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The 13 Best Mattresses for a Better Sleep

casper wave hybrid mattress, march 2020
The 13 Best Mattresses for a Better SleepAmy Wolff


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Getting enough sleep is essential for mental and physical health. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a good night’s sleep helps you stay focused, impacts your mood, and helps you resist and recover from illness. But it’s difficult to feel well-rested if you’re tossing and turning, uncomfortable, or sweating all night. Sleeping on the right mattress can make the difference between chronic fatigue and reliable rest.

The best mattress is not a one-size-all solution. If it’s too firm for your taste, you will have trouble falling asleep. If it’s too soft, your body may not get enough support, which could lead to neck and back strain. There’s a wide world of mattresses out there.

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In fact, there are now many brands that will let you buy one online and ship it directly to your home with an extended trial period so you can make sure it feels right. We’re here to help you find the best mattress for your bed, so don’t have to do too much comparison shopping.

Best Mattresses

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The Expert: I’ve tested a range of different mattresses and brands, along with interviewing some of the top mattress retailers about how their mattresses are constructed, to compare the best ones on the market. In addition to writing for Popular Mechanics, I've reviewed technology, home, and lifestyle products for Popular Science, Tom’s Guide, Mashable, First for Women and more.

What to consider when buying a new mattress

Buying a new mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll make. After all, you spend around a third of your life sleeping, and a good mattress should last for about 10 years, so you’re going to put in a lot of quality time with it. It’s also a serious investment: A good one will set you back thousands of dollars. It’s worth it, because a great night’s sleep sets you up to succeed for every single thing you do during the day. You really want to make sure you pick a mattress that you want to lie on every night.

casper wave hybrid mattress delivered to a front door in march 2020
Our test Casper mattress arrived in modest-size (though heavy) box. Once we removed the protective plastic wrap, it expanded to full size in minutes. Amy Wolff

Buying a Mattress Online: What You Need to Know

For this guide, we tested mattresses you can primarily buy online—though some options from companies like Tempur-Pedic are available in stores at mattress retailers. Many of the direct-to-consumer brands are best known for their memory-foam mattresses, which often get delivered to your door compressed in a box about the size of a dishwasher. That makes them easy to order, have shipped, and even carry up stairs and around tight corners into the bedroom.

Even brands that sell through stores offer online ordering and often use freight services to deliver their products. These are typically higher-priced mattresses, and some brands, like Tempur-Pedic and Saatva, will carry away your old mattress (free or for a charge). When comparing mattress prices, check to see if there’s a delivery or disposal fee.

Many brands can have mattresses at your door in a few days or less. Some like Saatva and Avocado manufacture your mattress only after you order it; delivery of those can take two to three weeks. That’s something to consider if you need your new bed in a hurry.

Types of Mattresses

Right now, most mattresses feature one of three designs, which use different materials and construction to provide both padding and support for your entire body when you lie down.

Foam mattresses are usually made with multiple layers of forgiving foam—these mattresses promise high-levels of even support. They might feel harder than other types, and the dense foam can limit air circulation, making them feel hotter. Many of the latest options, however, incorporate tech to aid cooling.

“Innerspring” refers to the classic mattress construction with metal springs, which compress when you lie down to support your weight. Often, the metal coils are wrapped with foam, and feature a softer cushioning on top to add extra support and mask their metal support system. These mattresses can feel very plush and offer good air movement so they don’t retain heat like some foam mattresses. But they can feel bouncy and might not distribute pressure as well as foam.

There are also “hybrid” mattresses, which feature springs with a larger slab of foam on top. In theory, it’s a best of both worlds scenario where you get the even support of a foam, as well as the cushioning and cooling of a traditional spring mattress.

Most mattress manufacturers make models in many different firmness levels, so picking a specific mattress type won’t limit you to a softer or firmer mattress.

Firmness

Do you like your mattress hard or soft? It’s the primary question you need to answer for yourself before picking up a mattress. Though firmness can impact the quality of your sleep in extreme cases, it largely comes down to making sure you feel comfortable when you lie down every night.

