Stearns & Foster hand-build your mattress upon ordering and even deliver it to your house with a complimentary white glove delivery service. When I see a brand take such care in the beginning stages, I know that I can usually expect the mattress to be of top quality. That was exactly the case with the Queen-sized Medium Stearns & Foster Estate Collection Mattress that I tested.

I wasn’t surprised to see that this hybrid mattress had a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from customers as I found it incredibly comfortable and supportive for sleeping on my stomach and back. Rather than dip into the mattress, the Estate Collection Mattress kept my body aligned and it provided some stellar motion isolation capabilities and edge support.

As part of the H&G mattress testing team, I'm part of the search to find the world's best mattress. Together, we've tested 30 mattresses, ranging from plush pillow-tops to firm latex models. Out of every mattress we've ever tested, the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress has the best edge support and excellent motion isolation. I'd recommend this mattress for couples, light sleepers, and anyone who needs help getting into and out of bed.

Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress review

Full disclosure: the temperature regulation was a bit of a disappointment, which was surprising since the brand put quite a bit of effort into making it cool and breathable. Not only does it have a TENCEL cover to wick away moisture, but it’s also equipped with an AirVent system to help air move through the mattress and pull warm air away. Unfortunately, I got hot during my testing, and I wasn’t surprised to see some customers having similar experiences too. Despite that drawback, I think the Stearns & Foster Estate Collection Mattress is an incredibly comfortable mattress and well built to last.

Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress specifications

Who would suit the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress?

• Back and stomach sleepers: the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress feels plush and cozy up top, but incredibly supportive underneath. Back and stomach sleepers benefit from this sort of firm mattress to keep their spines straight. I'd recommend something softer for side sleepers, with more give around the hips, such as the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress.
• Anyone suffering from back pain: the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress offers a lot of support around the waist and hips, helping to take the weight off your lower back. The memory foam comfort layer brings contouring comfort and near-perfect pressure relief.
• Couples: you won't wake up when your partner changes position in the night. After running a number of tests, I can confirm that the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress does a superb job with motion isolation, ensuring you get a full night's sleep.
• Anyone who needs help getting into and out of bed: a lot of mattress manufacturers claim to offer reinforced edges, but Stearns & Foster actually delivers on this promise. I don't think I've ever seen a mattress with better edge support. If you struggle with mobility, or you're keen to sit or sleep on the side of the bed, then this mattress is for you.

What's it like to sleep on the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress?

• Pressure relief: although I am a combination sleeper, which means I flip between sleep positions in the night, I found the most comfort and support sleeping on my back and stomach. I need a lot of support around my hips to keep my spine straight and avoid any undue lower back aches. The strategically arranged springs inside the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress provided all the support I needed in those areas, while the memory foam comfort layer enhances pressure relief. This mattress is available in six comfort levels to suit every sort of sleeper. I tested the Medium: on a firmness scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is super-soft and 10 is ultra-firm, I'd rate the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress around a 7. That's the best mattress firmness for most sleepers. Still, if I had to choose again, I'd probably opt for the Soft surface or a pillow top so I could sleep comfortably on my side.
• Thermoregulation: I generally sleep neutrally at night and don't have issues with night sweats or overheating. That's saying something for someone who sleeps through hot summers and heat waves in Texas. I can tell right away when a mattress has good temperature regulation − which is why I was surprised by the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress. Despite being a hybrid mattress with external air vents to boost breathability, I felt that the thermoregulation was lacking. Often, I woke up sweating, even through the moisture-wicking mattress cover, to the point that I had to throw off my lightweight comforter and sheets and lower my AC. If you're a hot sleeper, steer clear of the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress in favor of the best cooling mattress. I recommend the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress for a similar look and feel.

• Motion isolation: while memory foam is better known for motion isolation, there are plenty of hybrids that do a great job – like the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress. I filled a wine glass with water and set it in the center of the mattress. Then, I took a 15-lb. dumbbell and dropped it 25 inches away, then 10, then four. The glass remained upright during the first two drops. It juddered during the last drop, but I think that's down to the shape of the quilted top, which doesn't provide a lot of stability for a wine glass. In theory, the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress has solid motion isolation, and that's what I experienced in practice. I asked a friend to get into and out of bed beside me: even when they changed positions on the mattress, I couldn't feel a thing.
• Edge support: in my time testing mattresses, I've struggled to find one with quality edge support. Not only is edge support helpful for getting into and out of bed, but it maintains the structural integrity of the mattress and prevents it from dipping if you sleep too close to the edge. When I sat down on the side of the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress, it barely dipped beneath my weight. I felt very well supported. This was verified when I placed my 15-lb. dumbbell in the same spot and the mattress sank just a quarter of an inch. If you like to sleep or sit on the side of your mattress to get dressed or nurse your baby, then you can do it comfortably on the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress.
• Delivery: thanks to their complimentary white glove delivery service, anyone who orders a Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress will get it delivered to your door, carried up your stairs, and placed on your bed. A few days after I submitted my order, I received a call to schedule my delivery. The next day, the delivery men arrived earlier than I expected. They didn't call me beforehand but they were so nice as to wait while I rushed home five minutes later. They removed my old mattress and placed the Stearns & Foster Estate Collection Mattress on my bed. It was a quick and seamless process that took about 10 minutes.

How does the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress rate online?

The Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress boasts a 4.5 average star rating from 784 verified reviews. You can filter for reviews by star rating or keyword and click between the Estate Collection and the Lux Estate Collection. You can even break down the ratings by firmness level and whether or not the mattress ordered had a pillow top. I find this ability to do a deep and precise search through the reviews very impressive.

Customers rave about the comfort and support of the mattress and share how it has helped them with pressure relief from aches and pains. Many noted that, while the mattress is expensive, it is well worth the investment. There were quite a few that mentioned that this particular mattress was their second or third from Stearns & Foster.

There were some who were not fans of the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress, noting that it felt too firm or failed to regulate their temperature. A handful had received faulty mattresses that they had to return − unfortunately, this can happen with any mattress brand, so it's not a reflection on Stearns & Foster.

Should I buy the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress?

From the moment the delivery specialists arrived with my Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress, I knew that it was a well-built bed. My favorite aspect of this mattress has to be the comfort. Not only was it plush but it was incredibly supportive, helping to keep my spine aligned at night and supporting me when I slept on my back or stomach.

This mattress has the best edge support I've seen, and I've tested more than 30 mattresses in my career. Tack on the motion isolation capabilities, and I think most customers will be satisfied with their purchase.

It’s unfortunate that I got warm while testing this mattress. With all of the airflow and breathability features, I’d expect it to have done a better job with temperature regulation. If you’re going to invest in an upscale mattress such as this, you’d expect it to exceed in all areas (to be fair – in my mattress reviewing time, I’ve noted that many luxury mattresses have their drawbacks).

When I read the reviews and see how many people love this mattress, I’m inclined to say that you might want to try it out regardless. It is truly a comfortable mattress and well-suited to couples and back and stomach sleepers. Plus, you get 90 days to test it out and can return or exchange it if need be (unfortunately, there is a $175 shipping fee plus tax to do so).

How we test mattresses

I'm part of the H&G mattress testing team, which includes dozens of seasoned product testers across America. Together, we represent a wide range of body types, sleep styles, and ages. Comb through our back catalog of reviews and you should be able to find someone who sleeps like you. We test each mattress for a minimum of 30 nights in our own homes to give 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 down on the mattress and switch between our backs, our stomachs, and our sides, considering how comfortable we feel in each position. To assess thermoregulation, we sleep through heatwaves and cold snaps, making note of any nights where we wake up in a sweat. Where possible, we assign hot sleepers to test specialist cooling mattresses.

