Being a sleep expert is an interesting position, as there is a lot of advice available on topics such as the impact of diet on sleep and the effects of drinking before bed. The CNET sleep team, consisting of nine mattress experts, has tested approximately 300 beds and each member has a favorite that they would recommend to the average person. These favorites have been developed over the years based on individual preferences, body types, and sleeping positions, ensuring that there is a mattress recommendation to suit everyone’s needs. The team’s picks for best mattresses are categorized by price range, with options for budget, average, and premium mattresses.
One of the team’s favorite mattresses is the Leesa Reserve Hybrid, known for its dense memory foam feel that offers pressure relief, support, and excellent motion isolation. This mattress is favored by combination sleepers who switch between their stomach and side throughout the night. The Leesa Reserve Hybrid is available in multiple firmness options, providing a choice for individuals seeking a softer or firmer mattress. The mattress also features a cooling cover that helps regulate temperature for hot sleepers, making it a popular choice for those who tend to sleep warm.
Another top pick is the Helix Midnight Luxe, a medium-firm mattress that is widely accommodating and suitable for couples with different sleep preferences. This mattress offers a plush foam pillow top and the option to add a cooling cover for hot sleepers. The Helix Midnight Luxe provides a comfortable and neutral firmness feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a supportive yet cushioned surface for sleep.
The Casper Dream mattress has gained popularity for its revamped design and soft, neutral feel that offers pressure relief and comfort. This mattress is recommended for those who prefer a medium firmness and a zoned support design. The Casper Dream is suitable for most individuals, even those who are not typically fans of memory foam mattresses, due to its accommodating feel and support.
For heavier individuals, the team recommends the Helix Plus Elite mattress, featuring thicker gauge coils and micro coils for added lumbar support. The pillow top cover of the mattress provides comfort and support, making it suitable for those who require additional support while sleeping. The Helix Plus Elite is also a good choice for individuals who tend to sleep warm, as it offers advanced cooling technology in the cover.
The recommendations also include the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, known for its cooling properties and availability in multiple firmness levels. This hybrid mattress offers a supportive and durable construction, making it a popular choice for those seeking a cool and comfortable sleep surface. Additionally, the team suggests other mattress options such as the Purple Restore, Allswell, Layla Hybrid, Saatva Classic, and Nectar Premier, each offering unique features for a good night’s sleep.
When selecting a mattress, it is important to consider personal preferences, sleeping positions, and body type. The ideal firmness level varies depending on the individual’s preferred sleeping position, with back and stomach sleepers generally needing a firmer mattress for spinal support, while side sleepers may benefit from a softer surface to prevent pressure points. Combo sleepers have more flexibility in choosing a mattress firmness that accommodates their various sleeping positions. Ultimately, the best mattress for each person will depend on their specific needs and preferences.
