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Casper Dream Mattress review: A good cooling hybrid for back and stomach sleepers

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The medium-firm feel and cooling abilities make the Casper Dream the best cooling mattress for stomach and back sleepers.

Casper; Erin Brains

Casper is one of the original and best mattress brands in the online retail space. I’ve tested 10 of its beds over the years and have written various Casper mattress reviews. The discontinued Nova Hybrid was among my favorites. When the brand completely revamped its mattress lineup in February 2024, I was sad to see the Nova Hybrid go but excited to try its newest innovations, namely the Casper Dream mattress.

The Casper Dream is the brand’s most affordable hybrid, promising a medium feel to appeal to most sleepers. It replaces the Original Hybrid. While I found it too firm for side sleeping, the zoned support is sure to please back, and stomach sleepers and its outstanding cooling will keep hot sleepers comfy. Below are more details about my experience sleeping on the Casper Dream Hybrid Mattress for 14 nights.

Design

The Casper Dream is a hybrid featuring zoned support foam and individually wrapped pocket springs.

Casper

The OEKO-TEX-certified cover of the Casper Dream is a knit blend of polyester, spandex, and polyethylene, designed for breathability and a soft feel. The top layer is made of responsive polyurethane foam. Below that is zoned memory foam. I love zoned support mattresses because they balance comforting support with pressure relief where you need it most. The base layer combines individually wrapped pocket springs encased in high-density polyurethane foam around the periphery for edge support. The springs tend to offer added durability and airflow to the bed. All the foams are CertiPUR-US certified.

Casper also offers the Dream Max, which costs about $1,000 more than the Dream and features an additional polyurethane foam layer with contouring zoned support with a medium-soft feel. The Max is also two inches thicker, 14 inches versus the Dream’s 12 inches. Casper has a Snow line with a similar construction with graphite “heat delete” bands and phase change material for extra cooling abilities.

Our review of the Casper Dream

I unboxed the Casper Dream in five minutes.

James Brains/Business Insider

Setup

The Casper Dream Hybrid’s setup was similar to the other mattresses in a box I’ve tested. The bed arrived in a box the size of a mini-fridge. I carried it to my bedroom, cut open the box, and emptied the vacuum-sealed, plastic-wrapped bed onto my bed frame. Then, I expertly tore away the plastic layers with my bare hands. The process took five minutes, but I’ve done dozens of these. I recommend getting a friend’s help and using an envelope slitter tool to remove the plastic, which works great for ensuring you don’t accidentally cut the mattress.

The Casper Dream had a strong “new bed smell” out of the packaging, but it dissipated and fully expanded by bedtime.

Casper offers in-home setup services for $249. With this service, you choose when your mattress is delivered, and professionals unbox it and set it up in the room of your choice. They take the packaging materials and can remove your old mattress.

Comfort

This graphic from the Mattress Checker app shows how the Casper Dream didn’t keep my spine aligned well when I was on my side.

Mattress Checker app; James Brains/Business Insider

I’m a bigger fella who prefers to sleep on his side on a softer mattress, so keep that in mind when I tell you I just wasn’t comfortable on the Casper Dream. I didn’t sink in much, and it was firmer than average, which makes it a better option for back and stomach sleepers.

During the two weeks I slept on the Dream, I didn’t experience any soreness when I awoke in the morning, and my sleep quality, as measured by my Garmin smartwatch, was about average. Yet, subjectively, I didn’t feel like I was getting good pressure relief. According to the Mattress Checker app, my spine was a little out-of-whack on the Dream. Sleeping on my side, I was about 7.6 degrees from the ideal neutral spine, which is 6 degrees or less.

So, the Casper Dream Hybrid may not be ideal for side sleepers. With its firmer-than-average feel, it’s more geared toward back and stomach sleepers.

Heat dissipation

Using an infrared thermometer, I found the Casper Dream stayed incredibly cool.

Erin Brains

I test how cool a mattress stays by measuring its surface temperature with an infrared thermometer before I lay down and first thing in the morning. Two minutes after I get up, I take another temperature reading to gauge how well it dissipates heat.

The Casper Dream was among the coolest mattresses I’ve tested. On average, it was 87.8 degrees Fahrenheit when I got up from it, nearly two degrees cooler than the average of all mattresses I’ve tested. The temperature dropped more than 12 degrees after I got up from it, which is marginally better than average. This is an excellent bed for hot sleepers.

Edge support

The edge sank slightly more than the average mattress.

Erin Brains

Edge support is nice to have so that you feel supported as you sit and lie on the side of the bed. It can make getting into and out of bed easier and keep you comfortable when you move away from your partner encroaching on your side. Plus, it’s nice to sit on your bed to put your socks and shoes on in the morning. Edge support helps.

I test edge support using a yardstick to measure how much the edge sinks when sitting on the side. The Casper Dream sank 4 inches, slightly above the 3.5-inch average.

I also lie on the edge and slowly roll until I fall off. The mattress has good edge support if my body reaches more than a 45-degree angle to the bed before I fall. With the Dream, I was right at 45 degrees when I fell.

Motion isolation

The Casper Dream passed our bowling ball test with flying colors.

