Mattresses: How much do you need to spend?

Consumer Reports puts dozens to the test

SAN ANTONIO – After testing more than 60 mattresses, Consumer Reports found you don't have to spend thousands of dollars to find a decent one.

Testers check how well a mattress will support your spine, whether you sleep on your side or your back. And another test measured how much vibration is transmitted across the mattress, in case you have a restless sleeping partner.

Consumer Reports found that price isn’t a particularly good indicator of how supportive or durable a mattress will be. In fact, tests have turned up plenty of fine mattresses that cost $1,000 or less. After that, a lot of your decision will come down to personal preference.

For a medium-firm innerspring mattress, Consumer Reports recommends the Sealy Posturepedic Plus Deveraux for about $1,000. It’s very durable and a very good option for back sleepers.

If you want a memory-foam mattress, there are many good choices for less. Those from the online companies Casper, Leesa, and Tuft and Needle have consistently made Consumer Reports’ recommended lists.

The latest inexpensive mattress to make the cut is from Costco, the Novaform Comfort Grande for $600. It’s not as supportive as some of our more highly rated mattresses, but it’s durable and offers a medium firmness.

If you prefer a softer mattress and have a bigger budget, Consumer Reports recommends the Sealy Posturepedic Hybrid Kelburn for about $1,300. It’s one of the few mattresses tested that scored excellent for limiting vibration, so it’s a good choice if you’ve got a partner who tosses and turns.


About the Author

Marilyn Moritz is an award-winning journalist dedicated to digging up information that can make people’s lives a little bit better. As KSAT’S 12 On Your Side Consumer reporter, she focuses on exposing scams and dangerous products and helping people save money.

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