Best Online Mattress (2024): Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

In case you haven’t noticed, online mattress brands are having a bit of a moment currently. It may seem like common sense to test out a bed in the showroom before you take it home, but did you know that most people get it wrong when they shop this way?

Buying a mattress online is becoming popular due to the cost savings and added convenience. In this article, we put online mattress shopping head to head with shopping at physical stores, such as Mattress Firm or Sleepy’s. See what comes out on top.

Best Online Mattresses of 2024

Brand	Model	Highlights	Price (Queen)
	Amerisleep AS3	Three inches of pressure-relieving Bio-Pur® foam and clinically-proven zoned support.	$1399
	Zoma Mattress	Gel-infused memory foam to keep you cool and comfortable	$799
	Vaya Mattress	Simple two-layer design accommodates most sleepers and body types	$599
	Nolah	Flippable all-foam mattress for customized comfort.	$1019
	Avocado	An eco-friendly latex mattress with great bounce and support.	$1349
	Purple.4 Hybrid Premier	Four inches of pressure-relieving hyper-elastic polymer	$2999
	Bear Pro	Uses copper-infused and gel-infused foams to help keep you cool.	$1090

Below, we talk about some of our favorite online mattresses at the moment. These beds aren’t sold exclusively online, but they can all be bought on their respective brand’s website or Amazon. Plus, each of these beds comes with a long sleep trial and warranty, two important things when shopping online. Now, let’s dive in!

The AS3 features three inches of breathable memory foam as the top layer. This top layer is excellent for providing pressure relief and reducing tossing and turning. Because this foam is partially plant-based, it is also more responsive, so sleepers never feel “stuck” in this mattress.

Beneath the three inches of memory foam, there is a transition layer of poly-foam. This foam, called the Affinity layer, is more responsive and helps give the mattress some of its bounce. Beneath the two inches of the Affinity layer, Amerisleep has a sturdy, 7-inch core. This support increases durability and helps maintain the integrity of the mattress.

Like all Amerisleep mattresses, the AS3 comes with free shipping, a 100-night trial, and a 20-year warranty. When purchasing the AS3 with the Amerisleep Adjustable Bed+, you can save up to $1500 on the bundle. Plus, this package includes white glove delivery.

The top layer of the Zoma features a gel memory foam with Triangulex™ technology. This layer has triangle-shaped cutouts on its surface. Near the hips and lower back, these cutouts offer more compression to relieve pressure. Around the head and feet, cutouts provide more support and stability.

Beneath the comfort layer, Zoma includes their Reactiv™ foam. This layer latex-like response which contours to the body and keeps the torso lifted for proper alignment. Plus, Reactiv™ helps to reduce motion transfer so you won’t be disturbed if your spouse changes positions during the night. The base of Zoma features Support+ foam. This layer helps maintain the shape of the bed and prevents sagging.

Zoma offers a 100-night sleep trial period with each sale, as well as free shipping and free returns. If you decide the mattress is not right for you after a month, Zoma will offer a full refund.

A 10-year warranty also backs the Zoma Mattress. This warranty covers any significant sagging and manufacturing defects.

Even better? The Vaya still comes with a 100-night sleep trial and an industry-standard 10-year warranty, as all high-quality mattresses should.

Vaya is a medium mattress and recommended for side, combination, and back sleepers. Some stomach sleepers may find comfort on the Vaya, but Vaya is not designed to accommodate stomach sleeping.

Despite its affordable price, the Vaya can truly deliver a better night’s sleep. The first layer is 3 inches of cushioning, pressure-relieving Vaya foam designed to adapt to your every movement and isolate motion. Its 3-inch thickness is perfect for cushioning the shoulders and hips, and its responsiveness prevents uncomfortable sinkage and promotes healthy alignment.

The core of the Vaya is sturdy poly-foam in place to provide structural support and prevent sagging. Its simple two-layer design is comfortable and long-lasting. Plus, even if your bed develops visible indentations, Vaya has you covered with their warranty protecting you from sags as little as an inch deep.

