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Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Best-Rated Booster Car Seats That Keep Your Kid Comfy and Won't Make a Preteen Cringe
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." A convertible car seat harness only works for a child up to about 65 pounds in the forward-facing position. After that, it's time for your child to use the vehicle seat belt. A booster seat helps by literally boosting them up so that the seatbelt can be placed in the proper spot across their shoulder and not across their neck, which could cause harm in an accident. The parenting and product experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have tested 25 booster car seats in the past five years. We rate ease of installation, angle and headrest adjustments, as well as ease of cleaning and overall fit for a child. Our list of the best booster seats is based on Lab-tested picks, category expertise and real-life consumer ClearTex Chicco's KidFit is a nice price, transitions from a high back booster to a backless booster car seat and comes with comforts such as arm rests and foldable cup holders. ✔️ LAB NOTES: In its high back form, the KidFit offers 10 height positions, adjusting along the waist rather than the neck to offer more protection down the side of your child. This version is made with the brand's ClearTex fabric, which is removable and machine washable, and also boasts Greenguard Gold certification for textiles that are low in chemical emissions. The KidFit connects to your car via a LATCH system and our Lab experts are fans of Chicco's SuperCinch one-pull tightener, which makes it easy to get this seat fitting snugly. The two dishwasher-safe cupholders are soft and can fold in if you have to fit a third passenger in your backseat and need every inch. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: If you're a road-trip family that occasionally drives for hours, this exceptionally comfortable pick might be best for you. Our testers loved the contoured seat and the double-foam cushioning. There are arm rests, too, but they are small. Some younger tester kids had trouble buckling themselves in with the back on. But the back also removes completely for bigger kids, who then have no trouble buckling themselves. ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: We like it for kids from kindergarten to middle school, ages 5 to 12, who will be taking occasional long trips in their booster seat. $109.99 at For daily runs to school with a kid who almost fits in a regular seat belt, this bargain is a no-brainer. ✔️ LAB NOTES: Perfect for older kids, carpooling and families with multiple cars (not to mention grandparent and babysitter vehicles), this is the most narrow, minimalist and best budget booster car seat we tested. Ideal for older kids, it's got no bells and whistles, but it does boost a child up three inches so that they can buckle themselves in using the car's seat belt correctly. Unlike every other booster on this list, the Topside does not secure to your car with the LATCH system. This seat just sits on top of the car's backseat and the weight of your child holds it down. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: If you frequently carpool kids to practices or meetings, it can be smart to keep extras of these in the trunk of your car so that everyone rides safely. This booster is also inexpensive enough that family members who drive your kid can keep one in their vehicle too. Since the Topside only weighs about two pounds and is only 15 inches wide, it's highly portable and easy to pack if you'll be in and out of vans and ride share vehicles. ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: We'd use this for big kids and short trips. We like it for about ages 8 to 12, but note the 100-pound weight limit and the 57-inch height limit. $47.84 at 2XT Diono is favorite high back booster car seat among our pros because of the nicely padded headrest that's comfy on long trips, and it turns into a backless booster later. ✔️ LAB NOTES: That cushy headrest can be set to any of 11 positions, moving up a total of 6.5 inches to grow with your child. "My children always appear comfortable in this compared to other boosters where they have felt cramped or less supported," says former GH Institute Chief Technologist and Executive Technical Director Rachel Rothman, a mom of three and a lead tester for car seats and booster seats. In high back mode, this offers both height and width adjustments. It reclines a bit to be sure that the seat meets the pitch of your car's backseat. Once your kid no longer requires the added support, you can remove the back completely and use this as a backless booster. The Diono seatpad is wider than some other options on this list, a plus for big kids. It attaches to your car using the LATCH system, though some online reviewers say they don't find the LATCH straps on this to be as easy to use as those on some convertible car seats. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: Kid testers appreciate the arm rests and the two retractable cup holders. This seat comes in a range of colors, including black, blue and red, with covers that remove for machine washing (though we wish the removal was a bit easier). ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: We also like this one for elementary school to middle school, ages 5 to 12, especially if your kid is large and tall. $159.99 at LX If you're looking for something easy but comfy for an older kid, consider a backless booster like this popular Graco model that's been out long enough to get tens of thousands of positive user ratings. ✔️ LAB NOTES: Use the LATCH system to securely connect this in the backseat. We like the TurboBooster if you will be mostly keeping it installed in one vehicle. But it's also a super portable booster seat for kids who don't need added neck and back support. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: The TurboBooster gets kids to the right height for the seat belt, but lets them feel "bigger" and less babyish. Several of our testers noted how this made it easier for their kids to buckle themselves in. For parents, we found the machine washable seat pad to be easy to clean. The integrated cupholder and hidden storage compartment are a way to keep a drink and snacks (or a small toy) handy. ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: This is a great pick for preteens not quite ready to transition to sitting unaided in the car, but looking for more independence. RELATED: Good Housekeeping Institute Car Seat Reviews $40.99 at With You ClickTight+ You can get a younger kid started in a booster seat if you use one that begins with a five-point harness, such as this Britax. ✔️ LAB NOTES: This booster is a little different in that it crosses over into the convertible car seat world. It can accommodate children as small as 25 pounds with the harness, then up to 120 pounds as a belt-positioning booster — a noticeably wider spread than most booster car seats. Expect to use it from preschool through elementary school, which helps justify the price. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: Our testers said the nine-position headrest was easy to adjust. Both our Lab experts and parent testers also love the Britax ClickTight system, which makes it a snap to lock this booster car seat in place in your backseat when it's in harness mode. The seat fabric is removable and can go in both the washing machine and the dryer. With three layers of side-impact protection and the brand's SafeCell Technology that helps absorb the crash energy, you know this is among the safest booster seats. However, this a heavy, wide booster car seat. Expect to keep it in your main vehicle; it doesn't lend itself much to swapping between cars. ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Families who want to invest in a booster that will take them from preschool to middle school. It's got a wide weight range, from 25 to 120 pounds. RELATED: Best All-in-One Car Seats $349.99 at Nuna's booster has a high-end look and thick padding. It's a good choice for a booster that stays in your car, and it turns into a backless booster later. ✔️ LAB NOTES: The seat's fabric is Greenguard Gold certified. The headrest adjusts to nine different positions; as you push it upwards, the shoulder width moves out as well, so it expands as your child grows (accommodating up to 120 pounds). You can even choose from three seat depths and eight recline positions, making this seat among the most customizable to your child's size. The cupholder is not integrated (it just hooks on), but because it removes easily, you can put it through the dishwasher. The fabric comes off as well for washing and the seat connects with a LATCH system. Energy-absorbing foam pads on the sides of the seat help with side-impact protection when this is in high back mode. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: This is so large it almost looks built-in. It comes in gray and black, to match most car interiors. Online reviewers rave about how sturdy it feels, and say that their kids can get themselves buckled in. Because this fits a preteen up to 120 pounds and five feet tall, it can be another great choice for larger kids. It does have arm rests, but they are small. ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Kids from kindergarten to middle school, approximately ages 5 to 12, and parents who plan to keep the high-back booster in their vehicle for some years. $300.00 at Clek's Oobr is an ergonomic car seat with a slightly pared-down profile. The Ober goes from high back booster to backless booster. ✔️ LAB NOTES: Numerous safety measures impress our Lab experts, including the fact that Clek meets Canadian safety standards, which go above and beyond what is needed in the United States (read more about Clek's testing). The Oobr, which is manufactured in North America, is made with rigid LATCH connectors and a winged headrest for increased stability. The Oobr has clear belt guides to make sure the seat belt rests over your child's body in the correct places. It's also easy to tell whether or not the seat is properly in place since you'll hear an audible click when secure. ✔️ TESTER NOTES: "This booster seat feels solid, though it's still comfortable for my child," says Lexie Sachs, a mom of two and the GH Institute Executive Director, Strategy & Operations. The headrest adjusts to any of 11 positions and the seat can recline 12 degrees. It also has a removable cup holder and a removable seat cover for easy cleaning. When your child is ready, you can take off the back and use this as a backless booster. When you're completely finished with it, you can look into Clek's recycling program in partnership with ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: It's recommended for ages 4 to 10, and we agree; this is a good booster from kindergarten through elementary school. $319.99 at we test booster car seats The Good Housekeeping Institute's engineering and parenting pros have tested 25 booster seats over the past five years using a combination of in-Lab and at-home tests with both experts and consumer reviewers. We study ease of installation, kid comfort, ease of getting kids in and out of the car, headrest adjustments, height and weight limits, stability and more. As a final check we research online reviews to be sure we aren't missing any real-world factors, good or to look for when shopping for a booster car seat Here's how to choose a booster seat: ✔️ Height and weight limits: All have minimum and maximum height and weight specifications. To ensure proper seat belt placement and optimal security, make sure your child fits within those ranges. If you have a convertible car seat with a booster-seat mode, or a booster that transitions from high back to backless, hold onto the user manual (or check on the brand's website) so you know when it's time to safely switch. ✔️ Seat adjustments: For the safest and most comfortable ride, look for a high back booster seat that offers neck or back height adjustments. Some models also feature width adjustments for a custom fit. ✔️ High back vs. backless: Oftentimes an older child is vocal about how a seat looks to their friends, which is why in the preteen years you're probably going to want to switch to backless mode, or get a backless booster. But it's nice for comfort and safety to have elementary school kids in a booster with a high back, side support and head support. ✔️ Easy cleaning: Regardless of age, spills happen. Luckily, most booster seats offer removable machine-washable seat covers and padding. ✔️ Accessories: Cup holders and hidden drawers allow kids to keep their items close. ✔️ Installation: We prefer booster seats that attach to your backseat via LATCH connectors, so the booster does not slide around. ✔️ Ease of use: You want the seat to be simple to install and use. Lucia Sanchez, Director of Media Relations for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), stresses that, "The right car seat for your child is one that fits your child, fits your vehicle and that you will use correctly every time."How to properly use a booster seat Booster seats provide a safe way for kids to ride in the car before they're tall and heavy enough to sit directly on the seat. However, children vary by weight, height and readiness and many may be best off in their convertible car seat longer, moving to a booster seat (or booster mode, if their convertible car seat offers one) at age 6, 7, 8 or older. Use the NHTSA's car seat finder to determine what's best for your child's current weight, height and age. Then double-check the manufacturer specifications to be sure your child is within a seat's size guidelines. It's important that you don't rush a child into using the car's seat belt. They are safest in a five-point harness until they hit the Lower Anchor Weight Limit, which NHTSA