To assess motion isolation, we fill a glass with water and set it in the center of the mattress. Then, we use a weight to apply pressure around it, moving 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 and light sleepers. To assess edge support, we sit on the side of the mattress and measure how far we fall. The further we fall, the worse the edge support, and the harder it is to get into and out of bed.

We like to compare our findings against verified customer reviews to pick out common concerns. We also consider all the practical parts of buying a mattress, from details of delivery to the length of the mattress sleep trial, before bringing it all back to the price to determine value for money. To learn more about how we test mattresses, consult our expert guide.

At the start of the summer, I got an email from Saatva's product marketing team, announcing the launch of a brand-new bed. The Saatva Contour5 Mattress is intended as an improvement upon their Loom & Leaf, another gel-infused memory foam mattress with plenty of contouring comfort. Since the Loom & Leaf gets such a good write-up, with a 4.9 average star rating, I was keen to put the Saatva Contour5 Mattress to the test.

The selling point of the Saatva Contour5 Mattress is the support you get from the high-density memory foam. I've spent the summer testing, so I can confirm that support reaches right around the edges of the mattress. A breathable cotton cover helps to keep you cool and dry, while airflow channels do the hard work to carry hot air away from your body and out of the mattress.

As an H&G mattress expert, I'm part of the search to find the world's best mattress. I've tested six mattresses for H&G, from high-tech hybrids to memory foam models, for comfort, support, cooling, and motion isolation. So far, the Saatva Contour5 is my favorite. I'd recommend this mattress for couples, hot sleepers, and anyone in need of pressure relief. Yes, it's expensive, but you might be able to get it for less when you shop the Saatva mattress deals.

Saatva Contour5 Mattress review

I opted for white glove delivery, which comes free with every Saatva mattress order, and meant that there was very little work for me to do on the delivery day. Unlike a lot of major mattress, Saatva offers to remove your old mattress and your old base, which is a welcome relief for anyone worried about lugging theirs away for donation, disposal, or recycling. If you've purchased a base with your mattress, then Saatva will set it up for you. It's a very hands-off process and the delivery team were in and out of the house within a few hours.

Saatva Contour5 Mattress Specifications

Who would the Saatva Contour5 Mattress suit?

• All sleep positions: that's the great thing about a mattress with multiple comfort levels: Medium and Firm. As a stomach sleeper in search of a mattress with a little bit of give but sufficient support to keep my spine in line, I knew that Firm would be the best mattress firmness for me. If you sleep on your side, and you prefer a mattress with plenty of give to cushion your joints, then I suggest you plump for the Medium firmness.
• Restless sleepers: the Saatva Contour5 Mattress boasts excellent motion isolation. I'd recommend it for light sleepers and anyone who shares a bed with a pet or partner.
• Hot sleepers: for a memory foam mattress, the Saatva Contour5 Mattress sleeps pretty cool. I started testing during a hot Cincinnati summer, and I was a little worried I'd wake up each night in a hot sweat, but the cooling gel and the airflow channels managed to keep me cool and dry.
• Sensitive sleepers and people with kids: the Saatva Contour5 Mattress is wrapped in an organic cotton cover and coated with a botanical antimicrobial treatment to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. As a parent to lots of little kids who often make their way into bed, I felt reassured that they were sleeping on a safe mattress.

What's it like to sleep on the Saatva Contour5 Mattress?

• Comfort: sleeping on the Saatva Contour5 Mattress is a three-part experience – an initial settling in, where your body sinks into a plush and ultra-comfortable top layer to the mattress. Then, just as you're wondering whether the mattress is too soft, you meet the supportive and structured layer beneath that. The third stage, upon waking, is a general feeling of relief in your body, and a well rested mind, thanks to the mattress design and quality.
• Support: when I woke up after my first night of sleeping on the Saatva Contour5 Mattress, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my typically achy back and joints were a little less agitated. I put that down to the firm support of the mattress − there's just enough give to cushion your joints without throwing your spine out of alignment.
• Cooling: as a stomach sleeper who gets the night sweats, especially over the summer, I need a cooling mattress more than most. I'd read about the airflow channels through the middle of the mattress, and snapped a picture for posterity, but I wanted to be convinced that it was more than marketing jargon. After a whole summer testing, I'd put the Saatva Contour5 up there with the best cooling mattresses, which is quite the feat for a memory foam model. Still, memory foam will never feel as breathable as a hybrid mattress, lined with springs to enhance the airflow. For the best cooling mattress on the market, I suggest the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt.

• Motion isolation: like all the best memory foam mattresses, the Saatva Contour5 boasts excellent motion isolation. If your partner tends to toss and turn in the night, then a memory foam mattress is a great option to prevent a sleep divorce – all that slow-moving foam is made to absorb motion. To assess the motion isolation of the mattress, I filled a cup with water and set it in the center of the bed. Then, I applied pressure around the cup, with the idea that the more the cup moved, and the more water spilled, the worse the motion isolation. No water spilled onto the Saatva Contour5 Mattress, even with significant agitation around the cup. I realized a few weeks into testing that I no longer woke up when my partner rolled around or got out of bed at an unsociably early hour.
• Edge support: Some nights, one or two of my kids end up in my bed with a bad dream, and I have to make the most of every inch, so I appreciate edge support more than most. This is where the Saatva Contour5 Mattress really surprised me. Memory foam mattresses are infamous for their lack of edge support − all too often, the soft squishiness of the center extends to the sides of the mattress, making it much harder to get into and out of bed, especially if you struggle with mobility. Sometimes, I can't even sit on the side of the mattress to tie my sneakers. I found that the Saatva Contour5 Mattress has exceptional edge support, so I could sit comfortably without the sides of the mattress caving in.
• Sleep trial: like any Saatva mattress, the Saatva Contour5 comes with a 365-night mattress sleep trial. You get an entire year to test your mattress through all four seasons before it's time to commit to your purchase. That's why Saatva is one of the best places to buy a mattress. Just bear in mind that, if you do decide to trade in your Saatva mattress, you'll need to pay a $99 return fee.
• Warranty: the Saatva Contour5 comes with a lifetime mattress warranty that covers all the usual defects in workmanship and materials under normal residential use. Good news: your warranty will remain valid if you use your Saatva Contour5 Mattress on an adjustable bed base.

How does the Saatva Contour5 Mattress rate online?

The Saatva Contour5 Mattress is still very new to the market, and we're yet to see many verified customer reviews on the Saatva site. So far, there's just the one review, which gives the full five stars. 'I just received my mattress two days ago,' the customer gushes, 'and I can already tell the difference in my back after years of sleeping on terrible cheap mattresses. My chronic pain has gone from a daily 9 or 10 to about a 4 or 5, and I'm so excited to see how it gets even better.'

Of course, this is only one customer's experience, just a few days into their sleep trial, but it's clear that the Saatva Contour5 has made quite an impression.

Should I buy the Saatva Contour5 Mattress?

I couldn't review the Saatva Contour5 Mattress without mentioning the price. Retailing at $2,995 for a Queen, this is the most expensive memory foam mattress I've ever seen, though you could always save a few hundred dollars in the mattress sales.

Then again, you get what you pay for: the Saatva Contour5 Mattress far outpaces other memory foam models we've tested, especially when it comes to cooling and edge support. As a hot sleeper who shares a bed with my husband and often one, two, or all five of my young children, I'd say that the Saatva Contour5 Mattress is worth saving for.

How we test mattresses

When I call in a mattress for testing, I consider our panel of expert reviewers and hand-pick the tester who best matches the mattress. Since Alex is a hot sleeper who shares a bed with her husband (and often their young children), I knew she'd appreciate the cooling properties and the motion isolation of the Saatva Contour5 Mattress.

In the interests of a fair comparison, we assess each mattress against the same criteria: comfort; support; breathability; motion isolation; and edge support. Some of our tests are more subjective than others. The best way to assess the comfort of a mattress is to sleep on it and see how you feel, though we'll always consider the make-up of materials. Other tests are more scientific: you can learn more in our guide to how we test mattresses.