Erin Brains

When your sleeping partner moves around at night, you don’t want it to wake you. This is where good motion isolation comes in handy. I test this by dropping a bowling ball 4 feet above the mattress so it lands 12 inches from a soda can. If the can stays upright, the bed has excellent motion isolation. If it falls, the motion isolation could use some improvement. I ran this test several times with the Casper Dream, and the can fell over about half the time, suggesting it has better than average motion isolation.

I also used a vibrometer placed on the other side of the mattress to measure the vibration intensity as I dropped the bowling ball. The Dream registered 6.8 on the MMI scale. You don’t need to know what MMI is, just know that the Dream did better than the average of 7.1 in my tests.

Overall, the Casper Dream has great motion isolation. Combined with the subpar, but not awful, edge support, it’s a decent option for couples.

Trial period and warranty

Casper offers a 100-night sleep trial with all of its mattresses. After sleeping on the mattress for at least 30 nights, if you’re unhappy with it, Casper will arrange to pick it up and give you a full refund. Some brands have loopholes in their return policy, like deducting return shipping or restocking fees from your refund. This is not the case with Casper: you get a full refund. They also do their best to donate the returned mattress.

If you decide to keep the mattress, it’s backed by a 10-year warranty. Similarly, Casper’s limited mattress warranty is free of loopholes. It will even cover the shipping costs if you need to return the bed to be repaired or replaced. As with other manufacturers, Casper doesn’t cover any deterioration or damage to a mattress caused by misuse or a poor foundation.

Cons to consider

My biggest con was that I wasn’t comfortable on the Casper Dream Hybrid. It was a little too firm. I still slept OK and was slightly more comfortable on my back and stomach. Side sleepers may want to look elsewhere through.

The Casper Dream’s edge support is worse than average. This is likely due to its reliance on a foam border rather than the narrow coils used in mattresses with superior edge support. Couples sharing a bed may want to opt for a larger mattress.

What are your alternatives?

The Leesa Sapira Hybrid is the top pick in our best mattresses guide.

Jaclyn Turner/Business Insider

According to Casper, the Dream Max has a softer feel than the Dream and more zoned support to help with spinal alignment. This may make it a better option for side sleepers. Yet, it costs over a $1,000 more, pushing it into the premium mattress range. While I haven’t tested it, the Dream Max has the same foam around the edges as the Dream, so I’m guessing the edge support is also the same.

The Casper Snow line has a similar construction to the Dream line, only the Snow and Snow Max feature phase change material and “heat delete” bands to help keep you cool. I tested the Snow, which stayed marginally cooler than the Dream but didn’t dissipate heat as quickly. Another key difference was the Snow as softer and better suited for side sleeping.

Casper’s all-foam budget option is the One, which Casper rates as its firmest bed. It lacks the zoned support of the brand’s other mattresses but is about $1,100 less than the Dream.

All that said, I recommend buying the Leesa Sapira Hybrid, the top pick in our best mattresses guide. Its average firmness is ideal for all sleep positions, the edge support and motion isolation are great, and it dissipates heat well. Plus, it’s only about $100 more than the Dream. Read our full Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress review.

For more recommendations, check out our best mattress guide.

The bottom line

While it may be too firm for side sleepers, the Casper Dream is an excellent option for hot sleeping stomach and back sleepers.

Erin Brains/Business Insider

The $1,900 Casper Dream Hybrid Mattress is excellent for back and stomach sleepers who tend to overheat. The breathable materials keep it cool, and the medium-firm feel offers optimal support. Couples will appreciate the motion isolation, though side sleepers may find it too firm. With the loophole-free 100-night sleep trial, you have nothing to lose. If this sounds like the mattress for you, give it a try.

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March 20, 2025
The 4 best down pillows of 2025, tested and reviewed

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We found the best down pillows based on various sleep styles so you can rest easy.

Connie Chen/Business Insider

The best down pillow feels like you’re resting on a cloud. Because of all the soft and light down clusters inside, it cradles your head comfortably and conforms to your movements as you sleep.

Alongside our reviews of the best pillows, we tried nine of the best down pillows and evaluated their comfort and support for different types of sleepers, as well as their construction, return policies, and warranty. Down pillows are usually available in various support levels for different sleeping styles: plush or soft for stomach sleepers, mid-plush or medium for back sleepers, and firm for side sleepers.

Our top pick is the Brooklinen Down Pillow, which feels luxurious and soft. It’s available in various firmness levels and is moderately priced for a hotel-style pillow. Chelsea Nightengale, the general manager of The Restoration Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina, also recommends looking for a chambered pillow, which “will alleviate the aggravation of any fill bunching in certain areas of the bedding throughout the night.” The Boll & Branch Down Chamber Pillow utilizes this type of construction with a three-chamber design, also available in three densities depending on your sleep position.

Our top picks for down pillows

Best overall: Brooklinen Down Pillow – See at Brooklinen

Best for side sleepers: Parachute Down Side Sleeper Pillow – See at Parachute

Best ethically sourced: Boll & Branch Chamber Pillow – See at Boll & Branch

Best goose: Continental Bedding Siberian Goose Down Pillow – See at Amazon

Best overall

A pillow that adapts to movement but stays supportive and comfortable is vital for sleepers who don’t favor one position over another. Brooklinen’s mid-plush down pillow is versatile enough for most people and very comfortable to sleep on.

