Eachnight may earn commissions for products you purchase through our links. Our articles and reviews include affiliate links and advertisements, including amerisleep advertising. Learn more Updated September 12, 2024 Why Trust Us Our dedicated team of sleep science coaches, engineers, and product evaluators thoroughly investigate hundreds of mattresses using our unique product methodology. Each article is reviewed for accuracy, referencing only trustworthy sources. Consistently updating our content and picks, we align with the latest scientific literature and expert counsel. Our top-rated mattresses have been personally reviewed and highly rated. Going away to college is one of the most exciting periods of life. Meeting new friends, learning new things, and working towards your career goals are all exciting—and exhausting at the same time. That’s why you’ll need an amazing new mattress (if you’re planning to bring your own mattress, that is).The good news is there are plenty of mattresses on the market that can offer you a quality night’s sleep in your college dorm room. Many of them are also online mattress brands that offer free delivery, allowing you to ship a mattress in a box directly to college. Let’s take a look at a few of the best mattresses for college students.Best Mattress for College Students SummaryBest College Mattress Overall: Vaya MattressBest College Mattress for Student-Athletes: Zoma StartBest College Mattress for Eco-Conscious Students: Amerisleep AS3Best Memory Foam Mattress for College Students: Nolah Original 10″Best Luxury Mattress for Students: Saatva Classic MattressBest Mattress for Students who Sleep Hot: Ghostbed FlexBest Ultra Firm Mattress for College Students: Brooklyn Bedding PlankBest Soft Memory Foam Mattress for College Students: Bear OriginalBest Hybrid Mattress for College Students: Helix Dawn Best College Mattress Overall: Vaya Mattress Your browser does not support HTML5 video. Price: $449-$899Mattress Type: FoamMattress Height: 12 inchesFirmness: Medium (5 on the firmness scale)Best for budget shoppers, most sleepers, couples, and hot sleepersAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, and California king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForSide, back, and stomach sleepersCollege students on a budgetHot sleepersMattress HighlightsSimple design keeps this mattress in a box affordable and high-qualityTwo foam layers offer contouring and adaptable comfortVaya Comfort Foam offers pressure relief without allowing sinkageSave $300 on the Vaya Mattress with our discount code. Claim Deal If you’re mattress shopping on a budget, as many college students are, the Vaya Mattress is a fantastic option. This memory foam mattress offers tons of quality comfort at a price that won’t break your budget. It does so by using a simple, two-layer design.How Lying Down FeelsThe Vaya Mattress is recommended for side, back, and combination sleepers, but stomach sleepers may find this memory foam mattress too soft. Customers say the Vaya Mattress is a good option if you’re looking for a cushioned bed built to keep you in place at night.The Vaya Mattress conforms under your curves without causing you to sink uncomfortably, and some reviewers compare it to sleeping on a cloud. We also looked at the bed and its feel in our Vaya Mattress Review.Customers who chose the Vaya have overall been very happy. Here is what some had to say:Karen P: Very well made mattress, and I liked the idea of the hybrid mattress. But unfortunately, it was much to firm for me. I tried to get used to it, but my hips are just too painful.Steven M: Mattress came right on time and is very comfortableHeather B: Excellent quality for such a price. Definitely buying it again!In the comfort layer, the open-cell Vaya Comfort Foam is highly contouring to relieve tired pressure points for side sleepers, while its thousands of air pockets keep cool air circulating around your body all night long.Underneath, the Vaya Base Foam creates a supportive base layer that helps encourage proper spinal alignment and fights sagging for a full ten years. That means you can expect the same level of durability you’d get out of much more expensive mattresses for just $349 for a twin!SEE ALSO: Vaya Mattress ReviewPros Foam layers have the CertiPUR-US® seal of approval Near-instant conforming comfort as you lie down Core foam ensures the mattress provides great value through supportCons No special features like targeted support Best College Mattress for Student-Athletes: Zoma Start Your browser does not support HTML5 video. Price: $499-$898Mattress Type: Memory FoamMattress Height: 10 inchesFirmness: Medium to medium-soft (5 to 6 on the firmness scale)Best for hot sleepers, value shoppers, and active individualsAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForValue shoppers looking for quality for low priceSide sleepers, back, and combination sleepersHot sleepersMattress HighlightsEase pain with spine aligning gel foamVentilated AirCloth performance fabricReactivTM transition makes this bed bounce back as you moveSave $150 on the Zoma Start with our discount code. Claim Deal Next on our list is the Zoma Start, a gel memory foam mattress built for the entry level shopper. Zoma sells two quality mattresses designed to help you sleep deeper, recover faster, and wake up feeling more refreshed. We like this model since its technologies help you sleep undisturbed and get the healthiest rest.Zoma Sleep is a newer brand, so they only have a few models at the moment: the Zoma Start, Zoma Hybrid, and Zoma Mattress. Like the Zoma Start, the Zoma Mattress is made entirely of foam.Zoma also backs their bed with a 10-year warranty. Every Zoma Mattress also comes with a 100-night sleep trial, too. They also include free shipping and returns for their mattresses.Read more about our Zoma Start review