Written by Natalie Grigson, Fortune Recommends Writer
If the sheer variety of mattress types and materials these days feels overwhelming, don’t worry; we’re here to help. This story will bring you back to a more classic mattress type: the innerspring mattress.
However, the innerspring mattresses on this list aren’t like your grandmother’s innerspring mattress. Some include the latest cooling technology and zoned support; all are considered “hybrid” beds. This means these innerspring mattresses include a layer of individually wrapped steel coils and top layers of pressure-relieving foams. We came up with this list by testing over 60 of the best mattresses on the market. Our sleep reviewers and experts looked at everything from the mattress’s firmness and support to its overall value to bring you the best innerspring mattresses of 2024.
Best innerspring mattress overall
After testing dozens of mattresses, one stood out among the rest: The Helix Midnight Luxe. This bed features individually wrapped steel coils that are zoned to cradle the lower back gently. It includes a choice of TENCEL™ or GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover to keep you comfortable through the night.
Our picks for the best innerspring mattresses
- Best overall: Helix Midnight Luxe
- Best for back sleepers: DreamCloud Hybrid
- Best budget: Nectar Hybrid
- Best luxury: WinkBeds The WinkBed
- Best for stomach sleepers: Bear Elite Hybrid
- Best for back pain: Saatva Classic
- Best cooling: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling
- Best for side sleepers: Nolah Evolution
- Best for heavy people: Titan Mattress Plus
- Best firm: Plank Mattress Firm Luxe
Compare innerspring mattresses
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Helix Midnight Luxe | DreamCloud Hybrid | Nectar Hybrid | WinkBeds The WinkBed | Bear Elite Hybrid | Saatva Classic | Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling | Nolah Evolution | Titan Mattress Plus | Plank Mattress Firm Luxe | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Best for | Everyone | Back sleepers | Budget | Luxury | Stomach Sleepers | Back pain | Cooling | Side sleepers | Heavy people | Firm |
| Price | $2,374 ($2,623 with cooling cover) | $1,332 | $1,199 | $1,799 | $2,305 | $2,095 | $1,865 ($2,265 with pillow top) | $2,499 | ($1,399 with cooling cover) | $1,532 ($1,682 with cooling cover) |
| Firmness | Medium | Medium | Medium-firm | Soft, luxury firm, firmer, plus | Soft, medium, firm | Plush soft, luxury firm, firm | Soft, medium, firm | Plush, luxury firm, firm | Firm | Firm / Extra Firm |
| Trial period | 100 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights |
Best overall innerspring mattress: Helix Midnight Luxe
Key product features
What you should know
Our sleep experts found that the Helix Midnight Luxe is the best overall innerspring mattress after testing its support, pressure relief, bounce, and more. This mattress should be supportive enough for most body types and pressure relieving for those with joint pain.
- The Helix Midnight Luxe should work well for a wide variety of sleepers.
- It comes with a breathable TENCEL™ cover, which can be upgraded to the GlacioTex™ Cooling cover for an additional $250.
- It has a pillow top, making it softer and bouncier than the original Helix Midnight model.
- This makes it an excellent option for those with mobility issues, but perhaps not for light sleepers who share a bed.
- This medium-firm mattress may be too soft for some average and heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Why we like Helix Midnight Luxe as best overall
After lying on the bed in various positions, our reviewers found that the Helix Midnight Luxe is the best overall innerspring mattress because it should work for the largest variety of sleepers. This mattress features a layer of 1,000 individually wrapped innerspring coils with reinforced support beneath the hips, making it a great option for sleepers of most body types and even those with back pain. In fact, the Helix Midnight Luxe has been endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association. (1)
Above the springs are three layers of foam to gently cradle the joints and provide pressure relief, and at the very top is a plush pillow top cover. The mattress has a breathable TENCEL™ cover, or you can upgrade to the GlacioTex™ Cooling cover for an additional $250. Feeling warm at night is a significant sleep disruptor, so adding this cover may be worth the price for those who sleep hot. (2)
The springs, plus the layers of foam, make for a bouncy bed. Our testers thought this would make it a great option for those who change positions often, for couples who are sexually active, or for people with mobility issues. However, they found that it wasn’t the best for isolating motion. They could quickly feel someone else moving on this mattress, so it’s not the best option for sensitive sleepers who share the bed.