It’s also a great middle-of-the-road option to try out if you’re not quite sure what kind of pillow you like best. Sleeping on this pillow can help you determine if you’d prefer a more firm or plush version, both of which Brooklinen offers.

The mid-plush version has a feather core for support and is surrounded by fluffy down clusters. The down compressed easily but bounced back up quickly and was easy to fluff up. This pillow had the most noticeable down smell of all the pillows I tried, so you’ll need to throw it in the dryer for a few cycles to get rid of the scent. Otherwise, I was pleased with the construction and feel of the pillow.

Read our full Brooklinen Down Pillow review.

Best for side sleepers

In my personal experience, a firmer memory foam pillow is the best pillow for side sleepers. If you’re dead set on sleeping on a cushiony down pillow, Parachute’s Down Side Sleeper Pillow has enough structural support so you can sleep comfortably on your side while enjoying a plush feel.

It has a tall, 3.5-inch gusset, which is the extra material in the middle and side panels that gives the pillow a more boxy shape. This design prevents your head from sinking in too much and keeps your spine aligned while you sleep. At the same time, it’s not so tall that your neck is uncomfortably strained.

Because it’s thicker and more supportive than non-gusseted pillows and filled with fluffy white down, my sleep experience felt extra luxurious and comfortable. It doesn’t flatten as quickly as non-gusseted pillows and fluffs up easily by hand or in the dryer.

The only way this pillow could be unsatisfying is for side sleepers who are used to more firm support. Thankfully, Parachute has a 60-day return policy, so you’ll be able to determine for yourself.

Best ethically sourced

Boll & Branch prides itself on the sustainable materials used in their down pillow, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a down pillow that is ethically made. Boll & Branch partners with farms in the United States to source its cruelty-free down that is also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and International Down Standard certified, which means it’s using the safest and cleanest materials. Even the outside cotton cover is organic. The down is also triple-washed, which exceeds the US standards and makes for cleaner, fluffier fill.

The three-chambered soft pillow has down in all three sections, meaning it’s luxuriously cushiony and the filling stays evenly distributed through the night. We found it very flexible, and we were able to mold it and fold it in various ways to make it plumper or flatter, based on how we were lying.

The softest version Boll & Branch’s down pillow is incredibly soft and squashes down the instant your head touches it; it has the least density making it an excellent option for stomach sleepers. The two firmer versions have more supportive feathers in the inner chamber, making them more suitable for back and side sleepers.

Best goose

This pillow is all down, with no feathers, giving it a super light and fluffy feel. Even better, it’s goose down, which is more premium and harder to find than duck down. I could certainly feel the difference — this pillow was noticeably lighter and the most compressible of all the pillows I tested.

Unfortunately, side sleepers will have to skip out on this pillow since there’s not much support, and it’s pretty soft. However, for anyone who wants to feel like they’ve just climbed into a hotel bed after a long day out sightseeing, the Continental Bedding provides a dreamy escape.

It’ll cost you to invest in this luxe pillow, but you can trust in the expertise and history of the brand. It’s been around for almost 100 years, making down bedding products.

What to look for in a down pillow

The best down pillows are worth the investment, as they are fluffy and low-maintenance. Naturally breathable, down and feathers are also very soft and comfortable. The material conforms to body movements well so that you can shift positions at night with little disturbance. That said, there are several factors you should consider when shopping for a down pillow:

Loft and sleep position

Consider your preferred sleeping position when choosing between different lofts and firmness levels. Here are the lofts and firmness levels you should look for based on your sleep position:

Loft Firmness

Side sleeper High Firm

Back sleeper Medium Moderate

Stomach sleeper Low, thin Soft

Ethical certifications

Down comes from birds that have been raised for food, so it is a sustainable byproduct, but there are concerns about animal welfare. The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certifies responsibly sourced down.

Down vs. feather vs. down alternative

Down is the fiber on the underside of a bird, while the feathers are quilled and found on the back and wings. In general, down pillows are softer and more expensive. Feathers offer more support. Many pillows contain both, a feather core and down exterior.

While down is natural, down alternative is an affordable alternative made from synthetic material, usually polyester fibers. PrimaLoft is a popular, premium brand of down alternative that mimics the lightweight feel, insulation, and comfort of down.

Goose vs. duck down

In terms of insulation and durability, goose and duck down perform the same, though duck down is generally cheaper. If you want the lightest and fluffiest pillow with the most warmth — and you’re willing to pay a little more — go for goose down.

How we tested down pillows

We chose the best down pillows by evaluating comfort, feel, and support and also looked at factors like return and warranty terms.

Connie Chen/Business Insider

To test the best down pillows, I slept on each pillow for three consecutive nights. I also rotated the pillows through three family members (one back sleeper, one side sleeper, and one with mixed sleeping positions), who slept on each pillow for at least two nights and provided feedback.

I evaluated how supportive each pillow felt; how well it held its shape; its softness and coolness; and the quality of stitching and seams, including whether any down or feathers poked out. I also noted the fit of the pillow inside a standard-sized Casper pillowcase (21 x 29 inches). Lastly, I put each pillow on the air fluff setting in the dryer to see how well the pillows fluffed back up. I will continue rotating through all the best picks to evaluate long-term comfort and durability.

Outside of comfort, feel, and support, I looked at each brand’s return and warranty terms. Since it can be challenging to determine whether you’ll really like a pillow until you try it, I only considered brands with a minimum return policy of 30 days.