We also consider all the practical aspects of buying a mattress, from the length of the mattress sleep trial to the extent of the mattress warranty. Where possible, we compare our findings against verified customer reviews to give you the fullest possible perspective of what it might be like to sleep on this mattress. Finally, we bring it back to the price of the mattress to help you determine value for money.

Knowing what are facts and what are mattress myths could make a big difference to your quality of sleep. When it comes to choosing the best mattress for your sleeping requirements, you don’t want to end up with the wrong bed due to some outdated myths.

Mattresses have moved on from the ‘one size fits all’ innersprings of our childhoods (although there are still some wonderful and luxurious innerspring mattresses on the market). Nowadays you can also choose from a variety of memory foam and hybrid mattresses, many of which arrived boxed, and still be assured of the same high quality you get in a traditional mattress.

5 mattress myths debunked

We’re looking at some of the most common mattress myths here, which range from those surrounding the mattress you should be buying to how you should care and look after your mattress from day to day. When it comes to choosing a mattress you want to be sure you’ve picked the right choice for you – good sleep underpins our health and wellbeing and you want to give your body the best chance of getting it.

Here are the six mattress myths you should be aware of, along with our experts’ comments setting the record straight.

1. A mattress should be a perfect fit from day one

Sometimes you can feel immediately at home on a brand new mattress. But more often than not, it takes time for your body to adjust. Dr Mark Aloia is the Head of Sleep and Behavioural Sciences, SleepIQ Health at Sleep Number, a company specializing in smart beds which adapt to an individual’s sleep. He explains more about getting used to a new mattress.

'Even our smart beds need time to ‘learn’ and adapt to the sleeper for at least a month. Give it more time and the bed learns to become your perfect fit – but it doesn’t happen right away on day one. We experience a lot of changes throughout our lives and as we get older, which means that the way in which we sleep might also change as we change. For example, you could start off sleeping on your stomach but switch to being a side sleeper later on in life. Or if you or your partner are pregnant, it’s likely that you’ll change your sleeping positions over the course of those nine months. And if you go from sleeping alone to sleeping with a partner (or even your kids here and there), it might take time for you to find a position that’s comfortable for you and get used to a bed that’s a little more crowded than usual.'

Russell Jelinek, Vice President of Product Development at Casper, points out that most mattresses take time to ‘break in’, 'Your mattress will get better over time. It's typical for mattresses to have a break-in period of 30–90 days as your body adjusts to the new support. That's why at Casper, we give you a generous 100-day trial period with a hassle-free return process, ensuring you have ample time to experience the comfort and support our mattresses offer.' If you're keen to speed up the process, then it's worth learning how to break in a mattress at home.

2. A high quality mattress should last forever

It’s increasingly common to find mattresses with lifetime warranties, but the truth is that no mattress will last forever. A long mattress warranty will certainly provide piece of mind however different types of mattresses will have fairly fixed lifespans. Knowing how long a mattress should last will help you know when to replace it. As a rough guide, innerspring mattresses will last between five and seven years, with memory foam and hybrid mattresses giving you up to a decade of use. Latex mattresses are the most durable, with some lasting up to 20 years.

3. A firm mattress is best for back pain

For years, accepted wisdom was that a firm mattress was the only solution for back pain. But in fact the best mattresses for back pain depend on your sleeping style. Lightweight and side sleepers will need more cushioning across pressure points such as the shoulders, hips and knees than a firm mattress can provide. However, heavier and stomach sleepers, along with those suffering from lower back or neck pain could benefit from one of the best firm mattresses on the market. 

Dr Aloia expounds further, 'The idea that a hard mattress is good for back pain is a concept that has been reinforced over time by medical advice and cultural practices. Sometimes, a firmer bed can help with spinal alignment, but spinal alignment is not the only factor that can lead to back pain. Also, each person’s definition of ‘firm’ can be different. While having both spinal alignment and comfort is the best option, having a firmer bed may not be the best option in some cases.'

'For example, if you are recovering from muscle soreness or overuse, and if there is a specific area of tenderness, you might want to try a softer bed instead of a firm one as they help with pressure relief. This is another reason why adjustable smart beds are great options – they allow you to customize settings to your liking. The key is to determine which bed is best suited for you and your bed partner if you have one. If in doubt, consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations.'

4. You need to flip your mattress every few months to keep it in top condition

Back when every mattress was an innerspring, mattresses could be flipped to help extend their lifespan. 'Flipping mattresses to keep them in ideal condition is actually a thing of the past but rotating them around still makes sense,' says Russell Jelinek.

'Unless the manufacturer specifies against it, it’s likely safe to rotate your mattress. By rotating your mattress, you can avoid signs of wear and extend its longevity. This includes preventing lumps and bumps, stopping sagging, and minimizing dust build-up, all of which contribute to a healthier and more comfortable sleep environment.'

You should always check the instructions for your own particular mattress, but our guide on how often you should rotate a mattress will help get you started. 

5. The more you pay for a mattress, the better it is

Although there are many luxury mattresses on the market worth paying for (such as our number one mattress choice, the Saatva Classic), the cheaper costs associated with making mattresses in a box mean that there are plenty of cheaper choices that will still provide you with an exceptional night’s sleep. For example, the Emma Original mattress is often on offer with up to 50% off, but will still provide you with a soft and supportive night’s sleep.

With the explosion of new mattresses onto the bed market in the last decade, sleepers now have a far wider choice to choose from. And with this choice come updated facts and outdated myths. This guide should help you avoid any pitfalls and help you to pick your dream mattress when the time comes to replace your existing bed. 

Making a home more accessible can be a beneficial choice for any household. From small changes to ideas that may require remodeling, an environment that is practical and comfortable for all can future-proof your home and possibly even increase its market value.

Accessible upgrades matched with universal design principles will not only make your home more user-friendly for all ages and capabilities but also give family members with specific physical and cognitive challenges more independence and peace of mind. 

So, whether you want to make a kitchen more accessible or are planning a multi-generational bathroom, implement these ideas to significantly improve the accessibility of your home, making it more inclusive and restful for all.

How to make a home more accessible

The key is planning – consider where accessibility challenges may lie and which changes can make your home easier to use.

Consider consulting with accessibility experts or occupational therapists who can provide personalized recommendations based on your family's specific needs.

1. Integrate smart home technology

One key approach to enhancing home accessibility is integrating some smart home must-haves. 'Smart devices, such as voice-activated controls and automated systems, can significantly reduce the physical demands on individuals with mobility challenges,' explains Alex Webster, Founder of Noobs Tech. 

'For example, being able to control lighting, temperature, and security systems with simple voice commands or via a smartphone app can make a world of difference.'

And that's not all smart tech can be used for. There is a range of products online that can be integrated with your smart home system to make life easier, especially for those with visual impairments and mobility and cognitive challenges. 

• Voice assistants can be used to improve your home – our favorite voice assistants are below – and they can enhance accessibility by switching on automated vacuum cleaners, checking the refrigerator's contents, locking/unlocking doors, and opening drapes. We love this SwitchBot automatic curtain opener from Amazon, which can be used with an app or smart assistant to make a bedroom more accessible.
• Smart assistants can reduce cognitive load by helping individuals set up and manage daily routines, reminders, and tasks. For instance, they can be used to remind individuals with memory issues to take medications and provide instructions. 

These devices can make daily routines simpler and safer, allowing individuals more independence, assisting in managing aspects of daily life, and reducing physical exertion, customizing routines.

2. Consider visual and tactile cues

For those with visual impairments, David Manson, interior designer and Founder of Knobs recommends that tactical interior design, specifically color and material choices, can make a big difference in improving accessibility in the home.

'Use visual and tactile cues such as contrasting or clashing colors, textured flooring, and Braille signage to assist individuals with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities in navigating the home safely.