The added pillow top makes this mattress more plush than the original Helix Midnight. This means that heavyweight stomach sleepers may find this bed too soft. If you prefer a slightly firmer mattress, consider the original Helix Midnight, which we also recently rated as one of our best overall mattresses.
To learn more about Helix, visit our full Helix mattress review.
Specs
| Price | $2,374 – $2,623 (with upgrades) |
| Firmness | Medium |
| Warranty | 15 years |
| Trial | 100 nights |
Best innerspring mattress for back sleepers: DreamCloud Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
Our mattress testers found that the DreamCloud Hybrid is the best mattress for back sleepers in innerspring, considering its superior spinal support plus cradling foam layers. This mattress also includes gel-infused foams, which should prevent overheating.
- The DreamCloud Hybrid is available in only one firmness option, but medium-firm should work well for most bodies.
- It has a more “in the bed” than “on top of the bed” feel.
- The gel-infused memory foam doesn’t trap heat like traditional memory foam.
- This bed is bouncy, yet our testers found it to have excellent motion isolation.
- It may not be supportive enough for heavyweight sleepers.
Why we DreamCloud Hybrid like as best for back sleepers
Back sleeping may be the best position for you if you tend to have lower back, hip, or shoulder pain. (3) That said, if you do sleep on your back, you’ll want a mattress that isn’t too soft or firm. Either one of these options might not adequately support your spine’s natural curvature and result in pain.
This is one reason our mattress testers love the DreamCloud Hybrid, specifically for back sleepers; it has a nice, medium-firmness. Medium-firm mattresses have been shown to be the best option for those with back pain. (4)
The DreamCloud Hybrid’s layer of innerspring coils lifts and supports the spine, while the top layers of memory foam relieve pressure. It’s likely because of these top foam layers that our reviewers found this bed to feel so “cushioning,” gently cradling the spine. Unlike other beds with memory foam, this one uses gel-infused foam, which our testers found to eliminate some heat buildup.
Ultimately, this is an excellent option for back and even light or average-weight stomach sleepers. However, our mattress testers noted it may be too soft for heavyweight sleepers and slightly too firm for side sleepers.
The DreamCloud Hybrid is affordable at $1,332 and comes with DreamCloud’s Forever Warranty and a generous 365-night sleep trial. These benefits make this mattress an even more attractive choice in our eyes.
See our Dreamcloud mattress review for more insights on this brand. Or, if this isn’t the right mattress for you, check out our other picks for the best mattresses for back sleepers.
Specs
| Price | $1,332 |
| Firmness | Medium |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 365 nights |
Best budget innerspring mattress: Nectar Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
Considering Nectar’s quality materials, free shipping, Forever Warranty™, and unbeatable, year-long trial period, our sleep experts believe Nectar Hybrid is the best budget innerspring mattress with a price tag of less than $1,200 for a queen.
- This mattress combines gel-infused memory foam and innerspring coils for a cool and breathable bed.
- Nectar’s warranty and trial are exceptional compared to similar mattresses at this price point.
- It’s described as “medium firm” on Nectar’s website but feels slightly more on the firm side.
- It has excellent motion isolation and minimum bounce—a good option for those who share the bed.
- It may be too firm for side and lightweight sleepers.
Why we like Nectar Hybrid as best budget
When buying a budget innerspring mattress, you want to be sure you’re getting a cheap mattress at a low cost—not quality. The Nectar Hybrid is our best budget innerspring mattress because it costs less than $1,200 for a queen and doesn’t skimp on the quality.
This hybrid mattress includes a bottom layer of innerspring coils with extra edge support. Above that is a transition layer to absorb motion on the bed’s surface, followed by two inches of therapeutic gel memory foam for pressure relief. The whole thing is topped off with a cooling antimicrobial cover. All foams in this mattress are CertiPUR-US® certified, meaning they’re free of formaldehyde, ozone-depleting materials, or phthalates regulated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. (5)
Regarding the bed’s comfort and support, our mattress testers found that it was the most comfortable when lying on their backs or stomachs. It has a medium to firm feel, so when lying on their sides, they felt some pressure. They also noted that this mattress might be slightly too firm for lightweight sleepers.