Down pillow FAQs

Down is a popular choice for pillows because it is highly insulating yet breathable and lightweight and offer a soft and fluffy place to rest your head.

Connie Chen/Insider

What is down?

Down is soft and light fiber from the underbelly of a duck or goose. It’s located underneath a bird’s feather layer and is shaped in fluffy clusters. It’s used in bedding and clothing because it’s highly insulating yet breathable and lightweight.

How long do down pillows last?

The lifespan of your down pillow depends on how often you wash it. Generally, the best down pillows last at least five years and up to 10 years. Replace your pillow when it remains flat after fluffing, or you fold it in half, and it doesn’t unfold by itself.

Can you wash a down pillow?

Generally, it’s okay to wash a down pillow on the delicate setting with mild detergent. Follow the care instructions of the manufacturer for the best results. Dry cleaning is an option, but it breaks down the natural oils in down, reducing your pillow’s lifespan.

Can down cause allergies?

“People can be allergic to feathers, although it is not very common. Much more common is a dust mite allergy,” said Tania Elliott, MD, an allergist. To help prevent dust mites, try a pillowcase made from tightly woven 100% cotton.

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March 19, 2025
I’ve tested dozens of luxury bedding brands, and these $20 Amazon sheets completely surprised me

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These $20 microfiber sheets from Amazon come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Amazon

While we think it’s worth investing in great products to help you sleep (after all, it’s something you spend a third of your life doing), you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to get the best sheets.

Amazon Basics, Amazon’s private label for affordable everyday essentials, makes queen-size sheets for less than $20. The sheet set is one of the best-selling and top-rated on the site, with over 300,000 five-star reviews.

Like other Amazon Basics products, which include phone accessories and cookware, this sheet set sticks to the basics. There’s no marketing story behind it, no fancy, innovative features to wow you. It’s a sheet set, plain and simple, and it has exactly the features you’d expect for less than $20.

Design

The sheets are made from polyester microfiber, which isn’t quite as soft as cotton.

Connie Chen/Insider

Each set includes one fitted sheet, one flat sheet, and two pillowcases. It comes in 30 colors and prints, from a frosted lavender to a deep burgundy, so it’s easy to find a color to suit your personal style. The prices fluctuate depending on the pattern and color, but most hover around the $20 to $25 mark. I already own a good number of lighter colored sheets, so I got a set in Plum.

The sheets are made from polyester in an OEKO-Tex Standard 100-certified factory. The fitted sheet was easy to put on my 12-inch tall mattress and stays snug around it. The sheet can fit on mattresses up to 14 inches thick.

Our review of the Amazon Basics Sheet Set

Each set includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases.

Amazon

Comfort

Overall, I’ve had a good experience sleeping on these sheets. They’re soft and comfortable, though they’re not the most breathable I’ve tried. Even though I tend not to sleep hot, I can see someone overheating in them. While some reviewers took issue with how thin the sheets were, I personally thought the thickness was fine.

They’re also a bit wrinkly and that problem might be exacerbated by the fact that I got a darker color. If you care about the appearance of your sheets, I would suggest getting a lighter color or a printed style.

Comparing these sheets to sets I’ve tried that cost 10 to 15 times more, I do think there’s a noticeable difference. Sheets that I’ve tried for our best sheets guide from brands like Parachute, Brooklinen, and Frette are indeed better — they’re softer, more breathable, and more durable.

Care

Another perk of this sheet set is its ease of cleaning. Rather than requiring the cold water cycle or low heat in the dryer, these sheets can be washed and dried in your washer and dryer at normal settings. The product description notes that they’re shrink resistant, too.

Value

At less than $20 for a queen-sized set, it’s difficult to find a pair of sheets at a better value that the Amazon Basics sheets. While not the best sheets we’ve ever tested, they are surprisingly good quality for the price.

Because the sheet set is sold on Amazon, they have 30-day returns. If you’re not happy with your sheets within the first 30 days, you can get a replacement or refund at no cost.

Cons to consider

These sheets are not breathable, which could be a major issue if you sleep hot. If you are looking for cooling sheets for the summer months, we don’t recommend the Amazon Basics sheets.

Durability-wise, you get what you pay for when buying sheets. These sheets aren’t the best option if you’re looking for a product that will last for years. They are also prone to wrinkling, so keep that in mind if you like aesthetic, crisp bedding.

What are your alternatives?

While it’s difficult to find sheets that match the value of the Amazon Basics sheet set, there are plenty of other budget options available. We picked Target’s Threshold Performance Sheet Set as the best budget option in our best sheets guide. These $60 cotton sheets have a sateen weave, so they are silky-soft and smooth, as detailed by our reviewer in her review.

If you sleep hot, the Mellani Iconic Collection Sheet Set, which are featured in our best cooling sheets guide, is similar to the Amazon Basics sheet set in terms of its microfiber construction and wide array of colors. However, we found the set to sleep far cooler and moisture-wicking.

The bottom line

You really can’t beat the value of these sheets. Twenty dollars is a great deal for a full sheet set, and I love that there are so many color and print options. The soft and comfortable material might not last a lifetime of uses and washes, but it’s the perfect short-term bedding solution for kids’ bedrooms, dorms and college apartments, and guest rooms. It’s one of the best budget sheet options you can buy online right now, from a brand with a lot of experience making these types of affordable essentials.