sets at 65 pounds minus the weight of the car seat unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. Most manufacturers say you can use their five-point harness to 65 pounds. "The best practice recommendation is that children should remain in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether until they reach the maximum height or weight allowed by the car seat's manufacturer," Sanchez says. "Once children outgrow the forward-facing car seat with a harness, it's time to travel in a booster seat. A booster seat positions the child so the seat belt fits properly, with the lap belt worn low across the hips and the shoulder belt comfortably crossing the chest and shoulder and away from the neck and face." Depending on your state's car seat laws, children may be required to use a safety seat until they're large enough to sit in the car with the seat belt secured at the right areas of their body. A child is likely ready to ditch the booster seat once they are tall enough (usually 57 inches), old enough (at minimum 8 years old) and, when they sit on the car's seat, the seat belt fits across their shoulder and over their upper legs or hips. Final note from NHTSA: Kids are safest riding in the backseat up until age vs high-back vs. backless booster seats If you have an all-in-one car seat, you might not need a booster at all. But if your child is in a convertible car seat, you'll need to size up. These are the possible configurations: ✔️ Harness booster seats look the most like regular car seats because they secure your child in a five-point safety harness. For this reason, you can transfer your child to a harness booster seat at a preschool age. You can only keep them in that five-point harness until they hit about 65 pounds or whatever the Lower Anchor Weight Limit is set by the seat manufacturer. After that, you'll need to transition your seat to high back mode, and use the seat belt. ✔️ High-back booster seats offer neck and head support. However, with one of these, you use your vehicle's seat belt to secure your child rather than a harness. Expect to thread the seat belt through for your child at first, especially when they are still young. Most of our favorite high back booster seats have clear guides that help you find the path for the seat belt. ✔️ Backless booster seats rely on your child leaning back on the regular car seat and using the car's seat belt. They are the closest thing to your child sitting like an adult; they're just boosted up from below so that the seat belt hits them in the right spot. By the time a preteen has graduated to a backless booster, they can likely buckle themselves in. Many high back boosters transition to a backless booster (you literally just remove the back), but you can also buy a backless booster on its own. Backless boosters are inexpensive and lightweight, great for travel and car trust Good Housekeeping? For more than 100 years the Good Housekeeping Institute has provided expert reviews and advice on virtually everything that families buy, including gear for babies and kids. Each year the GH Institute publishes its annual Parenting Awards. This article was most recently updated by Contributing Writer Jessica Hartshorn, who has covered the juvenile-products market for several decades, first at American Baby magazine and then at Parents. She's a mom of two and lives in Brooklyn. You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
Tom's Guide
31-05-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
What is the Bear Natural mattress and should you buy it?
Introduced in February, the Bear Natural is the brand's first latex hybrid mattress, promising a 100% natural and non-toxic sleep. And right now, there's 35% off all sizes in Bear's flash sale, taking a queen down to $1,578 (was $2,427). You'll find mattresses from Bear featured in our best mattress guide, but how does the new Bear Natural measure up? It's not unusual to see latex used in premium organic mattresses and the foam is well-known for its cooling, hypoallergenic properties and deep pressure relief. With Bear's generous mattress sales taking 35% off, this could be the perfect time to invest in a new organic mattress. But is the Bear Natural the right choice for you? Let's find out more… Like many of the best organic mattresses, the Bear Natural uses natural latex foam to provide a supportive and responsive sleep surface. Standing 13' tall, the mattress uses Talalay latex, which is a plush latex foam with a consistent and breathable feel. The latex is backed up by an organic cotton cover, comfort foam and a layer of coils. These coils are zoned, which means they've been arranged to provide targeted support where it's needed, helping to keep the spine aligned and provide pressure relief. Latex is, of course, naturally breathable and hypoallergenic, so this mattress could also be a great choice for both hot sleepers and allergy sufferers. As you might expect from a natural mattress, the Bear Natural isn't cheap, with a queen coming with an MSRP of $2,427. But Bear normally has discounts of 30% on its mattresses, with the discount rising to 35% at major sales events, so right now is a great time to snap it up. Alongside this you'll also get a 120-night trial, lifetime warranty and free shipping. Bear Natural Mattress: was from $1,999 now from $1,300 at Bear There's no getting away from the premium price tag but Bear's flash 35% off sale takes a queen down to $1,578 (MSRP $2,427). And you'll also get two free pillows into the bargain. This a good price for a premium organic mattress, plus you'll get a 120-night trial, lifetime warranty and free shipping included. The Bear Natural is a premium mattress, even with discounts but, normal Bear mattress sales take 30% off, with the discount rising to 35% at major sales events. You'll also get two free pillows included with the mattress. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Here are the MSRPs for the Bear Natural: In terms of extras, you'll get a 120-night trial, lifetime warranty and free shipping to your door. There's also the option to upgrade to white glove delivery, with prices starting from $100. This is a little disappointing for a mattress with prices comparable to many of the best luxury mattresses — we'd hope to see at least a year's trial on offer and maybe free white glove delivery. As you'd probably expect from a premium mattress, the Bear Natural has several mattress certifications proving its quality. The mattress is Greenguard Gold certified and CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it's free from any harmful chemicals. Starting at the top, you'll find an organic quilted cotton cover that's designed to be breathable and soft to the touch. Up next is the natural Talalay latex layer, designed with a medium firm finish for cushioning and pressure relief. The latex layer is backed up by a layer of comfort foam to aid with pressure relief and motion isolation. Underneath this is the layer of