The Best Mattress & Our Top 10 Mattresses To Buy Online

Shopping for a mattress has changed dramatically over the past years. When we once had to stroll down aisles lined with hundreds of beds under invasive fluorescent lighting, we can now pick out the top-rated mattress from the comfort of our home. It’s never been easier.

Of course, buying a bed online involves a lot more research on our part – there’s no persistent salesperson to make our minds up for us; thinking about it, it’s a good thing.

With this article, we want to help you navigate the plethora of mattresses online and give you our ten best picks. We are confident that we will have something that suits your needs.

Most Recommended Type of Material

Memory Foam

Beds made from memory foam are gaining in popularity, and it’s not surprising. NASA, the creator, first used the material for astronauts. Memory foam is a viscoelastic material with hypoallergenic properties. Depending on the brand, prices can vary from very low to the expensive.

The great thing about memory foam beds is the molding ability of the mattress’s surface. In other words, the upper layer shapes to the contours of your body relieving pressure and absorbing your weight. In many respects, it is like sleeping on a cloud.

However, some people do not appreciate the sinking sensation created by this mattress. But do not snub it if you have back pain because memory foam is one of the highest-rated for alleviating throbbing to the back. Also, don’t believe all of the claims that you get hot while sleeping on memory foam. Technological developments in the bedding industry have solved that onetime problem.

Latex

Latex is one of the most expensive mattress types on the market. You can get them in two different variants. For one, there’s synthetic latex that is derived from petroleum-based materials. That does not mean that they are bad. Many people swear by synthetic latex because it shares most of the properties of all-natural latex without causing rubber allergies.

The other type is bio-latex sourced from the sap of trees by using the Dunlop process. This latex mattress type is all natural and eco-friendly and consequently prevalent.

One of the amazing things about latex material is that it is very breathable – you won’t be sweating on this bed. Latex is also extremely durable, giving you a bang for your buck. They are hypoallergenic, but for some people, latex may seem a little hard at first.

Another thing you will notice if you choose a latex bed is that they are very heavy and the cheaper versions tend to dent on the surface over time.

Hybrid

If you are looking for something that contains various materials, then the hybrid is the way to go. Many people swear by them because hybrid beds combine what’s best from all of the aforementioned mattress types.

For example, some hybrids combine innerspring with latex for instance – this mix is durable and very luxurious and perfect for people who prefer sleeping on a surface that is a little harder than the rest. Or if you are a memory foam fan, you can choose a foam latex mix or a foam spring combination. As you can see, there are many possibilities.

When considering buying a hybrid mattress, you need to be aware of the materials inside. Watch out for things like hypoallergenic properties or eco-friendliness. Other than that, you can’t do much wrong with a hybrid.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses are the most traditional of the bunch. They have been around for more than a hundred years. Also, the innerspring is the most popular bed on the planet. And there are many reasons for this.

The innerspring is constructed out of multiple pockets that contain a spring. This allows for each individual spring to move independently providing support whether you sleep on your side, front or back. This type of mattress comes in various firmness levels from soft, medium to hard.

Regarding breathability, the innerspring is the best; it beats latex and memory foam hands down. Also, it is perfect for couples as the individual springs cater to each partner’s weight and you don’t have to worry about rolling into the middle of the bed.

But this type of sleeping surface is heavy, and due to the natural materials such as lambswool, you may be allergic.

Your Sleeping Position Should Determine Your Purchase

Side

If you sleep on your side, you need a mattress that helps support the natural shape of your spine when you are in that position. With your body lying on the side, the shoulders and hips are the main pressure points. Therefore, you should have a slightly softer mattress so that the protruding body parts are supported correctly.

The number one mattress for this is the memory foam because of the superior body-contouring properties. The body needs to be cradled and supported without adding strain to the pressure points. Latex also does an excellent job because it supports the body. Innerspring beds are available in various firmness levels – if you get something that is not too firm, you will have an excellent solution.

The most important thing to look out for when you sleep on your back is that the spine is aligned in a straight line from the head down to the hips.

Back

If you sleep on your back, the mattress should be medium-firm. To make the right choice, you must take a few things into consideration. For one, your weight should be considered when making your decision. And second, do you share the bed with your partner? This is important because the more weight applied to the mattress the firmer it should be to counter that tension

Back sleepers touch the sleeping surface with their entire back. The central pressure points are the shoulder blades and buttocks. The area around the hips needs a certain degree of sinkage, and the shoulder area needs to be kept in place so that the lumbar part on touches the surface. There should be no space between the lumbar and the bedding.

Like when sleeping on the side, the spine must be kept in a straight line – this is the most vital consideration.