Mattress companies often use a 10-point scale to measure how firm or soft their mattresses are, but that scale is not standardized across manufacturers, so it is only a casual reference. The main thing you need to keep in mind when picking (and trying) a new mattress is the balance between comfort and support.

A hard mattress won’t feel like resting on a cloud, but it will absolutely keep your back straight. A soft mattress may ease your weary bones when lay out on it, but if you sink into the cushioning, you may find yourself dealing with neck or back issues down the line.

If you don’t know what you like or have trouble deciding, there are a couple of factors to keep in mind. First, what position do you find yourself in when you sleep? If you sleep on your or back, you’ll want a more firm mattress to keep your spine aligned with the rest of your body. If you sleep on your side, you may prefer a softer mattress to compensate for the additional pressure you’re putting on the lower half of your body.

Body size may also impact your decision. Taller and heavier folks should look for a more firm mattress to compensate for their size. Mattress companies will often provide guidelines for choosing firmness based on weight. In the end, though, your body will tell what feels right and what doesn’t after sleeping on a mattress a few times.

casper wave hybrid inflation in a bedroom in march 2020
Unpacking a new test mattress.Amy Wolff

Special Features

In addition to fundamental considerations like size and mattress type, some mattresses offer special features, such as a built-in vibrational alarm, or a special “far infrared rays” (FIR) cover meant to promote blood flow and faster muscle recovery. A smart mattress can track your sleep and health, providing metrics on your sleep stages, sleep time, heart rate and more. So if you’re curious about what else a mattress can offer, keep an eye out for features that extend beyond cushioning and breathability.

Warranty

Mattresses are, historically, built to last a long time, and they’re priced with that in mind. Given that, it’s important to take a look at your mattress’ warranty and return period to make sure you have the opportunity to send it back or replace it if you try your mattress and there’s a problem, or you simply don’t like it after sleeping on it for a few weeks. Mattress companies usually offer a trial period around 100 days, but some companies have a return window of up to one year. The average warranty for mattresses is 10 years.

Many mattresses sold through online retailers are shipped in boxes, so it won’t be possible to send the mattress back in the same box once you decompress them. Most bed-in-a-box companies have services to pick up a mattress you are not satisfied with during a generous trial period — but not all do.

How We Evaluated the Best Mattresses

We began by consulting mattress experts to identify the best options available right now. We considered the technology, current trends, consumer reviews, and our past experience testing similar mattresses. We looked closely at how easy it is to order from each brand, the delivery process (and times), as well as their return policy and warranty.

Then we tested eleven of the top options, sleeping on them from 60 to 90 days (one that arrived late had a shorter test period). We evaluated the condition in which they arrived, set up, whether there were any smells, and whether there was a break-in period. We scored them on their construction, support, comfort, and value. We’re confident one of the mattresses here will meet your needs.


BEST HYBRID

Casper Wave Hybrid Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcasper.com%2Fmattresses%2Fcasper-wave%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Wave Hybrid Queen</p><p>$2895.00</p><p>casper.com</p>

One of several newer models from Casper, this hybrid features multiple layers of the company’s Airscape foam tech. The brand says it’s cooler and allows better airflow, though we didn’t perceive a huge cooling effect here. (If you need a cooler mattress, it’s worth the $500 upgrade for the Wave Hybrid Snow. The heat-dispersing bands and QuickCool Cover kept our tester cool.)

The Wave Hybrid also features Casper’s new Zoned Support system. The design increases support in areas you need it most (under the shoulders and hips, for example) and relaxes it in others. It boosts that support with gel pods in key areas. Our test editor said she felt real benefits. “It is definitely noticeable. The zone at the head of the mattress is firmer, while the middle zone compresses further to cradle your midsection while aiding in spinal alignment.”

Compared to Casper’s standard foam mattress, the Wave Hybrid offers a little more support—ideal for people who need extra relief or who are very active and want a mattress to aid in muscle recovery. It’s firm yet supportive and delivers a good night’s sleep after a short break-in period.