4. Nolah Signature 12″

The mattress firmness that’s right for you depends on your sleep position. With the Nolah Signature 12-inch, you have two different firmness options. The medium-soft side is perfect for side sleepers who need more cushioning around the shoulders and hips. Or, you can flip the mattress to the medium-firm side, which is suitable for back sleepers and stomach sleepers who need more stability.

Both sides of the Nolah Signature feature their proprietary AirFoam™ memory foam. This material offers more breathability than traditional memory foam. Plus, its quick response ensures you never feel stuck.

On the medium-soft side, 2.5 inches of AirFoam™ contours to the body to relieve pressure and alleviate tension. Since soft mattresses tend to sink, Nolah includes a 1.5-inch latex-like layer beneath this soft foam. This transition layer keeps the hips lifted to ensure spinal alignment, so you wake with fewer aches and pains.

The medium-firm side features 1 inch of AirFoam™ and provides back sleepers with a slightly firmer feel. This comfort level evenly distributes body weight, and lifts the  hips in line with the rest of the body.

In the middle of the mattress is 7 inches of high-density poly-foam. This layer supports both sides and helps the mattress maintain its structure. No matter the comfort level you choose, this durable foam will keep you supported and comfortable.

The Nolah Signature can pair with many popular bed frames, including slatted and adjustable bases. Each Nolah mattress comes with a 120-night sleep trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping.

SEE ALSO: The Best Place to Buy a Mattress & In-Store Myths

5. Avocado Green Mattress

For those looking for an organic mattress, the Avocado Green is a great choice. This bed contains only the most eco-friendly materials—including organic cotton, wool, and latex foam.

The cover of the Avocado Green is soft, GOTS organic cotton and wool. Instead of relying on harmful chemicals for fire protection, Avocado Green uses organic wool. There are also no toxic adhesives in this mattress. Rather than using chemical glues, Avocado hand-tufts each layer. Not only does this create a safer, less toxic sleep surface, but it also increases the durability of the bed.

The top layer of this mattress features 3 inches of GOLS certified organic latex that molds to the body for pressure-free support. With the standard 11 inch model, this mattress has a luxury firm feel, which is most suitable for back sleepers. If you are a side sleeper, you can add Avocado’s European style pillow-top. This addition gives the bed a total of 5 inches of plush latex foam and creates a softer surface, more suited to side sleeping.

Beneath the comfort layer is a base of innerspring coils. This support layer features 1,414 individually tuned steel coils that are arranged in 5 ergonomic zones. These zones float independently to reduce motion transfer and mold to the curves of the body more effectively.

Avocado Green offers a 25-year limited warranty. After the first 10 years, the cost of the repairs is protracted—meaning the customer pays a portion of the cost.

To make sure that bed is right for you, Avocado offers a 1-year risk-free trial period.

SEE ALSO: Most Comfortable Mattress

6. Purple® .4 Hybrid Premier

Purple® is known for its unique pressure relieving grid. In the Purple® Hybrid Premier, sleepers can choose between 3 inches or 4 inches of the Purple® Grid. For side sleepers and heavy sleepers, we recommend the 4-inch model. This thickness gives the bed a medium comfort level that keeps pressure points cushioned and prevents sinking.

The Purple Grid™ is made of a Hyper-Elastic Polymer™ that molds to the body like a glove. No matter how light or intense the pressure is, this bed contours for instant tension relief. The elasticity of the grid ensures the heaviest parts of the body are lifted, and the spine aligned.

The Purple Grid™ also has thousands of open-air channels to push body heat out through the sides of the mattress so that you can sleep cool and undisturbed. Purples®’s Softflex™ Cover features a soft, stretch knit fabric that increases airflow and allows sleepers to feel the supportive grid beneath.

Beneath the grid is 7.5 inches of Purple® proprietary Responsive Support Coils. This base features individually wrapped spring coils to provide the ideal support to each area of the body. These coils also improve breathability and prevent premature sagging. With reinforced edge support, this base also helps reduce motion transfer.

