Sleep Products Review Methodology

How we research and test sleep products

Our Reviews Team conducts ongoing, independent research on sleep products and the brands that make them. To date, we’ve spent more than 2,000 hours conducting in-depth research on more than 230 adjustable beds, mattresses, pillows, and bed sheets. 

We’ve dedicated hours of research into the health benefits of mattresses and adjustable beds and how these products can improve sleep quality, including surveying 2,200 people about their experiences ^[1] NCOA Adviser Adjustable Beds Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched August 5, 2022 ^[2] NCOA Adviser Adjustable Beds Survey. 1,000 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched June 21, 2023 ^[3] NCOA Adviser Mattress Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched January 2, 2024 . Results from our Reviews Team survey found that more than 75% of respondents who bought a new mattress within the last three years said they sleep better after making the switch, while almost 90% of adjustable bed owners agreed that their new bed improved their sleep.

Our research process involved evaluating brands and models in fine detail. This covered:

• Testing adjustable bed and mattress models in stores, showrooms, and our testing facility
• Comparing each model’s costs, specifications, features, delivery options, trial period length, and warranty terms
• Consulting trusted third-party review sites to understand each brand’s reputation
• Contacting customer service to gauge responsiveness and quality of support

In addition to our research, we consulted medical experts to learn more about the benefits of adjustable beds and mattresses on sleep quality, pain management, and overall mobility. Among those experts were: Chester Wu, MD, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist in Houston, Texas; Brittany Ferri, PhD, an occupational therapist in Rochester, New York; and Suzanne Gorovoy, PhD, a clinical psychologist and behavioral sleep medicine specialist in Tucson, Arizona. Together, they helped us understand which features could be helpful for specific populations.

How we test adjustable beds

We tested adjustable base models in showrooms and interacted with brand representatives to understand the benefits of each model. For example, we asked questions like, “Which models are best for couples sharing a bed?” As a result, we got firsthand experience trying out features on split models and testing custom position presets.

We evaluated each adjustable base using a 36-part recording sheet where we documented first impressions, ease of use, and notable features. Our records included detailed notes about noise levels (measured using a decibel meter), adjustment speed, and remote control layout. We answered questions like:

• Does the remote look easy to understand? Are the buttons easy to press?
• Is the base controlled by an app? Is it intuitive?
• Can you set your own presets? How many? Is it easy to do?
• Does the massage feature vibrate the whole bed, or is it isolated to a region?

We used our testing records to help evaluate which brands were most appropriate for our reviews.

How we test mattresses

We decided to test mattresses at our in-house mattress testing facility since the process is more in-depth. We evaluated various characteristics of each model, including firmness and overall comfort. Testing mattresses in-house allowed us to cut open the mattress to see its composition and material quality. It also allowed us to invite older adults to help us test, so we could get their perspective on the mattresses we were testing and better understand what’s most important to consider for mobility and safety.

We tested each mattress using a 21-page recording sheet that evaluated the following:

• Sinkage: We used a 10-pound ball to see how much the surface sinks under pressure.
• Pressure relief: We used a pressure mapping system to determine how well the mattress offloads sharp pressure points on our bodies, like the shoulder and hip (see example below).

• Support: Testers lay in multiple positions to determine whether the mattress supported their spine in a comfortable, neutral position.
• Cooling: We lay side-by-side for five minutes to see how well the mattress’s surface dissipated our body heat. Using a temperature gunⓘ A device that measures temperatures through the thermal radiation left behind on a surface. , we subtracted the difference between the temperature of the unused surface and the temperature after we used it to help determine the score.
• Repositioning: Testers evaluated how easily we could switch positions while lying in bed. We documented whether we felt like we were fighting against the material or if we felt like the material assisted our movements.
• Bounce: We dropped a 10-pound ball on the mattress to see how much bounce the surface provided.
• Motion isolation: Two testers lay side-by-side while one switched positions. We recorded how much movement transferred to the other side using a seismographⓘ An instrument that responds to movement, typically vibrations or shaking during an earthquake. and the other tester’s observations.
• Edge support: We sat on the mattress’s edge and measured the amount of sinkage to determine if the bed had good edge support. We also lay on the edge of the bed to see how safe we felt.
• Ease of setup: Some mattresses arrive in a box. When applicable, we documented the unboxing process to see how long it would take for the mattress to fully decompress and be ready to use. We also noted if it was easy to lift.

The Reviews Team also developed a subscore to determine how functionally supportive the mattress felt, or in other words, how well the mattress supported bed mobility. The score comprised firmness (30%), support (30%), bounce (10%), and edge support (10%). We also considered the following:

• Ease of getting out of bed: This involved rolling to the side, pushing up to sit, steadying at the edge of the bed, and standing from the edge of the bed.
• Height lost when sitting at the edge of bed: Taller mattresses are easier to stand from. If a mattress loses height while you’re putting on your shoes, getting up will be more challenging.
• Safety while lying at the edge of the bed: Mattresses with poor edge support will start to collapse as you near the edge, which makes it dangerous for people who might roll to one side at night or move slowly when sitting up.