It excelled in motion isolation, cooling, and, surprisingly, edge support. (“Surprisingly” because bed-in-a-box mattresses often don’t have the best edge support.) Our testers could feel minimal movement when one person moved on the other side of the bed. The mattress felt breathable and cool overall due to its gel-infused memory foam, breathable coils, and cool-to-the-touch cover.
In addition to all the features mentioned, the Nectar Hybrid includes a 365-night trial and Forever Warranty™, so Nectar stands by its mattress and gives you plenty of time to decide if it’s right. At $1,199, it’s hard to find a better bang for your buck when mattress shopping.
Read about more of the best affordable mattresses or our full Nectar Hybrid mattress review.
What customers are saying
On Amazon when we sort specifically for reviews of the Nectar Hybrid, it looks like they’re mostly positive. However, it’s impossible to get an overall rating because reviews for all Nectar models are mixed together on Amazon.
Here’s what people are saying:
”Pretty comfy. The memory foam layer is nice but not very thick. It’s a hybrid mattress so it still has the spring support under the foam layer. It’s a good upgrade from your old sagging mattress.”
“Splabadoop”, Verified Amazon Buyer
Another verified Amazon reviewer with the username “Molloy” states, “I needed a bed, and I could afford to make payments on it. I wasn’t expecting much…but this is my favorite bed I’ve ever had …will buy again when I upgrade to a larger size.”
One Amazon verified reviewer, Benjamin Haynes, didn’t have a great experience. “First, let me say that this mattress was not the worst thing I’ve ever slept upon, but it hasn’t been my favorite…TLDR: very firm mattress. Back sleepers: this is for you! Side/Stomach sleepers: You probably want to keep looking.”
Specs
| Price | $1,199 |
| Firmness | Medium-firm |
| Warranty | Forever Warranty™ |
| Trial | 365 nights |
Best luxury innerspring mattress: WinkBeds The WinkBed
Key product features
What you should know
Our sleep experts found that the WinkBed is the best luxury innerspring mattress due to its high-quality materials, excellent spinal support, and lifetime warranty. It’s available in four firmness levels, making it a solid option for all sleep positions and body types.
- The WinkBed comes in Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus (for heavyweight sleepers).
- Our reviewers found the Luxury Firm a good option for average to heavyweight sleepers.
- While it was most comfortable on the back and stomach, it should work fine in all sleep positions.
- It features a moisture-wicking TENCEL™ cover and pocketed coils, making it breathable.
- The coils are zoned to support the lower back and hips.
Why we like The Wink Bed as best luxury
Mattresses-in-a-box may not be the first thing that comes to mind when shopping for a luxury mattress. WinkBeds proves that you can still get a high-quality, luxury mattress with the convenience of door-to-door shipping.
The WinkBed consists of several layers of high-quality materials to create a supportive, “on top of the bed” feel. Starting at the bottom, this bed has individually wrapped steel coils zoned to support areas like the back and hips. These coils move with the body’s movements, providing excellent airflow through the mattress. The next layer is a pressure-relieving quilted Euro top, topped with a soft, moisture-wicking TENCEL™ cover. It feels “plush and soft and offers subtle pressure relief around the hips and shoulders,” according to one tester.
Our mattress testers describe this bed as “durable and enjoyable to sleep on” and particularly good for spinal alignment. The coils’ zoned support should prevent the hips from sinking down, no matter your sleep position, keeping your lower back happy.
When they tested this bed’s motion isolation, they could feel the other person’s most significant movements but weren’t disturbed by smaller movements. It would be a good choice for two people who share the bed.
Even though it doesn’t have advanced cooling technology, the WinkBed does seem to keep things cool with its breathable cover, gel-infused foams, and innerspring coils for airflow.
