put my ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper through the ringer, and it's still performing well.

NB: I tested the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper prior to the implementation of our more scientific testing process. Going forwards, tests will look a lot more quantitative. Still, I feel confident in the scores I gave and how this topper compares to others I've tested.

ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper specifications

Who would suit the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper?

• Hot sleepers: I tested the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper through the summer and I managed to sleep pretty comfortably. I put that down to the copper infusion through the foam, which works to carry excess thermal energy away from your body and out of the bed.
• Couples: the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper boasts excellent motion isolation. This isn't the old-fashioned, slow-moving sort of memory foam − this is high-density, supportive stuff.
• Anyone in need of pressure relief: before I started testing the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper, I had developed aches and pains in my hips and shoulders from my overly firm mattress. This topper contoured around my curves to bear my weight and take a load off my pressure points.

What's it like to sleep on the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper?

• Pressure relief (5/5): I'm what's known as a combination sleeper – I switch between sleep positions in the night. I often fall asleep on my stomach but end up rolling onto my side. This is a tricky combination because stomach sleepers benefit from a firmer mattress to keep their hips from sinking into the mattress, while side sleepers need a softer surface for pressure relief around the hips and shoulders. The ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper is a true medium, which meant I got the best of both worlds. I felt real pressure relief while sleeping on my side but never sank too deep when I was on my stomach.
• Thermoregulation (3/5): as a hot sleeper testing through a humid summer in the Pacific Northwest, I really wanted the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper to live up to its cooling claims. Although memory foam gets a bad rep for heat retention, I hoped that the conductive copper would work to channel excess heat away from the body. Now, I wouldn't say that the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper trapped heat, but I did wake up in a sweat for a few nights during testing. I wouldn't say it's the best cooling mattress topper on the market: that title belongs to the Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper, which managed to keep our expert tester cool through a hot New York summer.

• Motion isolation (5/5): I sleep on a sprung mattress, so I always expect some level of motion transfer when I'm sharing a bed with my partner. I've made my peace with it over the years, but I really appreciated the motion isolating properties of the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper. My partner could toss and turn on his side of the mattress or get into and out of bed in the night and I could sleep undisturbed. To measure the motion isolation of the mattress topper, I filled a glass with water and set it in the center of the topper before using my hands to apply pressure around the glass. The glass barely moved, and no water spilled, indicating good motion isolation. I'd happily recommend the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper for couples and light sleepers.
• Edge support (2/5): I wasn't expecting big things from the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper in this area. Turns out, the soft squishiness of the center extended around the sides, and there was no enhanced edge support. I had to grip my feet against the floor to sit comfortably on the side of the bed. For a memory foam mattress topper with solid edge support, I recommend the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper.
• Delivery: the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper arrived vacuum-packed in a cardboard box. I opened the box, cut the plastic, and set it aside to use as a covering for the topper when transporting it in my car. As I rolled out the topper onto the bed, I noticed a faint, chemical sort of smell. That was the mattress off-gassing: the smell is totally harmless, but it is unpleasant. I ended up carrying the topper onto my patio to air out overnight. By the next morning, the smell had disappeared and I was ready to start testing. My only complaint is that the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper doesn't come with any instructions to indicate which way up it's supposed to go. I assumed that the top was the side with the flecked foam: that's the copper infusion, which should lie closest to the sleeper to keep cool.

How does the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper rate online?

The ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper boasts a 4.4 average star rating from 170 reviews. There's an option to filter for reviews that mention buzzwords, such as 'support', 'comfort', 'smell', and so on.

'I am a side sleeper and I no longer have to switch from one side to the other throughout the night due to sore shoulders,' reads one recent review. 'I knew I wanted a thick pad but had been afraid it would not breathe.' While the customer agrees with me that the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper didn't make them much cooler, it didn't make them much hotter, either: 'I didn't notice anything different in terms of temperature compared to my old thin mattress pad, which is good.' You could always pair your ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper with a set of the best cooling sheets for enhanced thermoregulation.

A few customers complain that their sheets kept slipping off the bed while they were sleeping with the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper. I never had that problem in all my time testing: still, if you're wondering 'why aren't my sheets staying on the bed?', I suggest you consult our expert guide.

Should I buy the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper?

The ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper is technically listed for $399.95 for a Queen, but it's almost always on sale for $299.95. It's one of the more expensive mattress toppers on the market, but that's the price you pay for copper.

After sleeping on it for a summer, I would say that the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper is worth the money. It single-handedly saved my sleep on my friend's pull-out couch and the motion isolation has significantly improved my sleep quality. For a memory foam mattress topper, the cooling is great, but there are more breathable options on the market. If your mattress is nearing the end of its life, I suggest you skip the topper to sleep on the best affordable mattress, instead.

How we test mattress toppers

Our mattress testing team comprises dozens of seasoned product testers across America. Together, we represent a wide range of ages, sleep styles, and body types. Comb through our mattress reviews and you're bound to find a tester who sleeps like you. Our testers sleep on toppers for a minimum of 30 days in their own homes to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to sleep on this topper.

