Latex is like memory foam’s relative in the sense that it’s a similar squishy material with pressure-relieving support. But like that one overachieving cousin in the family, latex is the more sustainable and hypoallergenic of the two, and it relieves pressure better than polyurethane foam.
Innersprings
Those that like traditional innersprings are lovers of the classics—and for good reason. These beds, though made primarily of coils, tend to be plush and bouncy, not to mention breathable. A pillow top softens the surface feel, but the coils add support to the mattress edges and your body. The downside is they don’t isolate motion well, so if you’re shopping for a bed for couples, one person will probably feel movement across the mattress.
Hybrids
Think of a hybrid like the best of both worlds. It combines memory foam in the upper layers with innersprings in the foundation. This mattress type is a happy middle ground for people looking for comfort and support, plus many hybrids double as the best cooling mattress or mattress for back pain.
Extra Factors to Keep in Mind
With the essentials taken care of, you can check out some of the fun add-ons and features that some mattress brands offer.
Cooling Features
Cooling sheets, pillows, or mattress toppers can alter the mattress temperature without completely changing your mattress, but extra-hot sleepers might want to change the fundamentals instead. Sleepers in search of cool bedding should prioritize cooling mattresses that use gel infusions and phase-change materials (special fabrics that absorb heat) to keep the bed crisp and fresh.
Motion Isolation
Whether you’re a solo sleeper or shopping for two, motion isolation—or how well a bed controls and absorbs movement—is another factor that can make or break a bed. Light sleepers and couples will want something with little motion transfer because studies show that tossing and turning can lead to poor sleep quality. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are a good starting point.
Size
Not every room is equipped to handle a California king bed. Measure the dimensions of your space to determine which size will fit best. A full size can handle a person or two, but a queen or king size is more comfortable for two or more to spread out.
How Much Should I Spend on a Mattress?
So, now that you know the nuts and bolts (er, coils and foam) of choosing a mattress, it’s time to open up your wallet. The cost will depend on the type of mattress and whether you add on any of the extra features that are often available, and you should plan to allocate up to $2,500 for your new digs. But it is 2024 after all, so you can also find affordable mattresses on Amazon.