The only complaint our mattress reviewers had about this bed was that the Luxury Firm model they tested was a bit firm for side sleepers or lightweight sleepers. That said, this bed has four firmness options, so if you have joint issues or weigh under 130 pounds, you might opt for the “Softer” model.
While WinkBeds still offers a competitive lifetime warranty, its 120-night sleep trial is shorter than other brands, and its $1,799 price tag is higher than average, though still far from the highest on this list.
See our full WinkBed mattress review to learn more. Or, check out the best luxury mattresses for more options.
Specs
| Price | $1,799 |
| Firmness | Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, Plus |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
Best innerspring mattress for stomach sleepers: Bear Elite Hybrid
Key product features
What you should know
Our sleep experts found that the Bear Elite Hybrid is the best innerspring mattress for stomach sleepers, specifically because it supports the hips when lying in this position. It also has several advanced cooling features, which provide additional comfort for all sleepers.
- This mattress is made with high-quality and durable materials.
- It uses CertiPUR-US® Certified Foams and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
- Our testers tried the Medium option, and it felt very well supported, yet it still felt soft.
- It’s an excellent option for hot sleepers and feels cool to the touch.
- Side sleepers may choose the soft option, and heavyweight sleepers may choose the firm option.
Why we like Bear Elite Hybrid as best for stomach sleepers
Even though most experts advise against stomach sleeping as it can be hard on the neck and spine, it’s the only comfortable way to sleep for some people. (6) If you sleep on your stomach, you need to be sure you’re sleeping on a mattress supporting your spine.
This means a mattress that elevates the hips enough to prevent them from dipping down. This keeps your spine in a comfortable, neutral alignment. You’ll also want a thinner, flatter pillow if you sleep on your stomach. (7)
Our sleep experts found that the Bear Elite Hybrid was comfortable and supportive in all sleep positions. That’s because it provides a unique combination of plushness and support. One reviewer said, “It felt like it provided body contouring, but I still felt on top of the mattress thanks to the coils.” Specifically, when lying on her stomach, she reported, “Even though the mattress felt soft, my hips didn’t sink into the material, and my body felt lifted the entire time.”
Another feature to consider for stomach sleepers is cooling, as lying on your stomach might tend to trap more heat. This bed has cooling features and then some. It includes copper-infused memory foam, Phase Change Material (PCM), and a bottom layer of breathable innerspring coils, which all create a bed that feels cool to the touch. You can even add the cooling Celliant cover if you sleep hot. It costs an extra $200.
The only real drawback to this mattress is its price. It costs $2,305 for a queen without the added Celliant cover, and this does not include white glove delivery, which is an additional $175. The relatively short 120-night sleep trial is another drawback, though Bear’s lifetime warranty should provide peace of mind.
For more insights, see our complete Bear Elite Hybrid mattress review. Or, view more of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers to find the right option for you.
Specs
| Price | $2,305 |
| Firmness | Soft, Medium, Firm |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
Best innerspring mattress for back pain: Saatva Classic
Key product features
What you should know
The Saatva Classic is an excellent choice for sleepers with back pain, no matter their preferred sleep position. It includes thoughtful details like Saatva’s patented Lumbar Zone® Technology to align the spine. Its top layer is a plush Euro-top, making for comfortable, luxurious sleep.
- Our mattress testers tried out the Luxury Firm model of this bed. It’s available in Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm.
- They found it felt plush and luxurious but still very supportive beneath the spine due to its zoned support. The zoned support helps prop up the lumbar area, mitigating back pain.
- Compared to other mattresses, Saatva Classic has a bouncy and springy feel. This makes it a great option for people with joint pain or mobility issues.
- At $2,095, the Saatva Classic is a pricey mattress, but its 365-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty provide additional value for shoppers.
Why we like Saatva Classic as best for back pain
Innerspring mattresses, in general, can be a great option for those with back pain since they offer more support than all-foam mattresses. The Saatva Classic, in particular, takes relieving back pain to a whole new level, though, as it has a stamp of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations. (8) As one of our testers said, “My back pain literally disappeared on this mattress.”