here.How Lying Down FeelsThe Zoma memory foam mattress is available in one firmness and its reviews say it has a medium, almost medium-soft feel. With that in mind, we can safely recommend Zoma to back and side sleepers. Do note, it may feel too soft for most stomach sleepers.Customer reviews also state how, despite the bed being softer and having lots of cushioning, it still provides excellent spinal support so they don’t wake up with back soreness or pain.For the price, the Zoma Start is highly regarded, but not without flaws. Reviewers we spoke with had mixed thoughts:Zachary B: Perfect level of support, breathable, and we don’t wake each other up if one of us gets out of bed. We have been sleeping better than ever. Not to mention the incredible customer support. Christie C: Comfiest mattress I’ve ever had. my only issue is that i seem to wake up a bit sweaty. i’m looking into a breathable mattress cover. otherwise, i love my mattress.Billy K: Kind of firm waking up with shoulder pain occasionally.Inside the MattressZoma has a stretchy, breathable airCloth breathable cover so body heat can escape out of the memory foam mattress. The first layer of the bed is gel-infused memory foam. The cooling memory foam mattress gel within the memory foam combats body heat to keep your temperature cool. Meanwhile, the memory foam itself molds to your body and relieves pressure.The second layer of the Zoma Mattress is responsive Reactiv™ foam. Zoma designs this Reactiv™ layer to feel bouncier than traditional memory foam. It keeps you lifted in the bed, serving as a nice buffer between the soft memory foam and the durable base layer.Last but not least, is the core of Support+ foam, a durable poly-foam. Support+ reinforces the layers and sleepers above it. Most importantly, though, it prevents premature wear and tear. These mattresses last, usually, just as long as regular viscoelastic memory foam.SEE ALSO: Zoma Vs. Purple – Side-by-Side Mattress ComparisonPros Heat-wicking gel memory foam for a cushioning top Adaptable transition layer reacts to movements and limits sinkage Base foam resists permanent impressions and preamture saggingCons Only three distinct support zones What the testers say: “As the most inexpensive model that Zoma offers, the Zoma Start has a lot going for it affordability-wise. Of course, as someone who’s raised a family, I know it’s not just about what you spend but the value you get with it—no one wants to buy something that’s quick to break or bust into pieces, and that especially applies to a commitment like a new mattress.” -Dr. Nilong Vyas MD, MPH, Zoma Start Reviewer Read Our Full Review of the Zoma Start Mattress Best College Mattress for Eco-Conscious Students: Amerisleep AS3 Your browser does not support HTML5 video. Price: $849-$1798Mattress Type: Memory FoamMattress Height: 12 inchesFirmness: Medium (5 to 6 on the firmness scale)Best for college students who sleep on their sides or backsAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king Warranty 20 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForSide, back, and combo sleepersSleepers who want an eco-friendly mattressSleepers with allergiesMattress HighlightsPlant-based foam is better for your allergies and the environmentBio-Pur® cooler and more responsive than traditional memory foamHighly durable mattress will last a whole lot longer than your college yearsSave $450 on the Amerisleep AS3 with our discount code. Claim Deal If you want a highly versatile mattress that can accommodate just about all sleeping positions and is built to last, you should take a look at the AS3 by Amerisleep. This mattress uses plant-based Bio-Pur® foam, which is much more responsive and cooling than a regular memory foam without sacrificing contouring.How Lying Down FeelsAmerisleep designed the AS3’s medium feel to provide a balance of cushioning and support, meaning your back and spine will be aligned, but the bed won’t feel stiff and uncomfortable like some firmer beds can. Customers note how quickly the AS3 responds under their body weight, providing near-instant comfort. At the same time, the bed quickly snaps back into shape when you move or switch positions.You’ll likely be struck by how cool the AS3 feels, thanks to its unique cover of Refresh fabric. The airy feel prevents you from feeling hot during the night.When you stack up the AS3 next to other Amerisleep models, the AS3 has a similar feel to the Organica and AS3 Hybrid mattress, with all three having a medium (5 out of 10) feel. What makes the AS3 different from the AS3 Hybrid and Organica is that the AS3 is made entirely of foam, while both the AS3 Hybrid mattressand Organica contain pocketed coils.Compared to the other Amerisleep models, the AS3 has the most balanced feel, whereas the AS4, AS5, and AS5 Hybrid are softer and the AS2 and AS1 are firmer.While overall reviews for the AS3 are great, but some have noted that the mattress is a bit firm for a memory foam mattress:Steve: I would like to know how to go about exchanging this memory foam mattress for a softer version. We have had it for about 60 days now and I can’t sleep in it at all. I’m actually sleeping in our old bed because it’s too hard for me.Jackie W: This bed has ruined me for any other bed!! My other half hates traveling with me because I can’t sleep in just any cheap hotel with a crappy mattress. He hates to admit it but he loves getting home to this great mattress too after a long trip! This memory foam mattress has been a lifesaver for my body!Shelby: I’ve always had a firm mattress, but due to bursitis in my hip and lower back pain, I could no longer tolerate the firmness. This mattress has been perfect. Minimal hip and back pain when I wake up now. Soft, but I still feel supported. So far it has been a great investment.Bio-Pur® foam also has the added benefit of creating less toxic