We assess each mattress topper against the same criteria: pressure relief; thermoregulation; motion isolation; and edge support. To assess pressure relief, we lie on the mattress topper, switching between our stomachs, backs, and sides to consider the balance of comfort and support in each position. To assess thermoregulation, we sleep through hot summers and harsh winters, making note of any time we wake up in a sweat. Where possible, we assign hot sleepers to test cooling mattress toppers.

To assess motion isolation, we fill a cup with water and set it in the center of the topper. Then we take a dumbbell and place it on the mattress topper, moving it incrementally closer to the cup. The more the cup moves, and the more water spills, the worse the motion isolation, and the less suitable the topper for couples or light sleepers. To assess edge support, we sit on the side of the topper and measure how far we fall. The further we sink, the worse the edge support, and the harder it is to sit or sleep on the side of the mattress.

Next, we consider all the practical aspects of buying a mattress topper, from the extent of the warranty to the length of the sleep trial. We like to compare our findings against verified customer reviews to pick out common pros and cons. Then, we bring it all back to the price of the mattress topper to help you determine value for money. To learn more about how we test mattress toppers, consult our expert guide.

Ever since I moved to New York, I've been bouncing around rental mattresses in apartments across town. More often than not, I encounter an old-fashioned innerspring mattress. Over the years of nightly wear and tear, these mattresses have started to break down. I've spent too many nights with springs digging into my side as the coils creak beneath my body weight.

Even if I could afford to replace these broken mattresses with a bed of my own, my landlord wouldn't let me. I decided I needed a mattress topper that I could carry across the city every time I moved. So, when I was assigned to test the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper, I jumped at the chance. Three inches of memory foam proved more than enough to transform the look and feel of my mattress.

As a member of the H&G mattress testing team, I'm part of the search to find the world's best mattress topper. Together, we've tested plush pillow-tops, memory foam models, and responsive latex toppers for pressure relief, thermoregulation, motion isolation, and edge support. This topper delivered the best performance at the fairest price. That's why the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper is our reigning champion for the title of 'best mattress topper'.

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper review

I started tested the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper back in the spring of 2022. Since then, I've periodically updated this review to paint the fullest possible picture of long-term performance. Now, two and a half years later, I've moved back and forth across Manhattan, and I'm still sleeping on the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper − it's just that good.

NB: I scored the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper prior to our implementation of a more scientific testing method. Going forwards, tests will look more quantitative, but I feel confident in the scores I gave and how this topper compares to others I've tested.

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper specifications

Who would suit the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper?

• Couples: the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper boasts excellent motion isolation and a medium firmness to suit every sleep position. It's a great compromise for couples who share a bed, but not a sleep style.
• Anyone looking for extra comfort: you don't even need a mattress to get good use out of this topper: you could layer it on your sleeper sofa, your futon mattress, or even the floor. Thanks to its contouring comfort and pressure relief, I'd also say it's one of the best mattress toppers for dorm beds (so long as Mom or Dad is buying).
• Buyers on a budget: when you shop with the code TOPPERS40, you can save 40% on your mattress topper and get the full Tempur-Pedic experience for a fraction of the price.

What's it like to sleep on the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper?

• Pressure relief (5/5): as a side sleeper, I immediately noticed a difference between the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper and other memory foam toppers I've tried in the past. I felt that I was sleeping on this mattress topper, rather than sinking into it. The TEMPUR-material contoured around my curves to bear my weight and keep my hips and knees from sinking too far beneath my neck and shoulders. I felt that my spine was in perfect alignment. My partner sleeps on his stomach, so he prefers a firmer surface. Since the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper is filled with high-density memory foam, instead of the soft, slow-moving stuff, he was able to sleep comfortably.
• Thermoregulation (4/5): as a cool sleeper testing through the winter and early spring, I always slept comfortably on the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper. Still, if you suffer from night sweats or hot flashes, I suggest you spend another $100 and upgrade to the Tempur-Pedic Adapt + Cooling Topper, which incorporates a cooling gel to dissipate heat, wick moisture, and block odors. Alternatively, you could buy one of the best cooling mattress toppers. The Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper incorporates conductive materials (namely, graphite) to carry excess thermal energy away from your body and out of the bed. For a more natural approach to cooling, I suggest the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper.