'For instance, using darker colors on doorways and light-colored walls and handles can help individuals with low vision create visual definition between surfaces and edges to improve depth perception for those with low vision. This can help them distinguish between spaces or zones.

'Additionally, flooring like carpet or tiles with different textures can indicate when entering a new room or approaching stairs.'

3. Adjustable features

Consider integrating adjustable features into your home that can be tailored to an individual's accessibility and comfort needs.

'When it comes to designing an accessible home, it’s all about introducing the option of modifications and adjustments that allow us to interact with furniture that works best for every individual, regardless of your needs,' says Lucinda Newbound, Senior Ergonomic Adviser, Back in Action.

For individuals using wheelchairs, reaching high countertops and cabinets can be challenging. Consider lowering these surfaces to a more accessible height or installing pull-out shelves for easier access. This simple adjustment can greatly improve the independence and comfort of individuals with limited mobility in their daily activities. Adjustable shelves and pull-out drawers can make accessing items easier.

Additionally, consider installing adjustable countertops and sinks in kitchens and bathrooms to accommodate users of different heights or mobility levels. You can find a range of counters and sinks with buttons to adjust heights, allowing for convenient use of the space and more freedom. 

Select seating and beds with adjustable controls or heights that allow individuals to easily tailor positioning for comfort and support, and to make it easier to off and on them.

Similarly desks that can be adjusted for height at the touch of a button can make a home office that much more accessible.

'The enhanced ergonomics mean that the user can improve their home office setup for better comfort and overall wellbeing. For instance, being able to simply push a button to modify the desk is an added benefit if the user has difficulties with manual dexterity,' adds Lucinda Newbound. 'Desk chairs with fully adjustable seat depths, headrest heights and swing back armrests will mean added comfort and usability for everyone within your household.'

4. Make entryways and exits easier to use

It's important to ensure clear and wide entryways and passageways for easy movement, ensuring accessibility for everyone:

Doorways: Doorways play a significant role in facilitating easy movement throughout the house. They should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs if necessary—a minimum 32-inch clear opening can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids.

Doors: If widening is not an option, consider installing offset hinges or swing-clear hinges that provide more clearance when opening doors. Sliding doors take up less space than swinging doors and are easier to open and close, especially in tight spaces like bathrooms.

Lever handles: Replace doorknobs with lever-style handles. These are easier
to grip and open, especially for people with limited hand strength or
dexterity with traditional doorknobs.

Automatic door openers: Consider installing automatic door openers at the entrance and potentially even interior doorways for a truly hands-free experience.

Create Seamless Transitions: 'Ensure that there are no abrupt changes in flooring height, as these can pose challenges for individuals with mobility aids,' says Leslie Markman-Stern, President of Leslie M. Stern Design. 'Reduce thresholds between rooms by leveling floors, or use ramps or gently sloped transitions to create smooth pathways throughout the home.'

5. Create clear pathways

It's essential to maintain clear pathways free from debris to facilitate smooth movement and ensure adequate space for maneuvering with a wheelchair or mobility aid. 

The first step is often a decluttering process, embracing minimalism not just as a design principle but as a practical approach to enhancing mobility and accessibility within the home. By eliminating potential obstacles such as loose rugs, bulky furniture, or piles clutter, you create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Consider adopting an open layout design to facilitate mobility throughout the home. Removing unnecessary barriers and widening doorways can make it easier for individuals using mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers to navigate freely. 

Ensure sufficient turning space in rooms, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. 'Make sure you have 36 inches between pieces of furniture, hallways, and between counters for better access with a wheelchair or walker,' advises Leslie Markman-Stern, president of Leslie M. Stern Design.

Prioritizing clear pathways not only improves accessibility but also promotes independence and safety within your living space.

6. Improve lighting

Lighting also plays a crucial role, not only in making homes more functional, but also safer for individuals with diverse needs. 

Ensure that all areas of the house are well-lit to improve the ease of navigating the space and minimize the risk of trips and falls. Consider installing brighter lights or task lighting, especially in high-traffic areas such as hallways, staircases, and entrances and pathways.

Use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to ensure even illumination throughout the home. 'Change out light bulbs to LED for more daylight coloring,' recommends Leslie Markman-Stern. 'It will be easier to see colors clearly and the bulbs will last longer for better use of ease.' 

Use light colors for walls in a room for better illumination to increase natural light in your home. White is a reflective color, meaning that it reflects light back into the room rather than absorbing it, helping to reflect natural light.

Personalization is key, so allow for easy adjustment of brightness and color temperature. Overly bright and cold lighting can be uncomfortable and distressing for some, including those with sensory sensitivities. So, to design a home that is soft on the senses it's essential to provide softer options as well as high visibility options. 

As an alternative to voice and app-integrated lighting, motion-sensor lights or touch-activated lamps can be beneficial for those with limited mobility or dexterity. You can also purchase lighting timers and set lights to come on according to your routines or light levels outside. This will limit the need for movement and ensure the space is always well-lit.

7. Choose non-slip flooring

Investing in non-slip flooring materials is essential for creating a safer and more accessible home environment, especially for individuals with mobility challenges or balance issues. 

Opt for slip-resistant flooring options such as textured tiles or low-pile carpets to reduce the risk of slips and falls. This type of flooring provides more traction and stability, making it easier to navigate for individuals with limited mobility.

When it comes to increasing your home's accessibility from the outside, an accessible parking space wide and long enough for anyone with mobility problems is a must. A ramp in place of, or in addition to, steps up to the front and back doors is also important, as is leveling thresholds at doorways. Ensuring that pathways and the edges of patios, terraces, and porches are well-lit can also be helpful for anyone with visual problems.

Bedrooms are intended for comfort, but if this space is not accessible, it may be an exhausting and stressful place to navigate. So, whether you are designing a bedroom for an individual's specific needs or simply future-proofing your home, it's important to consider beautiful and functional ideas.

Accessibility and style are not mutually exclusive when designing a bedroom. Creating a more accessible space without compromising on style involves thoughtful design choices that prioritize aesthetics while accommodating the inhabitant. 

From using smart controls to installing storage ideas for increased accessibility at home, our experts have you covered with these eight ideas.

How to make a bedroom more accessible without compromising on style

By selecting accessibility upgrades for the bedroom that complement the existing decor, you create a cohesive, stylish, and inclusive space.

1. Consider bed accessibility

As the most important part of any bedroom, the choice of bed can be an instrumental factor in increasing the ease of use of your space. 

Choose a bed with a firm mattress and a height that allows for easy transfers, preferably 17-19 inches from the floor. Using a smart mattress can also be a useful addition, allowing you to change features like firmness depending on your needs. 

Consider investing in a platform bed or an adjustable bed to enhance accessibility. 'A platform bed is lower to the ground, making it easier for individuals with mobility limitations to get in and out of bed,' explains home expert and founder of HBR Colorado, Brian Rudderow. 'Adjustable beds also offer customizable height and base options, making it easier for users to find a comfortable position. 

'In addition to being more accessible, platform and adjustable beds can also add a modern and stylish touch to your bedroom.'

Finally, a stylish yet sturdy headboard can make a significant impact on both accessibility and design. Choose one with supportive features, such as padded upholstery, a grab bar, or built-in shelving to provide comfort and convenience. 

2. Integrate easy-grip hardware and smart controls

To make a bedroom more accessible, the hardware (door handles, drawer pulls, closet rods, and light switches) should be easy to operate and reach. 

Thankfully, there are many options to choose from, including: 

• Lever-style or touchless handles
• Pull-down or sliding closet rods
• Touch or motion sensors  
• Voice-activated light switches

Additionally, voice-activated smart assistants like Amazon's Alexa or Google Nest can help promote independence for individuals with mobility impairments, like spinal cord injuries or arthritis.

These smart devices can control curtains, lighting, music, alarms, or even the thermostat, all while fitting seamlessly into your chosen decor themetouch.