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March 19, 2025
PurpleFlex Mattress review: Purple’s most affordable bed delivers impressive pressure relief and cooling on a budget

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The PurpleFlex has outstanding pressure point relief and sleeps cool thanks to the GelFlex grid.

Purple; James Brains/Business Insider

I’ve tested seven Purple mattresses over the years, and I’ve grown fond of the brand. I was initially apprehensive about its signature GelFlex grid, which is found across all of its mattresses. The grid is like a gel honeycomb with a stretchy material that quickly adapts to your body and an open structure to allow for airflow. It felt off-putting at first, but after those first few nights, I fell in love with the pressure relief these beds provided me.

One of my early misgivings with the brand is how expensive the beds are. However, Purple has worked to offer lower-priced options that also feature the gel grid it’s famous for, specifically the PurpleFlex (formerly NewDay). Now that I’ve gotten the chance to test it, I was blown away by how well it kept my spine aligned and relieved my pressure points. Below, I’ll outline why this is one of the best mattresses for back and stomach sleepers who sleep alone.

Design

The PurpleFlex has a 2-inch GelFlex grid layer and 6-inch base support foam layer.

Purple

Purple’s responsive “GelFlex” grid sets it apart from other brands. The PurpleFlex’s polymer grid is two inches thick and comprises the top layer of the mattress. The grid reminds me of a honeycomb with squares instead of hexagons. It has an open structure to allow for airflow, and it’s hyper-elastic, so it squishes when you lie on it and quickly rebounds when you get up. The grid is surrounded by a foam border for increased edge support. The six-inch high-density base foam offers durability and support. The soft polyester cover is designed for breathability and stretch.

All foams used in the mattress are CertiPUR-US certified. The PurpleFlex is also made of Clean Air Gold-certified materials, meaning it has low VOC emissions.

Our review of the PurpleFlex Mattress

Setup

The PurpleFlex arrives at your door in a box the size of a minifridge. The queen mattress weighs 77 pounds — more in the packaging — so have someone to help you move it to your bedroom.

Setting up the PurpleFlex was pretty standard, but it comes with instructions, a cutting tool for removing the plastic, and sleep masks, which my 10-year-old loves to wear all day. To set it up, you empty the vacuum-sealed mattress onto your foundation. Then, remove the plastic layers, being careful not to cut into the mattress. The PurpleFlex is not available for in-home setup, so you’ll be responsible for unboxing and setting up your new mattress.

I like to set up mattresses in the morning to give them time to expand and air out by bedtime. The PurpleFlex had a mild “new bed smell” when I first unboxed it, but it dissipated by night.

Comfort

A measured deviation angle of six degrees or less is considered good. The PurpleFlex was excellent.

Mattress Checker app; James Brains/Business Insider

The polymer grid layer responds to your body’s contours the moment you lay on it. I could feel my pressure points squishing the grid and reaching the base foam, which helped me feel supported and kept my spine optimally aligned. In fact, the PurpleFlex has the best spinal alignment of any mattress I’ve tested. According to the Mattress Checker app, my spine was off from being perfectly aligned by 1.7 degrees. Anything below six degrees is considered good.

I’m a heavy guy who sleeps on his side, and I found the mattress was a tinge too firm for my tastes. Based on testing 100+ mattresses, I’d say it’s a little firmer than average, making it better suited for back and stomach sleepers.

Still, I didn’t wake up feeling sore. According to my Garmin Forerunner 945 watch, my sleep quality was average while testing the PurpleFlex.

Heat dissipation

I test how cool a mattress stays and how well it dissipates heat by measuring its surface temperature right before I lie down, right after I get up, and two minutes after. Over the two-to-four-week testing period, I take several measurements.

The PurpleFlex was among the best cooling mattresses. When I got up from it, it was, on average, 87.5 degrees Fahrenheit, two degrees less than the average of all the beds I’ve tested. However, it didn’t dissipate heat quickly. After two minutes, the temperature only dropped 8.5 degrees, compared to the average of 12 degrees.

Subjectively, I never overheated on the PurpleFlex, even though I tested it during Michigan’s hot and humid months. Overall, I’d say this is a solid option for hot sleepers.

Edge support

The PurpleFlex Mattress features a foam boarder that helps with edge support.

James Brains/Business Insider

Edge support helps you feel comfortable when your partner starts to encroach on your side of the bed, and you’re forced to the periphery. It also helps when sitting on the edge to put on your socks and shoes. And it makes getting into and out of bed just a little bit easier.

I test edge support by lying on the mattress with my outside shoulder aligned with the edge. Then, I slowly roll off the bed. If my body reaches a 45-degree angle to the bed before falling, the mattress has good edge support. On the PurpleFlex, I made it well past 45 degrees before having to catch my fall: great edge support.

I also use a yardstick to measure how much the bed’s side sinks when I sit on it. On average, mattresses sink about 3.5 inches. The PurpleFlex sank 3 inches. The edge support foam seems to do the trick.

Motion isolation

Motion isolation is a lifesaver if you share a bed with someone. A mattress with outstanding motion dampening will keep your sleep from being disturbed when your partner shifts in the night.

