Which is the Best Mattress of 2017?Considering that most people spend about one-third of their lives in bed, it's hardly surprising that a mattress can have a big impact on your overall health. There are several types of mattresses, each with a particular set of advantages and disadvantages. Traditional innerspring models remain the most popular type, but newer alternatives -- including memory foam, latex foam, air mattresses with adjustable firmness "zones" (as exemplified by the Sleep Number brand) and organic mattresses made of various materials -- have gained favor with owners. One of the big issues with buying a new mattress is that it generally requires a fairly significant cash outlay -- in most cases about $500 for a twin; $1000 or more for a queen or king. Some cost two or three times as much, depending upon features. And that often does not include the box spring or other foundation. However, with as much time as you spend in bed, and the average length of time you'll own the mattress, it pays to buy the best one you can afford.
Figuring out exactly how much a mattress costs can also be difficult. Most mattress companies have a specific line (or several) of a mattress (Posturepedic by Sealy and Beautyrest by Simmons are good examples of this), and then, within that line, have dozens of different models that are not detailed on the manufacturer's website. So, while several retailers may carry the same line, there is little consistency from retailer to retailer. In addition, the same model may be sold under different names at different retailers. Because of that, for the purposes of this report, we don't rate specific mattresses; rather, we rate mattress lines that get the best reviews across the board. As for price, we have quoted the manufacturer's suggested retail price, which are usually much higher than the actual prices you'll find in stores. We discuss price in more detail -- as well as how to get the best deal -- on our buying guide page. Also, if a mattress is just one of several bedroom purchases you're planning, check out our related reports on bed sheets, pillows and mattress toppers.
Innerspring mattresses have been the most popular type for decades, and countless styles, features and options are available. Models vary greatly in cost, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Price differences may depend on the number and size of the coils, the amount and type of padding, and details such as fabric and stitching. Compared with other types, innerspring mattresses tend to retain less body heat and come in a wider range of firmness levels. They do tend to transfer more motion, which can be a concern if you share your bed with a partner, but can be a plus during sex. They're also less durable and more prone to sagging than other types of mattresses. Most experts say innerspring mattresses should be replaced after 10 years at most. Memory foam mattresses are made from visco-elastic foam, a type of foam that molds itself to the body. While the best-known manufacturer is Tempur-Pedic, quite a few companies offer less expensive versions. Many owners love sleeping on memory foam because of how well it conforms to the curves and lines of the body.
Memory foam is also a good choice if you have a restless partner as it minimizes movement transfer. Going from innerspring to memory foam can take some getting used to, but most who give it time say making the switch was well worth it. Some people find that memory foam traps heat -- a complaint that makers have addressed with the development of gel-infused memory foam, which is designed to create a cooler sleeping surface. Latex foam mattresses, which are made from natural or synthetic rubber, are springier than memory foam mattresses and don't retain as much body heat. They are also resistant to mold and dust mites. In addition, mattresses made of natural latex are eco-friendly, since natural latex is a renewable resource. Many latex mattresses go for several thousand dollars for a queen set, although some lower-end brands that incorporate synthetic latex and a less expensive processing method can run as low as $3000 (for twin). Some mattresses may help to ease back pain. Experts say that adjustable, permanent-use air mattresses may be the best choice for back pain sufferers.
Don't confuse them with inflatable, temporary air mattresses, though, which we cover in a separate report; those aren't considered suitable for long-term use. Permanent air mattresses, such as those sold under the Sleep Number Bed label, have air chambers that can be adjusted to provide customized support, and are topped with padding. Some even allow each side of the mattress to be adjusted independently. Permanent air mattresses can be expensive, running at least $1,000 for a queen set. They tend to be quite durable though, because, while they rely on mechanical parts that can fail, those parts are replaceable. Although it would seem as if the experiences of mattress owners would be the most crucial aspect of finding the best mattress; in fact, owners reviews are fairly hard to come by for specific mattresses. This may be because, as noted earlier, there is little consistency between mattress models. -- which has compiled more data about mattress satisfaction than any other site.
Factors including comfort, value and durability are included in our analysis. The result of our research is the best mattresses for your best night's sleep.Product Review: Ikea Memory Foam Mattress When my husband and I decided that we needed a new mattress, a memory foam mattress was the obvious choice. Due to my Fibromyalgia, I can always feel the springs, even on a very good mattress, and although I need a soft mattress for my tender pressure points, I also need good support. Hubby lies on his back or front, whereas I lie on my side, so a memory foam mattress would hopefull solve all these problems in one mattress. Unfortunately, when we looked at the memory foam mattresses on the market we were shocked at how expensive they were. With those prices, we would have been seriously stretching our budget in purchasing even the cheapest (and far from best) of the memory foam mattresses available in stores or on the internet. Luckily, I saw that in the Ikea catalogue, memory foam mattresses started at just £90 (US$149)!
In the UK, Ikea has two types of memory foam mattress: the Sultan FORESTAD (ranging in price from £90 to £140) and the Sultan FURUDAL (ranging in price from £160 to £210). We chose a king-size FURUDAL as this was the top of the range of memory foam mattresses available in Ikea UK. For some reason the FURUDAL doesn’t seem to be available in the US or Canada, but the FORESTAD is (ranging in price from US$149 to US$299). The FURUDAL is a thick foam mattress in 3 layers, with each layer divided into 5 comfort zones, which support your body where it is lightest and relieves pressure where it is heaviest. The top layer is of memory foam which forms itself to your body and the bottom and middle layers of high resilience foam, makes the mattress hardwearing and prolongs its life, as well as provides more support. It has a cover of 100% cotton and filling of lamb’s wool, camel-hair and silk, designed to effectively absorb and transport moisture and maintain an even temperature.
The FORESTAD is in 2 layers: a top layer of memory foam and a bottom layer of high resilience foam. The bottom layer only is divided into the 5 comfort zones. The soft quilted top gives a cushiony surface. My husband and I agree that the mattress is a definite success and we are both sleeping better on it. It took a bit of getting used to because when you first sit or lie on it, it feels very firm. But as the memory foam molds to the contours of your body it becomes amazingly comfortable and even to my sensitive body, never feels uncomfortable. I no longer get pressure points on my hips and shoulders when I lie on my side and my back is always well supported. Since getting the mattress I have had far fewer mornings where I wake up aching all over, which has been wonderful. The cover and filling are also amazing for night sweats – I may wake up with soaking pajamas, but never a soaking bed! I would definitely recommend this mattress to anyone, but if you need a Spoon-worthy mattress on a tight budget, then I don’t know of an alternative!