• Motion isolation (5/5): I'm a restless sleeper. When I used to toss and turn on our old innerspring mattress, my partner could feel it all the way over on his side of the bed. On the flip side, I could feel it when my partner got up in the night to get a glass of water and rolled back into bed. I knew I needed a mattress topper with optimal motion isolation, and I'm pleased to report that the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper delivered. TEMPUR-Material is made to absorb motion. In fact, when it was first invented by NASA scientists, TEMPUR-Material was used to absorb g-force and protect astronauts in space travel. When I slept on the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper, I felt perfectly cocooned on my side of the bed. I'd happily recommend this mattress topper for couples and light sleepers.
• Edge support (5/5): many a memory foam mattress topper has fallen down in the edge support test. The soft squishiness of the center extends around the edges. That isn't the case with the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper. I could comfortably sit on the side of the bed to apply lotion or get dressed in the morning. Since my partner sleeps on his stomach, he tends to lie at the side of the bed, where he felt well-supported.
• Delivery: the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper arrived vacuum-packed in a cardboard box. All that thick foam makes for a heavy load, but I managed to lift the box and carry it upstairs on my own. I opened the box, cut the plastic, and rolled the topper onto the bed to decompress. That's when I noticed a faint, chemical sort of smell. That was just the mattress off-gassing: the smell itself is totally harmless, but it is unpleasant. I cracked open a window and closed the bedroom door to speed up the process. By the next morning, the smell had gone and the topper had expanded to its full height.

How does the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper rate online?

Tempur-Pedic lists the reviews for their Tempur-Adapt Topper alongside reviews for the Tempur-Cloud Topper. There's no way to filter the search, so suffice to say that Tempur-Pedic mattress toppers boast an average rating of 4.3 stars from more than 10,000 verified reviews.

'This topper is an instant fix-it for a mattress that needs a plush enhancement,' reads one recent review. Before buying the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper, 'I was waking up every morning with a backache. I thought it was the beginnings of arthritis. My mattress was feeling hard and unforgiving. I bought the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper and after that first night, I woke up pain-free.' Customers caution that you'll want deep fitted sheets, since this is a thick mattress topper. A few complain that you have to upgrade to the Adapt + Cooling Topper to get proper thermoregulation, and that will cost another $100.

Should I buy the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper?

I couldn't review the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper without mentioning the price. Outside of sales season, a queen-sized topper goes for $419. You could skip the topper and buy one of the best affordable mattresses at that price. Luckily, when you shop with the code TOPPERS40, you can save 40% and bag the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper for just $251.40, all year round.

The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper sets the standard for pressure relief and motion isolation. It's a great option for anyone who suffers from chronic pain and anyone who shares a bed with a pet or partner. If you're a hot sleeper, I suggest you upgrade to the Tempur-Adapt + Cooling Topper to keep the night sweats under control.

How we test mattress toppers

Our mattress testing team includes dozens of seasoned product testers across America. Together, we represent a wide range of ages, sleep styles, and body types. Comb through our back catalog of reviews and you're sure to find a tester who shares your sleep needs. Our experts test each topper for a minimum of 30 days in their own homes before writing their reviews to get the most accurate indication of long-term performance.

We assess each mattress topper against the same criteria: pressure relief; thermoregulation; motion isolation; and edge support. To assess pressure relief, we lie down on the topper and flip between our backs, stomachs, and sides, considering how comfortable the topper feels in each position. The best mattress topper strikes a careful balance between softness and support to keep your spine straight. To assess thermoregulation, we sleep through heatwaves and cold snaps, monitoring whether we ever wake up in a sweat. Where possible, we ask hot sleepers to test cooling mattress toppers.

To assess motion isolation, we fill a glass with water and set it in the center of the topper. Then, we take a weight and place it on the mattress topper, moving it incrementally closer to the glass. The more the glass moves, and the more water spills, the worse the motion isolation, and the less suitable the topper for light sleepers and couples. To assess edge support, we sit on the side of the bed and measure how far the topper sinks beneath our weight. The further it falls, the worse the edge support, and the harder it will be to sit or sleep at the side of the bed.

We also consider all the practical parts of buying a topper, from the length of the sleep trial to the details of delivery. We like to compare our findings against verified reviews to pick out common customer concerns. Then, we bring it all back to the price of the mattress topper to help you assess value for money. To find out more about how we test mattress toppers, consult our expert explainer.

The Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress appears in almost every one of our mattress buying guides, and it's not hard to see why. For pressure relief, motion isolation, comfort, and support, this mattress is best in class.

Your average hybrid mattress is lined with steel springs and topped with a thick layer of memory foam. That makes for decent comfort and pressure relief, but it's a nightmare for hot sleepers: dense foam tends to trap heat. That's why Tempur-Pedic use their own unique foam formulation, known as Tempur material. First developed by NASA to absorb the G-force of aerospace travel, Tempur material can certainly withstand your tossing and turning.

I started testing the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress review more than two years ago. Since then, we've tested more than a dozen beds, but this one is still a top contender for best mattress. Breathable, comfortable, and supportive, the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress checks all the big boxes. I only wish it weren't so expensive, though you could try to save a few hundred dollars in the mattress sales.

Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress review

I tested the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress review from early spring to the start of summer in Atlanta, Georgia. No matter how hot it got outside, I always slept cooling on the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress. That's why it's our reigning champion for the best cooling mattress.

Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress Specifications

Who would the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress suit?

• All sleep positions: that's the best bit about a hybrid mattress. Whether you lie on your front, back, or side, the combination of springs and foam should support your body.
• Anyone who suffers from chronic pain: Tempur material is made to mold to the shape of your body, absorbing pressure and easing pain.