waste than traditional memory foam. So it’s better for the environment. And it’s also great for sleepers with allergies because it creates a hostile environment for common allergens like dust mites and mildew.Underneath this amazing plant-based foam sits the HIVE® transition layer. This memory foam layer adds five zones of pressure relief that target different areas of the body. This zoned transition foam offers the perfect balance of spinal support and pressure point cushioning.Another great feature of this mattress is the ultra-high-density Bio-Core® support foam. This foam doesn’t just provide superior support for your spine. It also makes this a mattress that you can take with you far beyond your college years. Expect the AS3 to last at least two decades.SEE ALSO: Amerisleep Mattress ReviewPros Plant-based memory foam provides students with more sustainable comfort Five zones of targeted support ease away aches and pains from a day at college Durable foam core provides sag-resistant supportCons Medium firmness unsuitable for most stomach sleepers What the testers say: “ The AS3 mattress offers exceptional bang for your buck. With different price ranges and sizes available, it caters to various budgets and preferences. Comparing it to other mattresses in the market, I wholeheartedly believe the AS3 is a worthwhile investment. It provides a high-quality, restorative sleep experience that simply cannot be overlooked.” – Dr. Colleen Ehrnstrom, Ph.D., AS3 Reviewer Read Our Full Review of the Amerisleep AS3 Mattress Best Memory Foam Mattress for College Students: Nolah Original 10″ Price: $499-$999Mattress Type: Memory foamMattress Height: 10 inchesFirmness: Medium (5 on the firmness scale)Best for side sleepers, combo sleepers, sleepers with hip pain, and hot sleepersAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, and California king Warranty Lifetime Sleep Trial 120 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForSide sleepersCombo sleepersSleepers with hip painHot sleepersMattress HighlightsAirFoam™ contours under the curves without causing you to feel “stuck”Resilient transition foam creates a healthy level of bounce for ease of movementTencel® mattress cover draws away heat and moisture for undisturbed sleepSave with Free Shipping on the Nolah Original 10″ with our discount code. Claim Deal The Nolah Original 10” mattress contains three layers of foam. This mattress, designed for side sleepers, will be a great option for the majority of seniors. The mattress’s medium feel causes less pressure on the hips, back, and shoulders. Lots of customers note reduce neck and shoulder pain once they switched to the Nolah Original 10”.Nolah offers a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime limited warranty. Sleep on it for a minimum of 30 nights, and if you don’t love it, they’ll send a driver to pick it up for free. The warranty has limits and conditions, so as always, it’s a good idea to go over it before purchasing.How Lying Down FeelsNolah’s special AirFoam™ has a cushioning, responsive feel—similar to traditional memory foam, AirFoam™ conforms to the body, relieving pressure points without trapping heat or making the sleeper feel stuck inside the mattress. The mattress is also encased in soft, natural viscose material to wick away moisture.Based on customer feedback, the Original 10” helped relieve their bodily pain and made it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Here is some other feedback:Kim J: The bed is great. It cradles me. I have MS and it is hard for me to turn over in the bed but it doesn’t have pressure spots so it doesn’t hurt my hips.Anna G: At first I loved it but now I think it’s a little too hard and not as soft as I was hoping it would beAnonymous: Very comfortable right off the first night. Good for my aches and pains. This bed is a beauty. I totally recommend for a soft comfy bed. I am very happy with this bed and I am so picky.Inside the MattressThe Nolah Original 10” has a soft, breathable cover made from viscose to keep you cool and dry. 2 inches of temperature-neutral AirFoam™ offers contouring support that won’t leave you feeling trapped in the mattress. The middle layer is a 1-inch, supportive, high-resilience foam that provides some bounce. The bottom layer of this mattress is 7 inches of breathable high-density foam— it increases durability and boosts the support and contouring of the upper layers.If you prefer a softer or thicker bed, Nolah also offers the Nolah Signature 12” and Nolah Evolution 15”. Even then, the Nolah Original 10” is Nolah’s most popular bed.SEE ALSO: Mattress Size and Dimensions GuidePros Cooling cover fabric keeps heat from building up Nolah AirFoam™ provides more pressure relief than traditional foam Highly resilient transition foam and sturdy base foamCons Only one firmness offered Best Luxury Mattress for Students: Saatva Classic Mattress Your browser does not support HTML5 video. Price: $887-$2196Mattress Type: InnerspringMattress Height: 11.5 or 14.5 inchesFirmness: Plush soft, luxury firm, or firm (3, 5 to 7, or 8 on the firmness scale)Best for most sleeping positions, couples, and plus-sized sleepersAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, California king, and split king Warranty 15 Years Sleep Trial 180 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForActive sleepersSleepers who want luxuryInnerspring loversMattress HighlightsThick Euro top offers excellent pressure relief and cradlingLumbar ZoneTM spinal support helps encourage spine alignmentMultiple layers of coil support cores offer adaptability and bounceSave with Free Shipping on the Saatva Classic Mattress with our discount code. Claim Deal If you have the budget for some luxury, consider the Saatva Classic Mattress. This innerspring and foam hybrid mattress uses a Euro top and individually pocketed coils to