individually encased zoned coils. Higher gauged coils have been placed in the center to help enhance lumbar support and keep the spine aligned. The edges of the coil layer have also been reinforced to help provide extra edge support along the perimeter. Finally, the mattress is finished off with a layer of DuraDense base foam to absorb shock and provide support and durability to the mattress. We haven't yet slept on the Bear Natural, but we see this bed as being best suited to those wanting a responsive surface that allows sleepers to move around easily. Latex is a naturally breathable material as well, meaning this bed should be a great fit for hot sleepers – especially as the latex is backed up by a breathable cotton cover and a layer of coils for greater airflow. That slightly bouncy feel does mean that this mattress may not be the best choice for those sharing their bed with a restless sleeper, as there may be a little too much motion transfer through the mattress. The Bear should have good edge support with its reinforced perimeter coils. Like many of the best mattresses for back pain, the Bear Natural has higher gauge coils in its center third to provide more lumbar support and help keep the spine aligned. This could well make it a good choice for those suffering with aches and pains. With its medium-firm feel, we'd expect the Bear to appeal to a wide range of sleepers, although it's possible it may be a little too firm for lightweight side sleepers. If you're unsure whether latex is for you, read our 5 signs that you should buy a latex mattress instead of memory foam. ✅ You sleep hot: Latex and cotton are both naturally breathable materials, meaning this could be a strong choice if you're a hot sleeper. The addition of a coil layer will also help to keep air moving through the mattress. ✅ You suffer with allergies: Latex is hypoallergenic, making this a solid option for allergy sufferers. ✅ You want a responsive sleep surface: The slightly bouncy nature of latex means that anyone who wants a mattress that responds to movement would do well here. It's also a great fit for combination sleepers, who will find it easy to change position overnight. ❌ You share your bed with a restless sleeper: Latex is a bouncy foam, meaning there could be a little motion transfer on this mattress. ❌ You're on a budget: The Bear Natural is a premium mattress, even with a 35% discount. ❌ You want plenty of sinkage: You'll lie on top of a latex mattress, rather than sinking into it, so if you like to feel hugged by your bed this isn't the best choice; instead look at one of the best memory foam mattresses. 1. Birch Natural Mattress: was $1373.33 now from $1,030 at Birch The Birch Natural offers fantastic temperature regulation and is an ideal fit for combination sleepers. There's currently 25% off and you'll get two free pillows as well. This takes a queen down to $1,399 (MSRP $1,865.33), and you'll get free shipping, a 100-night trial and limited lifetime warranty. 2. Nolah Natural Mattress: was $1,499 now from $974 at Nolah The Nolah Natural mattress is a great responsive option, with a much lower price tag than most organic latex mattresses. A queen is reduced by 35% to $1,364 (MSRP $2,099) and you'll get two free pillows included with your purchase, as well as a 120-night trial, free shipping and a lifetime warranty. 3. Avocado Green Mattress: was $1,499 now from $1,274.15 at Avocado Our favorite organic mattress has a firmer feel that back sleepers will particularly appreciate. It's not often discounted so this 15% discount for Memorial Day is well worth taking advantage of, bringing a queen down to $1,784.15 (MSRP $2,099) with code HONOR15. This mattress comes with a one-year trial and free shipping, plus a 25-year warranty.
Tom's Guide
15-05-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
The most luxurious organic mattress I've ever slept on is 27% off ahead of Memorial Day
A trend I never tire of seeing in the sleep industry is a move towards sustainability, ethics and quality products that last. This shift in priorities has seen a rise in natural mattresses, and I'm lucky enough to be sleeping on one at the moment. The Birch Natural Luxe is a hybrid latex bed that I've fallen in love with. And with our code TOMS27 you can get 27% off this Birch mattress ahead of Memorial Day. We've tried and tested all the best organic mattresses of the year, each offering a different sleeping experience and addressing different needs. However, what they all have in common is a focus on using natural, organic and sustainable materials, like wool, cotton and latex, as opposed to man-made mattress materials that are chemical based, like memory foam. The Birch Natural Luxe combines all three quality materials and it's the most luxurious mattress I've slept on. As an official convert to clean, non-toxic sleep, here's why I think this organic mattress is well worth investing in the Memorial Day mattress sales. The Birch Natural Luxe mattress: twin was $1,624 now $1,185.52 with code TOMS27 at BirchThe Birch Natural Luxe is a medium-firm mattress made up of individually wrapped coils and layers of GOLS-certified natural latex, layers of Birch wool and an organic cotton cover. The mattress is Greenguard Gold certified as well, this mattress certification means it has ultra low VOC emissions. These VOCs are responsible for the strong chemical off-gassing that can occur with cheaper memory foam mattresses. The organic cotton euro pillow top is designed to offer pressure relief, while the latex and coils support your body and keep your spine aligned. As an organic, natural mattress, it sits at a premium price point with the MSRP of a queen being $2,624. However, using the TOMS27 code at checkout unlocks 27% off for Memorial Day, bringing the price down to $1,915.52, plus a free Eco-Rest Pillow Set. You'll also get industry-leading perks like a limited lifetime warranty, free shipping and a 100-night trialUser score: ★★★★ (670+ reviews) I've only been sleeping on the Birch Natural Luxe for a week, so I'll write my full review after a month to see if it's worthy of a spot in our guide to the best mattresses of the year. However, my first impressions are fantastic. The combination of the cotton and wool gives the euro pillow top just enough 'give' to relieve the pressure at my hips, shoulders and knees. This is important, considering I'm primarily a side sleeper. It does have quite a firm feel, but I love the buoyancy of this. I'm not sinking into the bed, instead, I'm sleeping comfortably on top of it. Sleeping on the Birch Natural Luxe genuinely feels 'clean'. The combination of the breathable and moisture-wicking materials means my partner and I don't wake up sweating, and despite sleeping on it with the summer temperatures rising, we haven't overheated once. After sleeping on one of the best memory foam mattresses of the year, it feels really nice to sleep on an organic bed. There has been absolutely no off-gassing and swapping a synthetic, chemical material for an ethical, sustainable and natural alternative feels like the right decision for me. Naturepedic Pillow Top Concerto mattress: twin was $1,699 now $1,359.20 with code MEMORIAL20 at NaturepedicA more plush alternative for those who enjoy a softer mattress, the Naturepedic Concerto is up there with the best luxury mattresses. Like the Birch, it combines natural latex, wool and cotton with coils to create a soft mattress that's perfect for side sleepers. In fact, our lead tester for the Naturepedic Pillow Top Concerto mattress review was surprised at how soft it felt. Like the best pillow top mattresses, the layer stitched on top contours to your body, relieving key areas where pressure points build up. A queen has an MSRP of $2,799, but the current 20% off Memorial Day deal means this price drops to $2,239.20 when you add the code MEMORIAL20. You'll also get a 100-night trial, free shipping and returns and a limited 25-year score: ★★★★½ (10+ reviews)