• Hot sleepers: the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress comes with a SmartClimate Dual Cover system to dissipate heat and wick moisture.
• Light sleepers, or anyone who shares a bed: the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress boasts unparalleled motion isolation, the best of any bed we've tested.
• Shoppers with money to spare: this mattress is seriously expensive. If you don't have a few thousand dollars to drop on a new bed, then I suggest you narrow the search to the best affordable mattress.

What's it like to sleep on the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress?

• Comfort: the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress comes in three comfort levels to suit all sleep positions. There's Soft for side sleepers, Firm for back and stomach sleepers, and Medium to suit all three. That's the comfort level I tried, and I was seriously impressed. I felt a slight sinking feeling as the mattress conformed to my shape, but I always felt supported and I found it easy to move from one side to the other.
• Motion isolation: remember that Tempur-Pedic ad from the early 2000s, where the woman jumps around the bed, perilously close to a full glass of red wine, and never spills a drop? That's our inspiration for the H&G motion isolation test. We fill a glass with water, set it in the center of the bed, and then toss and turn beside it. The more the glass moves, and the more water spills, the worse the motion isolation. I'm pleased to report that this glass barely moved. This indicates excellent motion isolation, which is good news for light sleepers and anyone who shares a bed with a pet or partner: you shouldn't feel their movements in the night.
• Cooling properties: my bedroom is a bit of a heat trap, but the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress helped to keep me cool. Like any hybrid mattress, this bed is lined with spring coils, which optimize airflow as they compress and depress beneath your body weight. What sets this bed apart from similar models is the SmartClimate Dual Cover system. This stretch-knit cooling cover is crafted to channel heat away from your body to keep you feeling fresh. If you're a seriously hot sleeper, you might want to pair this mattress with a set of the best cooling sheets.

• Support: Tempur material is meant to make you feel like you're floating. I certainly felt well supported, but I wanted hard data to include in this review. That's why I took a 50-pound kettlebell and set it in the center of the bed. I wanted to see how the mattress responded to the weight. The kettlebell sank around six inches, and the foam contoured around it. Once I removed the weight, the foam sprang back into shape within seconds. I put that down to the bounce of the springs, as well as the springy, supple Tempur material.
• Edge support: many a good mattress falls down in the edge support test. Luckily, the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress features a row of reinforced steel coils around the sides of the bed for enhanced edge support. This makes it much more comfortable to sleep on the edge of the bed or to sit on the side to tie your sneakers.
• Sleep trial: the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress only comes with a 90-night mattress sleep trial. That's just enough time to test your bed through two seasons, but it might put the pressure on indecisive shoppers to commit to their purchase.
• Warranty: the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress has a 10-year mattress warranty. This covers manufacturer defects, from visible indentations to cracks and flaws, which is about industry-standard. If you want to make the most of your mattress warranty, then I suggest you invest in the best mattress protector to safeguard against spills and stains.

How does the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress rate online?

I had to do a little digging to find the reviews for this specific mattress model. Tempur-Pedic groups all the reviews for their Adapt, ProAdapt, and LuxeAdapt beds. Once I'd filtered for the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress, I found that this bed has several hundred five-star reviews. Happy customers say that their back and hip pain has been almost eliminated. There are a smattering of more mixed reviews. The most negative ratings are purely practical: the mattress took a long time to arrive, or the matching bed base lies too low to the ground.

There's no denying that the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress is expensive, but one customer really put it into perspective. When you think about how much you'll use the mattress versus how much it costs, 'it's less than a dollar a day. Most people spend 5 times that amount on coffee, so I figure a good night's sleep on an expensive mattress is well worth it'.

Should I buy the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress?

I couldn't write a review for the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress without mentioning the price. It's one of the most expensive beds we've ever tested – even a Twin costs almost $3,000. If that's simply out of the question, then consider the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress: you get a similar look and feel for $2,000 less.

With that said, if you've got the money and you want to spend it on a mattress, you can't get much better than the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress. I first tried it two years ago and I'm still sleeping on it to this day: it's just that good.

How we test mattresses

We put a lot of thought into how we test mattresses. Our sleep experts sample beds for several months as the seasons change to monitor their performance throughout the year. We're always looking for the same six things: comfort; support; cooling properties; motion isolation; edge support; and weight bearing capacity.

Some of our tests are more subjective. To assess the comfort of a mattress, for example, all we can do is lay on it and see how we feel. Others are a bit more scientific. We use a system of weights and water glasses to measure motion isolation, edge support, and weight bearing capacity.

Where possible, we compare our findings against verified customer reviews to show a range of experiences with the same mattress. Then we bring it all back to the price of the bed to help you determine value for money.

An adjustable base is the latest frontier in customizing your sleep, and at Tempur-Pedic, the bases are the ultimate accessory for better sleep. Alongside our trials of the Tempur-Pedic Pro-Adapt Medium Hybrid Mattress, we put the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base powered by Sleeptracker-AI through the paces. 