Stomach

It is often claimed that sleeping on your stomach is the worst sleeping position there is. This is because the back receives tension from the pelvis, which touches the sleeping surface, and puts pressure on the natural arc of the back. However, if you have the high-grade mattress sleeping on your stomach does not have to be a bad thing.

The tummy sleeper needs a medium to a firm sleeping surface so that mid-section of the body gets adequate support – the pelvic area is the part of the physique that needs a mixture of firmness and softness so that the arc on the back is not strained. At the same time, the chest, the other major contact point, needs a degree of firmness so that a straight line is formed for the spine.

Latex and innerspring are the ideal for back sleepers. Memory foam might be a little too soft.

Are You in Pain?

Back (Upper & Lower)

Backache refers to a variety of ailments that usually occur in the lower rib area or in the area of the cervical vertebrae. Back soreness is a problem that affects many of us. It is often caused by lack of exercise and frequent sitting. There are, however, some other possible causes of discomforts.

The duration of backache may vary. Most common is acute. Acute back pain is referred to as persisting for a few days to a maximum of six weeks. If the duration of the pain exceeds six weeks, one speaks of sub-acute pain. If the discomfort persists for more than twelve weeks, it is chronic or chronically recurrent.

In the majority of cases, those affected feel an aching in the lower part, but of course, the pain can also affect the middle or upper.

Shoulder

Shoulder soreness can be found in almost all age groups and both sexes. Sometimes discomfort in the shoulder occurs acutely, for example, while exercising or after lifting a heavy load. Besides, more and more people suffer from chronic shoulder pain, for example, due to joint wear-and-tear. Regardless of the cause, shoulder hurt can significantly affect everyday life.

Shoulder pain is discomfort in the shoulder region, which sometimes radiates into the upper arm or the neck. In about 85 percent of cases, the cause of shoulder discomfort is not in the shoulder joint itself, but in the area close to the joints (periarticular cause). For example, injury or disease-related damage to muscles, tendons, joint capsule, and/or synovial fluid can cause shoulder discomforts. In addition, diseases of internal organs (gallstones, heart attack, etc.) may be accompanied by it.

Hip

Hip throbbing is a relatively widespread problem, which can lead to significant impairments in everyday life of those affected. Running, walking and standing become increasingly difficult in the face of the pain. These can be due to a variety of causes, of which the hip joint arthritis is one of the best known.

Smarting on the hip indicates extreme discomfort between the upper end of the femur and the top edge of the pelvis. The pain can occur directly in the hip joint or emanate from the surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. The more general term ‘hip pain’ needs to be distinguished from the more specific term ‘hip joint pain.’

The possible causes range from congenital malocclusion, acute inflammation of the bursa and joints to nerve agony as well as chronic muscle and joint diseases. Also, fractures of the pelvis, such as after a serious fall or traffic accident can trigger massive hip discomfort.

Neck

Neck pain is a common phenomenon and affects almost everyone at least once in their lives, usually when middle aged. In most cases, neck soreness is not dangerous and often goes away by itself. However, with the occasional triggering effects of chronic stress, poor posture, and incorrect workloads, the discomfort returns for many people and in the worst case turn chronic.

Even after a thorough examination, the causes of the neck pain are rarely found. While it used to be thought that the pain was due to wear on the cervical vertebrae (such as osteoarthritis), it is now known from studies that neck pain can occur independently of signs of wear-and-tear. Especially in older people, the discomfort may well be related to vertebral damage or damage to the intervertebral discs.

Lack of exercise, one-sided stress (poor posture, physical work) and chronic stress can often significantly affect or even cause the onset of neck pain.

Nectar is a medium firm mattress, perfect for all sleeping positions. It feels comfortable, contouring and supportive and the sinking is minimal, even though this is an all-foam bed.

Your spine will get the top-grade support; the layers will reduce all pressure from your body. Nectar’s material is slowly responsible allowing the sleeper to adjust easily.

Although it’s made of foam only, the layers are breathable and provide cooling and airflow. When you touch the bed, it feels very soft and the cover has breathable materials as well. Nectar is a durable mattress with superb edge support that will spread your weight equally all over the surface.

See our in-depth Nectar review.

Nolah is the most recommended option for side sleepers, but its moderate firmness is also excellent for back and stomach sleepers as well.

This bed has three foam layers; the first layer has the cooling AirFoam that feels very comfortable. The transitional layer resembles latex and has fast response. Finally, the base is made of firm foam that gives support and stability to the entire construction.

This mattress offers minimum pressure which is why is ideal side sleepers, especially those who seek a pain-free sleep.

Nolah has excellent edge support and motion transfer; there is enough sinking for comfort and pressure reduction.

