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Charleston Mattress Reviews

Charleston Mattress has been on my radar for a while, partly because this brand builds everything locally and sells straight from its own showroom and site. From the perspective of a reviewer who lives inside mattresses for weeks at a time, that kind of direct model usually means clearer design choices and fewer gimmicks. I wanted to see whether these beds actually felt dialed-in for real people or just nicely photographed boxes on a website. 

For this review cycle, I pulled in the same core testing crew. I handle the planning and final scoring, with my combination-sleeping body and slightly cranky lower back acting as the baseline. Marcus brings a heavier, warm-sleeping frame that stresses support systems in a way my body simply does not. Jenna and Ethan join the party as our resident couple, with her motion sensitivity and his restless turning creating chaos on purpose. Under these circumstances, this kind of team shows every weak seam in a mattress very quickly.

Our workflow with these Charleston models followed a familiar pattern but with some tweaks for the thicker hybrids and pillowtop builds. We rotated each mattress through several bedrooms, logged overnight data with pressure maps and surface temperature checks, and wrote notes half awake in the mornings. I kept circling back to one question in my head during the whole stretch: which of these Charleston Mattress options would I actually keep in my own house, and which ones land better for very specific sleepers instead.

Product Overview

Mattress Pros Cons Ideal For Price (Queen, approx.) Overall Score
Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid – “Charleston Cooling Hybrid Anchor” Strong support, tall profile, good cooling, solid edges Higher price, a bit firm for very light side sleepers Average-to-heavy sleepers, combo sleepers, hot sleepers $1,030 4.4 / 5.0
Harbor 11" Latex Mattress – “Charleston Responsive Latex Flagship” Buoyant feel, quick response, great airflow, high durability feel Pricey, less motion isolation than deep foam Active sleepers, hot sleepers, folks who dislike slow memory foam $1,530 4.5 / 5.0
Jasper 14" Memory Foam Mattress – “Charleston Deep-Cuddle Memory Foam Pick” Strong pressure relief, excellent motion isolation, thick foam stack Runs warmer, slower response, softer edges Side sleepers, couples who hate bounce, lighter and average weights $1,010 4.2 / 5.0
Beaufain Plush 13" Plush Mattress – “Charleston Budget Plush Hybrid Choice” Comfortable plush top, decent support, approachable price Less robust for heavy bodies, modest edge strength Guest rooms, lighter or average sleepers who like softness $740 4.0 / 5.0
South of Broad 14" Pillowtop Mattress – “Charleston Classic Pillowtop Value” Traditional pillowtop feel, very cushy surface, strong value pricing Softer support core, less durable feel near edges Shoppers wanting a soft, hotel-style feel at lower price $580 3.9 / 5.0

Testing Team Takeaways

Chris’s View

During the first pass, I kept hopping between the Atlantic hybrid and the Jasper foam model, trying to decide which one treated my lower back with more respect. On the Atlantic, my spine felt stacked when I rolled from back to side; the coils pushed up under my hips while the top foam layers let my shoulders dip just enough. After two long laptop nights propped on pillows, I noticed my lumbar area still felt supported instead of sagged. On the Jasper, the contouring locked in more deeply, which gave me that “sinking into a calm ditch” feeling Mia usually chases, but my lower back wanted a little extra push during back sleeping. From my point of view, the Atlantic and Harbor handle alignment best over an entire workweek, while the Jasper feels like a specialist for pressure relief.

Marcus’s View

Marcus took one look at the South of Broad pillowtop and said “this one is either my nap throne or my enemy.” His 230-pound frame exposed weaknesses quickly. On the pillowtop, his hips drifted down when he rolled onto his stomach after a long day, which made him mutter about that “hammock thing I hate.” Once he switched to the Atlantic, his language changed; he kept talking about “reset support in the morning” and pointed out how the zoned-feeling coils stopped his midsection from dipping. Under warm-sleeping conditions, he reported fewer sweats on the Harbor latex as well, since the surface never hugged too tightly around his torso. From his perspective, heavier bodies will find the Harbor and Atlantic safer long-term than the softer Beaufain Plush or South of Broad builds.

Jenna’s View

Jenna cares less about coil gauge or foam density and more about what Ethan does at 2 a.m. She kept dragging Ethan into the Jasper and Beaufain Plush for couple tests. During those nights, every bathroom trip Ethan made turned into data for her motion-transfer notes. On the Jasper, she described the feel as “like he’s turning in the next room, not next to me.” On the Beaufain Plush, she still felt movement, but the amplitude stayed low enough that she rolled back to sleep easily. Edge use told a slightly different story when they spread out on the softer models; Jenna noticed that the South of Broad started to slope under her when she hovered near the perimeter. In her view, the Atlantic and Jasper balance couple comfort better since they keep more structure around the sides.

Ethan’s View

Ethan treats a mattress like a small track, constantly rolling, pulling a knee up, then flipping back. During his nights on the Harbor latex, he grinned over breakfast and said “that bed lets me turn without thinking about it.” The surface pushed back quickly under his shoulders and hips, so he never felt trapped in one contour. On the Jasper, his tune changed slightly; he appreciated the side-sleep start each evening but mentioned a touch of “too squishy under my shoulders when I roll fast.” While testing the Atlantic hybrid, he commented on how the surface gave him a clear pivot point for turning, with a moderate bounce that still kept Jenna mostly undisturbed. From Ethan’s restless perspective, Harbor ranks first for responsiveness, with Atlantic close behind and Jasper coming in as the cozy but stickier option.

