good housekeeping best bedding awards 2021

It's no secret that good bedding is key to getting a good night's sleep, but it's not easy to know which pieces are worth buying with seemingly endless options on the market. The Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab and home editors reviewed hundreds of mattresses, sheets, pillows and more using specialized lab equipment and feedback from over 100 sleep testers. All in all, we reviewed 9,847 data points to pick these 48 winners.

MEET THE EXPERTS

lexie sachs
Lexie Sachs

Textiles Director

emma seymour
Emma Seymour

Textiles Lab Product Analyst

monique valeris
Monique Valeris

Senior Home Editor

Monique Valeris


Brilliant Bases

Versatile Relaxing Bed
Zinus Avery Platform Bed with Reclining Headboard
$305 for Queen Zinus Avery Platform Bed with Reclining Headboard
Shop at zinus.com
Credit: Zinus

The reclining headboard on Zinus’s platform frame makes lounging in bed much more enjoyable. Cushions tilt to your preferred angle whether you’re reading or watching TV.
LAB RESULTS:
It was quick to assemble and described by a tester as “cool, useful and easy to use.”

Indulgent Adjustable Frame
Ergomotion Quest 2.5 Adjustable Base
$1,249 for Queen Ergomotion Quest 2.5 Adjustable Base
Credit: Ergomotion

Jam-packed with impressive features, the Ergomotion base has head and foot raisers, massage motors, under-bed lighting and much more. It’s also less costly than similar models we’ve seen.
LAB RESULTS:
Testers praised its comfort, and one said, “I love that I can sit up in bed without sliding.”

Magnificent Mattresses

Best Innerspring
Saatva Classic Mattress
$1,499 for Queen Saatva Classic Mattress
Credit: Saatva

Saatva creates a lavish feel with coils, foam and a pillow-top, then adds the ease of a direct-to-consumer online shopping experience. With two heights and three firmness levels to choose from, it’s easy to find your perfect fit.
LAB RESULTS: 
Testers gave it high scores across the board and raved about its comfort and edge support. Some even said it led to “the best sleep I’ve ever had.” We also love the free setup and 180-night trial period.

Best Budget Buy
Allswell Luxe Hybrid
$645 for Queen Allswell Luxe Hybrid
Credit: Allswell

For an affordable mattress that feels expensive, Allswell outperformed others that were over double its cost. It layers memory foam for pressure relief over coils for support, and ships in a box for convenient DIY setup.
LAB RESULTS:
From ease of ordering to sleep quality, it earned top marks from our panel. According to a consumer tester, it felt “like sleeping on a real, plush hotel mattress, but at a fraction of the price.”

Best for Cooling Benefits
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-LuxeBreeze
$4,999 for Queen Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-LuxeBreeze
Credit: Tempur-Pedic

Perfect for hot sleepers, Tempur-Pedic’s layers have technology that absorbs heat to keep you feeling cooler all night. The foam has motion isolation so you won’t feel your partner move.
LAB RESULTS:
Our pros were impressed by its cooling capabilities, and testers confirmed that it actually delivered. One said, “I’ve had it for years and it still feels brand new.”

Choose your own firmness level with the adjustable air chambers on each side of Sleep Number’s smart bed. It has foam on top, built-in sleep trackers and sensors to adjust the firmness as you move.
LAB RESULTS: One tester swore he felt 30 years younger after sleeping on this bed: “No stiffness, no pain!” And despite its being high-tech, we found it surprisingly easy to use.

Best Foam Design
Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
$2,095 for Queen Casper Nova Hybrid Mattress
Credit: Casper

To help keep your spine aligned, Casper uses a contoured foam that gives relief around the shoulders with added support for the lower back. Firm springs sit at the base, while a soft layer on top creates a plush feel.
LAB RESULTS:
Our pros admired its thoughtful design, while testers loved the conforming feel. “As soon as I lie down on it, it feels like it’s supporting my whole body,” reported one.

Best Sustainable Design
Naturepedic EOS Pillowtop Organic Mattress
$3,999 for Queen Naturepedic EOS Pillowtop Organic Mattress
Credit: Naturepedic

This organic mattress from Naturepedic uses swappable layers of coil and latex. There are five firmness levels to choose from, and each side can be customized to suit individual preferences.
LAB RESULTS:
Testers liked its customization, with one noting, “Because each side is separate, movement on one side doesn’t transfer to the other.” Our experts also appreciated its natural cotton and wool layers.

Best for Back Pain
Nolah Evolution 15
$2,299 for Queen Nolah Evolution 15
Credit: Nolah

Nolah uses layers of coils, foam and a quilted top in its tall mattress that offers superior pressure relief for side sleepers or those with back pain. There are three firmness levels to match your personal preference.
LAB RESULTS: One tester told us, "I used to wake up with sciatic pain every morning, and it went away within the first week of using this mattress." Users also noted it's on the softer side yet offers great support.

Best Latex Design
Avocado Latex Mattress
$1,799 for Queen Avocado Latex Mattress
Credit: Avocado

Using only latex (no innersprings or foam!), Avocado's mattress offers the same pressure relief and motion isolation you get from memory foam, but with natural and certified organic materials.
LAB RESULTS:
 Our testers gave perfect scores for comfort and noted that "it contours to your body just the right amount." Lab experts were impressed by Avocado's initiatives to offset its carbon emissions.

