Uncovered discoveries in our latest mattress assessment

Top Performing Mattresses in 2025: A Shift Towards Mattresses-in-a-Box

In CHOICE's 2025 mattress tests, mattresses-in-a-box have once again taken the lead in performance, with eleven out of twenty recommended models coming from mattress-in-a-box manufacturers [1]. This strong showing for online-based mattress companies indicates a resurgence in the popularity of these modern, convenient options.

Traditional retailers also did well, with eight of their models being recommended, and one full-sized spring mattress sold by an online-only store making the list. While specific models from the 2025 tests are not detailed in the search results, the trend suggests that mattress-in-a-box models have again pulled ahead after a period where traditional retailers had caught up [1].

This means that consumers can find reliable options across both categories, depending on their preferences for type, material, and build. For detailed model-specific information, it would be best to refer to the full CHOICE report or other reviews highlighting specific top performers in the mattress-in-a-box and traditional categories.

The difference in price between these top performing mattresses is no more than $300, ranging from about $1600-1900 (RRP). When looking for mattresses that cost less than $1000, six are from online stores, while five are available at traditional retailers.

The tests also evaluated how well the mattresses repel sweat and how saggy or bouncy they are. Some brands use 'toppers' that can be flipped for a different feel, and some mattress-in-a-box brands now offer various firmness layers that can be added or removed. Some mattress-in-a-box brands have 'firmness zones', which let you adjust the feel on each side of the bed, and more mattress-in-a-box manufacturers are selling products with adjustable firmness designs.

To avoid getting hoodwinked by marketing jargon and unsubstantiated claims, it is recommended to check CHOICE's mattress reviews before buying. Some brands charge for returns during the free trial period, especially for regional shoppers, so always check the free returns policy before buying, especially if you live in a rural area.

Sales, bargaining, and haggling are easy ways to save money on even the most expensive models, according to CHOICE experts. To get the best deal on a mattress instore, it is recommended to shop during sales, head into stores with bigger ranges, haggle, buy in bulk if necessary, and ask for a discount.

The Zenna pure latex mattress and Sleep Firm mattress were rated 'cool' by CHOICE experts, despite claims to keep sleepers cool. However, the Valmori Home Collection's Hybrid II mattress, despite claims to keep sleepers cool and comfortable, was rated as medium-warm in practice. Eight of the 21 mattresses in the 2025 test batch measured as cool or very cool, indicating a shift towards mattresses that deliver on claims to keep sleepers cool.

Each mattress was tested to identify changes in firmness over time and to assess its comfort throughout its lifetime. Overall, the trend suggests that mattress-in-a-box models have again taken the lead in performance after a period where traditional retailers had caught up. This means that consumers can find reliable options across both categories, depending on their preferences for type, material, and build.

[1] Source: CHOICE's 2025 mattress tests.

Consumers looking for a shift in lifestyle toward health-and-wellness can consider choosing from the top performing mattresses in combined categories of mattress-in-a-box and traditional retailers.
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