I test motion isolation by placing a soda can on the mattress and dropping a bowling ball to see if the can falls over. If the can stays upright, the motion isolation is excellent. With the PurpleFlex, the can fell over during each iteration of the test.

I also placed a vibrometer on the opposite side of the bed to gauge the intensity of the vibrations from the bowling ball. The PurpleFlex had a reading of 7.7 on the MMI scale, which is well above the 7.1 average of all the mattresses I’ve tested. The PurpleFlex’s motion isolation is subpar.

Trial period and warranty

The infamous law tag features info about the PurpleFlex mattress’s construction. Don’t remove it to keep the warranty in tact.

James Brains/Business Insider

The PurpleFlex comes with a 100-night home trial period. After sleeping on it for at least 21 nights, if you don’t like the mattress, you get a full refund. Purple arranges a time to pick up and remove the mattress. However, there is a minor catch in the return policy: The law tag must remain attached to the mattress.

The PurpleFlex is backed by a 10-year warranty. If Purple determines the mattress is defective during this period, it will fully cover the cost of repairing or replacing it. However, within the fine print, Purple notes that you are responsible for paying for transportation fees for the mattress to be replaced or repaired after just 30 days of ownership. Again, the law tag must be attached. Plus, there are other weird stipulations, like the mattress must not be used by a medical patient or stored at any point. The warranty also includes a pretty standard requirement: you must use the mattress on a firm, flat foundation or frame.

Cons to consider

The PurpleFlex may be too firm for most side sleepers. The polymer grid did a good job of helping me sink enough to keep my spine aligned while lying on my side. However, I’m heavier than most people, and lighter individuals may not sink in as much. Back and stomach sleepers will find the firmness more to their liking. Side sleepers may instead want to consider the Purple Plus, which is covered in the next section.

The PurpleFlex has poor motion isolation. If you share a bed with someone who tends to toss and turn in the night, you might want to consider another option. However, if you sleep alone, the subpar motion isolation is unlikely to affect you.

What are your alternatives?

The medium firmness and cool feel of the original Purple Mattress is ideal for side sleepers who tend to overheat. Yet, I didn’t find it particularly comfortable.

Purple

The PurpleFlex is part of the Purple Essential Collection, which includes the Purple Mattress and the Purple Plus. The original Purple Mattress is $200 more expensive than the PurpleFlex, but it has an added layer of comfort foam and is softer, making it better for back and side sleepers. Yet, I had trouble sleeping comfortably on it.

The Purple Plus is the softest of the bunch, designed for side sleepers. It’s $600 more expensive than the PurpleFlex, but it has an added comfort foam layer and an extra base foam layer for more stability and support. I have not tested it yet, but another Business Insider contributor has and compliments it for its good motion isolation and responsive, pressure-relieving design that didn’t cause any overheating. She thought the edge support was lacking, however. For a full rundown of the brand, check out our Purple mattress review hub.

If you’re looking for a non-Purple mattress, I recommend the top pick in our best foam mattress guide, the Tempur-Pedic Cloud. It’s more expensive than the PurpleFlex, but I slept incredibly well on it. The Tempur-Cloud has great motion isolation, stays cool, and will appeal to all sleep styles. Read our full Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud Mattress review.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the top pick in our main best mattress guide, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid. Its motion isolation is great, the average firmness will appeal to most sleep styles, and it dissipates heat well. However, it costs $500 more than the PurpleFlex. Still, I think it’s worth it, especially if you share a bed with another person. Read our full Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress review.

The bottom line

The PurpleFlex has the dynamic feel of a much pricier mattress.

James Brains/Business Insider

If you’ve wanted to try Purple’s unique gel grid without breaking the bank, the PurpleFlex mattress is the way to go. The grid helps keep your spine aligned while offering outstanding pressure relief. While the motion isolation could use some improvement, the edge support is great, and the bed stays cool. Overall, I recommend it for back and stomach sleepers who sleep alone.

Read the original article on Business Insider

March 18, 2025
I review mattresses for a living, and the DreamCloud Premier is the most comfortable you can buy for under $1,000

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I’ve tested more than 100 mattresses, and the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid is one of the most comfortable options under $1,000.

DreamCloud

I’ve tested more than 100 mattresses for Business Insider’s Reviews team. Of them, the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress is one of my favorite options under $1,000. It’s a top pick in our guide to the best mattresses for back sleepers, and it’s a relatively affordable hybrid option that suits a broad range of body types and sleeping styles.

Hybrid mattresses combine foam and coil support, which provides a happy medium between edge support, airflow, and supportive and plush contouring. This one excels in all those areas, which is why it took our award for best hybrid in the back sleepers guide.

Before we dive into the full review, it’s worth noting that the only surefire way to know if a mattress works is to sleep on it for at least a month. That’s why we always look for a brand’s warranty policy, and DreamCloud offers one of the best risk-free home trials in the industry: 365 nights. If you decide to keep the mattress, it’s covered by a lifetime warranty.

When you consider the Premier Hybrid’s excellent edge support, great motion isolation, good heat dissipation, and average firmness, it’s a smart choice for just about anyone.

Design

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid is made of 8 layers, including a cashmere cover, memory foam, and individually-wrapped coils.

DreamCloud

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress combines CertiPUR-US certified foams with individually wrapped coils. CertiPUR-US foams are made without ozone depleters, formaldehyde, lead, and other heavy metals. The foam layers provide body-contouring support, while the individually wrapped coils add edge support.

