How CNET Tests Mattresses: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to CNET’s Mattress Testing Process

When it comes to finding the perfect mattress, the process can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available in the market. At CNET, a team of experts, including video producer Jon Gomez and mattress specialist Dillon Payne, work tirelessly to test and evaluate mattresses based on several key factors. Their goal is to provide you with the most accurate and unbiased information to help you make an informed decision. CNET’s team doesn’t just rely on specs and marketing claims; they physically test each mattress to understand its performance, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re a side sleeper, a back sleeper, or someone who prefers a soft or firm mattress, their hands-on approach ensures that every detail is covered.

CNET editors pick the products and services they write about based on editorial merit, and they earn a commission if you buy through their links. This transparency, combined with their rigorous testing process, makes their reviews trustworthy and valuable for consumers. So, how exactly does CNET test mattresses? Let’s break it down.

Firmness: Finding the Perfect Balance

One of the first things CNET’s team evaluates is the firmness of a mattress. Firmness is a critical factor because it directly impacts comfort and support. The team takes turns lying on the mattress to determine if it’s soft, medium-firm, or firm. This hands-on approach helps them understand how the mattress feels for different body types and sleeping positions. For example, a mattress that feels firm for one person might feel medium-firm for another, depending on their weight and preferences.
Firmness is measured on a scale, typically from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. The team also considers how the mattress conforms to the body and whether it provides the right level of support. A mattress that’s too soft might not provide enough support for back sleepers, while a mattress that’s too firm might feel uncomfortable for side sleepers. By testing firmness, CNET helps you narrow down your options based on your specific needs.

Feel: Understanding the Materials Inside

Beyond firmness, the "feel" of a mattress is another important aspect of CNET’s testing process. This refers to how the mattress responds to pressure and movement. To get a sense of the feel, the team doesn’t just lie on the mattress—they get hands-on. They squish, squeeze, and interact with the mattress to understand the materials inside. For instance, memory foam mattresses are known for their slow-responding, pressure-relieving properties, while coil or latex foam mattresses tend to feel bouncier and more responsive.

The feel of a mattress can significantly impact your sleeping experience. Memory foam, for example, provides a sink-in feeling that many people love, while latex foam offers a morespringy, breathable feel. The team also considers how the mattress adapts to different body types and sleeping positions. For example, a mattress with a layer of memory foam might be ideal for side sleepers who need pressure relief, while a bouncier mattress might be better for stomach sleepers who need lift and support. By evaluating the feel, CNET helps you understand whether a mattress will provide the kind of comfort and support you need for a restful night’s sleep.

Durability: Assessing Long-Term Performance

Durability is another key factor in CNET’s mattress testing process. While it’s impossible to test a mattress for the full 8+ years it’s expected to last, the team analyzes the construction and materials to gauge its long-term performance. Hybrid mattresses, which combine foam and coils, are often more durable and long-lasting than all-foam beds. The team looks at the quality of the materials, the thickness of the layers, and how well the mattress is built.

Durability is especially important for heavier individuals, as they may put more wear and tear on a mattress over time. The team evaluates whether a mattress will sag, lose its shape, or develop indentations after years of use. They also consider edge support, which is crucial for ensuring the mattress remains sturdy even at the edges. A durable mattress not only provides consistent support and comfort but also offers better value for money in the long run.

Body Type and Sleeping Position:Tailoring Recommendations

CNET’s team also considers how different body types and sleeping positions might affect the performance of a mattress. For heavier individuals, for example, hybrid mattresses are often recommended because they offer more support and durability. These mattresses typically have a coil base that provides the necessary lift and structure for larger body types, while the foam layers on top add comfort and pressure relief.

Sleeping position is another critical factor. The team tests each mattress for side sleepers, back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers. For side sleepers, pressure relief at the shoulders and hips is essential, so the team looks for mattresses with softer foam layers or additional cushioning in these areas. Back sleepers, on the other hand, need a mattress that supports the natural alignment of their spine, so the team evaluates how well the mattress maintains this alignment. Stomach sleepers typically prefer firmer mattresses that keep their hips from sinking too far into the bed, while combination sleepers need a mattress that’s versatile enough to accommodate multiple positions. By considering both body type and sleeping position, CNET’s team ensures that their recommendations are tailored to your specific needs.

Motion Isolation and Edge Support:Testing for Real-World Scenarios

Two final but equally important factors in CNET’s testing process are motion isolation and edge support. Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress absorbs movement, which is crucial for couples who share a bed. To test this, the team places a cup of water at the end of the bed and bounces around to see how well the mattress absorbs motion. If the water barely moves, the mattress has excellent motion isolation. This feature is especially important for light sleepers who are easily disturbed by their partner’s movements.

Edge support is another practical consideration, especially for those who like to sit or sleep near the edge of the bed. The team physically lies on each edge of the mattress to see how sturdy it feels. They also test edge support by sitting on the edge and performing tasks like putting on shoes or reading a book. A mattress with good edge support will feel just as sturdy at the edges as it does in the center, ensuring that you can use the entire surface of the bed without feeling like you’re about to roll off.

Conclusion: CNET’s Commitment to Helping You Find Your Perfect Mattress

At the heart of CNET’s mattress testing process is a commitment to helping you find the perfect mattress for your needs. By evaluating firmness, feel, durability, body type, sleeping position, motion isolation, and edge support, the team provides a comprehensive assessment of each mattress. Whether you’re a side sleeper who prefers a soft mattress or a back sleeper who needs extra support, CNET’s detailed reviews and recommendations are designed to take the guesswork out of mattress shopping.

With their hands-on, real-world approach, CNET’s team ensures that every mattress they test is evaluated for comfort, support, and long-term performance. Their goal is to empower you with the information you need to make an informed decision and enjoy better sleep for years to come.