BEST MEMORY FOAM

Tuft and Needle Mint Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tuftandneedle.com%2Fmattress%2Fmint%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Mint Queen</p><p>$1595.00</p><p>tuftandneedle.com</p>

Another excellent value, the Mint is the latest model from popular online brand Tuft & Needle. Upgraded materials make this one softer than the original, yet it retains a firmer, supportive feel (if you want something even softer, check out the brand’s Hybrid model).

This mattress looks and feels like a luxury product. The outer fabric is very soft and durable, and the soft cushioning of the memory foam doesn’t feel as spongy as some cheaper mattresses. The Mint has gel pads and graphite fibers to help regulate temperature. Like the Casper, it does a fair job of this, but not to the level as more expensive models. Still, the plush feel, high-quality construction, and ease of ordering make this a great foam mattress.


MOST AFFORDABLE FOAM MATTRESS

Tuft and Needle Original Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tuftandneedle.com%2Fmattress%2Foriginal%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Original Queen</p><p>$845.00</p><p>tuftandneedle.com</p>

If you’re looking for a classic mattress that will hold up for years, you can’t go wrong with the Tuft and Needle Original. This model is one of the best options for under $1,000, yet the company’s customer care and 100-day trial period are on par with many higher-end bed-in-a-box companies like Casper and Saatva.

The mattress’s dual-layer foam construction ensures it feels sturdy and supportive. The top 3 inches are made of the company’s foam blend that provides additional comfort to traditional pressure areas, like the hips or back. We found this supple top layer makes this mattress comfortable for all sleeping positions.


BEST COOLING MATTRESS

Nectar Premier Copper Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nectarsleep.com%2Fpremier-copper-mattress&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Premier Copper Queen</p><p>$1299.00</p><p>nectarsleep.com</p>

Nectar builds its Premier Copper mattress with a sturdy 9-inch foam base, upon which sit several more inches of pressure-relieving gel memory foam. The quilted cover, made with copper fibers, is cool to the touch, which our tester confirmed kept their temperature down during the night. Despite being a memory-foam model, this Nectar is relatively firm with excellent edge support, whether you’re sleeping near the edge of the mattress or sitting on the end of the bed.

In addition to the cooling cover, the firmness of this mattress also helps prevent the heat that can typically build up when you sink into memory foam, making it a good option for athletes or hot sleepers who want the comfort of gel memory foam without the added warmth.


BEST FIRM MATTRESS

Sleep On Latex Pure Green Queen

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KPWG11O?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.32644925%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Pure Green Queen Mattress </p><p>$999.00</p><p>amazon.com</p>

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Pure Green Queen Mattress

$999.00

amazon.com

Latex mattresses are naturally dense and durable, and an excellent choice if you want your sleeping surface extra firm. Sleep On Latex’ Pure Green mattress features an 8-inch layer of solid organic latex foam as a base, which will hold more weight without losing its shape than other types of mattresses. The knit cotton face and wool batting help keep the surface of the mattress cool and breathable, even with all that dense foam propping you up.

If you’re on the fence about choosing a less common material, the company’s generous return policy makes it easy to try it out for up to 100 days.


BEST SOFT MATTRESS

Purple Hybrid Queen

<p><a href="https://purple.e9jo.net/c/3006986/454867/8120?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpurple.com%2Fmattresses%2Fhybrid&subId1=pop&subid3=xid%3Afr1676048440849kvn" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Hybrid Queen</p><p>$2399.00</p><p>e9jo.net</p>

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Hybrid Queen

$2399.00

e9jo.net

One of the more interesting mattresses we tested, the Purple uses a polymer grid under your body that’s both soft and supportive. That makes this the softest feeling mattress of the bunch. For sleepers who like a firm mattress, however, it might be too soft. Yet there’s still plenty of support.

The grid leaves plenty of room for air to move, making this one feel cooler than some memory-foam options. “There’s a definite softness to the grid, which you feel when you press down or first lie down to sleep,” our tester said. “But it doesn’t sleep super soft; I felt like my body was supported head to toe.” The mattress also impressed with its high-quality construction. It’s heavy and thick, with sturdy seams. Overall, it’s a great option for anyone who wants a softer-feeling foam mattress.