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The 7 Best Pillows On Amazon That Deliver On Comfort And Quality
It's just as important to have an accommodating pillow to snuggle with through the night as it is to have a suitable mattress. Sleeping on the wrong pillow can be a recipe for back or neck pain, and just a few inches of fluff can mean the difference between comfortable and painful. Amazon is a convenient and reliable retailer to turn to for good bedding, and the best pillows on Amazon come from reputable brands, offer appropriate loft and comfort, and help you maintain a neutral spinal alignment. Our top choice, the Coop Sleep Goods Eden Pillow, is stuffed with a pressure-relieving memory foam fill that's adjustable, which means you can add or remove fill according to your sleeping position. The best pillows on Amazon reign from top-rated brands and contain quality materials like down, ... More memory foam and latex. See our picks from Coop, Saatva and more. 'Mattress type and pillow choices play a crucial role in your overall comfort and quality of sleep,' says Michael Gerling, American board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon at The Gerling Institute. Aside from being plush or fluffy, your pillow should be at the right loft (pillow talk for height) to properly support your head and neck, and each sleeping position requires a different loft. See our editors' top choices below for different sleeping positions and preferences, all of which are backed by our own experience or rave customer reviews. Coop Sleep Goods Fill material: Memory foam | Loft: Customizable | Adjustable: Yes | Certifications: Greenguard Gold, CertiPUR-US Pros: Cons: Coop Sleep Goods pillows regularly appear in our roundups because they're comfortable, accommodating and reasonably priced. As a bestseller on Amazon with more than 10,000 5-star reviews, this adjustable pillow is filled with a cushy blend of shredded gel-infused memory foam and soft microfiber, which can be added or removed as needed to accommodate many types of sleepers. It comes with an extra half bag of fill if you're a side sleeper or heavier body type who wants more loft and support. With a removable cover that's made from the brand's Lulltra fabric and a blend of bamboo-derived viscose rayon and polyester, the pillow has a cool, soft surface for sleeping and plenty of breathability. The brand says using a pillowcase isn't necessary since it's machine washable, but Coop Sleep Goods does make a cooling pillowcase to up the temperature regulation if you sleep extra hot. Not satisfied with the pillow during the first 100 nights? You can return it for a full refund. It's also backed by a five-year warranty. Amazon Fill material: Down alternative | Loft: N/A | Adjustable: No | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Standard Pros: Cons: The Beckham Hotel Collection pillows channel the luxurious vibe of a five-star hotel without the triple digit price tag. They have a plush, down-like gel fill encased in a silky sateen cover with a no-shift design that aims to minimize bunching. The fill is designed to mold to your head, which can make these pillows comfortable for most sleep positions. Reviewers compliment their soft, squishy and cloud-like feel. Many also recommend giving the pillows a few hours to fully fluff up after taking them out of their packaging. At less than $30 per pillow, they're a great deal. And you can throw the entire pillow in the washer and dryer for easy cleaning. Just note that while the company claims they're cooling, a handful of reviewers say the pillows didn't make a difference when it came to temperature (but they also didn't make them overheat). Amazon Fill material: Canadian down | Loft: Soft, medium or firm | Adjustable: No | Certifications: Oeko-Tex and Downmark Pros: Cons: This pillow from Lincove is filled with Downmark-certified, 625-fill-power Canadian down, which is ultra light, temperature balancing and moisture wicking. These pillows are cruelty-free and the hypoallergenic, 100% sateen cotton shell is treated with an antimicrobial to help keep it clean and odor-free. The antimicrobial additives are Oeko-Tex certified, which shows they've been tested for (and found free of) harmful substances. The Lincove pillow has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon—with thousands of individual 5-star ratings—but Amazon notes it's frequently returned. Some customers recommend being patient before returning it, saying the pillow takes a few days to settle and soften, and it has a short off-gassing period. Lincove recommends only spot cleaning or dry cleaning the pillow in order to protect the down. The brand says you can also leave it outside on a dry day or put it in the dryer on no heat and then shake it out after to help keep it clean. Amazon Fill material: Latex and polyester fiber | Loft: Customizable | Adjustable: Yes | Certifications: Oeko-Tex Pros: Cons: Side sleepers require more lift and bolster than the other sleeping positions because a pillow has to be tall enough to fill the space between the head and mattress without falling flat or making the shoulder uncomfortable. This ergonomically designed Eli & Elm pillow aims to offer the necessary loft and support for these sleepers. 'I was skeptical at first—I figured the shape was just a marketing ploy,' says a Forbes Vetted tester who slept with the Eli & Elm for seven months. 