Adjustable bed frames are typically selected based on functionality, and in upfront transparency, not everyone will need one. But for those who do, well your sleep is in for a big adjustment, for the better. 

Adjustable bases are recommended for those with various sleep or medical issues, minimizing snoring, preventing acid reflux, increasing circulation, and increasing mobility.  In our instance, considering the premium design and modern styling of the Tempur-Pedic ERGO Smart Base, but we also couldn't resist trying the sophisticated sleep tracking features.

So yes, once you've decided if the Tempur-ERGO Smart Base is the adjustable base right for you, it pairs perfectly with the majority of the best mattresses out there. 

Who will the Tempur-Ergo Smart Base suit?

• Those who deal with sleep issues like snoring, sleep apnea, acid reflux, restless legs, and more: sleeping elevated can help alleviate these sleep issues
• Couples: Both sleepers can get their own sleep insights, but if you opt for the split models, both sleepers can control how their bed adjusts, too.  
• Those looking for a premium adjustable base: Maybe you're ready to upgrade from a design that simply lifted up and down, or planning to go straight to the bells and whistles of sleep products.  

Tempur-Ergo Smart Base: Design

Though designed for Tempur-Pedic mattresses, you can use any mattress that is adjustable base compliant.

From an appearance standpoint, the ERGO Base has a sleek, modern design with charcoal-gray upholstery and black peg legs. These options are not customizable. A bar at the center edge of the bed helps keep it in place and is undetectable once covered with your blankets. 

If their utilitarian design is not your cup of tea, the power bases have been known to fit within standard modern bed frames. Measure the inside of the bed frame and compare it to the measurements to ensure it will fit.

The leg attachments come in 3-inch increments that screw together, with the ability to add up to 12 inches of height between you and the floor. The base was installed with the 12", which lifted the bed a little higher off the ground. It has left plenty of room for storage, or for my dog to have a new hiding place/ running path.

According to the manual, the queen size can accommodate a weight of up to 600 pounds, but that weight should ideally be distributed across the bed with an ideal weight of up to 275 pounds. The lift motors are also not designed to operate continuously for more than two minutes in an 18-minute time period to not overwhelm the power supply. 

The base lifts at the head and at the feet with the ability to go into pre-set positions like Zero-Gravity, Anti-Snore, or TV Watching as well as to adjust the heights to your own liking. The Zero Gravity position subtly elevates your head and feet to closely simulate weightlessness and help take the pressure off of your back, while Anti-Snore will tilt the mattress at the optimal position to reduce snoring. You can also save your favorite position for quick access. These settings can also all be reprogrammed as to what is most comfortable for you. 

Both sides of the bed will elevate in tandem with the Queen, King  and Cal versions, but if you opt for a split design, available in King and Cal King only and comprised to two Twin or Twin XL beds, each sleeper can modify their bed settings according to their particular needs independently. 

Other convenient and truly premium, design features include its QuietMode motor, under-bed lighting and two USB ports on each side of the bed. There is also a 2-Zone massage that vibrates at your head and feet, but we do not imagine using it for prolonged use. The massage feature is helpful if using the gentle wake or as a pulse in response to snore detection. All is controlled through a wireless remote, or via the Tempur-Pedic Sleeptracker app. 

The smart details

Now, what set the ERGO Smart Base apart from the ERGO Power Base? Well, the integration with Sleeptracker AI. The unobtrusive technology sits tucked away at the head of the bed and offers detailed insights into your sleep. A built-in sensor also monitors air purity, temperature,  humidity, and carbon dioxide. Each "side of the bed" gets a tracker.

Sleep Tracking
I've used a lot of sleep trackers, but few seem to collate the data of the Sleeptracker AI. For the queen, two sensors are attached on either side of the bed. Within the app, you can designate who sleeps on what side. As I sleep alone I, unfortunately, can't confirm how it gets accurate info for both sleepers, but I did notice that if I only had one side of the bed designated, it still captured everything if I was on the other side. No wearable is required, and it knows when you're in bed sleeping, versus in bed, watching TV, so you don't even have to turn on sleep tracking. 

In addition to common metrics like breath rate and heart rate and tracking the amount of time that you're awake or in Light, Deep, or REM Sleep, it also takes into account your bedroom environment with a graph that signifies if the carbon dioxide, air purity, humidity, and temperature are appropriate for sleeping. Combining this info, you'll get a sleep quality score. 

It'll also give your comparisons to the previous night, and I like how a calendar makes it easy to track and see your sleep quality ratings over a period of time.  

Within the app, you can also choose to listen to white noise, and create sleep goals and a schedule. You can also connect to your Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to receive an audible summary. 

Snore Response
So, your tracker identified you snored, now what? Well, when deep snoring is detected, the bed can gently raise itself into the Anti-Snore position or give you a little vibration or do both. For this feature, these settings need to be toggled on in the app. The vibration would also be felt on another side of the bed unless you had a split model as well.  