Charleston Mattress Comparison Chart

Mattress Firmness (our feel) Height Core Materials Surface Feel Cooling Performance Support (our feel) Pressure Relief Responsiveness Motion Isolation Durability Potential Notes
Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid Medium-firm 15" Foam comfort + hybrid support core with coils Balanced, slightly buoyant Strong, thanks to airflow through coils Strong for average and heavy bodies High, especially for side-back combos Quick enough for combo sleepers Good, some bounce remains High, thicker build and coil system Feels like the all-rounder of the lineup
Harbor 11" Latex Mattress Medium 11" Latex comfort over supportive core Buoyant, very responsive Very strong, latex and airflow shine Very strong, keeps spine stacked High, especially for pressure-sensitive joints Very quick, almost springy Moderate, more motion than deep foam Very high, latex usually ages well Great fit for active sleepers and hot sleepers
Jasper 14" Memory Foam Mattress Medium-plush 14" Stacked memory foam layers Deeply contouring, slow response Moderate, some warmth buildup Good for light and average weights Very high, strong shoulder and hip cradling Slow, classic memory foam feel Very high, motion barely travels High, dense foam feel Best for people who love the classic memory foam hug
Beaufain Plush 13" Plush Mattress Medium-plush 13" Plush foam over support core Soft initial sink with mild bounce Decent, average airflow Moderate, less ideal for heavy bodies High for lighter and average sleepers Moderate, easier to move than Jasper Good, some partner movement felt Moderate, more mid-range build Strong guest-room choice and budget plush option
South of Broad 14" Pillowtop Mattress Medium-soft 14" Pillowtop foam over support core Very cushy, fluffy top Moderate, deeper hug traps a bit more warmth Moderate, can feel soft under heavy hips High for lighter side sleepers Moderate-fast, with cushy give Fair, pillowtop jiggle noticeable Moderate, edges feel softer over time Classic soft pillowtop feel at value pricing

What We Tested and How We Tested It

For this round of Charleston mattress reviews, we leaned on a consistent scoring system, then layered subjective notes on top. I kept a shared spreadsheet open for the whole crew and asked for numeric ratings after at least four nights per person on each mattress. Under those circumstances, snap judgments faded and long-night behavior surfaced.

We rated support by checking spinal alignment in back, side, and stomach positions. I watched hip and shoulder sink visually, then cross-checked those views with how my lower back felt the next morning. Marcus added data from his heavier frame, especially during stomach sleeping, where weaker cores revealed themselves immediately.

Pressure relief came from side-sleep sessions on each mattress, with special attention to shoulders and hips. I used a pressure-mapping pad during a few nights, but the real test arrived when Mia visited and reported her hot spots during earlier Seahorse cycles; her feedback history gave me context, even though she did not join every Charleston run.

For cooling performance, we used a combination of thermal readings and simple sweaty-sheet reality. Marcus and Ethan often serve as our heat sensors; I logged surface temperature changes over the first 60 minutes in bed and compared those trends across models.

Motion isolation testing relied heavily on Jenna and Ethan. I asked Ethan to perform a set of movements—getting in, rolling, sitting up—while Jenna lay still near the center and then near the edge. Her written descriptions, like “felt like a mild wave” or “barely noticed anything,” fed into the numerical scores.

Responsiveness covered ease of movement. I tracked how much effort it took for me, Marcus, and Ethan to roll from side to back, then to sit up. On the slowest foams, my elbows dug in before my hips moved; on quicker surfaces like Harbor, turns felt almost automatic.

We rated durability potential using design clues: material type, thickness, how quickly impressions formed over our test window, and edge behavior under sitting. Heavy edge sitting from Marcus and me revealed weaker perimeter builds very fast, especially on pillowtop designs.

Finally, value considered street pricing against the total performance picture. I kept Charleston’s local-builder status in mind but still ranked higher when a model combined strong scores with a more accessible price.

Charleston Mattress: Our Testing Experience

1. Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid – “Charleston Cooling Hybrid Anchor”

Our Testing Experience

The Atlantic mattress went into my main bedroom first, since the 15-inch profile just looks like a serious piece of equipment. During the first night, I stretched on my back and felt the top foam ease around my shoulders while the core pushed firmly against my lower back. As I rolled to my side, my hip slid in another half inch, and the support underneath caught it instead of letting it free-fall. In my view, that transition from surface comfort to coil strength defines the Atlantic.

Marcus took his turn next. He dropped onto the bed after a workout and immediately checked his usual trouble spot: the area under his stomach when he rolls forward from his side. On softer beds, that zone sags fast under his weight. On the Atlantic, he said “my hips stop at a hard wall under the foam” and relaxed his shoulders. Later that night, he woke slightly sweaty, then realized the heat felt moderate rather than swampy. The airflow through the coil support and the relatively open foams kept him in a workable temperature range, even with a heavier body pushing deeper.