Each Purple mattress comes with a 10-year warranty to protect your investment. Plus, Purple® includes a 100-night sleep trial, free shipping, and free returns.

7. Bear Pro

The Bear Pro Mattress is designed to promote a cooler night’s sleep. This mattress features two different layers that dissipate body heat, so you never have to worry about overheating. The medium-firm comfort level is suitable for back sleepers and side sleepers who prefer a firmer feel.

The cover of the Bear Pro is woven with Celliant® fibers. This material contains thermoreactive minerals that turn body heat into infrared energy. When absorbed by the body, this energy promotes local circulation to speed up muscle recovery. Plus, Celliant® helps to wick heat and moisture away from the body, keeping you cool throughout the night.

Beneath this cover is a layer of Bear’s copper-infused memory foam. Copper is a natural heat conductor, antimicrobial, and antibacterial, so the top layer of the mattress remains cool and germ-free. Following this foam is a layer of gel memory foam. The cooling gel in this foam pulls heat from the surface of the bed to add even more breathability.

A latex-like transition foam lies beneath these two memory foam layers. This foam ensures the heaviest parts of the body don’t sink too far into the bed. When the torso is lifted, the spine can remain neutral and the body can relax. Following this layer is a support base of high-density poly-foam. This supportive foam provides durability and structure to the mattress.

Bear offers a 10-year warranty to protect against manufacturing defects. They also include a 100-night sleep trial, free shipping, and free returns.

SEE ALSO: Mattress Sizes and Dimensions Guide

Making the Best Mattress Selection

The biggest difference between buying a mattress online versus in mattress store is the ability to lay on the bed first. It might even sound counterintuitive to consider buying a bed without at least laying on it for a few moments.

But, studies show that we do a terrible job choosing the right fit this way. RTI, a non-profit research organization, found that participants chose the best mattress only 38 percent of the time when in-store.

The study asked participants to select their preferred mattress in-store. Then, they embarked on a one-month trial of their choice. Sleep quality measures included participant sleep diaries, as well as sensors recording movement.

When the test concluded, there were no indicators showing participants’ initial mattress selection provided better sleep. Researchers found that standard showroom selections didn’t lead individuals to the best choice. In fact, they tended to choose worse than if they would have selected one randomly!

People tended to rate memory foam the highest. Those who purchased memory foam beds in-store reported an 81 percent satisfaction rate. Those who bought their memory foam bed online reported a 79 percent satisfaction rating—not a huge difference.

Mattress Types

The type of bed you rest on should accommodate your comfort preferences and sleeping position. Below, we break down the materials and layers of the four most common mattress types.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses have become popular in recent years because of their ability to relieve muscle tension and back pain. Memory foam contours to the body to ensure that each curve is supported and cushioned. This contouring helps you experience weightless sleep. Memory foam is also highly responsive and it forms closely to the body, both of which prevent sinking. This feature keeps the torso lifted and the spine in alignment.

Memory foam is available in different firmness levels, so these beds are suitable for various sleep positions and body types. Side sleepers tend to prefer a soft memory foam bed because it can cushion pressure points and support the body at the same time.

Memory foam is a popular material for online mattresses because it is also easily compressed. The flexibility of this foam allows companies to roll the bed and ship it straight to your door.

The two complaints against memory foam are heat retention and the “new mattress” smell these beds tend to omit (called “off-gassing”). More advanced mattress companies have found ways to correct both of these issues.

Memory foam can be infused with cooling gel, graphite, or copper to combat heat retention. The gel-infused foam absorbs heat and pulls it away from the surface of the bed. Graphite and copper are natural minerals that naturally dissipate heat. Plant-based memory foam also has more breathable than traditional foam, creating a light, airy surface.

To reduce the chemical odor of memory foam, companies use safer manufacturing methods. As you shop, look for those with a low VOC certification from GreenGuard® or CertiPUR-US®.

In terms of price, memory foam mattresses vary considerably. Those with foam layers made primarily of cheaper materials, such as poly-foam, tend to be less expensive. Those with cooling features and thicker layers of foam may have a higher price.