Sleep Cycle Alarm
The sleep cycle alarm wakes you up based on your sleep cycle, within a window of time you need to get up. It can wake you with a gentle vibration or with music on your phone, but not both.  Your phone is also required to turn off the alarm. The vibration from asleep was too jarring for me, so I'll be sticking to my typical alarm, but for others, it could truly be a gamechanger for those who are looking for different ways to wake up. 

What’s the Tempur-Ergo Smart Base like to sleep on?

The base itself is stable and pretty intuitive to use and each setting does exactly as performed. Though, from my experience, I did notice two things about the experience, and a wish to be developed:

• The remote: The remote buttons light up once you press a feature, but if you're not familiar with the button placement, it's hard to see the buttons in the dark.
• Consider your mattress protector and sheets. Since the bed will continuously be changing positions, you will want to seek out stretchy mattress protectors and perhaps sheets that can handle being stretched.
• A wish: My father actually brought this idea up, and I had to commend him on the good idea. He suggested the ability to schedule the repositioning of the base, ideally through the app. His bedroom habits entail watching TV and then likely falling asleep in that position, so the ability for the base to automatically go into his ideal sleeping position at say, 11 p.m. would be a very useful feature.

Ordering, delivery, and set up

Our experience was directly through Tempur-Pedic's website, but you're also able to find Tempur-Pedic at major mattress stores like Mattress Firm and Macy's, which may have slightly different policies.

We ordered the Tempur-Ergo Smart Base alongside the Tempur-ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress. They arrived together via white glove delivery. 

Two delivery workers quickly assembled the bed, installed the SmartTracker. They recommended I download the Tempur-Pedic Sleeptracking app and to connect the bed to wifi.   

Tempur-Pedic warranty and trial period

Bases purchased through Tempur-Pedic are not returnable, which was a key reason that I had to dock them half a star.

They come with a 25-year limited warranty that needs a closer inspection. Within the first three years,  all parts and labor are covered, including supplied electronics, electrical components, Sleeptracker® components, drive motors, and power supply components. For years four and five, only replacement parts will be offered. After the fifth year, only the bed frame is covered by the warranty. The bed frame consists of the metal structure of the base and excludes the cover, side rails, decking and legs, actuator lift and massage motors, control box, remote controls, power supply, and Sleeptracker components. 

How does the Tempur-Ergo Smart Base rate online?

It's a fairly new product from Tempur-Pedic so reviews are sparse, but early users love all the bells and whistles like the zero gravity mode for a weightless sleep feeling. 

Is the Tempur-Ergo Smart Base worth it?

If there is a product that will transform your sleep, it is a smart base, specifically the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Base powered by Sleeptracker-AI. Combining essential adjustable base functions, thoughtful convenient integrations like floor lights and USB plugs with smart features like sleep tracking and snore detection, it's truly a sleep coach that will change the way you view your rest. 

Where to buy

About our review  – and our reviewer

Jaclyn is the sleep eCommerce editor across the homes titles at Future, including Homes & Gardens, where she spends her days evaluating the best mattresses to seeking out the best ways to make the bedroom your oasis.  But because she could literally nap anywhere, anytime, and really needs a full eight hours of sleep to function, the opportunity to test out mattresses for our readers brings a new definition to the title of a dream job! In what other world would she get the chance to sleep on the job!  

All our reviews, as in the case of the Tempur-Pedic ERGO Smart Base, are based on the real-life experience of using these products at home. This particular base was tested alongside the Tempur-Pedic Pro Adapt Medium Hybrid Mattress.  The products are given to us free of charge and in most instances, we are able to keep them. This means that we can continue to use the product which gives us the opportunity to return to our reviews for updating, so you can keep up-to-date with how it's fared over a period of time.

The start of summer brings longer daylight hours and warmer weather, but for hay fever sufferers, it also means the start of the dreaded pollen season.

Caused by an allergic response to pollen from trees, grasses or weeds, hay fever season can start as early as February in the US and around late March in the UK - all the way through to September. It is particularly potent during warm, humid and windy weather, which is typically when the pollen count is at its highest.

Typical allergy symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing and coughing, itchy and watering eyes, headache, feeling tired, and an itchy throat and nose. However, there are measures that allergy sufferers can take to minimize exposure to allergens and ease the symptoms.

These hay fever remedies will make your indoor space a safer space. They'll also help with other allergies, too, from dust, pets or mold.

Best hay fever remedies for the home

There are several ways the home can be ‘hay fever proofed’ - we spoke to the experts to find out how to do it.

'By implementing these simple measures, from regular household cleaning to ensuring ventilation and drying laundry indoors, we can ensure our homes are better equipped for allergy sufferers,' says Tobin James, MD at Tempur UK.

'Minimising exposure to allergens will reduce the effects of hay fever symptoms, meaning sufferers can enjoy better quality, undisturbed sleep.'

