For more, watch our interactive video. You can skip to chapters on the different types of mattresses, tips for test driving a mattress, and more. Common claims that haven’t held up in our tests: Foam Layers Make a Better Bed More innerspring mattresses now include foam on top. But the foam is often too thin to make a difference on some of the hybrid models. Hybrid innerspring models that scored well in our tests had a foam layer several inches thick, though performance still varied. More Coils, the Better The better innerspring models we tested had 600 to 1,000 coils. But even if one mattress has more coils than another, the coils could be made of thinner-gauge metal. You’ll also hear about coil variations such as Bonnell (hourglass type), continuous wire, and individually pocketed springs. None of those is inherently superior. Gel Provides a Cooler Sleep Some mattresses (noted in our Ratings) have a layer of gel-infused foam that’s supposed to provide a cooling effect.
But that layer is buried beneath other layers. While our tests have shown that innerspring mattresses containing gel did tend to sleep slightly cooler, the reverse was true with gel-infused foam beds. Extra Lumbar Support Helps Back Sleepers A special lumbar-support zone is one of many ways manufacturers try to differentiate their product lines. But there’s no guarantee that it makes any real difference, and it hasn’t shown significant benefits in our tests. Forget About Comparison Shopping If you like a mattress at one store and ask elsewhere for something similar, you're likely to be steered toward a same-brand mattress claimed to have the same construction, components, and firmness. But they’re probably not the same. Mattress makers offer some lines nationally, but when those brands are sold through major chains such as Macy's, Sears, and Sleepy’s, they're for lines exclusive to those chains. And manufacturers don't publish a directory of comparable mattresses.
When we went to three bedding chains and asked for mattresses similar to those we’d bought at three department stores, five of the six were way off the mark. So use our Ratings as a guide, and insist on the precise make and model that scored well in our tests. Also check our Ratings of mattress brands and stores, based on subscriber surveys. If possible, lie on any mattress that you’re considering. Wear loose clothes and shoes you can slip off. Make yourself comfortable, and shoo away the salesperson if you’re feeling pressured. Salespeople should expect you to take your time. Spend at least five or ten minutes on each side and on your back (your stomach, too, if that's a preferred sleeping position). Panelists who took beds home for a month-long trial rarely changed the opinion they formed after the first night. Shopping online or at a warehouse club? Tryouts aren’t usually an option, so checking return policies before you buy is extra important. Make sure the store offers a full refund or credit toward another mattress.
Return periods, often called “comfort guarantees,” range from a couple of weeks to 120 days. Some retailers, including Macy’s and Sears, charge a 15-percent restocking fee. Costco and some online sellers provide free pickup if you want a refund or exchange, but otherwise, you’ll have to pay for it—or cart the mattress to the store. And you’ll be responsible for any damage. Once you’ve settled on a model, try to bring the price down. Many businesses, such as warehouse clubs, have fixed prices and won’t budge. But for retailers that do negotiate—particularly specialty chains—huge markups allow them to lower prices by 50 percent or more during their frequent sales. Our recommendation: Any time of year, insist on a sale price you’ve seen for the mattress you know you want, and don’t be afraid to walk out if you feel you’re getting a raw deal. Don’t Be Bullied Into Buying a Box Spring You might not need it. For an innerspring mattress, the box spring (also called a “foundation”) is a wood frame enclosing stiff wire and covered with fabric to match the mattress.
For foam or adjustable-air mattresses, it’s a box several inches high. If you're switching to a foam or adjustable-air bed from an innerspring, you'll need a boxy foundation that lacks springs and wire. Otherwise, if your box spring isn't broken and is still structurally sound, consider keeping it and saving money (roughly $150 to $300 for a queen-size). One caveat: Some brands require you to buy their box spring to receive full warranty coverage. It can range from 10 to 25 years and covers only manufacturing defects such as sagging and loose or broken coil wires. Coverage is frequently prorated, meaning that it decreases over time. Never accept delivery without inspecting the mattress (and the box spring, if you buy one) for stains and other damage. Also be sure that the mattress has a label that states “all-new material” before you send the driver on his way. If it’s not there, refuse delivery. And keep it on afterward in case you do have to file a warranty claim in the future.
Night Therapy NuRest mattress The high density foam is designed to accommodate your body shape and adjust accordingly. It does not matter what sleeping shape you prefer; the mattress will accommodate any position. The pressure relief foam is designed to eliminate any pressure points that may be present in the hips, feet, head and... Read full review Night Therapy Grand Memory Foam Mattress The high density foam is designed to accommodate your body shape and adjust accordingly. Read full review Night Therapy 8 MyGel Memory Foam Mattress The mattress is provided from Night Therapy Elite. As we see, the price is low, which can only lead to the assumption that this is a low budget decision. If you are unable for a big mattress investment, this is a choice, worthy for consideration, if you really need an... About this itemImportant Made in USA Origin Disclaimer:About this itemImportant Made in USA Origin Disclaimer:Slumber 1 iCoil Spring Mattresses by Zinus have incredible body-conforming comfort at a sensational value.
This mattress includes additional individually-wrapped iCoil Pocketed Springs to minimize motion transfer and provide support in the areas that need it most. The fiber quilted cover, comfort foam layer and high-density support foam provide the extra comfort that make this a Slumber 1 Mattress. Experience better sleep with the comfort and firm support of a Slumber 1 Mattress. Zinus Slumber 1 iCoil 12" Euro Box Top Spring Mattress, Multiple Sizes: Soft knit jacquard Euro box cover is fiber quilted for comfort 1.5" comfort foam layer 2" high-density support foam layers provide support Base layer of 8.5" independent iCoil Pocketed Springs assure no motion transfer from a sleeping partner, while maintaining customized spinal alignment iCoil count for twin: 480, full: 660, queen: 768 and king: 992 Foam is CertiPUR-US Certified for durability, performance and content Beds sold separately. See our assortment of beds. Bed frames sold separately. See our assortment of bed frames. Great for platform beds.