'But I ended up really enjoying the shape, which does, in fact, conform perfectly to my head and neck with a comforting feeling, adding a gentle incline from my spine all the way up to the base of my head.' It's filled with small, noodle-shaped latex foam pieces and clumps of polyester fiber fluff that you can remove or add as you please. Side sleepers should keep theirs tall and firm, while side-combination sleepers should remove some filling to accommodate other sleeping positions. See more in our full Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow review. Amazon Fill material: Memory foam | Loft: 5 inches | Adjustable: No | Certifications: CertiPUR-US Pros: Cons: Enjoy the pressure-relieving and doughy comfort of Tempur-Pedic's signature memory foam material in a small, compact package. Unlike other pillows on our list that are made with shredded fill, the Tempur-Cloud is made from one slab of foam that's supportive, yet cushiony and soft at the same time. No fluffing needing here. And its accommodating feel helped it earn the top overall spot in our best Tempur-Pedic pillows roundup. The Cloud model is five inches thick, which makes it an ideal choice for back sleepers and some stomach and side sleepers. It has mixed reviews on Amazon from people who say it's too thin, which may be the case because of its soft profile that easily gives under your weight. As a result, side sleepers who weigh over 150 pounds should opt for a firmer, taller choice. The Tempur-Cloud is backed by a five-year warranty, even if you purchase through Amazon. Just ensure that you save your receipt as proof of purchase in case you need to file a claim. Purple Fill material: Talalay latex and elastic polymer | Loft: low, medium and tall | Adjustable: No | Certifications: CertiPUR-US, CleanAir Gold Pros: Cons: Ready to introduce your bed to something completely different? The Purple Harmony Pillow utilizes the brand's proprietary and well-received material called hyper-elastic polymer, a stretchy and gel-like material that makes up the Purple Grid. It's almost as if your head is floating, like when you're on your back in the water. 'I wasn't sure it was going to be a sensation I liked,' says one of our testers about its buoyant feel. 'However, after a few nights of sleeping on it, I realized I was no longer waking up multiple times in the middle of the night to flip or squash my pillow into shape every time I turned over.' It's also good at preventing heat retention. And thanks to its grid formation, there are a ton of air pockets that promote airflow. 'I never overheat with this pillow and it often has a cool-to-the-touch feel,' says senior mattress and sleep editor Bridget Chapman, who skeptically tried the Purple Harmony Pillow and now loves it. 'It's super cooling, supportive and comfortably contouring.' Since it's offered in multiple heights, it's able to accommodate most sleeping positions. See more in our detailed Purple Harmony Pillow review. Amazon Fill material: Polyester microfiber | Loft: 3-4 inches | Adjustable: No | Certifications: None Pros: Cons: The Casper Original Pillow takes a modern twist on a traditional down-alternative pillow with a pillow-in-pillow design that contains a supportive inner chamber with a fluffy outer chamber. It still requires some fluffing to keep its shape and structure, but it's much more supportive for the head and neck through the night. Rather than duck or goose feathers, this down-alternative choice is filled with soft and plush polyester fiber, which makes it more environmentally and wallet-friendly. Mattress and sleep editor McKenzie Dillon tested the Casper Original Pillow for several months and says, 'I suggested it to my dad who asked for a good fluffy pillow recommendation. He and my mom thought it was so comfortable that he bought another pillow for my mom to enjoy. As as stomach sleeper, its low to mid-level loft makes it ideal for promoting good spinal alignment; with that said, it might be a bit too low for some strict side sleepers.' The Forbes Vetted sleep category is spearheaded by experienced writers and editors who value the importance of a good night's sleep. We regularly test the latest and greatest in the sleep realm and stay up-to-date with industry news. Our collection of sleep and mattress stories covers everything from the best mattresses for back pain to how to feng shui your bedroom for better rest. Amazon, like with most categories, covers a lot of ground in bedding. There are endless pillows to choose from, and we put careful consideration into selecting the very best. Comfort is important, but it's only one factor to consider when buying a new pillow. Here's a look at some other features to keep in mind before making a purchase. The fill of a pillow is one of the most important features to consider. Fill can determine how well a pillow holds up over time, how much support it offers and how comfortable it is for you. The most common materials like down or memory foam come with their own advantages and drawbacks. The loft of a pillow refers to its height, which is another key feature to consider when shopping for the right pillow. The best loft heavily depends on your sleeping position. For example, stomach sleepers need pillows with low loft (four inches or less), back sleepers require an option with medium loft (four to five inches) while side sleepers sleep best on pillows with high loft (six inches or more). The key to finding the most accommodating pillow is alignment—it needs to offer the optimal amount of support for healthy sleep posture. Side sleepers should notice a 90-degree angle between their shoulder and head when lying down, while back sleepers should feel their neck bend slightly in a proper 'C' curve. 'Your pillows should support your back properly, and it's important to make sure they don't let your spine sag,' says Staci Hildebrandt, doctor of physical therapy and orthopedic specialist. For stomach sleepers, the tell-tale sign of an improper pillow is a kink in the neck. If it feels like you're sitting front row at the movie theater looking up at the big screen, your pillow is too tall. 'Opting for a flatter pillow under your head, or even going without one, can contribute to spinal alignment and reduce strain,' says Hildebrandt. Pillows should be washed at least twice a year, so the care they require is something to consider. Machine-washable pillows are the easiest to take care of since you can just throw them in the laundry, case and all. Some pillows only have a cover that can be washed, while more luxurious options may be spot clean only. Our pick for the best pillow on Amazon overall, the Coop Sleep Goods Eden Pillow, is a great fit for side sleepers since the fill is adjustable and can be customized to their liking. However, the Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow is another top choice because of its ergonomic design. Amazon shoppers are discerning when it comes to shopping for pillows, but there are a lot of pillows on Amazon with great ratings. Those include the Coop Sleep Goods Eden Pillow, Beckham Hotel Collection Cooling Gel Pillow and Amazon Basics Down Alternative Pillow—all three of which made our list. The Coop Sleep Goods Eden Pillow has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, which is one of the highest not only on this list but overall when compared to many other options. However, another highly rated fan favorite is the Beckham Hotel Collection Cooling Gel Pillows, which have a rating of 4.3 with over 240,000 reviews.
