Other Mattresses for Couples We Researched
While the mattresses listed above are my top picks for couples based on specific needs, there are other excellent options worth considering. These alternative mattresses offer unique benefits that may appeal to different preferences or budgets. After thorough testing, I found the selections on this list to be the most well-rounded, but if you're curious about some other solid choices, here are a few to mention.
- Saatva Rx – The Saatva Rx is an ideal bed for couples seeking a luxury mattress that excels with back pain relief, though it comes with a hefty price tag (over $3,000 for a queen). I chose its more affordable yet still luxurious counterpart, the Saatva Classic, to provide the best value for couples. However, if the Saatva Rx fits comfortably within your budget, you’ll be thoroughly impressed by its performance.
- Nectar Classic – The Nectar Classic is the brand’s flagship mattress and a popular all-foam option. It’s easy to see why, given its price and strong performance. The Nectar Classic excelled in motion transfer and durability. However, I didn’t include it on my list due to its average performance in cooling and responsiveness. The Nectar Luxe offers better all-around features and frequently goes on sale for a reasonable price, which is why I selected it over the Classic model for this roundup.
How We Tested the Best Mattresses for Couples
A mattress that strikes the right balance between you and your partner's needs can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health. A 2020 study found that sleeping next to a partner is linked to more REM sleep (and less fragmented REM sleep!). However, it also revealed that sharing a bed can lead to more "limb movement," so it’s important to choose the right bed—whether it excels at motion isolation or offers the right level of responsiveness for shifting positions.
We carefully test and review each mattress we evaluate to help couples find the perfect balance of cooling, responsiveness, and motion transfer. Below, you can learn more about what my fellow mattress testers and I prioritized when putting together this list of the best mattresses for couples.
Cooling
Research shows that falling asleep is linked to a noticeable drop in body temperature, making cooling a top priority for couples and hot sleepers. You and your partner will need a mattress that efficiently disperses body heat and promotes airflow. My colleagues and I evaluate a mattress’s materials, searching for breathable covers, innerspring coils, and cooling gels. We also use a temperature gun to measure how much the mattress temperature rises after lying on it for 7 minutes. This allows us to assess how well the mattress regulates heat and keeps sleepers comfortable throughout the night.
Response
We measure responsiveness to see how quickly a mattress adjusts to changes in sleeping position. A responsive mattress allows you and your partner to move freely and easily without feeling "stuck." This is especially important for combination sleepers, who frequently switch positions throughout the night. We test how well the mattress bounces back after pressure is applied, ensuring you can shift positions comfortably without feeling trapped.
Motion Transfer
We test for motion transfer to see how well a mattress absorbs movement and prevents it from spreading across the bed. This is particularly important for couples or light sleepers. To test this, we place a glass of water on one side of the bed while the tester rolls and shifts positions on the opposite side. We observe whether the water spills or remains still, helping us assess how effectively the mattress minimizes disturbances from movement. A mattress with good motion isolation will allow both sleepers to rest undisturbed, even if one person moves around or gets in and out of bed.
When we asked Dr. Raj Dasgupta why motion isolation is important for couples, he explained, “Motion isolation is crucial for couples because it reduces the disturbances caused by one partner’s movements, allowing the other to sleep more soundly. This is especially helpful for light sleepers, people who move a lot at night, and those who share their bed with kids or pets. A mattress with good motion isolation contributes to better overall sleep quality.”
What Else Is Important When Buying a Mattress for Couples?
When shopping for a mattress for two, there are several factors beyond just comfort that can significantly impact your sleep experience. It’s essential to consider both individual and shared preferences to ensure that both you and your partner are satisfied with the final choice. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when shopping for a mattress to share with a partner.
Price
Price is often the first consideration when shopping for a mattress, and for good reason—it can greatly influence your options. Mattresses can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, making it easy to feel overwhelmed by the variety.
When selecting a mattress for you and your partner, consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend for a high-quality sleep experience. Even if you're on a limited budget, there are still excellent mattresses that provide comfort, support, and durability without breaking the bank. Be sure to look for sales or discounts, as many mattress companies offer seasonal promotions that can save you a significant amount of money.
Mattress Size
Mattress size is one of the most important considerations when choosing a mattress for couples. While a queen-size mattress is often the most common choice, it's essential to assess how much space you both need to sleep comfortably. If one partner is a restless sleeper and the other prefers to stay still, a larger bed might be necessary. A king-size mattress provides more room to spread out, especially if you and your partner have different sleeping positions or body sizes.
Sleep Trial and Warranty
Sleep trials and warranties provide peace of mind when purchasing a mattress, especially for couples who may not have the opportunity to test the bed together before buying. A generous trial period allows you to test the mattress in your home, usually ranging from 90 days to a full year. This is particularly useful when shopping online, as it gives both partners time to adjust to the mattress and determine if it truly suits both of your needs.
Be sure to review the brand’s return policy, as some companies may charge a fee for returns or require a minimum sleep period before you can return the mattress.
Similarly, a warranty ensures you're covered if anything goes wrong with the mattress, whether due to defects in materials or poor craftsmanship. Most mattresses come with a 10-year warranty, but be sure to check for any exclusions or limitations on what’s covered.