For allergy sufferers with severe symptoms, Tobin recommends seeking advice from a doctor or pharmacist. These professionals can suggest treatments, such as antihistamines, tablets, or nasal sprays, to ease symptoms.

1. Regular cleaning

Vacuuming regularly and removing dust from surfaces with a damp cloth can help remove pollen, dust particles, and pet dander (fur and skin particles) that can aggravate allergy symptoms. Don’t forget hidden areas such as behind sofas, inside a fireplace, and in corners of the room, as these places can harbor more dust. You can also buy a special HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter bag for your vacuum to further prevent very fine dust particles or pollen deposits from gathering.

2. Air quality

Tania Elliot, MD, immunologist and allergy expert for ZYRTEC, explains how your air quality is the first step to creating a safe space indoors. 

'Clean out the HVAC system in your homes first, then keep the windows closed to prevent pollen from getting inside. The pollen can settle into your carpeting, furniture, bedding and upholstery, triggering symptoms.'

For those fortunate enough to have an AC system, it's better to keep the windows closed and use air conditioning throughout the peak summer months.

Do air purifiers help with allergies? If you're without an AC unit, one of the best air purifiers is one of the most effective ways to remove pollen, dust and pet dander from your indoor air. We found that an air purifier with a HEPA filter can massively relieve symptoms at home, particularly when sleeping.

We recommend the Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde, as it doubles up as a fan for well-needed cool air in the warmer months. Or, the Dreo Macro Pro also has a HEPA filter and is much more affordable.

3. Extractor fans

Use an extractor fan in the kitchen and bathroom to remove moisture and particles whenever in use. Switch the extractor fan before pre-heating the oven and leave it running while you cook and for a few minutes after you’ve finished. 

Similarly, keep the extractor fan on during showering or bathing, as this will remove excess moisture and prevent mold build-up. Also, check your heating and cooling system and ensure that ducts are clean and proper air filtration is in place. You should also check your car's ventilation system for the cleanest possible airflow.

4. Clothing and laundry

Clothes and shoes can carry pollen and be transferred indoors, so wash clothes thoroughly and change clothes straightaway if you’ve been outside. If you’re a hay fever sufferer, avoid drying your washing outside. This is a magnet for pollen, which can fall on and cling to damp clothes or bedsheets and then be transferred back into the home. Dry clothes indoors wherever possible. 

However, for those with an allergy to mold, it is advisable to refrain from drying laundry indoors without a dehumidifier to prevent moisture buildup in the home.

5. Ventilation

Hay fever sufferers should keep windows and doors shut as much as possible, particularly during high pollen count days. Pollen counts are highest between 5 am and 10 am, so limit exposure outside during these times, particularly if the morning is warm and dry. 

Open windows and doors in the evening to prevent locking irritants into rooms. If possible, create a stronger through draft by opening windows and doors on the opposite side of the room. Good daily ventilation to disperse particles building up in the home and reduce humidity is also crucial for those with allergies triggered by indoor allergens.

6. Bedding & curtains

Tania explains how important it is to keep your bedding free from allergies:

'Dust mites can live in people’s bedding and worsen allergy symptoms,' Tania explains. Not everybody is predisposed to dust mite allergies, but 'red or watery eyes, coughing, and an itchy nose, mouth, or throat may be additional signs of a reaction.'

To avoid this, Tania has some tips: 'Consider washing your bedding weekly on the highest heat setting, vacuuming a few times a week with a HEPA vacuum, removing curtains or drapes and switching to blinds, getting rid of decorative pillows, and using tightly woven cotton sheets or dust mite proof sheets.'

Pillows should ideally be changed every 18 months. Within two years of use, one-third of a pillow’s weight comprises dirt, oil, dead skin, and dust mites—not good news for allergy sufferers. And, just as with pillows, it’s advisable to change your mattress every 8-10 years. It’s worth choosing a mattress and pillows with removable, machine-washable covers to promote the best possible bedding hygiene.

7. Be mindful

Pollen from fresh-cut flowers can aggravate hay fever symptoms, as can smoke particles from burning candles and smoking. Avoid household cleaners with high chemical content as the fumes can increase coughing, and try cutting down on alcohol as most alcohol contains histamine, the chemical that triggers allergy symptoms. Take a shower before bed to wash away any pollen on your body; you could also leave your clothes in a separate room to prevent any pollen transfer from the outdoors.

Nettle and chamomile can tackle symptoms through their anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, so it’s worth swapping your usual cup of tea or coffee for these herbal alternatives. Keep your bedroom free from fragrances, such as perfume, cleaning products, scented candles, spritzes, and sprays, to prevent increasing an itchy nose, mouth, and throat during the night.

If already have an AC unit or air purifier, consider one of the best dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air, and the best vacuum for pet hair to remove the allergens from your floors and furniture.

During these testing times, it’s only natural that our sleep may suffer. From the change in our daily sleep routine, less outdoor time and less exercise, to juggling work and children or worrying about vulnerable family members, good sleep hygiene has never been more important.