The Saatva Classic comes in three firmness options, though you should note that studies show medium-firm mattresses are best for those with back pain. (3) Medium firm (or “Luxury Firm” as Saatva calls it) is what our testers tried out, and they found it to be comfortably contouring, pressure-relieving, and very supportive for the spine.
It was too firm for side sleeping, so our sleep experts recommend the Plush version for side sleepers with shoulder or hip pain.
They also noted that this is a particularly bouncy mattress. This can be a great thing for those with mobility issues, sexually active couples, or combination sleepers; however, it may be disruptive for sensitive sleepers who share the bed.
At $2,095, the Saatva Classic is a pricier model. Still, it comes with Saatva’s lifetime warranty and a 365-night sleep trial, plus free in-home delivery, setup, and removal of your previous mattress. These all combine to make the price tag more easily digestible.
Check out our Saatva mattress review or the best mattresses for back pain to find more options.
Specs
| Price | $2,095 |
| Firmness | Medium (Plush Soft and Firm also available) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 365 nights |
Best cooling innerspring mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling
Key product features
What you should know
The Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress by Brooklyn Bedding earns our pick as the best cooling innerspring mattress because of its advanced features. It has breathable innerspring coils, a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover, and Copperflex™ foam.
- The GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover feels soft and cool to the touch.
- The Copperflex™ foam provides pressure relief like traditional memory foam but shouldn’t trap heat in the same way.
- For a softer feel, you can add the Cloud Pillow Top for an additional $400.
- While the sticker price of $1,865 ($2,265 with the pillow top) is expensive, expect to find frequent discounts.
- This bed comes in three firmness options.
Why we like Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling as best cooling
Innerspring mattresses already tend to sleep cooler than all-foam beds because the springs allow air to flow through the mattress. If you sleep especially hot, you may need an advanced cooling mattress.
As a matter of fact, a recent study shows that mattresses with advanced cooling technology can significantly shorten the amount of time required to fall asleep and improve the overall quality of sleep. (9)
While this study didn’t necessarily use Brooklyn Bedding’s Aurora Luxe Cooling mattress, it does include some excellent cooling features. It comes with Copperflex™ foam with cooling technology and a GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover. If you prefer a plush-feeling mattress, you can easily add the cooling Cloud Pillow Top for an additional $400.
Be aware that this is a pretty substantial mattress, measuring 13.25 inches tall, even without the added pillow top. Traditional sheets may need to be deeper to fit the bed, so specialty sheets will likely be required. And at 105 pounds, you’ll need somebody to help you set this mattress up, as there’s no white glove delivery option.
Many shoppers will appreciate that Brooklyn Bedding mattresses are made in the U.S.A. The Aurora Luxe Cooling’s affordable $1,865 price tag still affords a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty.
To discover more about this model, see our comprehensive Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress review. Or, read about additional cooling choices in our roundup of the best cooling mattresses.
Specs
| Price | $1,865 |
| Firmness | Soft, Medium, Firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 120 nights |
Best innerspring mattress for side sleepers: Nolah Evolution
Key product features
What you should know
Our mattress testers loved the Nolah Evolution and chose it as the best mattress for side sleepers, thanks to its ability to relieve pressure in the shoulder and hips. With its zoned support, it’s also an excellent fit for back and stomach sleepers.
- This mattress has zoned support in the coils and foam, helping to keep hips supported in any position. It also provides excellent pressure relief for those with joint pain.
- It includes advanced cooling technology and does feel cool to the touch.
- It’s a lot of mattress, measuring 15 inches and weighing 115 pounds for a Queen.
- The Nolah Evolution is expensive at $2,499, but you can expect to find frequent sales.
Why we like Nolah Evolution as best for side sleepers
Sleep experts typically recommend side sleeping over other sleep positions, as it’s easier on the airways, can prevent snoring and minor sleep apnea, and perhaps even aid in digestion. (10) If you’re sleeping on a mattress that’s too firm, though, side sleeping can cause a lot of pressure buildup in the shoulder or hip. That’s why side sleepers must opt for a slightly softer, more contouring mattress.