BEST MATTRESS FOR BACK PAIN

Saatva Classic Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1525083&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saatva.com%2Fmattresses%2Fsaatva-classic&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fpreview%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F&xs=1&xcust=%5Butm_source%7C%5Butm_campaign%7C%5Butm_medium%7C%5Bgclid%7C%5Bmsclkid%7C%5Bfbclid%7C%5Brefdomain%7C%5Bcontent_id%7C87604ad7-1a2e-4a41-ac75-6dfef291e92a%5Bcontent_product_id%7Cc8de6b88-b6bb-4f61-bf42-5960d30fa957%5Bproduct_retailer_id%7C876f2c00-4bce-44f7-adfa-c1657c22a1e8%5Blt%7Csale" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Classic Queen</p><p>$1995.00</p><p>redirectingat.com</p>

A true hybrid with coils, the Saatva Classic actually has five parts: an organic cotton Euro pillow top with antimicrobial fabric treatment, a memory foam layer to reduce stress on your lower back, steel coils with targeted levels of firmness for optimal support, another layer of steel coils to prevent sagging over time and promote air breathability, and a foam edge support system to keep the edges from drooping. That quality allows Saatva to offer one of the longer warranties of any mattress here: 15 years.

The pillow top gives a plush feel, but the coils and memory foam prevent you from sinking too far. Even the mid-level Luxury Firm model we tested offers lots of support. Our tester reported a reduction in back and neck pain after just a few nights of sleep. “You hop on and think you’re going to sink in farther than you do,” she said. “It’s soft at first, but that’s where it ends. It seems to almost adjust to your weight and stay just firm enough.”


CLASSIC AND AFFORDABLE TEMPUR-PEDIC

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tempurpedic.com%2Fshop-mattresses%2Ftempur-cloud-mattress%2Fv%2F3882&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tempur-Cloud Queen</p><p>$1999.00</p><p>tempurpedic.com</p>

Although the Tempur-Pedic LuxeBreeze earned our best overall mattress recommendation, the company’s Tempur-Cloud is an excellent and more affordable alternative. Four different layers, including a thick base layer of foam and a moisture-wicking top cover, make the Tempur-Cloud Medium supportive without being too firm.

The foam helps isolate movement and reduce the impact of tossing and turning. If you prefer a hybrid mattress, there’s the Medium Hybrid version, which comes with an additional layer of over 1,000 spring coils.


MADE WITH SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

Avocado Green Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.avocadogreenmattress.com%2Fproducts%2Fgreen-natural-organic-mattress%3Fvariant%3D36584397570198%26irclickid%3DU7qQOUTUxxyNRCaX142Y50e8UkAyIxTHIzrETk0%26irgwc%3D1&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Green Mattress</p><p>$1999.00</p><p>avocadogreenmattress.com</p>

This is an impressive mattress that looks great and incorporates natural and sustainably-sourced materials, making it a great choice for anyone who wants an eco-friendly option. It’s tufted with buttons on all the sides with dark green trim. The mattress is made from latex, wool, and cotton (all certified organic) in combination with pocketed support coils. No polyester, polyurethane foams, or fire retardants here. The pillow top is made from organic latex.

Although you can also get a vegan version of the mattress without the wool, the wool helps make the mattress naturally fire-resistant, regulate temperature, wick moisture, and prevent dust mites. It definitely is on the firm side—something to consider for petite side sleepers like our tester or anyone who wants a squishy marshmallow feel. But you can add a two-inch foam pillow top, which makes it feel more plush and luxurious.

Although Avocado doesn’t include any specific cooling tech, the wool fibers do allow decent air movement, and the mattress doesn’t feel as hot as some traditional memory-foam options.