Business Insider
26-04-2025
- Health
- Business Insider
Separate firmness, same bed: My monthlong affair with the Naturepedic organic mattress that could end sleep divorces forever
Sharing a bed with someone isn't easy. They may hog the covers, snore, push you to the edges, or worse, have a different comfort preference than you, meaning neither of you are likely getting a good night's sleep. That's why I've opted for a " sleep divorce," or sleeping in a separate bed from my wife, but not everyone has that privilege. Naturepedic recognizes that the best mattresses for couples must have excellent motion isolation, terrific edge support, and comfort that suits both sleepers. The EOS Classic, an organic latex hybrid with customizable firmness,is the perfect example. Naturepedic specializes in organic, eco-friendly mattresses made in the USA and backs them with a 25-year warranty, longer than the industry standard. The EOS Classic exemplifies the company's commitment to producing eco-certified beds that keep couples comfortable. As Business Insider Reviews' sleep expert, I've tested over 100 beds for our best mattress guide, and the Naturepedic EOS Classic is the best organic mattress for couples because it offers dual-sided firmness customization, so partners with vastly different comfort preferences can still share a bed. Below are my experiences after sleeping on the Naturepedic EOS Classic for 30 nights and putting it through my objective testing. I'll cover who it's best for, who should look elsewhere, and alternatives you may want to consider instead. Construction The Naturepedic EOS Classic is made of organic materials and sports an array of eco-friendly certifications, including Greenguard Gold, Made Safe, GOTS, and Environmental Working Group. The mattress features a quilted top layer that zips off, though it's spot-clean only. It's made of organic cotton, fire-retardant wool batting, and PLA, a fiber made from non-GMO sugarcane that adds improved moisture wicking and durability. Below that is a 3-inch GOLS-certified organic latex layer, which responds to your body's contours to provide pressure-point relief. Next is an 8-inch layer of encased coils with added edge support. The base is organic cotton batting. The defining feature of the Naturepedic EOS Classic is that you can choose how firm you want each side of the bed to be: Plush, Medium, Cushion-Firm, Firm, and Extra-Firm. The firmness of the coils and latex layer will depend on your choice. The mattress is available in the six standard sizes, ranging from twin to California king. For sizes queen and larger, you can pick different firmnesses for each side of the bed. I tested a queen-sized Naturepedic with one side Plush (soft latex, plush coils) and the other Medium (medium latex, plush coils) to best suit my side sleeping. Setup Due to the customization of the Naturepedic EOS Classic, the assembly process is more involved than that of most beds. While most come in a single box the size of a mini fridge, the EOS Classic arrived in four smaller boxes, which made it a lot easier to carry up to my third-floor testing room and may enable you to up the bed without extra help. Still, the setup was a lot of work. It took me about 20 minutes, and by the time I was done, I was dripping sweat. Naturepedic has a helpful video that explains the process. First, you lay the mattress encasement across your bed frame and unzip it to make room for the internal components. Next, you add the coils, squeezing them into the encasement. Then, put the latex layers on top of those, ensuring your preferred firmness is on your side of the bed. Lastly, you zip the encasement closed and lie down for a rest. I liked that it was fully expanded out of the box and lacked the initial odor most beds have. Naturepedic offers in-home setup (i.e., white-glove delivery) for an additional charge that varies depending on location. Contact customer service for rates in your area. Comfort During the month I slept on the Naturepedic EOS Classic, I enjoyed outstanding pressure relief on both sides of the bed. I'm on the heavier side, athletically built: 6 feet tall and 225 pounds. I can sleep in any position, but I prefer sleeping on my side. That said, the medium and plush latex comfort layers seemed to be perfectly suited for side sleepers. I felt my spine stayed aligned as it cradled my body, and I didn't wake up sore while sleeping on the EOS Classic. I track my sleep every night using a Garmin watch. My all-time average sleep score is 63 out of 100. On the Naturepedic EOS Classic, my sleep was better than average at 65. On a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 is the firmest, I'd rate the Plush side a 5. It was soft but maintained good support as I didn't sink in too much. The Medium side was a 6, just slightly firmer. While the Plush side is likely only good for petite individuals and side sleepers, I think the Medium firmness will appeal to a broader range of people, including back and stomach sleepers. Heavier back and stomach sleepers might want to consider one of the firmer options. Heat dissipation I use a laser thermometer to measure how cool mattresses stay and how quickly they dissipate heat. I do this by taking temperature readings before bed, when I get up in the morning, and two minutes after getting up. The readings showed that the Naturepedic EOS Classic did not dissipate heat well. When I first got up from the mattress, it was 89.