solve the biggest problems with innerspring mattresses: pressure and lack of contouring.How Lying Down FeelsThe Saatva Classic is a luxury mattress that prioritizes responsiveness with its dual-coil design, although its surface also focuses on maintaining clean cushion and providing targeted back support. Despite the pillow top, sleepers will experience little unwanted sinkage as they stretch out on the luxury firm option.The Saatva Classic with and without the mattress topper is well reviewed, including being a mattress for college students:Ginger B: I have had my Saavta mattress for several years. I changed every bed mattress in my house to Saavta. I bought my son a mattress topper and mattress cover for his college dorm. I will buy him an xl twin bed for his college apartment next year. Nothing feels more loving than to support your family with comfortable, quality sleep. Thank you!Aynsley: Comfort means very little when you’re sleeping in 110 degrees! I got a Medium Queen Saatva and it is by FAR the hottest mattress I’ve ever slept on! It traps in body heat like nothing I’ve ever experienced. I’ve tried different blankets, different pjs, nothing helps.John D: The mattress is wonderful, except much firmer then expected. Read the reviews and descriptions, and having back issues, chose the luxury firm which is alot firmer then expected. Too bad that we didn’t have a outlet closer so we could have tested before buying.Inside the MattressThe thick Euro-style pillow top offers top-notch contouring to cradle your pressure points and follow the curve of your body. The Euro top works with the top layer of adaptable pocketed coils to keep your spine aligned.Underneath the pocketed coil layer, you’ll find a layer of ultra-bouncy open coils. These coils are surrounded on all sides by firmer foam rails for enhanced edge support. All this means if you love the bounce of an innerspring but not the sagginess, the Classic could give you a good night’s sleep.SEE ALSO: Best Luxury Mattresses: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide Pros Euro pillow top gives college students a taste of luxury Antimicrobial protection helps students feel clean and refreshed Two coil layers for highly responsive supportCons Students will have to pay a pickup fee to return a Saatva mattress Best Mattress for Students who Sleep Hot: Ghostbed Flex Price: $1745 to $3800Mattress Type: HybridMattress Height: 13 InchesFirmness: Medium (6 to 7 on the firmness scale)Best for hot sleepers and students attending college in warmer climatesAvailable in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king Warranty 25 Years Sleep Trial 101 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForHot sleepersBack sleepersSelect stomach sleepersCollege students in warmer climatesMattress HighlightsMultiple cooling technologies work together to keep you from overheatingMedium-firm feel is perfect for back pain sufferersIndividually wrapped coils provide bounce and adaptabilitySave with Free Shipping on the Ghostbed Flex with our discount code. Claim Deal The Ghostbed Flex is possibly the best hybrid mattress for hot sleepers because of its combination of different sleep technologies that all work together. On top, the quilted cooling cover and cooling fiber layer keep air flowing around your body and through the mattress. Below that, two gel memory foam layers pull heat away from you.How Lying Down FeelsLying on the Flex, the first thing you’ll notice probably won’t be its fantastic contouring but how cool it is to the touch. This mattress boasts tons of cooling technologies to keep even the hottest sleepers from overheating.Not to say you won’t notice the Flex’s contouring once you spend a little time on it. This mattress features ultra-adaptable foams and coils, so it contours to your shape through and through.People love the soft mattress fell of the GhostBed Flex, but some feel it may be too soft is a common complaint. Here is what some had to say:Della C: Very firm, could be softerShanna D: Good-but if you’re a side sleeper, and put weight on your hips this bed isn’t for you. I get bad hip pain from sleeping on my side on this mattress.Joseph G: Perfect firmness for support, yet soft like im floating on air.Mattress ConstructionThe Ghostbed Flex also features their proprietary Ghost Bounce layer that springs back like latex but contours like gel memory foam. This layer adds even more bounce to the individually wrapped coils to create a responsive bed that’s great for active sleepers.Finally, the ultra-dense base foam helps increase motion isolation and stability. Stomach sleepers usually need firm mattresses, but this base foam puts the GhostBed Flex among the best mattresses for stomach sleepers because it provides tons of lift.The base foam also makes this one extremely durable gel memory foam mattress that will last a full 25 years. This durability is perfect for students looking for a mattress that can stand up to college life.SEE ALSO: Best Gel Memory Foam Mattress: Buyer’s GuidePros Gel memory foam layers work with airy mattress cover for a cooler surface Responsive surface makes it easy for students to stretch out and move out of bed 25-year warranty provides protection for college and beyondCons The cost and weight of a hybrid can make it difficult for a student to afford one and move it regularly Best Ultra Firm Mattress for College Students: Brooklyn Bedding Plank Price: $489-$1349Mattress Type: Memory FoamMattress Height: 11.25 inchesFirmness: Firm and extra-firm (8 and 10 on the firmness scale)Best for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, hot sleepers, and plus-sized peopleAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), short full, queen, short queen, Olympic queen, king, short king, RV king, California king, and split California king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 