Quilted cashmere covers the top layer, which is made of high-loft memory foam. Though you may be more familiar with the material as a favorite for sweaters, cashmere is also a moisture-wicking material that helps to keep you cool and dry. The other layers, from top to bottom, are supportive, plush memory foam; pressure-relieving foam; coils that help with airflow, support, and durability; and a durable, supportive foam base.

Our review of the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress

The average firmness of the DreamCloud Premier will appeal to a broad range of sleepers.

Maria Del Russo/Business Insider

Setup

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress arrived at my house in a large box. It came with unboxing instructions and a tool for safely cutting through the plastic without damaging the bed. Setting the mattress up took five minutes: I removed it from the box, unwrapped the first layer of plastic, and cut through the second.

The new-mattress smell hit me once I freed it from the vacuum seal. Fortunately, the odor dissipated by bedtime.

The DreamCloud Premier weighs 99 pounds, which is pretty standard, but it was easier than most to move because it has two handles on the left and right sides and doesn’t flop around.

Comfort

The DreamCloud Premier is a 6.5/10 in terms of firmness, placing it squarely in average firmness. I’m a side sleeper, so I was personally more comfortable on my side than on my back or stomach. But my wife, who sleeps on her back, liked how cushy the bed felt. Even though this mattress is a pick in our back-sleeper guide, it’s equally comfortable for side sleepers who like a bit more cushioning.

Our long-term tester for this mattress said that while the initial break-in period took some time, she found the DreamCloud Premier extremely comfortable after a few nights. It also kept her cool as she slept.

Heat dissipation

The way I test the heat dissipation properties of mattresses is by taking surface temperature readings of the bed before I lie on it, right after I get up, and two minutes after I get up. The DreamCloud Premier was one of the hottest mattresses right after getting up from it. Still, the heat dissipated quickly, with the temp dipping over 14 degrees in two minutes, among the best we’ve seen. What this translates to is that if you adjust your positioning frequently while you sleep, you’ll stay cooler with this mattress.

Edge support

Edge support is especially important for couples, since you’re more likely to sleep near the edge when you share the bed with another person. Solid edge support means that getting in and out of bed is more comfortable, too.

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid’s edge support is excellent. When lying on the edge, I don’t feel like I’m going to fall off, and when sitting, I feel supported. In my tests, the edge sank just 3 inches while sitting on the bed, which is less than average.

Motion Isolation

The DreamCloud Premier is ideal for couples, thanks to its exceptional motion isolation. I dropped a 15-pound bowling ball from 4 feet above the mattress so that it landed 12 inches from a soda can. The can stayed upright after the impact, a sign of good motion dampening. I also barely noticed when my 7-year-old jumped on the bed while I was on it, and when my wife moved around, it didn’t disturb my sleep.

Warranty and trial period

No brands have a longer trial period or warranty than DreamCloud. Of course, you can’t beat a lifetime warranty. The 365-night trial is essentially overkill since you should be able to tell after a month if a mattress is right for you. Still, it’s nice to know you can return your mattress if your comfort preferences change drastically during that first year.

Cons to consider

The biggest negative I could find in my testing was that the mattress wasn’t supportive when I slept on my stomach. It was a little too soft. However, at 215 pounds, I weigh more than many people and sink in more to mattresses. Petite or average-sized stomach sleepers may find the DreamCloud Premier is just right. Also, if you only like very soft or very firm mattresses, this middle-of-the-road option isn’t right for you.

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid is 13 inches thick, while a standard fitted sheet has a depth of 12 inches. Consequently, your sheets may not be deep enough to stay on this mattress. If you only have standard sheets, consider buying deep-pocket sheets so you can sleep in your bed immediately. Check out our best sheets guide for deep-pocket options.

What are your alternatives?

If you’re willing to spend a little extra, I recommend the Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress. Like the DreamCloud Premier, it has a middle-of-the-road firmness that appeals to all sleep types. The Leesa Sapira is our top pick in our best mattress guide and my favorite mattress of all time.

For stomach sleepers, check out the Helix Dusk Luxe. This mattress is firmer, so it provides more support than the DreamCloud Premier. For more recommendations, read our guide to the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.

The bottom line

The DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress is reasonably priced and did well in all our tests. The bed comes with a long trial period and warranty. The motion isolation and edge support make it great for couples. It’s easy to move around, and it’s made from high-quality materials. I strongly recommend adding the DreamCloud Premier to your shortlist as you mattress shop.

Read the original article on Business Insider

March 14, 2025
Ask a sleep expert: BI’s sleep reporter plays mattress matchmaker and answers reader questions

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The Business Insider Reviews team has tested hundreds of pieces of bedding — including my testing of over 100 mattresses — to find the best options for your personal needs.

Erin Brains

Are you seeking the best mattress or other sleep products to solve your sleep woes? You’re not alone. During Sleep Week 2025, Business Insider’s Reviews team is tackling your toughest sleep questions. Our sleep experts have tested hundreds of sleep products and understand that quality rest is essential for mental and physical well-being.

From overheating to shoulder pain to partner disturbances, we’ve gathered your most pressing sleep concerns and matched them with personalized solutions to help you — and others like you — finally get the restorative sleep you deserve.