Jenna and Ethan joined later for couple testing. I asked them to start in a shared queen, use the entire surface, then report edge behavior. Jenna used the outer third of the mattress and commented that “this edge feels like a firm ledge, not a cliff.” Ethan rolled across her to visit the bathroom; she barely shifted. The Atlantic did pass some movement through the coil system, yet the thick foam stack on top dampened most of it. When Ethan bounced slightly near the foot, Jenna felt a short pulse rather than a ripple.

Across two weeks, I noticed how the Atlantic handled laptop sessions and early-morning half naps. When I sat near the middle with my knees bent, the mattress resisted deep sagging under my tailbone, which helped my lower back stay calmer. Under these real-life conditions—screen time, half sleep, full sleep, rolling turns—the Atlantic acted like a grounded hybrid for average and heavier bodies, especially for combo sleepers who need a clear pivot rather than a mushy surface.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Strong, zoned-feeling support for hips and lower back May feel too firm for very light side sleepers
Tall 15" profile with a substantial hybrid build Higher price than some other Charleston models
Good cooling performance for a foam-topped mattress Some motion can travel through the coil core
Impressive edge support, works well for couples Might feel overbuilt for lighter guest-room use
Balanced contouring without deep “stuck in foam” feel Not ideal for people who prefer ultra-plush beds

Details

  • Price (queen, approx.): $1,030
  • Height: 15 inches
  • Firmness (our feel): Medium-firm
  • Construction: Foam comfort layers over a supportive hybrid coil core
  • Design focus: All-rounder hybrid for support and cooling
  • Cooling: Airflow from coil unit plus moderate-hug foams
  • Pressure Relief: Enough surface give for side sleeping without full sink-in feel
  • Responsiveness: Quick push-back from coils, moderate foam response on top
  • Motion Isolation: Better than classic innersprings, not as dead-still as thick memory foam
  • Edge Support: Strong, works for sitting and sleeping near the perimeter
  • Best For: Average and heavier combo sleepers, hot sleepers, couples wanting structure
  • Shipping: Local white-glove delivery available around Charleston region; freight shipping for distant buyers
  • Trial / Return Window: 14-day home trial under return policy
  • Return Costs: Local returns involve a pickup fee; freight returns add shipping plus a return fee
  • Warranty: 10-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects like sagging beyond set depth 

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 4.6 / 5.0 Held my hips and Marcus’s heavier frame level in every position.
Pressure Relief 4.4 / 5.0 Side sleep comfort stayed high, without crushing my shoulders.
Cooling 4.5 / 5.0 Marcus’s warm nights stayed controlled, even with deep engagement.
Motion Isolation 4.2 / 5.0 Some bounce came through but Jenna still slept through Ethan’s exits.
Responsiveness 4.4 / 5.0 Easy to roll; coils gave a clear springy pivot.
Durability Potential 4.4 / 5.0 Thick build and supportive core felt robust under heavy use.
Edge Support 4.5 / 5.0 Sitting and lying near the side stayed stable during all tests.
Value 4.2 / 5.0 Higher price, yet performance matched the investment.
Overall Score 4.4 / 5.0 Balanced hybrid with standout support and cooling for a wide range of sleepers.

2. Harbor 11" Latex Mattress – “Charleston Responsive Latex Flagship”

Our Testing Experience

When the Harbor arrived, the first thing I noticed came from the bounce test. I dropped my weight from a low kneel, and the mattress compressed then snapped back quickly under my hips. That latex top layer created a clear floating feeling, very different from the slower Jasper foam. During my first night, I started on my back and felt my spine line up instantly, with my shoulder blades and hips both pushed up to the same level.

Marcus spent a few nights on Harbor after a stretch of runs on the softer South of Broad. He lay down, rolled to his stomach, and held still, almost suspicious. After a minute he said “it’s firm underneath but not stiff on my ribs.” Over his week on Harbor, he reported fewer low-back grumbles in the morning. When he slept hot, Harbor’s airflow kept his torso from feeling wrapped in warmth. The latex never clamped tightly around him, so pockets of cooler air stayed under his back and legs.

Ethan treated Harbor like a playground. During one session, I asked him to cycle through ten quick position changes while Jenna lay perfectly still. He rolled from side to back, then to stomach, with his knees occasionally dragging across the surface. Jenna described the feel as “tiny blips, not full waves” and rated the disturbance moderate. Latex rarely isolates motion like deep memory foam, and Harbor fits that pattern; still, Ethan called it his favorite mattress in this lineup for sheer ease of movement.

