Mattress Industry Insights
Investigative editorial on how the mattress industry works, what certifications actually mean, what sleep science says about mattress choice, and brand deep dives.
How Much Does a Mattress Actually Cost to Make?
Retail mattress prices are notoriously disconnected from manufacturing costs. We traced the supply chain from raw materials to your door.
Why Direct-to-Consumer Mattress Brands Keep Struggling
Casper went public, then private again. Purple has faced profitability challenges. The economics of DTC mattresses are harder than they look.
The Truth About Mattress Trial Periods
Most people don't return mattresses even when they should. And what happens to returned mattresses raises environmental questions brands don't advertise.
GOLS, GOTS, CertiPUR-US: What Mattress Certifications Actually Mean
Brands use certification logos as signals of quality. Here's what each one actually tests — and which ones to prioritize.
Is an Organic Mattress Worth the Price Premium?
The organic mattress market is full of greenwashing. But certified organic options do offer genuine benefits — if you know what to look for.
How Your Sleep Position Affects Spine Alignment
Your spine has four natural curves. Maintaining those curves while horizontal is harder than it sounds — and most people are doing it wrong.
What the Research Says About Mattresses and Back Pain
Medium-firm is not a universal prescription. Research suggests individualized firmness, not a firmness number, is the most important variable.
Who Makes the Best Mattresses in 2026? A Brand-by-Brand Analysis
Brand reputation is a proxy for quality — but only a rough one. We looked at construction, policies, and long-term owner satisfaction.