BEST REVERSIBLE

Layla Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress Queen

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089LGRF5H?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.32644925%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress Queen</p><p>$949.00</p><p>amazon.com</p>

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Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress Queen

$949.00

amazon.com

Can’t decide between a soft or a firm mattress? Layla makes the most popular “flippable” mattress, which features a thick layer of plush memory foam on one side and a thinner, denser layer of foam for a more firm feel on the other. On a scale from 1-10, Layla ranks the soft side a 4 and the firm side a 7—so neither side is too far on the extreme. Layla’s mattresses feature a memory foam infused with an antimicrobial copper gel that distributes body heat to keep you cool. The Popular Mechanics Test team tried out the Hybrid version of the Layla, and said both sides were very supportive.

While you may have heard that it’s good practice to rotate your mattress, the ability to flip it gives you twice as many options — in case you or your partner’s preferences change over time — and extends the lifetime of your mattress as well.


BEST FOR SIDE SLEEPERS

Leesa Studio Queen

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086Z6CQ77?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.32644925%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Studio Queen </p><p>$553.62</p><p>amazon.com</p>

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Studio Queen

$553.62

amazon.com

If you’re a side sleeper who wants a firm but supportive mattress, the Leesa Studio is a solid option. It features three layers of memory foam to create a balanced feel that’s comfortable no matter how you sleep. It also features a cooling cover with a four-stripe pattern that’s both stylish and soft enough to sleep on directly if you choose. If you’re on a budget and sleep on your side (or toss and turn), the Leesa Studio is a safe bet.


BEST FOR ATHLETES

Brooklyn Bedding Spartan Queen

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbrooklynbedding.com%2Fproducts%2Fbrooklyn-spartan-hybrid&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Spartan Queen</p><p>$1999.00</p><p>brooklynbedding.com</p>

Sleep is the best way to recover after a tough workout, and Brooklyn Bedding’s Spartan mattress is designed to optimize your rest and get you ready to train day after day. It features a smart performance fabric cover with “far infrared rays” (FIR) that the company claims will promote better blood flow and faster muscle recovery.

The antimicrobial copper-infused memory foam features a cooling gel to keep you from overheating in your sleep. Ultimately, the best mattress for any athlete is the one that lets you get a good night’s sleep, but this is one of the few made with athletes in mind.


BEST SMART MATTRESS

Eight Sleep Pod 3 Mattress

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eightsleep.com%2Fproduct%2Fpod-mattress%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Fa32644925%2Fbest-mattress%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Pod 3 Mattress</p><p>$3195.00</p><p>eightsleep.com</p>

If the temperature of the room is always a subject of debate between you and your partner, you’ll appreciate the individualized cooling and heating feature in the Eight Sleep Pod 3 mattress. The Pod 3 Hub, a separate device that connects to your mattress, works to regulate the temperature of the mattress, depending on your individual preferences.

The app-controlled Pod 3 smart cover, which you can also purchase separately and pair with your own mattress, can also track some sleep-related health metrics without a smartwatch, and can even act as an alarm, waking you up with gentle vibrations and slowly raising the bed’s temperature.

All of these futuristic perks come with a catch though. Many of the app-enabled features require you to sign up for an 8+ Pro membership, which costs $15 per month or $180 per year on top of the $3,000+ price of the cover and mattress. The question is; are you willing to subscribe for a smarter, more luxurious night’s sleep?


Q&A

PM: How does your mattress keep you cool?

LH: Cooling mattresses feature a top layer with a breathable material that directs heat away from your body. That cooling top layer is often made using either gel-infused foam, or fabrics like cotton and bamboo. Some mattresses feature designs with multiple material layers that work in tandem to promote airflow and ventilation while you sleep.

PM: How often should I rotate my mattress?

LH: Regularly rotating a mattress helps maintain its structure and prevents sagging. Every manufacturer recommends a different rotation frequency, but, taking the average, we recommend rotating your mattress every six months.

PM: How do I know if I need a box spring for my mattress?

LH: You may need a box spring if your bed frame does not provide enough support to keep your body flat when you lie down. You may also prefer to use a box spring to make your bed taller. A mattress company will indicate if a particular mattress requires a box spring.

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