120 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForBack and stomach sleepersPlus-size sleepersPeople with back painMattress HighlightsAiry cover is ventilated to keep sleepers cool and dryStable foam base prevents motion transferUltra-firm support reduces back painSave with Free Shipping on the Brooklyn Bedding Plank with our discount code. Claim Deal Sleepers wanting an extra-firm foam bed will love Brooklyn Bedding’s Plank. This extra firm mattress is stiff as a board and perfect for those wanting a bed that feels notably firm.The only other mattress Brooklyn Bedding offers outside of the Plank is the Plank Hybrid mattress. Like the original Plank, the Plank Hybrid is both flippable and has a firm and ultra-firm side. What makes them different is the pocketed coils the Plank Hybrid has versus the Plank’s all foam design. The coil in the hybrid model provides extra bounce and breathability, something useful for hot sleepers.Brooklyn Bedding offers a 120-night sleep trial with their Plank mattress. And if you like the bed, it’s backed by a 10-year warranty.How Lying Down FeelsOn the website, Brooklyn Bedding describes the Plank as a firm bed for sleepers who say a typical firm isn’t enough. (If you prefer some cushioning, or have pressure points, you’ll want to steer clear of the Plank.) Some people who will love the Plank include stomach sleepers, larger people, some back sleepers, and people who get hot at night.We like this mattress because of its dual, flippable firmness. This means one side of the bed has one firmness, and the other side has another. With the Plank, one side is firm, and the other is extra-firm. Both sides have cooling technologies to prevent hot nights. Plus, both sides do feature a thin layer of quilting to provide a slight cushion.Out of over 1400 reviews, the Plank scores a 4.8 out of 5 stars. Buyers talk about how sleeping on the Plank has improved their sleep and pain immensely. Plus, despite being so firm, the bed is still comfortable and doesn’t leave them feeling achy. The firmness also helps customers who share a bed, ensuring they won’t disturb their sleep partner when shifting or getting out of bed.Here are some of those reviews:Unis K: So far, it has met our expectations. I hope it stays the same and doesn’t sink. It is quite firm and very comfy. My husband and I love it. My back pain is gone.Pulkit J: My parents started getting bad back painCory L: Still deciding on the bed! It might be a little bit too firm even on the softer side. I will let you know when I lay on it more thank you.Inside the MattressAs we mentioned, both sides of this mattress act as comfort layers. Each side is a quilted top layer, with the extra-firm side having a 0.75-inch thick quilted top, while the firm side is a 1.5-inch quilted top, followed by 2 inches of TitanFlex™ comfort foam. The core of the mattress is 7 inches of dense base foam.Each side can also have an optional cooling panel sewn on to better regulate the surface temperature.SEE ALSO: Mattress Sizes and DimensionsPros Cooling features keep the firm surface from overheating Flippable design lets sleepers experiment with preferences Thick, dense base foam promotes mattress longevityCons Firm feels only suit a limited number of sleepers Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress for College Students: Bear Original Price: $556-$876Mattress Type: Memory FoamMattress Height: 10 inchesFirmness: Medium-firm (7 on the firmness scale)Best for active people, hot sleepers, people with back pain, and back and stomach sleepersAvailable in twin, twin XL, full (double), queen, king, and California king Warranty 10 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForActive adultsBack and stomach sleepersPeople with back painMattress HighlightsMattress cover features Celliant® technology to keep sleepers cool and enhance muscle recoveryGraphite and gel-infused memory foam draws heat away from the body while also alleviating pressureThick layer of base foam protects bed from sags and soft spotsSave with Free Shipping on the Bear Original with our discount code. Claim Deal Bear set out to create mattresses to improve your sleep quality and physical health. Their flagship model, the Bear Original, is a memory foam bed that achieves just that, all at an affordable rate.The Bear Original comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty. Its budget-friendly prices make the Bear Original one of the best mattresses under $1000, providing great value and comfort.Bear’s other mattresses, the Bear Hybrid and Bear Pro, both help with your sleep quality and muscle recovery, but are on the pricier end of the things and are different firmnesses than the Bear Original.How Lying Down FeelsCustomer reviews mention how much better they’ve slept since switching to the Bear, and how it’s greatly improved chronic pain they’ve dealt with. Some even saw improvements in their sleep and how they felt in the morning after their first night. Now wonder the word “comfortable” is the most recurring bit of praise in consumer reviews.Don’t just take our word for it, though. We surveyed hundreds of people on what they thought about the Bear, here is what some had to say:Shelby: I’ve always had a firm mattress, but due to bursitis in my hip and lower back pain, I could no longer tolerate the firmness. This mattress has been perfect. Minimal hip and back pain when I wake up now.Jeff: I love the Bear; it sleeps cooler than any memory foam product I’ve ever had.Steph: We like the mattress itself. They are a little soft for us but the biggest issue is the constant separating of the split king/two twins. They are too light and the base needs side bars to keep them in place.Inside the MattressThe Bear Original is 10 inches tall and contains 1 inch of graphite gel memory foam, 2 inches of transitional poly-foam, and 