The queen size bed is the most popular size in the country, providing enough space for most people without taking up too much floor space in the bedroom. If you’ve decided that a queen size bed is right for you, your next step is to choose which queen size mattress you’re going to buy.
Every mainstream mattress brand offers at least one queen size mattress, but which one is the best? We’ve tested a range of the best queen size mattresses available. Simply pick the one that matches your requirements to begin enjoying your new queen mattress and a better sleeping experience.
Best Queen Size Mattress In 2020 – Top Rated Reviews
Nectar Memory Foam Queen Mattress – Best Overall
Nectar mattresses have quickly gained a reputation for quality and dependability.
This high-end memory foam mattress represents a combination of their expertise, the end result being a mattress that is suited to most people.
This is because it’s a firm mattress that has been tuned for all sleeping types, whether you sleep on your back, side, or front. This is accomplished by ensuring that the layers of memory foam used are both supportive and comfortable.
Its standout feature is the way in which it relieves pressure in the shoulder area, a common problem for many sleepers who sleep on their side. But because its still on the firmer side, back pain sufferers are also catered for.
The top 2 layers contain active cooling technology which is designed to promote a cooler sleeping environment. This approach has allowed the Nectar mattress to combat one of the biggest problems with memory foam mattresses.
If you’re not sure whether this mattress will be a little too firm for you, we suggest that you make use of Nectar’s 180 day sleep trial. If you find it to be a good fit, the lifetime warranty will ensure this mattress lasts you a lifetime.
Snuggle-Pedic Queen Memory Foam Mattress – Variable Firmness
This memory foam mattress by Snuggle-Pedic is a fantastic runner up.
We consider this to be the science based offering in an industry that often relies on gimmicks. This is because Snuggle-Pedic has focused on creating a mattress that excels in support and comfort rather than fancy features. It doesn’t look as premium as some others, but it works.
Snuggle-Pedic have achieved this by using a layered foam approach which includes a firm high-density base and a top layer of much softer memory foam.
The end result is a mattress that is both comfortable and supportive in addition to providing exceptional motion isolation for restless sleepers. Like our winner, it also means that every type of sleeper is catered to, regardless of their preferred sleeping position.
To make this mattress as cool as possible, they’ve also utilized a ventilation and cooling system that works far better than most. It consists of air channels, open pores and a breathable fabric which creates an air transfer system that moves cool air around the entire mattress. Perfect for warm sleepers.
The standout feature with this company is that they’ll work with you to ensure that you find the perfect level of firmness whether soft or hard. Simply call their technical support line for advice and they will send you a range of accessories which can be zipped into the mattress cover, totally free of charge.
A lengthy sleep trial of 4 months and an outstanding 20 year warranty complete this great mattress.
Layla Sleep Queen Memory Foam Mattress – Soft or Firm
Layla’s Sleep mattress always scores highly amongst our team and is a great choice for a queen size mattress.
Layla’s unique approach to mattresses has seen them pursue the flippable route, in an attempt to offer something for everyone. As flippable mattresses go, its one of the best we’ve seen.
One side of the mattress is firm while the other side is soft and Layla has used different coloured fabric to help customers differentiate. What we like is that whichever side you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy that ‘sinking into’ feeling that memory foam is known for.
Layla have achieved this by using 6 layers which have been combined together to provide the pinnacle of support and pressure relief. If you suffer from recurring backpain or aches in your shoulders, hips or knees, we recommend trialling this mattress.
The memory foam technology used in this mattress is amongst the best available and is further enhanced through the inclusion of a copper foam infusion which works to reduce body temperature while sleeping.
We love it and so do Layla’s customers with most leaving glowing feedback. If you would like to give it a try, we suggest using the 120 night sleep trial which is enough time to find out whether it’s right for you.
Casper Sleep Essentials Queen Mattress – Great Allrounder
The Casper Sleep is another YeloSpa favorite and has earned its place on our list.
Casper have taken the direct to consumer approach which has worked well for them. They’ve also been able to harness the endorsement of celebrities to further position their brand.
The Casper Sleep mattress thankfully delivers on its promises and is a ‘Goldilocks’ mattress that should suit almost everyone. Its rated as being medium firm but incorporates what is referred to as Zoned Support. This makes the mattress soft where it needs to be (shoulders) and firm where it doesn’t (hips).
The combination of spinal support and pressure relief works exceptionally well. The memory foam used is also very responsive and offers outstanding motion isolation, producing a mattress that is useable across its entire length and width.
This mattress doesn’t sleep as cool as our other top picks, but you should find it to be ok unless you’re an excessively warm sleeper. With its lengthy 100 night sleep trial and a considerable 10 year warranty, this mattress should make it onto your shortlist.
Live and Sleep Resort Ultra Queen Mattress – Best Value for Money
If you’re on a budget but won’t compromise on quality, the Live and Sleep Resort Ultra is for you.
Live and Sleep have produced an affordable mattress that provides a quality of sleep that is as good as many other leading mattresses but at a fraction of the price.
This has been achieved by using 3 layers of foam which offer a fantastic combination of support, pressure relief and sleeping comfort. Medium in its firmness level, the Live and Sleep Ultra is suitable for side, back and stomach sleepers of average weight which should reduce the occurrence of restlessness throughout the night.
The included Soft Flex cover is breathable and when combined with the cooling gel infused top layer provides a cool sleep for those who struggle with excess body temperatures while sleeping.
A 30 day sleep trial and a 20 year warranty should give you the confidence that this mattress is worth both your time and money.
Queen Size Mattress Buyer’s Guide
The queen size mattress is a great choice for most people whether upgrading from a smaller sized mattress or buying their first bed. They offer a great combination between enough sleeping space for lone sleepers and couples and a small enough footprint that they should fit into most bedrooms.