Latex

Latex is a highly sustainable material because rubber trees are not cut down during harvesting. Instead, they are tapped so that the same tree can be harvested for many years. This eco-friendly process makes this material a popular choice for those looking for a “greener” mattress. Like memory foam, latex foam is easily compressed and can be shipped to your home.

If you suffer from allergies, natural latex is ideal. This material is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial. The elasticity of latex also makes these beds extremely durable—most latex mattresses last between 12 to 14 years.

Latex foam is available in two types—Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop Latex has a firmer feel and is often used as a transition layer or a support layer. Talalay Latex is softer because it contains polyurethane fillers that can give it more flexibility. Talalay’s softness makes it more suitable for the top layer of the mattress.

Both of these latex foams offer contouring and pressure relief similar to memory foam. However, latex foam tends to be firmer and may not mold to the body as closely as memory foam. This comfort level will be best for back sleepers and side sleepers who prefer a firm mattress.

Some foam beds may include a layer of latex foam as a transition layer to add bounce to the mattresses.

Latex foam mattresses tend to cost more than memory foam beds. If the latex foam is certified organic, these beds could cost upwards of $2000 for a queen mattress.

Innerspring

For many years, innerspring mattresses were the most comfortable and supportive style available. However, these beds are quickly falling out of favor as sleepers switch to more advanced foam mattresses, such as memory and latex foam. Also, coil beds are not easily compressed into a box, so these beds are not readily available with most online companies.

As their name suggests, these beds primarily feature innerspring coils. The comfort layer is usually cotton or wool. Some coil mattresses may have a thicker pillow top for added comfort.

Innersprings offer a slight bounce that can help sleepers feel lifted on the bed. However, these mattresses don’t provide the same body contouring as a foam bed. Coil springs tend to bend, so these mattresses may sag or develop indentations quickly. Most innerspring beds only last between 5 and 6 years.

Innerspring beds have a lower price point. Added pillow tops or foam toppers can increase the price.

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses feature both a foam comfort layer and a base of spring coils. If you want the bounce of a coil mattress and the pressure relief of foam, a hybrid mattress is an excellent middle ground.

The foam layer on a hybrid is typically made of memory foam or latex foam and must be at least 2 to 3 inches thick. The spring coil base of a hybrid is often made of pocketed spring coils. Since these coils move independently, they can accommodate the curves of the body better and help reduce motion transfer. Plus, pocketed spring coils do not sag or bend as quickly as traditional innerspring coils.

The firmness of a hybrid mattress can vary. Some may have a plush comfort layer more suitable to side sleeping, while others may have a firmer feel ideal of back and stomach sleeping.

Hybrid mattresses are more expensive than memory foam mattresses. However, many couples find the motion isolation of a hybrid well worth the extra cost.

Price and Savings

Online retailers typically cut out the middleman by producing their own brands. Running a website also entails less overhead in terms of office space and staff needs. Additionally, if you order from an out of state e-tailer, you usually forgo the state sales tax, saving another 7 percent.

Online mattress brands must ship their products, which they usually include in the price. Retail outlets often tack on the delivery price at the end—one more hidden cost. Returns also seem more likely to come with significant fees from showrooms and local shops.

In-store, you may be expected to negotiate a better price to chip away at the tremendous markup. Online, the list price is generally what you will pay. Websites face much more competition, encouraging more straightforward tactics. People who prefer not to haggle may find this more comfortable.

All brands generally offer sales and specials during popular holidays. So, be sure to check both online and store options for promotions, sales, or price matching. Some of the best times to buy a mattress include:

• Presidents Day Mattress Sales
• Memorial Day Mattress Sales
• 4th of July Mattress Sales
• Labor Day Mattress Sales
• Columbus Day Mattress Sales
• Black Friday Mattress Sales
• Cyber Monday Mattress Sales

Are Online Mattresses High Quality?

The question of value proves essential when shopping for mattresses. In some cases, mattresses sold online yield better specifications and materials. Strong materials create a more durable and longer-lasting product.