7 inches of high-density base foam. The polyester mattress cover incorporates FDA-determined Celliant® technology.The all-foam structure of the Bear Original provides excellent pressure relief and balanced support. Graphite-infused gel memory foam pulls heat away from the body to prevent overheating, while Celliant® technology transforms body heat into infrared light. Infrared light is then re-absorbed into the body as energy.The medium-firm feel of the Bear Original is perfect for back sleepers. Layers of memory foam offer excellent support to the back, but they’re still soft enough to prevent the hips from sinking too deeply, keeping the spine in neutral alignment. Customers mention how impressed by how firm a mattress entirely made from foam can truly be.See Also: Best Mail Order MattressPros Celliant® cover repurposes body heat into infrared energy Cooling gel infusions maintain consistent comfort Materials certified by CertiPUR-US® & GREENGUARD GoldCons Some reviewers say mattress sags quickly Best Hybrid Mattress for College Students: Helix Dawn Price: $1199 to $2499Mattress Type: HybridMattress Height: 14 inchesFirmness: Firm (8 to 9 on the firmness scale)Best for stomach sleepers seeking cool, firm supportAvailable in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king Warranty 15 Years Sleep Trial 100 Nights Shipping FreeRecommended ForHot sleepersBack and stomach sleepersSelect back sleepersMattress HighlightsPillowy surface with one of two cooling coversComfort foams alleviate pressure pointsEnhanced lumbar supportSave with Free Shipping on the Helix Dawn with our discount code. Claim Deal People looking for a firm mattress that can keep their spines aligned in a daybed should look at the Helix Dawn. Not every mattress on the market is up to the task, but the firm and comforting Helix Dawn is. This mattress offers all the lift you need to keep your spine aligned.How Lying Down FeelsThe Dawn Luxe is a firm mattress, but that doesn’t mean it eliminates all pressure relief. In fact, the plush and cooling pillow top adds lots of cushioning back into the sleep surface that the firm feel takes away.This can ensure your hip bones don’t press into the mattress and suffer pain as a result. For women, it also helps prevent the breasts from being squished by the combination of your body weight and the firm mattress exerting force.Most people apprecieate the firmness of the Helix Dawn, with some wishing it was more firm. Here is what some had to say:Mark W: Good, nice thick mattress. It is the firmest mattress I have ever slept on. It has a nice, almost pillow top feel on the very top 2 inches, then gives a good firm, no sag, feel. I sleep mostly on my stomach, and a lesser mattress let’s my back arch too far and I wake up in pain. I sleep better these days.Paul D: Really bad unclear shipping times, waited way long for the matress itself. My particular one was listed as firm but its far too softWilson L: Very satisfied with my Helix mattress, I has the firmness I’ve looking for at an affordable price.Inside the MattressThe Dawn Luxe starts off by giving you the choice between two cooling covers. You can pick either breathable TENCEL or thermoconductive GlacioTex fabric that draws your body heat away from you.Whichever cover you choose, it will sit on top of the premium cooling pillow top layer and the contouring Helix Dynamic Foam comfort layer. These layers work together to increase the contouring and pressure relief of the mattress without sacrificing the firm feel.Next up, the high-density Memory Plus Foam reacts and contours to your body while offering tons of buoyancy to help fight sinkage and keep you on top of the sleep surface.Underneath this layer, you’ll find a layer of high-grade polyfoam that provides ergonomic support and seamless progression to the zoned support core below.Finally, the support layer offers over 1,000 individually wrapped coils that are zoned to offer you enhanced support in the middle of your body and better pressure relief for your shoulders and hips, which for stomach sleepers, translates into improved contouring for the chest and front of the pelvis.SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Shoulder PainPros Enhanced support in the middle of the mattress keeps the spine aligned Buoyant transition foam fights sinkage and keeps you lifted High-density comfort foam creates even more supportCons Too firm for all but stomach sleepers and some heavier back sleepersBest Mattresses for College Students Highlights And ComparisonsMattressHighlightsComparisonVaya MattressInexpensive design features high-quality materials for maximum value.$699Zoma StartGel infusions and three zones of targeted support promote cool, adaptable comfort.$799AS3 by AmerisleepVersatile medium feel suits different sleep positions with eco-friendly memory foam.$1099Nolah Original 10″AirFoam™ contours under the curves without causing you to feel “stuck”$971Saatva Classic MattressChoice of three firmnesses for different sleep styles.$1695Ghostbed FlexMultiple cooling materials paired with responsive transition foam and coils.