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which is exactly the average across all my mattress testing. However, the heat tended to stay put, only decreasing by about nine degrees in the next two minutes. Most mattresses I've tested drop in temperature by 12 degrees or more in those two minutes. As a hot sleeper, I frequently overheated on the Naturepedic. Consequently, I suggest hot sleepers supplement the bed with cooling products or look elsewhere. On the other hand, cold sleepers may find it comfortable. Edge support Edge support is an important feature because it makes getting into and out of bed easier and ensures you feel comfortable across the mattress's surface, even on the periphery. I assess edge support using two tests. First, I use a yardstick to measure how much the edge sinks when I sit on the side. Second, I lie on the very edge and roll until I fall. If I make it beyond a 45-degree angle to the bed, the mattress has pretty good edge support. The Naturepedic EOS Classic's edge support is great. While sitting on it, the edge sinkage was about average, but when lying on the bed, I got pretty far before I fell off. Plus, subjectively, I felt quite comfortable lying on the side. I didn't feel like I might fall. Motion isolation A bed with good motion isolation will keep you from feeling your partner toss and turn in the night, so you don't get jostled awake. I test motion isolation by placing a vibrometer on one side of the bed and dropping a 15-pound bowling ball on the other side. Through several iterations of the test, the Naturepedic mattress showed impressive motion isolation. The average in my mattress testing is 7.1 on the MMI scale, with larger numbers meaning stronger vibrations. The EOS Classic Organic registered 6.4, significantly lower than most beds. Also, while lying on the bed, I had my wife join me and move around a bit to simulate tossing and turning. I could just barely feel her while she did this. Though I'm a light sleeper, it's doubtful the slight jostling would wake me. The impressive combination of edge support and motion isolation makes the Naturepedic EOS Classic an outstanding choice for couples. Trial period and warranty Naturepedic offers a 100-night sleep trial with the EOS Classic. If you decide it isn't right for you after 30 nights, you can return it for a full refund. During the trial period, Naturepedic lets you swap out the latex comfort layer for a different firmness for free. If you return your mattress, Naturepedic will donate it to charity or recycle it. Naturepedic backs the EOS Classic Organic with a 25-year warranty. However, there are some catches. You need to use a supportive foundation with the mattress. If it's a slatted base, for example, the slats or supports must not be more than 3 inches apart. Also, the warranty is void if the law label is missing or damage is caused by jumping on the bed. Flaws in workmanship or defects, including the mattress indenting more than 1.5 inches, will be fixed or replaced at Naturepedic's discretion during the first 10 years of the warranty. After that, component repair or replacement will be prorated. Shipping costs for the bed and any replacement are not covered by the warranty. Cons to consider The biggest negative of the Naturepedic EOS Classic is its heat retention. I don't like waking up sweaty and wet at night, but that happened on the EOS Classic. Hot sleepers might want to consider alternatives, though cold sleepers may welcome the cozy warmth. The setup process was a pain in the butt. It took about four times as long as other mattresses. In a perfect world, Naturepedic would send you the EOS Classic Organic already assembled with your preferred comfort layers installed the way you want them. Of course, there are a few benefits to how they do it now, and if assembling the bed yourself is too off-putting, you can always spring for white-glove delivery. Lastly, at $3,499 for a queen, the Naturepedic EOS Classic is one of the most expensive organic mattresses I've tested. However, when you think about the 25-year warranty, it kind of puts the purchase in perspective. The is a bed made of high-quality organic materials that are meant to last. And, if your comfort preferences change over time, you can adjust the firmness by buying new coils or a new latex comfort layer. What are your alternatives? If latex sounds unappealing or you have allergies, you might consider the latex-free EOS Classic. It features the same customization and price, but instead of latex, it has a 3-inch micro coil layer. The EOS Classic is also available as a PETA-approved vegan option, where the wool is replaced with organic cotton. Again, the customization options and price are the same. While we haven't tested them yet, Naturepedic offers two pricier styles in the EOS line with the same array of firmness options. Instead of coils or other metals, the EOS Trilux has three layers of 3-inch latex, all interchangeable. This option is ideal for people who can't get enough of the responsive latex feel. The EOS Pillow Top is a good middle ground between the Classic and Trilux. It has two latex layers and keeps the coils, combining the benefits of each. I've only tested one mattress like the EOS Classic, the Bedgear M3 Performance Mattress. It costs $1,000 less than the Naturepedic and has four firmness options on each side, with a much softer Plush than the EOS Classic. I slept really well on the Bedgear M3 Performance, but it isn't made of organic materials, runs a little hot, has poor edge support, and has a short trial period (just 30 nights). It's a memory foam hybrid, and the coils influence the various firmness. Read my full Bedgear M3 Performance Mattress review. If you want to keep it organic and are a hot sleeper, I recommend the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress, the cooling pick in our best organic mattresses guide. It's $1,350 cheaper than the EOS Classic and offers a dual-firmness, but it's only available in Medium and Medium-Firm options and has poor edge support. Still, I loved the pressure point relief, and it's backed by a lifetime warranty. best mattresses. The bottom line Despite sleeping warm, the Naturepedic EOS Classic Organic Mattress is an outstanding option for couples, thanks to its impressive motion isolation and edge support. The dual-sided firmness customization is ideally suited for sleeping partners with different comfort preferences. Its lengthy warranty, eco-credentials, and ability to update the firmness over time make it a smart, long-term, eco-conscious solution.
