What are the Best-Selling Mattresses?

There are a number of different styles of mattress – some are simple while others are elaborate, even exotic. But for the vast majority of consumers, there are four main types of mattress that generate the most sales.

These best-selling mattresses got the way they are because of innovation and the relief they provide to users in order to offer a better, longer-lasting sleeping experience. Other bed styles – like waterbeds and feather beds among others – faded out of contention because they were gimmicky, didn’t work well or were too prohibitively expensive to generate a strong enough following.

To help with the shopping process, here is what you need to know about best-selling mattresses:

• Innerspring Mattresses: Support is provided by an internal network of metal coils beneath cotton padding. These have been the dominant selling mattresses for many decades; however, they have long been associated with pressure points that can grow sore or painful where the body makes contact. Innerspring mattresses have been rapidly losing market share in recent years due to technological innovations.

• Latex Foam: Derived from the milky white sap of the rubber tree, latex foam mattresses have long been considered the most comfortable option available. Latex is also extremely durable, so the mattresses tend to hold up well and remain highly functional for many years. Although many would argue the level of quality makes it worth it, the downside of latex foam mattresses is they are typically one of the most expensive options available. Without springs, latex foam was the first mattress style to effectively eliminate harmful pressure points.

• Memory Foam: This revolutionary material is the product of NASA experiments conducted for the space program in the late 1970s. It was further developed by the private sector and introduced in the late 1990s. Memory foam is derived from a polyurethane or vegetable-based mixture that is allowed to cure and then trimmed to shape. Memory foam, which relies on open cell construction, is highly regarded for its body-contouring qualities that cradle body without creating pressure points.

• Air Mattresses: These are not your father’s air mattress. Modern air mattresses are stylish and durable and designed specifically for permanent residential use. Support is provided by up to six internally placed air chambers. Dual air chamber models are capable of being independently controlled on each side of the bed so that couples can enjoy customized firmness settings. Pressure points are also not a problem with air mattresses.

While innerspring mattresses still maintain a command over the retail bedding market, their hey-day has come and gone. New technologies, such as memory foam, provide greater sleep options and therapeutic benefits that are extremely attractive.