$2205Brooklyn Bedding PlankAiry cover is ventilated to keep sleepers cool and dry$999Bear OriginalMattress cover features Celliant® technology to keep sleepers cool and enhance muscle recovery$ 699Helix DawnPillowy surface with one of two cooling covers$1,099Considerations for Buying a Mattress for College StudentsWhen shopping for mattresses for college students, there are several different considerations you’ll need to keep in mind. You’ll need to make sure it fits in your dorm room bed frame if you have one. You’ll probably want it to be pretty easy to move. And you’ll need it to be durable.SizeMattress size is one of the biggest things to think about when buying a college bed. Dorm rooms are typically tiny, so most college students likely aren’t going to be sleeping on a king size or even a queen size bed.If your dorm room comes equipped with bunk beds or a bed frame, you’ll want to find out its dimensions before you purchase. Even if it doesn’t come with a frame, you’ll probably still be sleeping on a twin or twin XL size mattress. These are the most compact adult bed sizes and will give you enough space to sleep without taking up much space in your room.That said, while twin XL mattresses are commonly chosen to accommodate most body types without taking up much space, some dorms may offer other options, like a full size mattress. Reaching out to the college’s housing department or student services can give you the chance to understand the expected dimensions of a dorm’s frame.Mattress SizeDimensionsTwin38″ x 75″Twin XL38″ x 80″Full54″ x 75″Queen60″ x 80″King76″ x 80″California King72″ x 84″SEE ALSO: Best 10 Inch MattressMaterialEach common mattress material has advantages and disadvantages for college students. There are four main types of mattresses that a college student may want to consider to get a good night’s sleep.InnerspringInnerspring mattresses are the cheapest mattress type. They’re also the lightest weight, making them easy to just pop in and out of your dorm. On the flip side, these mattresses are not durable at all. They may have a hard time standing up to college life.Cheap innerspring beds may age so fast they sag before you even graduate. So keep in mind you may have to replace your innerspring mattress while you’re still in school. Some college kids may instead prefer to choose a mattress that won’t sag, such as a well-made all-foam one.SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Tall PeopleHybridWhat is a hybrid mattress? A hybrid mattress swaps open coils for pocketed coils in the support layer. So a hybrid mattress is much more durable and adaptable than an innerspring mattress. But hybrids still offer the bounce and breathability of coils.However, hybrid mattresses are very heavy and often quite expensive. That means they may be financially out of reach for many students. They may also be less compatible with the college lifestyle because they’re not going to be as easy to relocate. So changing dorms or bringing them home for the summer could be a pain.SEE ALSO: Best Mattress Under 2000 DollarsMemory FoamMemory foam beds could be the best mattresses for college life. Flexible polyurethane foam is comparatively durable. A memory foam mattress is lighter than hybrids and latex beds. It’s often affordable. And it’s highly flexible, so a memory foam mattress can offer quality sleep.The one thing you may need to watch out for is temperature regulation. If you sleep hot and need a cooling mattress, memory foam mattresses may not be the best mattresses for you. This is especially true if you can’t control the temperature settings in your dorm room.However, there are high-quality mattresses that rely on gel foam and other features to establish a cooling memory foam mattress. So, with a little bit of research, the mattress type still sleeps cool.Natural LatexNatural latex foam mattresses are delightfully springy, extremely durable, and tend to sleep cool. Latex mattresses will outlast pretty much every other mattress type by a long shot. A latex foam mattress is also typically the bed of choice for any college student seeking an eco-friendly mattress.However, latex may not make the best foam mattress for college students because they’re very expensive and very heavy. Even a twin size latex foam mattress will probably need two people to move it, so keep that in mind even if you can afford a latex bed.A latex foam mattress can feel particularly unwieldy if you try to pair it with a bunk bed or a lofted bed frame. See our mattress type and weight guide for more information.And as we mentioned, latex beds and in particular an organic latex mattress, can also cost a significant amount. While their durability can make the price point worthwhile, a college student may still struggle with paying for one.SEE ALSO: Best Hotel BedsDurabilityCollege life can be tough on mattresses:You move the mattress a lot.You have people in and out of your room all the time.You’ll probably be using the mattress to sit, study, and even eat.So you’ll need one of the most durable mattresses that can stand up to a four-year beating.SEE ALSO: Softest Mattress in a BoxInitial PriceMost college students can’t financially swing a mattress that costs several thousand dollars. However, you also don’t want to buy an uncomfortable mattress that breaks before you even graduate.The good news is you can get a high-quality mattress for just a few hundred dollars, with many of the best mattresses costing under $500. For a good combination of affordability and durability, look for a memory foam mattress or a value hybrid mattress.College students can also take advantage of the best times to buy a mattress throughout the year:Best Presidents Day Mattress SalesBest Memorial Day Mattress SalesBest 4th of July Mattress SalesBest Labor Day Mattress SalesBest Columbus Day Mattress SalesBest Black Friday Mattress SalesBest Cyber Monday Mattress SalesQualityTwo measures of a quality mattress are warranty and sleep trial, so you’ll want to make sure you’re taking a look at these when you shop for your mattress.WarrantyA standard warranty with a mattress will cover manufacturer defects and premature aging. The length of a warranty is a good indicator of how long the manufacturer expects the mattress to last.Look for a 10-year warranty or more to ensure your mattress was built to last. This is the expected warranty length for a quality bed in the mattress industry, although some budget mattresses may offer shorter protection.It’s also essential to look at a warranty’s sagging protection, as these can vary widely. One online mattress brand will replace or