3. Create definition with contrasting colors

'Using contrasting or clashing colors can aid individuals with visual impairments in easily differentiating between different elements in a room to improve depth perception,' explains Robin Aebischer, interior designer and co-founder of BUYnBLUE. 'This can include using different colors for walls and furniture and door and drawer handles.'

For instance, using contrasting handles to door color to make identifying exits easier and light-colored walls with darker flooring can help individuals with low vision better navigate the space.

4. Design a convenient layout

The layout of a bedroom can greatly impact its accessibility, so it's essential always to prioritize creating a functional and easy-to-navigate layout. There are a few ways to do this:

• Ensure adequate space (32 inches minimum) for wheelchairs and assistive devices to navigate around furniture and between doorways. 
• Widen existing doorways to at least 36" if possible, to allow for better traffic flow. 
• Consider sliding or pocket doors to save space and make opening them simpler.
• Arrange existing furniture to optimize maneuverability. For example, place the bed against a wall to provide more space, and avoid placing furniture in the way of commonly used pathways. You may also wish to invest in smaller pieces where necessary.
• Arrange the bed with enough space on both sides for easy access for mobility aids.

5. Accessible storage solutions

To make your bedroom more accessible, opt for storage solutions that are easy to reach, such as under-bed rolling storage, pull-down closet rods, lazy Susan shelves, or custom-height closets to improve reachability. 

To maximize floor space for maneuverability, utilize multi-functional furniture, like a bed with built-in storage or an ottoman that doubles as storage. This makes it easier to access items and adds a touch of functionality and organization to the room.

6. Adequate lighting

Proper lighting is important in any bedroom, but it becomes even more crucial when creating an accessible space. This ensures better visibility for individuals with visual impairments and increases safety and ease of movement.

Choose bedroom lighting fixtures that provide ample illumination while being easy to reach and operate. Install multiple light sources with accessible controls in multiple locations, such as at the bedside and at the bedroom entrance.

Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a well-lit space that's easy to navigate. Dimmable task lighting should be strategically placed near key areas, such as in reading spaces, and should be combined with general ambient lighting to combat glare and discomfort. Utilize motion-sensor lights in drawers and closets for added convenience.

7. Opt for non-slip flooring

Slippery floors can be hazardous for anyone, but they can be particularly dangerous for individuals with mobility issues. To avoid trips or falls, use slip-resistant flooring in your bedroom, such as hardwood or carpet with a low pile height. 

8. Disguise grab bars

Grab bars are a must for many, whether it's to aid in getting in and out of bed, reaching up to shelves, or lowering onto chairs. However, these are often not the most attractive elements of a bedroom. 

Many manufacturers now offer products in designs and finishes that complement interior styles, ensuring that these features look intentional and integrated.

Additionally, where possible and not at an inconvenience to the user, using tactfully placed surfaces – like stylish shelving, over bed tables with handles, or bedside tables with discrete handles, such as this retractable bar from Amazon – can provide support and ensure safety without compromising the aesthetic of the room.

Make sure to choose high-quality options that can support an individual's weight and are securely installed while blending seamlessly into the bedroom's decor. 

A key element of any universally accessible bedroom is the ability to adjust certain features according to the user's needs. This can include adjustable beds, chairs, desks, and other furniture pieces. Look for items with adjustable height or position to accommodate different needs.

Monastic bed-making principles revolve around simplicity and orderliness with an emphasis on clean lines and neutral colors to create a serene bed space, aligning with the peaceful ambiance that is synonymous with monastic living, and perfect for minimalist bedrooms.

'Monastic bed-making is a practice deeply rooted in simplicity and mindfulness. This minimalist approach to bed-making is not just about aesthetics; it's a reflection of a lifestyle that values simplicity and functionality,' says Tadas Pukas, founder and CEO of Minimalistic Linen.

Adopting monastic bed-making practices involves careful choice of bedding, precise bed making and deilient upkeep to improve tranquility in your bedroom. Our experts have explained how to achieve monastic bed making to incorporate into your daily routines.

Monastic bed making

The key elements of monastic bed making include a focus on minimal bedding, simple patterns, and fewer pillows, creating a serene and uncluttered space. This bedroom design tip can help you sleep better at night.

What is monastic bed making?

'The style is characterized by neatly folded linens, often in natural, muted tones, and a lack of excessive decorative elements,' explains Tadas Pukas. 'The arrangement should be functional, avoiding unnecessary layers or embellishments.'

'By reducing clutter and focusing on the essentials, monastic bed-making can help lower stress and anxiety levels, leading to better sleep quality and overall mental health.

'The act of arranging the bed neatly each day can serve as a meditative practice, offering a moment of calm and reflection in our otherwise hectic lives. This daily ritual fosters a sense of control and accomplishment, setting a positive tone for the day.

'This minimalist approach not only creates a visually appealing space but also promotes a peaceful and restful sleeping environment.'

'As all things do, this style of bedmaking is currently making a comeback and our clients have been very open to it. There is a certainly simplicity and quiet luxury to it,' says interior designer and founder of Orlie Katsiris Staging & Interiors, Melinda Orlie-Katsiris.

'Instead of pillows covering your bedding and attracting your eye, in monastic bed making, the bedding, and more specifically the bedcover is the star of the show. 

'It can be very calming and almost meditative to make your bed this way in the morning as you run your hands across the top and over the rounded corners of the mattress form to smooth the bedcover. 

'This type of bed making also takes the focus off the bed a little bit. Instead, monastic bed making allows us to bring more attention and focus to the other elements of the bedroom including bedside tables, seating, art and lighting.'

1. Start with quality bedding

Invest in high-quality, bedding made from natural fibers, ensuring you choose materials that offer comfort and durability, enhancing the overall aesthetic and feel of the bed.

'I always advocate for organic fibers like linen or cotton in bedding,' recommends Barbara Stern, editor-in-chief at Ottoman Textiles. 'These materials are not just environmentally friendly but also offer the perfect blend of durability and breathability essential for comfortable bedding. 

'Mainly, with its unique, slightly wrinkled texture, linen brings an effortless, rustic elegance that's very much in line with the monastic style.'

You can check out our guide for the best places to buy bedding to choose the ideal, sustainable bedding.

2. Choose bedding colors

'The color palette in monastic bed-making is all about tranquility. We're looking at neutral, earthy tones that evoke calmness and peace. 

'It's fascinating how using undyed or naturally dyed fabrics can minimize our environmental footprint and enhance the authenticity of the bed's appearance,' says Barbara Stern. 

'And when it comes to design, it's about embracing minimalism. A monastic bed isn't about extravagance. Instead, opt for simple, clean lines, solid colors, or very subtle patterns that reflect a life focused more on substance than on show.'

This includes avoiding ornate designs to maintain the minimalistic approach.

3. Use layering tchniques

Monastic bed-making encourages layers for both aesthetic appeal and practical warmth.

Embrace simplicity in layering when using this bed-making technique by using a fitted sheet, a flat sheet that is neatly tucked into the mattress, and a single lightweight blanket or coverlet. Don't use excessive layers or overly heavy covers. 

'I recommend layering with lightweight, woven blankets. This traditional approach, favoring blankets over duvets, adds texture and allows for easy adjustment to temperature changes,' explains Barbara Stern.

Make sure each layer is spread evenly and follows the contours of the bed, ensuring it remains neat.

4. Straighten and smooth

Possibly the most important aspect of monastic bed-making is tucking the sheets under the mattress to ensure a smooth, wrinkle-free surface.

Tuck the excess fabric of the flat sheet tightly under the mattress, creating a sharp 45-degree angle at the corner. This not only achieves a clean, crisp look but also keeps the sheets securely in place.

After spreading the fitted sheet tightly across the mattress, ensure the top sheet is evenly placed with minimal wrinkles. Take a moment to smooth out any creases, providing a clean and crisp foundation for the layers to come.