Big retailers carry more well-known brands with hefty price tags. But, only online comparison-shopping between companies will show you if there is value in the additional price. A $3000 mattress doesn’t always mean it is superior to a $1000 bed. A larger price may mean bigger advertising budgets to help boost brand recognition.

You could end up paying three times as much buying a mattress in-store.

Another issue for many shoppers is the difficulty when comparing two stores. Some brands provide major stores with “unique” and “exclusive” lines designed to make price-matching harder. The purpose behind this is to charge more.

Comparing the materials and customer reviews of each brand on a consumer website is also helpful.

A Guide to Online Mattress Shopping

To help you decide between in-store and online mattress shopping, we have outlined a few more factors to keep in mind. The availability of different models and the knowledge of the sales associate can all play a role in your decision. Therefore, it is best to consider every possibility before beginning the selection process.

Selection and Availability

Mattress stores face limitations of showroom size as well as brand constraints. Retailers often sign exclusivity agreements restricting the brands and styles they carry. And due to the finite space, they can only show you a few of the models available.

Your options also depend on the types of stores nearby. In some markets, all local stores may be owned by Mattress Firm, even if the name on the door varies.

When you shop online, only the number of websites you visit restricts your selection. Start by paring down the enormous marketplace to the essential factors—price, firmness, or materials. Then check customer reviews and comparison sites to narrow down your best options.

Flexibility and Convenience

Experts recommend spending at least 20 minutes lying on a model in a showroom to see how it measures up to your personal preferences. If you plan on testing more than three mattresses, you’d better prepare to spend a few hours lounging around at your local mattress store.

Most consumers would likely prefer to spend closer to 20 minutes total selecting a bed in a retail store, instead of spending 20 minutes with every mattress. It can be an awkward experience trying to relax on a bed while customers and salespeople hover over you.

Retail shopping, sales pressure, feeling rushed, or not having enough information all may lead to buyer’s regret. Not to mention, it’s not exactly most people’s idea of a fun time!

Online, you can browse at your convenience any time of day. You don’t need to spend your day driving from store to store when websites are accessible from anywhere.

Another perk? Most internet brands allow you to test out your bed at home for a few months. This time frame proves a much better test of sleep suitability than a quick showroom nap.

Low Prices

Online mattress companies offer some of the lowest prices you’ll find, even on high-end luxury mattresses. These lower prices are largely due to the fact that online companies keep costs down by not maintaining a physical storefront.

Online mattress brands also follow the typical schedule of mattress sales that re-occur throughout the year.

• Presidents Day Mattress Sales
• Memorial Day Mattress Sales
• 4th of July Mattress Sales
• Labor Day Mattress Sales
• Columbus Day Mattress Sales
• Black Friday Mattress Sales
• Cyber Monday Mattress Sales

Informed Choices

Unfortunately, no magical choice out there proves perfect for everyone. Beds remain a personalized product, with different firmness levels preferred by different people. This can make it particularly difficult to find a mattress for couples, although even just shopping with your preferences in mind can be challenging.

Spending 20 minutes testing a bed isn’t enough for most people. At the end of the shopping experience, ask yourself the following questions:

• Did the salesperson guide you to the bed that seems best for your needs?

• Did they provide detailed, complete information to enable your comparison shopping efforts?

Narrowing down your choices gets easier with a few simple tips:

• First, take a look at some online mattress reviews and comparison consumer websites to find choices that pique your interest.

• Next, learn about specifications and how to compare the types you plan on shopping for. For example, know how dense the memory foam is or how many coils the innerspring has, and understand what those qualities mean for your sleep quality. By researching online, you avoid high-pressure sales tactics that trick rather than inform you.

• Think about what you like and dislike about your current bed. If you sleep particularly well at a hotel or friend’s house, maybe that type, brand, or firmness level offers a good starting point.

• Always take a detailed look at beds and be wary of brands that will not provide you with a basic level of information about their products.