How we rank and review sleep products

How we rank and review adjustable beds

Our Reviews Team surveyed 1,600 people who bought or considered an adjustable bed to get real-customer insights. Based on the responses from the survey, we determined a list of factors to consider when purchasing an adjustable bed. From our survey, we learned that the top five factors considered (aside from adjustability) when purchasing an adjustable bed were:

• Price
• Features
• Compatibility with mattresses
• Warranty policies
• Company reputation

We developed a scorecard that reflected our findings, weighting categories according to what was most important to our surveyed adjustable bed buyers and experts in sleep science.

We scored each adjustable bed model we researched based on the following criteria:

• Price (25% of total score): The cost of an adjustable bed without a mattress can range from $425–$4,798. We scored the adjustable base models based on the list price for a queen size, giving more points to more affordable models.
• Features (25% of total score): To gauge value for cost, we awarded points to adjustable beds that had under-bed lighting, height-adjustable legs, zero-gravity presets, custom presets, massage functions, and smart deviceⓘ An electronic product, like a smartphone or tablet, that can wirelessly connect to the internet and communicate with other smart devices connectivity. 
• Delivery and setup (20% of total score): Adjustable beds can be large and heavy items to transport. In addition, adjustable beds have electrical components to power the motor that may need setup. Our Reviews Team awarded more points to brands offering in-home delivery and set-up services offering more convenience than standard curbside delivery. We also preferred companies that included old bed and mattress removal along with delivery, a factor that 84% of our survey respondents said was important when considering an adjustable bed purchase.
• Brand reputation (10% of total score): We consulted trusted third-party review sites, including Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot, to read verified customer reviews. We scored companies that rated well on these third-party sites higher than we scored companies that only had website reviews.
• Warranty (10% of total score): An adjustable bed has moving parts and electrical components that may need repair or replacement with use. Our Reviews Team preferred models with warranty periods of at least 10 years.
• Size options (5% of total score): Adjustable beds come in sizes ranging from twin XL to California king. We preferred brands with models of various sizes, including split versions, like split king adjustable beds, to accommodate a range of individual sleeping arrangements.
• Trial period (5% of total score): Most adjustable beds are final sale items, meaning there are no trial periods or returns. We preferred brands that offered trial periods, so customers could determine whether investing in an adjustable bed could improve their sleep quality.

How we rank and review mattresses

Our team also surveyed 600 people who bought a new mattress within the past three years to understand their motivations and top considerations. The top five factors considered when purchasing a mattress were:

• Price
• Features
• Construction and material
• Brand reputation
• Reviews and ratings 

Like adjustable beds, we used survey results and expert recommendations to build our scoring system. The final criteria covered:

• Affordability (35% of total score): Most mattresses range from $500–$5,000 for a queen size. We based our scoring on the flagship version of the brand’s queen-sized mattress because it’s the most common size bought by survey respondents.
• Features (20% of total score): We awarded points to brands with flagship models that offer seven or more size options and at least three firmness options. We also awarded points to brands with mattresses that have a higher weight capacity (more than 1,000 pounds) and bundled accessories with a mattress purchase.
• User experience (20% of total score): Brands offering free white glove delivery, CertiPUR-USⓘ A certification given to foam bedding materials that are environmentally friendly certifications, and a trial period of at least 120 nights were given a higher score than others who fall short.
• Customer service (15% of total score): Mattress companies that offer multiple support avenues (like a phone number, live chat online, email, and contact form) and with weeklong availability scored well.
• Brand reputation (10% of total score): We based brand reputation on years in business and lawsuits. Because mattress shopping is a personal choice, we decided to avoid judging brands by customer reviews. One mattress does not fit all, so what doesn’t work for one person may work better for another.

How we rank and review sleep accessories

While most of our research and testing focus has been on mattresses and adjustable beds, we realize sleep accessories can influence your comfort at night. For example, you may need a loftier pillow if you sleep on your side because it better supports your head and neck in a neutral position. And hot sleepers may want to choose bed sheets made with breathable materials. 

The Reviews Team also researched the top sleep trackers in the industry, which are designed to monitor a person’s activity level, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and body temperature. People can use this information to improve their sleep quality. Or if you’re monitoring a condition, like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), sleep trackers can help you and your doctor identify positive and negative factors that influence your sleep.

We performed in-depth research on each brand to compare price and features. We also consulted sleep experts and academic studies to better understand how these accessories can help (or hinder) sleep quality. Once our research was complete, we vetted the top brands and covered them in the following reviews:

• Best Pillows and Best Pillows for Neck Pain
• Best Sheets
• Best Sleep Trackers

Our team also researched bed rails, but we found major safety concerns that can lead to death. Many brands and models have been recalled. Instead, read about bed rail alternatives.

Check the NCOA Advisor sleep page regularly as we continue to research brands and develop reviews.

Sources

1. NCOA Adviser Adjustable Beds Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched August 5, 2022.
2. NCOA Adviser Adjustable Beds Survey. 1000 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched June 21, 2023.
3. NCOA Adviser Mattress Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched January 2, 2024.

Nicole Hernandez Author

Nicole Hernandez is a writer and physical therapist who empowers people to make informed decisions about their health as a writer and clinician. She has written for NCOA, AginginPlace.org, and physical therapy clinics to educate readers on fall and injury prevention, rehabilitation, home modifications, and other clinical themes including hearing aids and medical alert systems.