For more information view our Nolah review.

Puffy is a moderately firm mattress with low motion transfer, made out of foam only and is excellent for every sleeping position.

It reduces the pressure from the crucial points and supports your body, keeping your spine aligned.

The sinking is moderate because it has a high-density polyfoam core that prevents you from dropping in the layers. Its edge support won’t disappoint you.

Puffy’s construction is great for your blood flow improvement; it reduces pressure, therefore, prevents blockages in your blood flow (when this occur, you wake up with pain in your body).

Puffy provides coolness thanks to the infused gel in the top layer.

Check out our complete Puffy review.

Dream Cloud is a firm hybrid bed, ideal for back and stomach sleepers. Side sleepers might not have the best-quality comfort on it, because of the slight pressure it creates.

The layers are wrapped in a cover (blend of polyester and cashmere) that feels soft to the touch. Underneath, there are three foam layers that provide comfort, cooling (the middle one is perforated latex foam) and fast response.

The pocketed coils are individually wrapped and provide contouring, constant airflow, bounce and supreme support.

Finally, the base is made of high-density foam that adds stability and support.

Dream Cloud is firm enough to support heavier individuals; although it’s a hybrid, it has a low motion transfer.

See a full review of Dream Cloud here.

Bear is made of foam only and is constructed with four layers (with different density).  Every layer transitions gently into each other, making the sleeping surface comfortable, supportive and excellent for all sleeping positions.

Bear’s first layer has graphite gel infusion and an open-cell structure that makes it so breathable and cool. The second and the third layer are made of foam that responses fast to the sleeper; the second provides bounce and is a bit softer than the third one.

Bear’s foundation is made of thick and high-density that gives stability and excellent support.

Sleeping on it is calm and uninterrupted because it has a low motion transfer.

We have completely analyzed and reviewed the Bear here.

Zenhaven is the highest-rated choice if you want an organic and natural mattress. Made of natural latex, this bed will not expose you to the risk of off-gassing.

The manufacturer used 100% Talalay latex, known for its fast response, cooling features and natural hypoallergenic abilities.

Sleeping on Zenhavn feels comfortable and supportive.

Its cover is made from soft organic cotton cover that also feels cool and breathable.

Ideal for back sleepers (and heavier individuals), Zenhaven keeps the spine aligned and reduces pressure, while keeping you on the surface. Stomach sleepers can have a relaxed and restful night on it, as well.

Want more info? Go to our complete Zenhaven review.

Helix is a hybrid made from high-quality memory foam and microcoils.

Its top layer is comfortable and has a  fast responsive, while the transition adds coolness (the material is a mix of latex and foam) and cradling. The third layer is where the micro-coils are placed; they give the firmness, bounce, support, and contouring.

The foundation contains firm foam that provides stability for the entire bed.

Helix is ideal for back and stomach sleepers; its edge support is superb and your weight gets properly distributed. Although the pressure is reduced, it may occur in the usual pressure points when you lie on your side.

The materials absorb the motion vibrations well and makes this bed excellent for couples.

Visit our full review of Helix here.

Alexander Signature Hybrid is a mattress with a lifetime warranty.

Its four layers make a comfortable and bouncy bed that feels supportive and fresh for sleeping.

The upper layers provide comfort and are made of memory foam; its moderate firmness works excellent for back and stomach sleepers. The sinking isn’t extreme and the weight distribution is excellent.

The spring layer provides bounce (easier get up and adjustments), contouring and will not let you sink deep into the core. The spine gets the number one support.

Alexander Signature Hybrid has a solid edge support; there is no risk of falling.

Purple is a medium firm and durable bed.

Its first layer is made from highly responsive hyper-elastic polymer net that provides comfort and excellent transition for the lower polyfoam layers.

Purple is comfortable, contouring and doesn’t put any pressure no matter what position you sleep in.

The sinking is not drastic thanks to the elastic purple polymer that prevents the sleeper from further dropping in the core. The more compression the sleeper makes, the less pressure is added (heavier sleepers will benefit from this mattress).

In every position, your spine will be supported and kept in a natural position.

Purple motion transfer is very low and has excellent edge support.

Check our full Purple review.

Our Final Thoughts

Now, you are hopefully well armed to make the right mattress decision. You have seen our reviews and our favorite best mattresses picks. It is vital you take the processes seriously because we spend about one-third of our lives in bed, making choosing the best bed one of the most significant decisions to make in your life.

Remember to take your sleeping position into consideration, your weight and whether you share your bed with your partner. We all need to do what we can to avoid neck, back or shoulder discomfort. The right sleeping surface will help keep us pain-free and content.