As we advance into summer, temperatures continue to rise — which can wreak havoc on our sleep. If you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll be familiar with the toll that waking up in a pool of your own sweat can have on the quality of our slumber.
While the best mattresses of 2024 will all provide a certain degree of temperature regulation, the best cooling mattresses offer top notch cooling comfort. They do this through the inclusion of breathable materials and build, such as latex, gel-infused or open-cell foam, as well as featuring phase-changing materials (PCM) that work to regulate your temperature while you sleep.
But many of the best cooling mattresses are specialist beds that command a high price tag — is it possible to buy a cooling mattress for under $1,000? Yes, here’s what to look for.
How to choose the best cooling mattress for under $1,000
Some of the best cooling mattresses boast the latest in cooling technology - and can come at an eye-watering price tag to match. However, some mid-range mattresses, which sit between $500 and $1,000 for a queen, are durable, supportive and, if you know what to look for, comfortably cooling. If you're looking for the best cooling mattress for under $1,000, these are the five factors you should consider.
1. Material
Look for mattresses made of cooling materials such as gel-infused memory foam, latex, or open-cell foam. Many of the best cooling mattresses boast these materials, which tend to dissipate heat better than traditional memory foam or innerspring mattresses. This type of cooling is referred to as passive cooling.
2. Breathability
As a general rule, the best hybrid mattresses provide better temperature regulation than all-foam models, thanks to the air channels that the coils provide. If you've got your heart set on an all-foam model, check if the mattress has features like airflow channels or perforations within the foam that allow air to circulate freely, aiding in temperature regulation.
3. Cooling technology
Active cooling systems, like the Eight Sleep Pods favored by Elon Musk, are much more effective at providing temperature regulation, but are much more expensive too. If your budget is for $1,000 and under for a cooling mattress, look for one with gel or copper infusions or Phase Change Material (PCM) which can help draw heat away from your body and keep you cool throughout the night.
4. Cover material
The cover material of the mattress can also impact its cooling properties. While not cooling per se, the best organic mattresses boast breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo, cotton or wool, while materials like Tencel will feel cool-to-the-touch.
5. Firmness level
Personal preference plays a significant role in which firmness level you opt for, but generally, firmer mattresses tend to sleep cooler as they allow for more airflow around your body. In contrast, a mattress that you sink into can sleep a little warmer.
The best time to buy a cooling mattress
The best cooling mattresses with the latest in cooling technology will often command a high price tag. However, timing your purchase to coincide with a mattress sale can help bring prices down. The next major mattress sale event is Labor Day in September, but keep your eyes peeled for any flash mattress sales before then.
However, even if your mattress meets all the above requirements, it doesn't guarantee that it will be comfortable and cooling for you. As such, ensure the mattress comes with a generous trial period and warranty. This will allow you to test the mattress at home and return it if it doesn't meet your sleep needs.
Top 3 cooling mattresses for under $1,000