I rotated the Harbor into my own room after Marcus. During a week of long editing nights, I noticed it behaved better for my back than any other Charleston model when I fell asleep half-sitting. My hips stayed anchored while my upper body leaned against stacked pillows. When I finally slid down into full sleep position, the latex re-centered my spine quickly. In my view, Harbor feels tuned for sleepers who value that springy reset feeling more than a slow, melty hug.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Excellent responsiveness for active, combo sleepers Higher price than other Charleston options
Strong, buoyant support through latex and core Less motion isolation than thick memory foam
Very good airflow and surface temperature control Feel can seem too bouncy for people who love deep hug
Great alignment for back and stomach sleepers Medium firmness may feel firm to very light side sleepers
High durability potential thanks to latex Not the softest choice for plush-seekers

Details

  • Price (queen, approx.): $1,530
  • Height: 11 inches
  • Firmness (our feel): Medium, leaning slightly supportive
  • Construction: Latex comfort layers over a supportive core
  • Design focus: Responsive, breathable sleep surface with strong alignment
  • Cooling: Latex and airflow worked well for hot sleepers in testing
  • Pressure Relief: Good relief with less sink; more lift than a plush foam bed
  • Responsiveness: Very quick, ideal for frequent position changers
  • Motion Isolation: Moderate; some partner movement felt, but not extreme
  • Edge Support: Better than many latex beds, still not as rigid as Atlantic’s perimeter
  • Best For: Active combo sleepers, hot sleepers, back and stomach sleepers needing lift
  • Shipping: White-glove delivery in local region; freight options for distant locations
  • Trial / Return Window: 14-day period through brand return policy
  • Return Costs: Shipping and pickup fees apply, especially for freight customers
  • Warranty: 10-year limited coverage against defects and deep body impressions

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 4.7 / 5.0 Kept my back and Marcus’s stomach sleeping aligned across the week.
Pressure Relief 4.6 / 5.0 Shoulders and hips felt cushioned without deep sag.
Cooling 4.6 / 5.0 Surface stayed among the coolest in our tests.
Motion Isolation 4.0 / 5.0 Some bounce reached Jenna, yet not enough to break most sleep.
Responsiveness 4.7 / 5.0 Ethan’s rapid rolls showed almost zero resistance.
Durability Potential 4.7 / 5.0 Latex build and performance hint at a long service life.
Edge Support 4.3 / 5.0 Edges flexed a bit under heavy sitting but never collapsed.
Value 4.0 / 5.0 Strong performance, though pricing sits at the top of the line.
Overall Score 4.5 / 5.0 Standout choice for hot, active sleepers who want lift and bounce.

3. Jasper 14" Memory Foam Mattress – “Charleston Deep-Cuddle Memory Foam Pick”

Our Testing Experience

The Jasper arrived compressed but expanded into a 14-inch block of foam heft. When I first lay down, I felt the surface take a second to respond, then cradle every curve. My shoulders eased down, my hips followed more slowly, and my lower back drifted into a gently supported pocket. During the first full night, I barely moved; the contouring held me in place in a way that some people crave and others hate.

Jenna and Ethan moved onto Jasper next. She claimed the middle zone and asked Ethan to act like his usual restless self. During his rolls and late-night bathroom trips, she reported “just a tiny murmur under me, then quiet again.” Memory foam tends to swallow motion, and Jasper leaned into that pattern. When Ethan returned to bed at 3 a.m., he noticed the slower response under his knees and shoulders; he said “the foam kind of holds me, then lets me go.” Those comments matched my own impressions during combo-sleeping tests.

Marcus tried Jasper for comparison, even though deep memory foam rarely excites him. On his back, he liked the pressure relief across his shoulders, especially after gym sessions. His tone changed when he rolled to his stomach; his hips kept sinking, and the slow foam made quick corrections tough. He cut his stomach-sleep time short and wrote “not built for my stomach nights” in the shared sheet. For heavier bodies that spend significant time face-down, Jasper creates too much cradle and not enough lift.

I noticed some warmth buildup during long side-sleep stretches. The foam layers absorbed my body heat and held it longer than the Harbor or Atlantic. Surface temperatures remained within a workable band, yet hot sleepers like Marcus will feel more enveloped here. From the perspective of a side-sleeping reader who values quiet motion and a deep hug, Jasper lands very high. Under circumstances involving heavy, stomach-sleeping bodies or extreme heat, Jasper drops a bit.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Excellent pressure relief, especially for side sleepers Runs warmer than latex or airy hybrids
Very strong motion isolation for couples Slower response can make turning feel effortful
Deep contouring comfort for shoulders and hips Not ideal for heavy stomach sleepers
Thick 14" profile feels substantial and cushy Edge support feels softer during sitting
Great choice for people who like “in the mattress” feel Hot sleepers may prefer Harbor or Atlantic instead

Details

  • Price (queen, approx.): $1,010
  • Height: 14 inches
  • Firmness (our feel): Medium-plush
  • Construction: Multiple memory foam layers forming a deep comfort stack
  • Design focus: Pressure relief and motion isolation with a traditional memory foam feel
  • Cooling: Moderate, with some warmth buildup noted in long side-sleep stretches
  • Pressure Relief: Very high, especially around shoulders and outer hips
  • Responsiveness: Slow-moving, contouring feel; turns require a little extra push
  • Motion Isolation: Excellent; Ethan’s movements barely reached Jenna
  • Edge Support: Softer near perimeter, especially noticeable when sitting
  • Best For: Side sleepers, light-to-average sleepers, couples who hate bounce
  • Shipping: Standard mattress shipping; set-up recommended in final room
  • Trial / Return Window: 14-day return option under Charleston policy
  • Return Costs: Return fees and freight charges apply for non-local buyers
  • Warranty: 10-year limited warranty against excessive sagging and defects

