Best Twin Mattress in 2023

Top Shopping Considerations When Buying Twin Mattresses

Age-Based Needs

Adults

As we age, our sleep needs change, as do the levels of support we need. Just because we’re grown doesn’t mean we stop changing, and an adult is likely to need cooling, hypoallergenic, or lumbar support features. Keep your individual needs in mind and to be sure you purchase something that will cater to them.

Teens

Teenagers are likely to have a wide variety of needs, depending on their everyday habits and health issues, as they continue to grow. A teen with asthma may need a hypoallergenic mattress, while a student-athlete might need pressure relief and lumbar support. Keep your teen’s needs in mind and seek out something that will complement their lifestyle.

Check out our top picks for the best mattresses for teenagers.

Toddlers and Children

Toddlers and children usually require less bells and whistles, but there are still a few key considerations to keep in mind. Very small children might need a  bed that is firmer in order to minimize any discomfort or difficulty navigating the materials. Some children might have issues with overheating or allergies that might need to be considered.

Material Type

To search for the best mattress material type, there are numerous important considerations. Prices will vary depending on whether or not you choose a memory foam, latex, hybrid, or innerspring model. In general, foam and hybrid models are the cheapest, followed by innerspring and latex items.

You’ll want to choose the material based on your preferences. Foam fans like deep sinkage and pressure relief, and innerspring users tend to prefer airflow, bounce, and support. Those with an allergy to latex will want to consider alternative materials to help ease the effects of their sensitivities.

Outside factors that could play a part in choosing a material could range from health issues to pets. If you are in need of a heated blanket or heating pad, you will likely need to avoid memory foam, especially those with gel inside. People with pets will want to find an item that can withstand their furry friend’s antics.

Mattress Thickness

It's more likely that heavier sleepers will bottom out on a thinner mattress. We recommend choosing the thickest option available, or a plus-sized mattress model if you're a heavier person. This will allow you to take advantage of all the pressure relief and support your bed should offer. Lighter sleepers may need a softer model to avoid pain in pressure points on the mattress.

Keep in mind many shoppers have bed frames that require a specific mattress height, like a bunk bed that needs a thinner option on the top bunk. Be sure to check your bedframe details to make sure your new mattress will fit on its base.

Preferred Sleeping Position

Whether you like to lie on your side, back, or stomach will have a lot to do with what type of Twin bed you purchase. Side sleepers tend to prefer a lot of pressure relief to ease pressure build-up in the hips and shoulders. Those who lie on their stomachs are likely to need a firmer mattress to prevent their hips from sinking, keeping the spine straight.

Combination and back sleepers come in all flavors. If you want solid support when lying on your back, you’ll want to buy yourself a firmer mattress. If you switch up positions but find yourself on your side most of the night, opt for a softer product.

Budget

Not everyone has unlimited funds to spend on a new sleep solution. Thankfully, there are lots of companies offering affordable mattresses. From simple and cheap beds to discounted models that still contain all sorts of bells and whistles, there are lots of options available to fit most shoppers’ price range.

Discover our top picks for the best budget mattresses.

Trial Period for Twin Mattresses

A lot of people wonder why anyone would buy a mattress online when they can’t feel it first, but lots of companies offer extended trial periods that you really adjust to the product before you officially commit to it. The standard is generally around 100 days, though many offer trial periods that are longer, some up to a year. Be sure to check the guidelines and restrictions of your trial period before ordering.

Warranty

Most businesses will provide a warranty, many lasting 10-15 years or longer, that will allow buyers to return a defective product. Some will also allow their customers to replace comfort layers as the mattress ages, giving them the ability to refresh their bed over time. Check to see whether or not there are fees for replacements or return shipping before you buy.

Frame Compatibility

If you already have a frame at home, or have a specific type in mind, you’ll want to make sure that your new mattress is compatible with it. Most online retailers will provide information about the types of set-up they recommend, including whether or not the product can be used on an adjustable frame and how far apart slats should be to provide proper support. Chat representatives will likely be able to answer questions about this if the guidelines are not posted on the site.