5. Perfect pillow placement

Rather than overwhelming your bed with an array of pillows and throw pillows, style your bed with a minimal arrangement of two or four well-fluffed pillows with simple pillowcases that complement the bedding, and a few throw pillows.

Arrange your bed pillows thoughtfully for a purposeful and minimalist appearance. 

6. Mindful minimalism

Embrace minimal decor accents, if any, such as a carefully chosen throw blanket folded at the foot of the bed, a lamp, or a single piece of wall art above the headboard. 

Avoid overcrowding the bed area with unnecessary elements, such as items cluttering your bedside table and impacting your sleep. 

Monastic bed-making encourages a focus on other elements in a bedroom besides the bed, ensures the space remains coherently minimalist, and promotes a peaceful and restful sleeping environment.  

7. Adopt a daily routine

Encourage a daily habit of making the bed immediately upon waking. This discipline in bed-making can bring a sense of order and calm to your daily routine. Plus, this routine also ensures that the bed remains inviting and well-kept.

8. Regular cleaning and maintenance

A key aspect of monastic bed-making is cleanliness. Part of the regular routines adopted in monatic bed making includes routine washing of bedding, and ensuring a crisp, well-made bed. 

You should also rotate and clean your mattress regularly to uphold the cleanliness and longevity of the mattress. 

FAQs

The final step in monastic bed-making is allowing the bed to breathe by occasionally airing out the bedding. This simple step helps in maintaining freshness and cleanliness.

You would be hard pushed to find someone who has made their bed every single morning without skipping a day. However, if you have a bad habit of never making your bed, you could be missing out on some positive health benefits, experts claim.

Making a bed the right way every day is one of the easiest tasks you can add to your to-do list and has been proven to boost productivity and mental well-being, while making your bedroom look more expensive – all with just a few wafts of a bedsheet. 

Here, bedding and sleep experts explain the eight reasons to make your bed every day. 

Reasons to make your bed every day

This is what you need to know about making your bed every day that could change your opinion on this otherwise mundane chore. 

1. It can help to improve your health

There has been some debate surrounding whether making your bed each morning is hygienic. That said, making your bed every day can help to improve your health, at least Christina Heiser, senior content manager at Saatva, thinks so. 

‘Making your bed every morning can give you a lot of health benefits. Pets, for one, often use the bed as a resting place during the day. If your bed isn't made, your pet will directly transfer whatever residue is on their paws onto your sheets. The last thing you want is to roll around on dirt, grime, or litter while sleeping. A clean bed will help you maintain the cleanliness of your sheets and prevent this from happening.’

2. It can reduce stress

If you are prone to becoming stressed in an untidy house, or struggle to declutter your home when you feel overwhelmed, then making your bed can be a logical first step in finding order in your home. 

‘Making the bed is part of the many steps of my morning routine – which include meditating with my weighted hemp hull pillow, and tidying up around the bed,’ says Toni Wang, founder, and CEO of Solera Sleep. ‘This helps me stay relaxed before work, plus, it’s always the best feeling to crawl back into a perfectly made bed after a long and busy day!’

‘Clutter and chaos in your living space can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Making your bed can help reduce visual clutter and create a more calming environment,’ continues Sally Evans, marketing manager at Vantona. 

3. It improves the aesthetic

When trying to make a bedroom look pretty, making the bed is the easiest and most logical first step. ‘After a long day, nothing beats sinking into warm, cozy sheets. A tidy and organized bed not only looks good, but it can also create a more inviting sleeping environment, which can promote a better night's sleep,’ says Rhiannon Johns, interior designer and Head of Brand at Piglet in Bed. 

‘At Piglet in Bed, we believe in investing in low-maintenance homewares that give you more time to spend on the moments that matter, so if you're not someone who enjoys having a pristine-looking bed then you can embrace the fact that linen is naturally crinkled anyway, creating an effortlessly stylish look.’

Having a nice-looking bedroom is important for more things than just visual aesthetics, continues Christina Heiser of Saatva. ‘Much like the feeling you get when walking into a pristine hotel room, you might also feel an overwhelming sense of comfort in your tidy space (and bed) – especially when you're coming home for the evening.’

4. It sets a tidy tone for the rest of your home

Making a bed every morning when you get up can help you set a precedent for keeping the rest of your home tidy, too. 

Consider the ‘one touch’ tidying rule when making your bed. Leaving it a mess and coming back to it later takes more effort than making it when you first arise. 'If you hate making your bed but still want to do the mental routine every morning, keep it simple. 

Opt for a coverless duvet or anti-crease linens, paired with a single good quality pillow that supports your head and spine,’ suggests Danielle Mason, head of product development at The Fine Bedding Company. ‘This will take no time to make the bed, but still ensures a comfortable sleeping environment and a morning routine.'

Your bed is the perfect place to start implementing the one-touch rule before transitioning it to other aspects of your daily routine, like putting the mail away when you first pick it up or hanging your jackets up as soon as you take them off. 

5. It can boost mood and productivity

‘Making your bed every morning can improve your mental health. Simple activities such as bed-making bubble up into your ability to take on larger tasks and give you a sense of accomplishment,’ reveals Christina Heiser of Saatva. 

Even simply putting your bed together as opposed to styling a bed like a in hotel can have a profound impact on your mood,’ she says. ‘What’s more, if you have a miserable day, you come home to a bed that you made and set yourself up for great sleep and a new (hopefully) better day.’

'Making your bed may appear to be a tedious task that is frequently overlooked on your to-do list, but prioritizing this step at the start of your morning routine can create a sense of discipline and help set the tone for a productive day,’ adds Rhiannon Johns of Piglet in Bed. 

'And who said bedmaking can't be fun? Choose a song from your favorite feel-good playlist, boost your physical energy, and watch time fly by as you get chores done in no time!’ she recommends. 

6. It can help you to wake up

If you have the best mattress, then the chances are getting up in the morning is hard work. One of the best reasons to make your bed is that it can help you to start your day and sever ties with your cloud-like comfort, even if just for a few hours. 

‘Get up out of bed every day, get out of your pajamas, and make your bed. It’s a mindset,’ says Lauri Leadley, founder, and clinical sleep educator at Valley Sleep Center. ‘Making your bed each morning allows a sense of accomplishment and signals that it is time to get on with the rest of your day.’

‘There are many worthwhile reasons to make your bed in the morning. The making of your bed could prevent you from getting into bed before bedtime or from using it as a lounge instead of its intended purpose: sleep,’ continues Rayni Collins, online sleep therapist, and movement therapist at E-MOTIVE Counseling. ‘Treating your bed as a sacred space for sleep by making it to your liking can support a healthy, relaxed mindset.’

7. It can help you sleep

Aside from helping you to get up and get going in the morning, returning to a properly made bed can make sleeping easier and more relaxing, explains Greg Potter PhD, on behalf of The Fine Bedding Company. 'Your bedroom setup strongly affects the quality of your sleep, so making small changes to your sleep environment and your schedule, such as making the bed, will add up to meaningful improvements in your sleep and health,’ he reveals. 

‘Your sleep health is made up of several components including sleep timing and regularity, so if you build making the bed into your morning routine, this will help you work to an everyday schedule which is proven to help with productivity and a greater sense of well-being.'

‘According to a poll from the National Sleep Foundation, people who make their beds in the morning are 19% more likely to get a good night's sleep every evening,’ continues Christina Heiser, Senior Content Manager at Saatva. ‘Not surprisingly, 66% of people believe that a clean bedroom makes a difference in their sleep quality. This also has added benefits for people with sleep issues. 

'Establishing night time rituals can help their minds recognize when it's time to go to bed. One component of those night time rituals could be turning down the bed. Turning back the covers and rearranging the pillows can signify to your body that it's time to rest.’ 