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 4.3 / 5.0 Good for light and average bodies, weaker for heavy stomach sleepers.
Pressure Relief 4.6 / 5.0 Side-sleep joints felt deeply cushioned during long nights.
Cooling 3.6 / 5.0 Noticeable warmth during hot nights compared with Harbor and Atlantic.
Motion Isolation 4.7 / 5.0 Ethan’s movement stayed almost invisible to Jenna.
Responsiveness 3.7 / 5.0 Classic slow foam feel made turning a little work.
Durability Potential 4.1 / 5.0 Dense foam build felt solid, with some edge softening.
Edge Support 3.8 / 5.0 Perimeter compressed under sitting and heavy edge use.
Value 4.3 / 5.0 Strong performance for the price if memory foam is your priority.
Overall Score 4.2 / 5.0 Targeted choice for deep-hug fans and motion-sensitive couples.

4. Beaufain Plush 13" Plush Mattress – “Charleston Budget Plush Hybrid Choice”

Our Testing Experience

The Beaufain Plush entered the rotation as the friendlier-priced hybrid with a soft top. I placed it first in a secondary bedroom and used it for a run of guest-room simulations—shorter stays, mixed sleep positions, late-night reading. On my first night, the top panel felt welcoming, with a gentle sink around my shoulders right away. Underneath that plush layer, the support core added a modest push but less authority than Atlantic or Harbor.

Jenna liked Beaufain during the early evenings. She curled on her side with a book and said “this feels like a hotel bed, in a good way.” During overnight tests with Ethan, she felt more of his movement than on Jasper, yet not enough to label it disruptive. Edge use showed the limits of the build; when they both sprawled closer to the sides, she noticed more slope under her outer hip. Ethan’s comment in the sheet read “comfy, easy, but not the most solid edge.”

Marcus used Beaufain Plush briefly to check how it handled his heavier frame. On his back, he described the feel as pleasant but a little shallow in support. Once he rolled onto his stomach, the midsection sink became clear; his hips dipped more than they did on Atlantic or Harbor. From his viewpoint, Beaufain shines more for lighter and medium-weight sleepers than for heavy ones.

I logged several nap sessions and work breaks on Beaufain and kept thinking of it as a great “family room” mattress. Under circumstances where you expect kids, guests, and average-size adults rather than 230-pound stomach sleepers, the comfort profile makes sense. The soft top creates a relaxing first impression, while the support core holds up fine under milder loads.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Plush, comfortable surface with an easygoing feel Less support for heavy or strict stomach sleepers
Hybrid design with better airflow than deep foam Edge strength trails the Atlantic hybrid
Good motion control for most couples Support core feels more mid-range
Attractive price for a 13" plush mattress Not built for maximum durability under heavy use
Strong fit for guest rooms and lighter sleepers Might feel too soft for firm-bed fans

Details

  • Price (queen, approx.): $740
  • Height: 13 inches
  • Firmness (our feel): Medium-plush
  • Construction: Plush foam comfort layers over supportive core with hybrid feel
  • Design focus: Approachable plush comfort at a friendlier price point
  • Cooling: Decent airflow; Marcus did not overheat under typical nights
  • Pressure Relief: High for lighter and average bodies, especially in side sleeping
  • Responsiveness: Moderate; easier to move than Jasper, softer than Atlantic
  • Motion Isolation: Good; Jenna felt movement yet returned to sleep quickly
  • Edge Support: Moderate; usable but less rigid than higher-end hybrids
  • Best For: Guest rooms, teens, lighter adults, average-weight side sleepers
  • Shipping: Standard delivery options; set-up recommended by two people
  • Trial / Return Window: 14-day return period with applicable fees
  • Warranty: 10-year limited warranty via Charleston Mattress

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 3.9 / 5.0 Fine for lighter sleepers; heavy bodies felt more midsection sink.
Pressure Relief 4.2 / 5.0 Side-sleep comfort stayed strong across our lighter testers.
Cooling 4.0 / 5.0 No major heat complaints during typical use.
Motion Isolation 4.0 / 5.0 Enough damping for couples without hyper-sensitivity.
Responsiveness 4.1 / 5.0 Easy to roll and reposition compared with deep foam.
Durability Potential 3.9 / 5.0 Mid-range build; may compress faster under heavy use.
Edge Support 3.9 / 5.0 Edges dipped under sitting but stayed workable for sleep.
Value 4.4 / 5.0 Strong comfort-to-price ratio for the right sleeper type.
Overall Score 4.0 / 5.0 Smart plush hybrid choice for lighter users and guest spaces.

5. South of Broad 14" Pillowtop Mattress – “Charleston Classic Pillowtop Value”

Our Testing Experience

The South of Broad mattress arrived with that classic pillowtop look—rounded, cushy top panel that invites flopping. I lay down on my side first and felt an immediate marshmallow feel around my shoulder. My hip followed quickly, then kept drifting a little deeper than it does on the Atlantic. On my back, the top still felt comfortable, yet my lower spine missed some of the firmer push I like.

Marcus used South of Broad as his “end of the day” bed for a few nights. He loved the initial comfort when he plopped down after work; his shoulders and chest sank in, and he exhaled in that half dramatic way he uses when he enjoys something. After a few hours on his stomach, though, he woke with some familiar tightness. His hips had dropped more than he wanted, which reinforced that this pillowtop suits lighter frames more than heavier bodies.