repair a sagging mattress once it reaches a certain depth, while another may not do so until the sagging is even deeper and more uncomfortable.Sleep TrialThe sleep trial allows you to try the mattress for a certain period of time and return it for a full refund if you don’t like it. A generous free sleep trial with a mattress not only allows you to decide whether you’ve bought the right mattress but is also a good indicator that the manufacturer stands behind their product and thinks you will love it. That’s why you should look for a 100-night sleep trial or more.Learn more about better sleepSign up for sleep health education, expert tips, and the latest and greatest mattress sales. Email See Privacy PolicySaving on New MattressesBest MLK Day Mattress SalesBest Presidents Day Mattress SalesBest Sleep Awareness Week Mattress SalesBest Memorial Day Mattress SalesBest 4th of July Mattress SalesBest Labor Day Mattress SalesBest Columbus Day Mattress SalesBest Black Friday Mattress SalesBest Cyber Monday Mattress SalesFAQsWhat’s the best bed base for a college dorm room mattress?If your dorm room doesn’t come with a bed frame or bunk beds, a platform bed is likely the best one for the college lifestyle. Platform beds are compatible with all mattress types. They offer sturdy and rigid support. And they don’t require a mattress foundation or box spring set.One of the best things about platform beds is many of them are easy to take apart and move. It’s super easy to find a lightweight platform bed that comes apart and goes back together in just a few simple steps. And most of these platform beds are extremely affordable to boot.Do I need a mattress protector for my college mattress?Absolutely. Mattress protectors shield your mattress from stains, sweat, mold, moisture buildup, and a host of other threats. A mattress protector can protect you from a mattress full of dust mites and bacteria. And they can also preserve your warranty coverage by protecting your mattress from stains.A new mattress purchase may even include a free mattress protector, or at least the chance to buy one at a discount. So make sure you’re using a mattress protector on your mattress at all times. If you have a mattress topper, place it under the protector.Which mattress size is best for a dorm room?Twin and twin XL size mattresses are best for tiny dorm rooms. The 38 by 75-inch twin size bed is a perfect mattress for college students under six feet tall. Students over six feet tall may need to upgrade to the 38 by 80-inch twin xl mattress. These mattresses are still compact enough to go in a dorm room, but they won’t let your feet dangle.How much should I pay for a college mattress?Generally speaking, you’ll probably want to pay less for a school mattress than you would a mattress for later life stages. The good news is twin and twin XL mattress sizes make finding an affordable mattress a whole lot easier. Expect to pay at least $300 for a twin size mattress of sufficient quality.If you can’t afford to replace your mattress, a mattress topper may help you get a little more use out of your existing one, as long as it isn’t sagging. A mattress topper may also help if you can’t bring your own mattress.What’s the best bunk bed mattress?Bunk beds need lighter mattresses so you can get them up and down. This is especially true for college kids in the top bunk. Innerspring mattresses are the lightest choice, making them ideal for bunk beds. A bunk bed mattress should also be relatively slim to ensure a sleeper won’t roll over the guard rail as they sleep.If you want a more durable and contouring mattress than an innerspring bed, go with memory foam. This foam is heavier than open coil innerspring mattresses, but it’s lighter than latex and hybrid mattresses. That will make it relatively easier to move your mattress into the bunk.Bottom LineThe best mattresses for college aren’t hard to find. Just remember, you’ll likely need a lighter-weight mattress that’s durable enough to withstand some rough treatment without breaking. You’ll also need one that’s affordable enough to fit your budget and comfortable enough to give you a long night of quality sleep.Dr. Burns tests each mattress at eachnight’s facility to make sure the recommendations are based on real, expert reviews.About the author Dr. Jordan Burns, DC, MS CERTIFIED SLEEP COACH Dr. Jordan Burns is a chiropractor and owner of ProWellness Chiropractic in Fishers, Indiana.He is an Indiana University-Bloomington graduate, where he received his first Bachelor’s of Science degree in Kinesiology while being a member of the men’s track and field team.Dr. Burns then attended Logan University-College of Chiropractic where he graduated with three degrees: a Bachelor’s in Life Sciences, a Master’s in Sports Science and Rehabilitation and a Doctorate of ChiropracticWhile at Logan, Dr. Burns was accepted as a Senior Intern in the Biofreeze Human Performance Center, a clinic that specializes in sport-specific injuries and rehabilitation.Board-certified by the National and Indiana Boards of Chiropractic, Dr. Burns has enjoyed successfully helping patients in his clinic relieve pain, improve mobility and become overall healthier versions of themselves. He uses a variety of specific chiropractic and therapy protocols which allow him and his qualified staff to provide a gentle, effective approach to many conditions for people of all ages.He is passionate about overall wellness to help improve peoples’ physical, chemical and emotional health so they can be the healthiest, happiest and most vibrant expressions of themselves. Find more articles by Dr. JordanAuthor Social Links Follow: Author Linkedin Author Facebook Author Twitter Comments Cancel replyLeave a CommentYour email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name Email I agree to the Terms and Conditions of this website. Δ