The Nolah Evolution is a great choice for this reason. Usually, mattresses are zoned for support only in the coil layer, but this one features Tri-Zone™ coils and zoned AirFoam™. This means it should provide extra support beneath the hips and lower back while providing excellent pressure relief beneath the shoulders. It also features advanced cooling technology, including heat-dissipating fabrics, breathable perforated foams, and their patented AirBreath™ border gusset, so you shouldn’t get too hot, no matter your preferred sleep position.
Our reviewers loved this bed, giving it a near-perfect score for its spinal alignment, motion isolation, edge support, pressure relief, cooling, and responsiveness. They describe it as a luxury hotel mattress, offering “perfect alignment for all sleep positions.”
The only drawbacks to this bed are its price tag—$2,499 for a Queen—and the fact that it may be too expensive for those who don’t really need its added features. It’s also worth considering that, at 15” thick, the Nolah Evolution may be too deep for traditional sheets or bed frames.
Check out more of the best mattresses for side sleepers to find the right pick for you.
Specs
| Price | $2,499 |
| Firmness | Plush, Luxury Firm, Firm |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Trial | 120 nights |
Best innerspring mattress for heavy people: Titan Mattress Plus
Key product features
What you should know
Our sleep experts found the Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding the best innerspring mattress for a heavy person because of its unique ability to support up to 1,000 pounds. This firm mattress is ideal for sleepers over 250 pounds. In addition to supporting a bigger frame, this bed also comes with advanced cooling technology for a comfortable night’s sleep.
- Our mattress testers rated the Titan Plus as “firm,” about a 7.5 out of 10.
- For sleepers who weigh over 250 pounds, it will have more give and feel slightly less firm.
- It’s ideal for stomach and back sleepers. It may be too firm for strict side sleepers.
- It includes gel-infused cooling foam, a woven knit top, and breathable coils for a cool night’s sleep.
- Those who sleep especially hot may want to upgrade to the GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover for an additional $150.
Why we like Titan Mattress Plus as best for heavy people
It can be hard for sleepers over 250 pounds to find a mattress that’s adequately comfortable and supportive. The Titan Plus by Brooklyn Bedding is designed explicitly for heavier sleepers and is made with durable, high-quality materials that shouldn’t sag over time.
This innerspring bed starts with a durable foam base. Above that is a layer of 900 individually wrapped coils specifically made to support heavier weights. They also provide excellent airflow through the mattress. Above the coils are two gel-infused foam layers to provide pressure relief, contouring, and thermal regulation. You can add the GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover if you sleep especially hot, though it costs an additional $150.
Our mattress testers found this bed to feel very firm, saying, “You can’t really press into the mattress. There is no sinkage at all.” It’s important to note that different body types will feel a bed’s firmness differently. The heavier the sleeper, the more they’ll press down into this mattress’s top layers.
That said, we wouldn’t recommend this bed for those under 250 pounds or anyone who is a strict side sleeper. That’s because it may feel too firm for those sleepers.
At $1,249, the Titan Plus is reasonably priced, considering its high-quality, longevity-minded features. It’s also made in the U.S.A. and offers a 120-night sleep trial and 10-year warranty.
Visit our full Titan mattress review for more insights. To view more options, check out our picks for the best mattresses for heavy people.
What customers are saying
Most of the reviews on Amazon for this mattress are positive, and overall, it has 4.5 out of 5 stars. Verified purchaser, “A. Marte” sums it up nicely when she says, “This is the best mattress I have ever slept on. My brother is tall and skinny, and he said the mattress was a bit too firm for him. However, when I slept in it, I noticed it was soft and conformed to my body… If you like a firm bed, sleep on your back or side and are on the larger side, get this bed.”
Negative reviews for this mattress tend to mention that it sags over time or feels too firm.
Specs
| Price | $1,249 |
| Firmness | Firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 120 nights |
Best firm innerspring mattress: Plank Mattress Firm Luxe
Key product features
What you should know
Our sleep experts found the Plank Firm mattress by Brooklyn Bedding is a great choice for stomach or back sleepers who love a very firm-feeling bed. This hybrid mattress can be flipped over, where one side is “Firmer” and the other “Firmest.”