Jenna and Ethan tried the South of Broad during a weekend stretch. They both described the feel as “old-school soft hotel bed.” During motion tests, Jenna felt more jostling than on Jasper or Atlantic; pillowtops often transfer small jiggles across the surface, and this one followed that pattern. Edge use highlighted the softer perimeter: Jenna’s outer hip dipped when she lay near the edge, and Ethan noticed some roll-off sensation when sitting to put on shoes.

For me, the South of Broad worked best for short naps and side-sleep stints rather than full weeks of combination sleeping. Under circumstances involving lighter side sleepers or people who want that nostalgic, cushy hotel sensation, this mattress hits the spot. For heavier bodies, strict back sleepers, or folks wanting a long-term, rock-solid feel, it plays more of a secondary role.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Very soft, cushy pillowtop surface Support core feels soft for heavy bodies
Comfortable for lighter side sleepers and nap sessions Motion travels more than on hybrid or memory foam builds
Strong value at its price point Edge support feels weaker under sitting and spreading out
Familiar “hotel bed” style comfort Back and stomach sleepers may want more firmness
Great for secondary rooms and budget shoppers Durability feels more modest near the edges

Details

  • Price (queen, approx.): $580
  • Height: 14 inches
  • Firmness (our feel): Medium-soft
  • Construction: Pillowtop foam comfort over supportive core
  • Design focus: Soft, traditional pillowtop comfort at a value price
  • Cooling: Moderate; extra hug led to slightly warmer feel on some nights
  • Pressure Relief: High for light side sleepers; softer cradle around shoulders and hips
  • Responsiveness: Moderate-fast at the surface; core still has some bounce
  • Motion Isolation: Fair; more jiggle than on Jasper, less than old-school springs
  • Edge Support: Softer perimeter, especially under heavier users
  • Best For: Light side sleepers, budget buyers, guest rooms wanting plush feel
  • Shipping: Same brand delivery framework as other models
  • Trial / Return Window: 14-day return period with stated fees
  • Warranty: 10-year limited warranty, subject to body impression limits

Review Score

Metric Score Remarks
Support 3.8 / 5.0 Comfortable but soft; hips dipped under heavier testers.
Pressure Relief 4.3 / 5.0 Light side sleepers enjoyed generous cushioning.
Cooling 3.9 / 5.0 Extra hug brought slightly higher warmth on long nights.
Motion Isolation 3.9 / 5.0 Pillowtop transmitted more small movements to partners.
Responsiveness 4.2 / 5.0 Surface allowed quick changes despite the soft top.
Durability Potential 3.7 / 5.0 Edges and pillowtop felt more prone to long-term wear.
Edge Support 3.8 / 5.0 Noticeable edge compression, especially when sitting.
Value 4.5 / 5.0 Strong comfort value at its price for the right sleepers.
Overall Score 3.9 / 5.0 Soft, value-driven pillowtop best suited for lighter users and secondary beds.

Compare Performance Scores of These Mattresses

Mattress Overall Score Support Pressure Relief Cooling Motion Isolation Durability Responsiveness
Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid 4.4 / 5.0 4.6 4.4 4.5 4.2 4.4 4.4
Harbor 11" Latex Mattress 4.5 / 5.0 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.0 4.7 4.7
Jasper 14" Memory Foam Mattress 4.2 / 5.0 4.3 4.6 3.6 4.7 4.1 3.7
Beaufain Plush 13" Plush Mattress 4.0 / 5.0 3.9 4.2 4.0 4.0 3.9 4.1
South of Broad 14" Pillowtop Mattress 3.9 / 5.0 3.8 4.3 3.9 3.9 3.7 4.2

Harbor and Atlantic stand out as the most balanced performers, especially for support and cooling. Jasper acts as the pressure-relief and motion-isolation specialist, with some trade-offs in cooling and responsiveness. Beaufain and South of Broad sit in the value and comfort corner, giving softer feels and friendlier prices while sacrificing some structure and durability for heavier, demanding use.

Best Picks

  • Best Overall Hybrid – “Charleston Mattress Reviews: Atlantic Hybrid All-Rounder”
    The Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid earns this label due to its mix of strong support, tall profile, and stable edges. Under the bodies of Marcus, Jenna, and me, the mattress kept spines aligned and temperatures under control while staying adaptable for combo sleeping.
  • Best for Hot and Active Sleepers – “Charleston Mattress Reviews: Harbor Latex Performance Pick”
    Harbor’s latex construction delivered standout airflow and quick response, which Ethan and Marcus both highlighted in their notes. Under those circumstances, active sleepers who turn frequently or run warm get the best blend of lift, bounce, and temperature control.
  • Best for Couples Who Hate Motion – “Charleston Mattress Reviews: Jasper Memory Foam Quiet Choice”
    Jasper dominated in motion isolation, keeping Jenna comfortable even when Ethan roamed around at odd hours. For couples who want a deep hug and near-silent surface behavior, Jasper fits that specific profile better than the other Charleston options.

How to Choose the Charleston Mattress?