I’m a side/back sleeper who wakes up with shoulder pain and tends to sleep hot. My wife sleeps exclusively on her side and feels cold at night. What sleep products would accommodate both our needs while addressing my shoulder discomfort? – Spencer

Based on your shoulder pain and different sleeping preferences, I’d recommend the Tempur-Pedic Cloud mattress. Since you’re a combination sleeper who runs hot, this memory foam mattress will supply outstanding pressure relief for your shoulders while adjusting to your position changes throughout the night. Read my full Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress review.

For your temperature differences, consider separate blankets — the Rest Evercool Cooling Comforter for you and something warmer for your wife, such as the Brooklinen All-Season Comforter or one of the best electric blankets. This simple solution can prevent thermostat battles while sharing the same bed. For more cooling options, check out our guide to the best cooling comforters.

If you’re not ready to replace your mattress, addressing your shoulder pain might be as easy as improving your spinal alignment during sleep. The Coop Sleep Goods Eden Cool+ Adjustable Pillow allows you to customize the loft height, ensuring your head and neck are properly supported when side sleeping, which reduces pressure on your shoulder joints. This proper alignment can significantly reduce morning shoulder discomfort. The pillow’s cooling properties will also address your tendency to overheat. Check out our guide to the best cooling pillows for more ideas.

Alternatively, consider adding a memory foam mattress topper to your existing bed. A 2-to-3-inch topper can supply the pressure relief your shoulders need by allowing them to sink slightly while supporting the rest of your body. The GhostBed Memory Foam Topper is your best bet since it keeps you cool. Visit our best mattress topper guide for more options.

I’m a hot sleeper constantly disturbed by my husband’s movements in bed. I alternate between sleeping flat on my back without a pillow and curling up on my side with my soft pillow. What sleep product would minimize motion transfer so I can sleep undisturbed while accommodating my varying sleep positions and tendency to overheat? — Cori T.

I use a bowling ball and vibrometer to test how well a mattress dampens movement, known as motion isolation. The better the motion isolation, the less you’ll feel your partner tossing and turning.

Erin Brains

A split king mattress would be perfect for someone sensitive to your partner’s movements — essentially giving you two separate beds side by side. This virtually eliminates motion transfer while allowing you to share the bedroom space. Saatva and Purple are two top brands offering split king options for all mattresses.

If that’s not appealing, I highly recommend the Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress. In my testing, it provides exceptional motion isolation while accommodating both your back and side sleeping positions. The hybrid construction supplies the ideal balance of support when lying flat and pressure relief when you curl up on your side.

The Leesa Sapira also features cooling technology in its top layers that address your tendency to sleep hot. The breathable foam and airflow through the coil system help dissipate body heat throughout the night, keeping you comfortable regardless of your sleeping position. Read my full Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress review.

I constantly sleep hot despite having a Sleep Number bed that I can adjust for body support. What solutions would help me stay cool overnight while using my adjustable mattress? – Kandy R.

While the Sleep Number Climate360 provides advanced cooling technology, its $10,000 price tag isn’t practical for more people. Fortunately, you can transform your current Sleep Number bed into a cooler sleep environment with strategic bedding choices.

Start with the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow, which uses breathable shredded memory foam and a cooling cover to help dissipate heat from your head and neck area. You can also adjust the fill for a custom feel. Pair the pillow with the Buffy Breeze Comforter, which is designed specifically for hot sleepers and has temperature-regulating properties.

Complete your cooling system with high-quality cooling sheets. Look for alternatives made from natural fibers, like Tencel, cotton percale, or bamboo, which provide better breathability than synthetic materials. These sheets wick moisture away from your body and allow for better airflow throughout the night, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature while enjoying the customizable support of your Sleep Number mattress. Check out our guide to the best cooling sheets and our roundup of the best cooling products for better sleep.

Another option could be adding one of the best fans or air conditioners to your bedroom. The Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner is the quietest I’ve tested. It’s energy-efficient, does an excellent job cooling, and its unique design allows you to open the window while it’s installed. Read my full Midea U-Shaped Air Conditioner review.

Want more product help? Email me at jbrains@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider

March 13, 2025

	Loft	Firmness
Side sleeper	High	Firm
Back sleeper	Medium	Moderate
Stomach sleeper	Low, thin	Soft

Category: ip-home

Casper Dream Mattress review: A good cooling hybrid for back and stomach sleepers

Design

Our review of the Casper Dream

Setup

Comfort

Heat dissipation

Edge support

Motion isolation

Trial period and warranty

Cons to consider

What are your alternatives?

The bottom line

The 4 best down pillows of 2025, tested and reviewed

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Our review of the Amazon Basics Sheet Set

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The bottom line

PurpleFlex Mattress review: Purple’s most affordable bed delivers impressive pressure relief and cooling on a budget

Design

Our review of the PurpleFlex Mattress

Setup

Comfort

Heat dissipation

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What are your alternatives?

The bottom line

I review mattresses for a living, and the DreamCloud Premier is the most comfortable you can buy for under $1,000

Design

Our review of the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress

Setup

Comfort

Heat dissipation

Edge support

Motion Isolation

Warranty and trial period

Cons to consider

What are your alternatives?

The bottom line

Ask a sleep expert: BI’s sleep reporter plays mattress matchmaker and answers reader questions