Good quality sleep has multiple benefits: it reduces stress, boosts our mood, ensures we concentrate better, reduces anxiety, and allows the body to better rest and repair.

As the place where we lay our heads every night, the bedroom is an easy place to start when it comes to improving our sleep. From a soothing colour scheme, to the role of Feng Shui and symmetry, there are several design features to consider creating a bedroom environment for optimal sleep.

Ahead of DIY season and given we’re all spending more time at home, Tempur Sleep Expert and chartered psychologist Suzy Reading has compiled a guide on how to rework a bedroom for better sleep, including the best bedroom color ideas for a restful scheme.

'The bedroom is the ideal place to start when considering how to improve our sleep environment,' says Suzy. 'It sounds simple, but without careful consideration, a bedroom can inhibit good sleep. Loud, brash colours in a bedroom can inadvertently keep us more awake, while gadgets emit blue light and prevent us feeling drowsy in the run up to sleep.'

BEDROOM DESIGN TIPS FOR A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP

Good bedroom design needn’t cost a fortune; it’s about making small changes to improve the space and boost its sleep-inducing qualities. Read on for Suzy’s sleep-inducing bedroom design tips.

1. COLOUR SCHEME

In interior design, colour groups fall into two categories – cool colours and warm colours. For the best night’s sleep, use cool colours in the bedroom as these help the body to unwind, ready for sleep. Light blue, moss green, soft yellow and dusky grey all work well. Choose a colour that has meaning to you. If you love green, it will work better for you than blue, for example.

Warm colours, on the other hand, can have an adverse effect and have been shown to raise the heart rate and blood pressure, increasing our likelihood of staying awake. Avoid using red, purple or any bright colours as these prevent melatonin release, which the body produces to wind down ahead of sleep. If you are really set on using a bright colour, try adding as an accent colour, rather than one overpowering block of colour. Include colours in artwork or cushions, for example.

See20 easy tips that can help you get to sleep tonight

2. FENG SHUI

Feng Shui is based on the principles of adding balance to a space for added calm. In a bedroom, this means implanting a design based on symmetry and pairing items together. For example, place two bedside tables on either side of the bed or install a pair of paintings. You could also add matching potted plants for more impact.

Feng Shui also means keeping a space clear and devoid of clutter, so be selective with furniture and keep clutter and ornaments to a minimum. Take a ‘less is more’ approach and keep the bedroom clean and tidy, as this will only improve sleep long-term.

3. PLANTS AND GREENERY

Consider adding greenery to your bedroom. Plants can boost air quality, increase air circulation and extract chemicals. Spending just five minutes in nature has a calming effect, so why not bring the outdoors in?

Ferns, succulents, bamboo, aloe vera and ivy plants are easy care varieties for green-fingered beginners. Match the plant type to the level of light and ensure your plants are well watered and dusted frequently, as dust prevents sunshine absorption needed for good plant health.

SeeHow to sleep better – five ways sleep improves your health

4. BLOCK LIGHT AND SOUND

It sounds obvious, but ensure all chinks of light are blocked, as sunshine is a natural indicator to our body to wake up. Use blackout blinds and ensure curtains are fully closed before sleep. Similarly, use earplugs to block out any noise. Remember that a bedroom should be like a cave for optimal sleep, so ensure it is cool, dark and quiet ahead of sleep and throughout the night.

5. BEDDING AND NIGHTWEAR

Avoid using synthetic materials such as polyester bedding and instead use linen, silk and cotton for the most natural bedding types. These breathable fabrics allow the body to both cool better and stay warmer. Invest in a natural duvet type, such as feather-down, and again avoid man-made materials as these can irritate the skin. The same goes for nightwear, so choose cotton, silk or linen for a more comfortable sleep experience. Keep an extra blanket close by should the temperature drop in the night.

6. NATURAL REMEDIES

Adding essential oil fragrances into your room can aid sleep and create a soothing environment. Try spritzing your sheets with a light layer of lavender spray before sleep or use a diffuser with a natural scent such as mint or lemon. Taking a warm shower or bath with essential oils before bed can also make us feel more naturally tired, along with a hot drink.

7. BANISH BLUE LIGHT

Blue light emitted from gadgets, computers, phones and screens is an instant signal to our brains and bodies to stay awake. Place these items in a different room and use a traditional alarm clock rather than a phone alarm. When it’s dark, we release the chemical melatonin, which is crucial to trigger sleep as it makes the body relax and feel naturally drowsy, so don’t let blue light prevent you from dropping off.

8. INVEST IN A GOOD QUALITY MATTRESS

We spend up to a third of our lives asleep, so investing in a quality mattress can really make all the difference to your sleep quality. A good mattress will gently support your entire body while keeping your spine in a neutral position. This will not only help improve your quality of sleep – the more comfortable and supported you are, the less you will toss and turn - but will also help muscles recover overnight and alleviate any aches and pains.

Tempur, uk.tempur.com