From the perspective of a shopper staring at this lineup, the first filter should be sleep position and body weight. Heavier sleepers and strict back or stomach sleepers lean toward Atlantic or Harbor because those cores hold hips up reliably. Lighter side sleepers drift more naturally toward Jasper, Beaufain, or South of Broad for softer shoulder and hip relief.

Next, temperature sensitivity plays a major role. Hot sleepers or people who live in warmer climates gravitate toward Harbor or Atlantic. Those models keep more airflow under the body and avoid the tight wrap that Jasper’s deeper foam brings. Under cooler conditions or for sleepers who like that cocoon feel, Jasper’s warmth actually helps.

Budget and intended room matter as well. If this mattress goes into a primary bedroom, paying more for Atlantic, Harbor, or Jasper makes sense in my view. If the bed fills a guest space or secondary room, Beaufain and South of Broad match that kind of use nicely without over-spending.

Recommendations by Sleeper Profile

  • Light-weight side sleeper
    Jasper 14" Memory Foam or Beaufain Plush 13". Jasper gives a deep, gentle hug that protects shoulders and hips, while Beaufain offers a softer feel with easier movement. Under light bodies, both maintain enough support without feeling stiff.
  • Average-weight back sleeper
    Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid or Harbor 11" Latex. Atlantic brings a steadier, slightly firmer platform with a familiar hybrid feel. Harbor adds that buoyant latex lift, which kept my spine level while still feeling lively.
  • Hot sleeper, any position
    Harbor 11" Latex first, Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid second. During testing, these two consistently ran cooler on Marcus and Ethan, thanks to airflow and less clingy surface behavior. Jasper and South of Broad hugged more tightly and held heat longer.
  • Heavier couple sharing a queen
    Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid takes the lead here. That mattress handled Marcus’s weight and Jenna-plus-Ethan edge use without collapsing, while still muting enough motion for decent couple sleep. Harbor works well too, yet passes a little more movement between partners.
  • Budget shopper wanting a soft feel
    South of Broad 14" Pillowtop or Beaufain Plush 13". Those models cut cost while still delivering plush comfort. From the perspective of long-term heavy use, they fit better in lighter-user scenarios or guest rooms rather than as a forever main bed for very heavy sleepers.

Limitations

Across this Charleston Mattress group, extremely firm-bed fans do not get a true rock-hard option. Even the Atlantic and Harbor live in the medium to medium-firm band rather than the ultra-firm zone. Very heavy sleepers above the mid-200-pound range who sleep mostly on their stomachs might want thicker, stiffer cores than Beaufain or South of Broad provide.

People who love very bouncy, old-school innerspring beds with almost no foam on top may not connect with these builds. Every tested model uses meaningful foam or latex comfort layers, which shift the feel toward modern hybrid or foam territory. Ultra-tight budgets also fall outside the sweet spot here; while South of Broad undercuts many premium beds, it still costs more than big-box, ultra-cheap options.

Policies at a Glance

Mattress Shipping (Cost & Region) Trial Period Return Policy / Fees Warranty Length Notable Conditions
Atlantic 15" Foam Hybrid Local white-glove delivery available near Charleston; freight shipping for distant buyers 14 days Returns allowed within window; local pickup fee; freight returns include shipping plus return fee 10-year limited Mattress must be in reasonable condition; body impression depth limits apply
Harbor 11" Latex Mattress Similar delivery structure; white-glove in local radius, freight for others 14 days Same policy; shipping costs and pickup fee vary by location 10-year limited One mattress per purchase covered; proper foundation required
Jasper 14" Memory Foam Mattress Standard shipping; can be delivered boxed 14 days Returns accepted under policy with stated fees 10-year limited Must meet warranty sagging and stain conditions
Beaufain Plush 13" Plush Mattress Standard delivery; often part of local deliveries from showroom 14 days Return available; pickup and possible freight charges 10-year limited Original purchaser coverage; use of proper support base expected
South of Broad 14" Pillowtop Mattress Same network as other Charleston models 14 days Returns allowed; fees scale with distance and shipping method 10-year limited Return window short; packaging and condition requirements apply

From the perspective of a shopper who values flexible policies, Atlantic, Harbor, and Jasper all sit on level ground. Each one uses the same short 14-day trial and a 10-year limited warranty, which rewards decisive buyers more than long testers. Return fees and freight costs for non-local customers create real friction, so people outside the Charleston region should read the fine print before committing. 

FAQs

1. Are Charleston Mattress models good for back pain?
In my experience, Atlantic and Harbor handled back pain best. On Atlantic, my lower back stayed supported during long laptop sessions and full nights, with coils catching my hips before they sagged. Harbor’s latex lifted my spine into a straight line even when I shifted quickly between back and side. For chronic back issues, those two stand above the softer Beaufain and South of Broad options.

2. Which Charleston Mattress is best for side sleepers?
From the perspective of pure shoulder comfort, Jasper leads the pack. That 14-inch memory foam build created a deep cradle that let my shoulders and hips sink in, which helped side-sleepers like Jenna avoid pressure spikes. Beaufain Plush and South of Broad also work for lighter side sleepers who want a softer, more traditional feel, but they give up some support compared with Jasper.