Once you reach the level of queen-sized mattresses you will notice that features such as edge support are much improved. And because there’s more horizontal space, you’ll likely spend less time huddled near the edge anyway.
There should even be enough space for small children and your pets to join you during the night.
And even if you’re a larger person, whether taller or heavier than average, a queen size mattress is going to be able to better support your size and weight than a smaller mattress.
The Different Types of Queen Size Mattress
Just as king sized mattresses can come in a variety of different variations, so does the queen bed.
Standard Queen: A standard queen mattress measures 60 x 80 inches and is the most commonly sold queen mattress available.
Olympic Queen: An Olympic Queen is 6 inches wider than the standard queen mattress and measures in at 66 x 80 inches. This provides a little more lateral space for spreading out.
California Queen: The California Queen (or Queen XL) is much rarer than the California King. If you do find one, they measure in at 58 x 82 inches and provide more leg room for taller people.
Split Queen: A Split Queen mattress is sometimes referred to as a dual queen and is essentially two mattresses in one. Each section measures in at 30 x 80 inches which makes it easier to buy a queen size mattress for couples who prefer different firmness levels. If you don’t want to compromise by buying a medium firmness mattress that neither sleeper is happy with, the Split Queen is for you.
All that is required is a standard queen size bed frame or an adjustable bed frame.
Other Queen Size Mattress Considerations
Material Type
There are a range of materials to choose from when buying a new mattress. Each option allows you to choose a surface that is bouncy, responsive, provides contouring and offers that sinking feeling. Most people already have a personal preference but if this is your first mattress purchase, it’s always worth taking the time to understand the difference between each material type.
The most common mattress materials you will come across include polyfoam, memory foam, innerspring, hybrid and latex mattresses. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages as well as a unique feel.
Coils
Coil springs are commonly used in many cheaper mattresses. They provide plenty of support for the body and a bouncy feel that some people love. They’re also usually firmer than other types of mattress but tend to sag and require replacement much quicker.
Foams
Polyfoam and memory foam are the most popular options for a mattress. Polyfoam is cheaper and doesn’t offer as much support while sleeping, while memory foam is much more supportive and is usually more expensive, especially when of better quality as when found in luxury mattresses.
Memory foam can become warm while sleeping which can be an issue for some people.
Hybrids
Hybrid mattresses contain a combination of innersprings and foam. They usually provide a feel that most people like as they feature the best characteristics of both construction types.
The springs are usually positioned at the bottom of the mattress with layers of soft foam on top.
Latex
Latex mattresses are a relatively new alternative that feature some unique properties. They are firmer than memory foam mattresses and are bouncier too. As an advantage, latex doesn’t retain as much heat during sleep which is better for warm sleepers.
The type of latex used is usually Talalay or Dunlop rubber which are basically two different methods of producing latex. Latex is usually formed from organic rubber too which may be an important consideration for some people.
If foam or springs aren’t providing the feel you want, a latex mattress is always worth a try.
Sleeping Position
Your typical sleeping position is the most important factor when mattress shopping. There are four common positions that we sleep in, each with their own requirements for bodily support and firmness level.
Side sleepers often require a softer bed which will relieve pressure from the hips and shoulder areas while lying down.
Back sleepers usually prefer a firmer mattress. This allows better weight distribution while lying down and will ensure that your back and spine is properly supported and aligned during sleep.
Stomach sleepers should look for a firmer mattress. This will help prevent difficulty breathing and ensure that the hips remain elevated and in alignment with your shoulders when sleeping.
Combination sleepers often benefit from a medium firm mattress. This will provide the support your body requires as well as the responsiveness that will allow you to comfortably change sleeping position throughout the night.
No matter your preferred position, it’s very important that you consider your sleeping habits. Proper spinal alignment and adequate support are the most important performance factors for any mattress.
Firmness Level
The firmness of your mattress is going to affect the quality of your sleep. If your mattress is too soft, then your body will be insufficiently supported. Too firm and you’ll struggle to get comfortable and might not benefit from any pressure relief provided.
There are three main categories of mattress firmness which are soft, medium and firm. Some companies produce products which are ‘in-between’ in terms of plushness and are designed for those who want something really specific.
Any product description reference to plush refers to a softer mattress.
Bed Frame Compatibility
Not every queen mattress will be compatible with every type of queen bed frame or base. You will find that box springs are often unsuitable for many with standard wooden bases or slatted frames the recommended option.
If this is the case, the product’s description will often highlight the type of bed base you require.
Sleep Trials
Premium mattresses and those at the higher end of the market will often feature a sleep trial. A sleep trial will allow you to test your new mattress purchase from the comfort of your home.
You will have a period of time anywhere up to 180 nights to make sure your new mattress is the right fit your needs. If not, simply return it for a full refund.
Warranties
Higher-end mattresses will also offer a longer warranty period. Every good mattress will come with a minimum of 5 years, but 10 years or more is always preferred. Some mattress companies will offer you a 20 year or lifetime warranty.
Your warranty should cover all manufacturing defects as well as anything that could be described as abnormal wear and tear.
Certifications
All mattresses are given certifications which are awarded based on the standards they adhere to. If a mattress that is friendly to the environment is important to you, be sure to look for a mattress that is produced from non-toxic materials and features a CertiPUR-US certification.
Final Verdict
The popular queen size mattress is available to everyone, no matter your budget. We have tested and chosen what we believe to be the best queen size mattress available, hopefully making your new mattress purchase as easy and as confusion free as possible.
Start by deciding on your firmness preference and match that with your typical sleeping position. Once you buy the right mattress, we guarantee that you’ll be sleeping comfortably for years.