8. It helps to protect your mattress from dust

Even the best mattress protector needs protecting with sheets to help prevent dust settling, says Danielle Mason of The Fine Bedding Company. 'If you suffer from allergies, shaking your duvet and pillows when laying the bed is a good way to allow your bedding to breathe and remove any dust mites or dust that may have settled during the night,’ she explains. ‘In addition, fluffing your duvet and pillows will also help them keep their shape, meaning they will last longer.’ 

FAQs

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.

There's a lot of competition in the direct-to-consumer mattress market, but Saatva have carved out their own space. Where other manufacturers pick a lane and stick to it, Saatva have managed to combine luxury bedding, eco-friendly practices, and great value. All of these qualities are in its flagship mattress, the Saatva Classic.

I've spent more than four years sleeping with my Luxury Firm Saatva Classic. Long story short, it's an incredibly luxurious mattress. I can't wait to climb into this bed at the end of the day, and I expect this hand-made mattress to hold up for many years to come.

The Saatva Classic should work for most sleepers, as it's available in three comfort levels: Soft Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. It's designed to cater to front, back, and side sleepers, and it's also available in two depths for custom comfort.

My experience with Saatva put it right at the very top of our ranking of the best mattresses. Here's why I was so impressed. Remember, you might be able to get it for less when you shop the best Saatva mattress deals.

Saatva Classic Mattress Specifications

Who will the Saatva Classic mattress suit?

• Everyone: that's the whole point. The Saatva Classic Mattress comes in Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm to suit every style of sleeper. If you sleep on your side and suffer from aches and pains, I might recommend the Plush Soft to relieve pressure: otherwise, it's Luxury Firm, all the way.
• Couples with different sleep styles: you might prefer a softer surface, while your partner appreciates a firmer mattress. You should both sleep comfortably on the Luxury Firm Saatva Classic.
• Hot sleepers: that's one of the best bits about an innerspring mattress. All those stainless steel coils boost breathability as they compress and depress, while the organic cotton cover is naturally cooling.
• Sensitive sleepers: Saatva forgo harsh chemicals in favor of a natural, plant-based flame retardant to protect your mattress.

• Eco-conscious shoppers: the Saatva Classic is made to order in the USA and rarely travels more than 100 miles from a factory to your home in a bid to reduce carbon emissions. Inside the mattress, you'll find organic cotton and recycled steel. However, there's also a fair amount of high-density memory foam, which precludes the Saatva Classic from inclusion in our best organic mattress buying guide. If you're shopping for an organic mattress, you should consider the Saatva Zenhaven Natural Latex Mattress or the Saatva Latex Hybrid, instead.
• Those who like to try before they buy: Saatva offers a 365-night mattress sleep trial. That means you can test your mattress through all four seasons, in heat waves and cold snaps, and monitor its performance over time before you commit to the purchase. If you don't get on with the Saatva Classic Mattress, you can return it for $99 and Saatva will ensure responsible reuse or disposal.
• Those who like to protect their purchase: Saatva offers a lifetime warranty on the Saatva Classic Mattress, which covers body impressions over an inch. If the mattress is deemed defective within the first two years of ownership, Saatva will replace it free of charge. From year three onwards, Saatva will repair and recover your mattress for free, but you'll have to pay the transportation costs of $149 each way. To sweeten the deal, Saatva offer the option to buy a brand new mattress at a fraction of the price you first paid, from 40% to 80% off.

What is the Saatva Classic Mattress like to sleep on?

Comfort

The Luxury Firm is designed to suit every sleeper, just like a luxury hotel bed would. It's a true medium that gives you a touch of softness without that sinking feeling. The built-in Euro-top adds immediate cushion and plushness for a luxury feel that has me quickly drifting off to sleep.

I typically fall asleep and wake up on my back, but I'll also spend time on my side and occasionally in some contorted 90-degree angle front position. I slept most comfortably on my back and side, though a strict stomach sleeper will likely prefer something firmer, such as the Naturepedic Chorus Mattress. If you want something super soft, try a memory foam model, such as the SweetNight Prime Mattress.

Pressure relief

My expectations were high that this mattress would go easy on my pressure points. Coming from an innerspring that was well past its prime, it took a while for my body to acclimate to the Saatva Classic Mattress. I woke up the first few weeks with neck pain, as my body was effectively relearning what it meant to be in alignment. The pain soon abated, though, and now, I wouldn't want to sleep on anything other than the Saatva Classic.

Breathability

An innerspring design, such as the Saatva Classic, tends to sleep cooler than a memory foam mattress. That's because air can flow through the mattress coils more freely than through foam. I tested the Saatva Classic Mattress in the middle of an Atlanta heatwave, and I can't say I ever felt overheated, though the mattress gets a little warm right under my lower back. Seriously hot sleepers should consider one of the best cooling mattresses, instead: I recommend the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress for active cooling.

Motion transfer

Here's one of my very few, very small criticisms of this bed. With any innerspring, some motion transfer is inevitable. It's hugely softened by the pillow-top, but you might notice your partner shifting around or getting in and out of bed. I wouldn't exactly call it disruptive, but there's definitely some motion transfer. A fully foam mattress, such as the Emma Original, would absorb more movement and offer superior motion isolation.

Edge support

The edge support on this bed is really remarkable. It does not sink or dip like other mattresses I've tried. That's because there are high-density foam rails around the perimeter of the bed, so you never feel like you can fall out of bed. This makes it easy to get in and out, and even just sitting on the edge of the bed to put your socks on is surprisingly comfortable.

Design and construction

The Saatva Classic Mattress is available in two depths, 11.5" and 14". Which one you choose comes down to personal preference: there's no noticeable difference in feel, quality, or price. It's worth noting that the 14" mattress features built-in side handles, which make it easier to move the mattress, though you might need a deeper-pocket fitted sheet from our best bed sheets buying guide.

The built-in 3" Euro pillow top uses pressure-relieving foam for extra comfort and is covered with a breathable GOTS-certified organic cotton outer cover that is coated with a botanical antimicrobial treatment to fend off odors. Below the Euro top, a layer of durable, slow-response memory foam contours and offers support to the hips and spine.

The dual-coil design uses an upper 14.5-gauge recycled steel system to respond and contour to your body's movements and minimize motion transfer. A memory foam layer with Saatva's Spinal Zone technology for enhanced back support and maximum pressure relief lies in between. In the center third of the mattress where the core of our bodies lay, active wire and a 1/2-inch layer of memory foam create lumbar support. Finally, the second layer of coils and base of the mattress uses individually wrapped tempered steel support coils for maximum durability.

Unboxing the Saatva Classic Mattress

The online ordering system for the Saatva Classic is pretty standard, and if you have any questions about which options to choose, you can choose from a live chat or phone support to answer any questions. At checkout, you'll also be presented with the option to add on pillows, a foundation, and a mattress pad.

Each mattress is made-to-order, taking an average of 9-21 days from creation to delivery. Mine took eight. Saatva utilizes a network of 19 factories across the country and 150 delivery partners for its White Glove Delivery to reduce carbon emissions and overproduction. This strategy enables Saatva to be within 60 miles of 85% of households in the continental U.S. For instance, my mattress was made in Rome, Georgia, about 70 miles shy of its final destination: Atlanta.

Once the mattress was ready, I was called to schedule a delivery date for free White Glove Delivery. The process was swift and I didn't have to lift a finger. They clean up all the packaging and will even remove your old mattress for free, if you tick that option at checkout. As the mattress arrives in its fully expanded condition, there were also no off-gassing odors to even think about. It was one of my easiest delivery mattress experiences to date.

The Saatva Classic Mattress will work with most bed types. If you're using a traditional metal frame, Saatva suggests adding on their wood-slatted foundation, as box springs are not recommended, which is the option I chose. The mattress is also ideal for platform beds as long as the horizontal slats are spaced less than 4 inches apart and adjustable bases. Queen and larger sizes also need proper center support, otherwise, the warranty could be voided.