3. How do these Charleston mattresses perform for hot sleepers?
Hot sleepers in our team—especially Marcus—did better on Harbor and Atlantic. Latex in Harbor never wrapped tightly around his torso, and the coil structure under Atlantic moved air along his back and legs. Jasper and South of Broad felt warmer; their deeper, softer comfort layers held heat longer during extended side-sleep stretches.

4. Are Charleston Mattress beds good for couples?
Couples get different benefits across this line. Jasper stands out for motion isolation; Jenna barely felt Ethan during his late-night returns on that model. Atlantic gives couples strong edge support and better cooling, which matters when two bodies share a queen. Harbor works well for active couples who do not mind some motion in exchange for more bounce and ease of movement.

5. How long can I expect a Charleston Mattress to last?
Based on build and our short-term testing, Harbor and Atlantic show the strongest durability potential. Their supportive cores and overall construction handled Marcus’s weight and repeated edge sitting with minimal early compression. Beaufain and South of Broad felt more mid-range; under light or moderate use they should hold up respectably, but heavy, daily use may reveal wear sooner—especially in the pillowtop and edge zones.

6. Is the 14-day trial long enough to evaluate a Charleston Mattress?
Fourteen days count as a short window in this industry. In my view, that period still lets you catch large mismatches in firmness or feel, particularly if you commit to sleeping on the mattress every night during that time. Subtler issues, like slow edge softening or minor heat buildup, may not fully show up before the return deadline, which makes choosing the right model at the start especially important.

7. Which Charleston Mattress offers the best value for money?
For primary bedrooms, Atlantic and Jasper feel like strong value picks because their performance levels match or exceed their price range in this local-builder context. Beaufain Plush and South of Broad deliver the best sticker-price value for guest rooms or lighter sleepers; you spend less and still get comfortable, plush surfaces. Harbor commands the highest price but earns it for buyers who care deeply about latex’s feel and durability.

8. Do I need a special base or foundation for these mattresses?
Charleston’s warranty language expects a supportive, non-sagging base, such as a platform bed, properly slatted frame, or matching foundation. During our tests, the mattresses stayed most stable on solid platforms and high-quality slatted frames with small gaps. Weak or flexible bases can introduce tilt and reduce support, especially under heavier sleepers like Marcus.

9. How firm do these mattresses really feel compared with typical store beds?
In my view, Atlantic and Harbor feel like mainstream “medium-firm” choices in most showrooms. Jasper sits closer to a soft-medium, especially under lighter bodies. Beaufain and South of Broad both come off as soft-leaning, especially in the top few inches, with support cores that live in the medium range. People used to ultra-firm hotel beds may find this lineup generally plusher.

10. Which Charleston Mattress works best for a teenager or guest room?
For teens or general guests, Beaufain Plush shines. It offers an inviting plush feel without extreme sink, handles a range of body types, and stays friendly on the wallet. South of Broad works as a very soft, cozy guest bed when most visitors are lighter sleepers. Atlantic or Harbor feel like overkill for occasional use unless you expect frequent heavier guests.

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Our Testing Team

Chris Miller

Lead Tester

Chris oversees the full testing pipeline for mattresses, sofas, and other home products. He coordinates the team, designs scoring frameworks, and lives with every product long enough to feel real strengths and weaknesses. His combination-sleeping and mixed lounging habits keep him focused on long-term comfort and support.

Marcus Reed

Heavyweight Sofa & Mattress Tester

Marcus brings a heavier build and heat-sensitive profile into every test. He pushes deep cushions, edges, and frames harder than most users. His feedback highlights whether a design holds up under load, runs hot, or collapses into a hammock-like slump during long gaming or streaming sessions.

Carlos Alvarez

Posture & Work-From-Home Specialist

Carlos spends long hours working from sofas and beds with a laptop. He tracks how mid-back, neck, and lumbar regions respond to different setups. His notes reveal whether a product keeps posture neutral during extended sitting or lying, and whether small adjustments still feel stable and controlled.

Mia Chen

Petite Side-Sleeper & Lounger

Mia tests how mattresses and sofas treat a smaller frame during side sleeping and curled-up lounging. She feels pressure and seat-depth problems very quickly. Her feedback exposes designs that swallow shorter users, leave feet dangling, or create sharp pressure points at shoulders, hips, and knees.

Jenna Brooks

Couple Comfort & Motion Tester

Jenna evaluates how well sofas and mattresses handle real shared use with a partner. She tracks motion transfer, usable width, and edge comfort when two adults spread out. Her comments highlight whether a product supports relaxed couple lounging, easy repositioning, and quiet nights without constant disturbance.

Jamal Davis

Tall, Active-Body Tester

Jamal brings a tall, athletic frame and post-workout soreness into the lab. He checks seat depth, leg support, and surface responsiveness on every product. His notes show whether cushions bounce back, frames feel solid under long legs, and sleep surfaces support joints during recovery stretches and naps.

Ethan Cole

Restless Lounger & Partner Tester

Ethan acts as the moving partner in many couple-focused tests. He shifts positions frequently and pays attention to how easily a surface lets him turn, slide, or return after short breaks. His feedback exposes cushions that feel too squishy, too sticky, or poorly shaped for real-world lounging patterns.