- Brooklyn Bedding calls the Plank Firm Luxe the “firmest mattress on the market.”
- This bed is ideal for stomach and back sleepers but will be too firm for side sleepers.
- It has been Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA). (1)
- Unlike the original Plank Firm, the Luxe includes a layer of coils, making it more breathable and cooler.
- You can upgrade to the GlacioTex™ Cooling Cover for an additional $150.
Why we like Plank Mattress Firm Luxe as best firm
According to Brooklyn Bedding, the Plank Firm Luxe was inspired by Tatami mats, or thin mats placed on the floor for sleeping. Research shows that sleeping on the floor can have particular benefits for the back—to an extent. (11) Where floor sleeping tends to fail is supporting the lower back’s natural curve.
Fortunately, the Plank Firm Luxe addresses this issue by providing more than just firmness. It also includes targeted support beneath areas that tend to dip, like the hips, and high-density foams for comfort.
Rest assured, it’s still very firm. On one side of this flippable mattress, its firmness is about an 8 out of 10; on the other, it’s a 10 out of 10.
Back and stomach sleepers will get the most out of this mattress, whereas side sleepers will most likely feel uncomfortable with this level of firmness. Likewise, heavy and average-weight sleepers will probably feel the most supported on this mattress, whereas lightweight sleepers may not sink into it enough to feel comfortable.
If you think you’d appreciate an extremely firm mattress but you’re not sure, Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night free sleep trial. If it doesn’t work for you within that time, you can send it back for a full refund. At $1,532, the Plank Firm Luxe is a reasonably priced option, especially considering it’s basically two mattresses in one.
To learn more, read our full Plank mattress review. Or, see our article on the best firm mattresses for more options.
Specs
| Price | $1,532 |
| Firmness | Firm |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Trial | 120 nights |
How we test innerspring mattresses
Our mattress testing methodology relies on research and hands-on experience. Our team is composed of certified sleep science coaches, industry experts, and real-world consumers overseeing each stage of mattress testing, reviewing, and fact-checking. We start by testing each mattress and ranking it in several categories: performance, comfort and support, value, customer experience, and health and safety. From there, our team narrows things down to our top-ranking picks—in this case, our 10 best innerspring mattresses.
Read our full mattress testing methodology for more information.
Performance (sleep experience)—30%
A mattress is only as good as the quality of sleep it can deliver. Factors like body temperature and partner movements can disrupt sleep if they’re not mitigated, which is why we evaluate mattresses on the following:
- Temperature regulation
- Motion isolation
- Edge support
- Technology
Comfort and support—30%
This category makes all the difference between a healthy night’s sleep and a restless one. To provide relief for aches and pains and prevent new ones from popping up, we test mattresses for the following factors:
- Firmness
- Pressure relief
- Spinal alignment support
- Customization
Value—20%
Value is more than just a price tag. Quality materials, trustworthy warranties, and white-glove delivery can make a higher-priced mattress more worth your money than a lower-end one. We holistically assess mattresses across a variety of metrics to arrive at a full picture of their value.
Customer experience—10%
Even if you love the mattress you buy, experiences like frustrating customer service, slow shipping, and a too-fast sleep trial can leave you feeling helpless. We position ourselves as consumers navigating the purchasing process to determine any weak spots in customer experience, so you don’t have to.
- Shipping
- Warranty
- Customer service
- Sleep trial
Health and safety—10%
When you spend a significant portion of your life sleeping, the surface you sleep on had better be a net positive for your health. We assess safety-focused aspects of each mattress so you can sleep soundly, knowing you’ve chosen the right one for your well-being.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Hypoallergenic materials
- Off-gassing and chemical exposure
- Safety certifications
What is an innerspring mattress?
An innerspring mattress is any mattress that includes a metal coil support system. These coils can be “open coils,” which means they are interconnected hourglass-shaped coils. These are more typical in older, traditional innerspring mattresses. (13)
Or they can be “pocketed” coils individually wrapped in fabric. These coils provide better motion isolation and pressure relief and are more commonly found in newer innerspring or hybrid mattresses.