How does the Saatva Classic rate online?

The Saatva Classic mattress pulls in a near perfect 4.8 out of 5 stars across more than 3,000 reviews on the Saatva site. The top reviews praise the quality materials for the value, customer service interactions, and of course, better sleep and chronic pain relief. The most critical complaints are that the soft is not soft enough while the firm was too firm. These sorts of comments are totally subjective, and you won't know where you stand until you try it.

While the Saatva Classic is exclusively available through Saatva, the company holds a 4.5-star rating for its excellent customer service and product quality on Trust Pilot, Saatva also holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, so you know you're in good hands.

Is the Saatva Classic mattress worth it?

The Saatva Classic Mattress retails for around $2,000 for a Queen, though it's regularly discounted as part of the mattress sales. When you consider that you get a mattress made to order from premium materials, with the perks of free white glove delivery and an extended sleep trial, it's clear that the Saatva Classic Mattress offers incredible value for money. I'd recommend it for front, back, and side sleepers, who run hot or cold, and anyone who wants to try the best mattress money can buy.

How we test the Saatva Classic Mattress

We put a lot of thought into how we test mattresses. It's more than a matter of sleeping on the job. Our expert testers sleep on mattresses for months, if not years, to assess their thermoregulation throughout the seasons and monitor their performance over time.

Some of our tests are simpler than others. To describe the comfort levels of a mattress, we just lie down, settle in, and see how we feel. To evaluate the edge support, we sit on the side of the bed and see how far we sink. The further we fall, the poorer the edge support. To measure the weight-bearing capacity of a mattress, we take an ordinary dumbbell, the sort you'd find in any home gym, and place it in the center of the mattress. We measure how far the weight sinks into the mattress, and how quickly the surface springs back into shape once the weight is removed.

Other tests are slightly stranger. To assess the motion isolation of a mattress, we fill a glass with water, place it on one side of the bed, then toss and turn across the mattress. The more water spills, the worse the motion isolation.

We also consider more practical matters, such as the online order and delivery system, as well as any mattress sleep trials and warranties. We consider all this against the cost of the mattress to help you work out whether it's the right fit for you.

The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress couldn't have arrived at a better time. I'd just spent a few months testing an overly firm, inflexible mattress that wasn't doing my back ache any favors. I need something soft, yet supportive, to relieve pressure from my joints and realign my spine. The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress did just that.

Beds go through a lot in my house. I have four sons under the age of seven, whose favorite pastime is jumping on the bed and trying to swing from the bedroom fan. I have a 60-pound Aussie Doodle, who likes to make herself comfortable on our bed during the day and overnight. I have a husband with a wildly different sleep style to mine, but the very same back ache. I'm looking for a bed that's durable, responsive, and supple. In the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress, I think I've finally found it.

As an H&G sleep expert, I'm leading the charge to find the world's best mattress. The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress is in my personal top 3. It's unmatched for eco-conscious comfort and natural breathability, though the edge support leaves a little to be desired. Sure, it's on the more expensive side, but you could get it for less when you shop the best Saatva mattress deals.

Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress review

For the sake of a fair fight, I test each mattress against the same criteria: comfort; support; cooling properties; motion isolation; edge support; and weight bearing capacity. I'd expect a latex hybrid mattress to score highly for support, breathability, and motion isolation, though it might feel a little too firm for some sleepers. If you're looking for something softer, you might want to redirect your search to the best memory foam mattress.

Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress Specifications

Who would the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress suit?

• All sleep positions: that's the best bit about a hybrid mattress. This bed is soft enough to cushion your joints but not so soft that your body starts to sink and your back begins to arch. The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress is springy and responsive, designed to bear your weight then snap back into shape.
• Hot sleepers: latex is highly breathable, made to dissipate heat and wick moisture. As someone who sleeps almost face-down right on top of the bed, I can testify to the cooling properties of the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress.
• Eco-conscious shoppers: the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress is made from natural and recycled materials, including organic cotton, natural latex, recycled steel coils, and a natural flame retardant made from organic wool. The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress is made to order in the USA and rarely travels more than 100 miles from the factory to your home, in order to reduce carbon emissions. That's why the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress is one of the best organic mattresses on the market.

What's it like to sleep on the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress?

• Comfort and support: as a stomach sleeper who suffers from chronic back pain, I often find it really hard to get comfortable in bed. Until I tried the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress, I hadn't realized how much my old, firm and inflexible mattress had exacerbated my pain. I needed something softer, but still supportive, to maintain the natural alignment of my spine, and the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress fit the bill. My husband is a back sleeper and he also found the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress felt far more comfortable and supportive than our old bed.
• Breathability: the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress features an 'open-cell structure', which just means that the foam has plenty of air pockets to boost breathability throughout the bed. I tend to sleep with my face directly down on the mattress, so I appreciate cooling properties more than most. I'd say that the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress is one of the best cooling mattresses on the market.
• Weight test: standing six and a half feet tall and weighing in at 240 muscular pounds, my husband is the ultimate weight test for any mattress. He used to create a dip in our old bed, which I would end up sliding into in the middle of the night. Luckily, this wasn't an issue with the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress. This bed can support weight on one side without transferring it to the other, helping us both to sleep more soundly.

• Motion isolation: to test the motion transfer through the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress, I filled a cup with water and set it in the center of the bed. Then, I let all four of my toddlers jump around the open cup on the bed. In spite of their shenanigans, no water spilled over the sides of the glass, which barely ever tottered. This proves that the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress has excellent motion isolation, which is good news for light sleepers and anyone who shares a bed with a pet or partner.
• Edge support: this is one of the only major flaws with the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress. Although it felt comfortable to lie on the side of the bed, the mattress edge could not hold my weight when I sat on it and concentrated my weight in a smaller surface area. I couldn't even sit on the bed to put my sneakers on. If you know you need a bed with solid edge support, I suggest you shop the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Mattress, instead.
• Practical points: the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress comes with a 365-night mattress sleep trial, so that you can test your bed for a whole year before you commit to your purchase. Saatva also offer a lifetime mattress warranty and a white-glove delivery service: score.

How does the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress rate online?

The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress boasts a 4.8 average star rating from 232 reviews on the Saatva site. The vast majority of reviews mention the excellent customer service, as well as the medium-firm feel of the mattress. One recent reviewer enthuses: 'We would give this mattress 10 stars if we could'. There are a smattering of more mixed reviews, most of which complain that the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress feels too firm. I can only speak to my experience and say that the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress felt just right for a stomach sleeper with chronic back pain.

Should I buy the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress?

I now spend time at dinner parties telling all my friends they need this mattress: seriously. Some of my hosts balk at the price of the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress, which goes for around $2,400 for a Queen. Still, they could always save a few hundred dollars in the mattress sales, and I'm confident that they will go through two lower-quality mattresses before I have to replace this one.

The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress offers excellent pressure relief and my back has thanked me since the switch. Even without solid edge support, it's still one of the best beds I've ever tested.

How we test mattresses

We put a lot of thought into how we test mattresses. Our expert testers sleep on beds for months at a time, ideally through several seasons, to monitor their performance throughout the year. We assess each bed against the same criteria: comfort; support; cooling properties; motion isolation; edge support; and weight bearing capacity.

We conduct all of our mattress tests from the comfort of our own homes. Some of our tests are highly subjective: to assess comfort or support, for example, we simply sleep on the bed and see how we feel. To test motion isolation or weight bearing capacity, though, we get a little more scientific. We use a system of weights and water glasses to measure how the mattress absorbs movement, how well it bears weight, and how quickly it springs back into shape once that weight is removed.

We like to compare our findings against verified customer reviews to reveal a range of experiences with the same mattress. Finally, we bring it all back to the price of the product to help you determine value for money.

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.