Sales Assistance

Some salespeople have a wealth of information to guide you to better sleep. Some have an arsenal of jargon that sounds great, but what does it really mean? Others may have more interest in lining their pockets with a commission than getting you a great sleep.

When listening to a salesperson, try to distinguish between jargon and useful information. One industry trick includes trademarking names of each layer, so these materials can sound like exclusive high-tech innovations.

Get salespeople to help you compare products. Then, you can conduct your own research online, where you can process the information without the pressure of a salesperson.

One downside to shopping online may be an absence of salespeople to answer questions you may have. However, most reputable websites offer live chat with real people as well as an easily accessible customer service rep during business hours.

Sales assistance is a personal preference. Whether you like a little help or prefer to educate yourself, be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and meaningless jargon. Ask questions, and prepare to walk out if you feel forced or fooled.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are online mattresses delivered?

Online shopping revolves around delivery. Some mattresses now come compressed and vacuum-sealed, so maneuverability and set up prove easy. Most online mattress in a boxes arrive via FedEx or UPS, so you know what to expect in terms of drop off.

One downside to online delivery is setup and removal of old mattresses may not be available. Check with your waste management company to see if they charge extra for hauling away beds, or find out if recycling stations are in your area.

Beds bought in-store are usually delivered via their fleet or through a contractor who will help you set up your bed and remove your old one. This process is often an added cost, and you have to be home during the scheduled delivery time. Local shops are more likely to take your old bed away (usually a separate fee).

Can you return an online mattress?

Online retailers know they must gain your trust, as you usually have not physically tested the product beforehand. To compensate, many offer exceptional return policies of around 90 days on average.

Consider it a 90-day in-home trial instead of showroom testing. Returns are usually free, but you might need to arrange FedEx or UPS pick-up. Some may accept local donations instead of returns.

Brick and mortar stores offer much shorter return times and complex return policies. You may find yourself paying for a separate delivery and return fees. Check the return policy for terms like “resellable  condition only.” If you slept on your mattress at all, it might be unfit for resale and thus non-returnable.

When purchasing a mattress on Amazon, be sure you are going through an authorized dealer. When purchasing from a third-party seller, return policies and sleep trials may not apply.

Check the specifics of your return policy, whether online and in-store, as this varies significantly depending on the product and manufacturer. Generally, it’s best not to remove any tags, to keep the packaging, and to use a water-resistant mattress protector.

What is the best online mattress to buy?

The “best” mattress for you will depend on your sleeping position and other sleep needs. If you are a side sleeper, a soft to medium comfort level will cushion pressure points and support the body.

Back sleepers will find a medium-firm to firm mattress most comfortable. This firmness will keep body weight evenly distributed and prevent the torso from sinking. When the torso is in line with the shoulders, the spine will remain neutral to relieve muscle tension.

Resting on your stomach forces the spine to curve unnaturally—putting pressure on the upper back and neck. A firm mattress will keep the hips lifted to lessen the curve to reduce stress on the neck.

As you shop for a new mattress online, be sure to keep your sleep position in mind when considering firmness.

What are the standard mattress sizes?

In the United States, mattress sizing is relatively standard. Most companies offer twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king size mattresses. Queen size mattresses tend to be the most popular because this size is suitable for couples and solo sleepers.

Do online mattresses come with a warranty?

Yes. Most reputable online mattress companies offer a warranty to cover manufacturing defects. The mattress industry standard is a 10-year warranty. If a company doesn’t provide a 10-year warranty, it is best to look elsewhere.

Conclusion

The primary reason to buy in a store is to be able to test the product beforehand. But, studies have shown that testing beds in a retail setting do not reliably lead to the best choice.

When considering value, convenience, and return policies, online mattress shopping is far superior to in-store shopping. It’s no wonder so many internet-based brands continue gaining popularity.

Online, you can make informed choices without the pressure of a salesperson. Online, there are no crazy markups or overheads, so you can get a high-quality mattress for a good price. The generous return periods of mattress in a box brands ensure you are pleased with the product, which is the ultimate goal when buying a new bed.