Hybrid mattresses are a type of innerspring mattress. Unlike traditional innerspring, which do not have top comfort layers, hybrids usually have multiple layers of foam on top for pressure relief. They’re called hybrids because they combine innerspring coils with memory foam or latex.
View our article to read about all mattress types.
Benefits of innerspring mattresses
Innerspring mattresses tend to provide more spinal support, bounce, and responsiveness than all-memory foam mattresses do. They also sleep cooler than all-foam beds because the coils allow for more breathability.
Heavyweight sleepers and those with mobility issues will likely do better with an innerspring bed, as it provides a buoyancy that’s hard (if not impossible) to find in an all-foam mattress.
Who should try an innerspring mattress?
Sleepers of all body types and positions can benefit from innerspring mattresses, as they come in many firmness levels and have various features. That said, certain people do need an innerspring bed:
- Heavyweight sleepers: Innerspring beds provide more support than all-foam mattresses.
- People with mobility issues: The responsiveness in these beds makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
- Those who sleep uncomfortably hot: The coils allow for better airflow, keeping the mattress cooler.
- Sleepers with back pain: Sleepers with back pain should look for innerspring mattresses with zoned support to help relieve pressure in their lower back.
- Stomach and back sleepers: Stomach and back sleepers will benefit from the extra support of an innerspring mattress.
- Couples who have an active sex life: The bounce in these beds can be preferable for sexually active couples.
- Combination sleepers: These beds are more responsive, making it easier to change positions throughout the night.
How to choose the best innerspring mattress for you
The first thing to consider when choosing an innerspring mattress is your preferred level of firmness. Typically, sleepers who are lightweight or sleep primarily on their sides should opt for a softer mattress with more cushion, and sleepers who are heavier or sleep primarily on their stomachs and backs need a firmer bed.
You’ll also want to consider whether you need certain “extras” in your mattress. For example, if you sleep hot, you might want an innerspring mattress with additional cooling features like copper-infused foams or a cooling cover. If you have a bad back, you should look for a mattress with zoned coils for support. If buying eco-friendly is your priority, look for an innerspring bed with recycled steel coils and natural materials like wool or cotton. Talalay latex mattresses are significantly gaining popularity among eco-conscious shoppers.
Of course, you’ll need to consider your budget. Hybrid beds tend to be more expensive than all-foam or “old school” innerspring mattresses, but if you buy online, you’re more likely to encounter slashed prices and frequent sales. We’ve researched the best time to buy a mattress to identify when to shop online.
Check out our article on how to choose a mattress for more information.
FAQs
Is an innerspring mattress good for back pain?
Innerspring mattresses can be great for back pain—particularly more modern hybrid beds. Hybrid beds have a layer of individually wrapped steel coils and several layers of foam. The benefit of these coils is that they better distribute your weight. This, plus the top layers of foam, make for a bed that supports proper spinal alignment, potentially decreasing back pain.
What is the best innerspring mattress for purchase?
The best innerspring mattress for you will depend on your body weight, sleep position, and personal preference. However, a medium-firm hybrid mattress should generally work well for most people. We love the Helix Midnight Luxe for a variety of sleepers.
How long do innerspring mattresses last?
Most innerspring mattresses should last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. (12) This is why many innerspring and hybrid mattress manufacturers offer a warranty of at least 10 years.
How much do innerspring mattresses cost?
Nowadays, most innerspring and hybrid mattresses cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on the materials used and their included features.
Our experts
Heidi Moawad, MD
Dr. Heidi Moawad is a neurologist and teaches at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. She serves on the editorial board of Neurology Clinical Practice and is a reviewer for Neurology. Education: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, MD Certifications: Board of Medical Examiners Professional Accomplishments: Associate editor, Neurology, Humanities section, Past editor-in-chief of Neurology Times Affiliations: American Academy of Neurology (AAN).
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Natalie Grigson
Fortune Recommends Sleep Writer
About Author
Natalie is a writer for Fortune Recommends with a deep passion for all things health and a fascination with the mysterious activity that is sleep. Outside of writing about sleep, she is a bestselling author, improviser, and creative writing teacher based out of Austin.