Best Value Organic Design
Birch Natural Mattress
$1,499 for Queen Birch Natural Mattress
Credit: Birch

Certified organic mattresses can be expensive, but Birch's is more reasonably-priced without skimping on quality. It's made up of coils, latex and wool with a cotton cover, and offers good relief around pressure points.
LAB RESULTS: Our fiber scientists liked that it's GOTS-certified, while testers noticed an obvious improvement in back pain and sleep quality. "I feel fantastic!" raved one.


Top Mattress Toppers

Luxurious Plush Wool
PlushBeds Natural Wool Topper
$491 for Queen PlushBeds Natural Wool Topper
Credit: PlushBeds

Add soft pillow-top comfort with this premium layer from PlushBeds. Its wool is sustainably sourced and naturally temperature-regulating.
LAB RESULTS:
Analysts were wowed by the materials, and testers swore that it eased back pain. “It was like a body hug,” said one.

Enhanced Foam Support
Amerisleep Lift Mattress Topper
$299 for Queen Amerisleep Lift Mattress Topper
Credit: Amerisleep

For an instant upgrade to your bed, Amerisleep’s three-inch foam comes in two firmness levels and has grips to prevent shifting.
LAB RESULTS:
It’s “super comfortable and soft,” according to testers, who said it made their beds feel more supportive yet cushioned.

Deluxe Dual-Layer
Viscosoft Serene Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress Topper
$170 for Queen Viscosoft Serene Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress Topper
Credit: Viscosoft

This Viscosoft hybrid has foam for support on the bottom with a soft down alternative on top. An outer cover secures it to the bed.
LAB RESULTS:
One tester referred to it as a “game changer,” making for less tossing and turning, and no more morning aches or pains.

Premium Pillows

Soft & Lofty Down Clusters
Riley Home Down Pillow
From $129 Riley Home Down Pillow
Credit: Riley

If you prefer real down, this Riley Home pillow is luxuriously fluffy, with a smooth cover. The down is responsibly sourced and comes in two densities: firm for side sleepers and plush for back and stomach sleepers.
LAB RESULTS:
It washed well in tests, without shrinkage, and our panel was wowed by how it maintained its shape during use. One tester raved, “This pillow was more comfortable than the pillows I’ve been using, by far!”

Cooling Down Alternative
Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow
From $69 Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow
Credit: Danielle Daly

Slumber Cloud’s cover contains Outlast technology, which stores and releases heat for thermal regulation. The polyester fiberfill mimics down while lowering the cost.
LAB RESULTS:
Testers agreed it kept them at a comfy temperature, with one saying, “It definitely has more of a cooling effect than other cooling pillows I’ve tried.” Plus, it aced Lab tests without sagging.

Adaptable Solid Foam
Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow
From $75 Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow
Credit: TUFT & NEEDLE

The Goldilocks of pillows, Tuft & Needle’s just-right material is not too soft or too firm. It is squishy but supportive and has graphite and gel to keep the foam from overheating.
LAB RESULTS: Our entire panel agreed that it felt like a pillow upgrade, with one highlighting the “comfort in multiple sleep positions.” It also kept its shape in both Lab and consumer tests.

Crowd-Pleasing Hybrid Fill
Layla Kapok Pillow
From $99 Layla Kapok Pillow
Credit: Layla

No need to choose one stuffing: Layla blends firm foam pieces and soft kapok fibers to create the best of both worlds. The result is a balance of moldable support with an ultra-plush feel.
LAB RESULTS:
This tester favorite earned perfect scores for comfort, support and overall satisfaction. One reviewer especially loved how it “eliminated the need to use two pillows.” It’s not washable, but it excelled in Lab shape-retention tests.

Innovative Latex Cushioning
Purple Harmony Pillow
$159 Purple Harmony Pillow
Credit: Purple

This unique model from Purple uses an elastic grid around a latex core, so it cradles and conforms to your head. The breathable interior and a moisture-wicking cover create a strong cooling effect.
LAB RESULTS:
It immediately bounced back in our weight tests, while users gave it top marks for support. One said it contoured to their head and neck even when they moved.


Standout Sheets

Sateen Superstar
Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set
$175 for Queen Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set
Credit: Brooklinen

A popular set that lives up to its hype, Brooklinen’s top-of-the-line cotton fabric is both smooth and durable. The brand offers free shipping both ways and a yearlong return window so you can be sure you love it.
LAB RESULTS:
The material was called “soft” and “smooth” by our panel, and it scored higher than pricier styles in durability evaluations. Our pros use these at home, and they’ve held up for years.

Value Microfiber
Mellanni 1800 Microfiber Sheet Set
From $33 for Queen Mellanni 1800 Microfiber Sheet Set
Now 26% Off
Credit: Mellanni

The Mellanni polyester set is a total steal: It feels incredibly sleek and is generously sized to securely fit taller mattresses. It’s also an Amazon best seller, with over 200,000 rave reviews from users.
LAB RESULTS:
The synthetic fabric looked and felt smoother than most cotton sheets, and testers called it “buttery soft.” It hardly shrank or pilled when we put it through the wringer in our evaluations.

Organic Percale
Coyuchi Organic Crinkled Percale Sheets
$198 for Queen Coyuchi Organic Crinkled Percale Sheets
Credit: coyuchi

For a relaxed look and breathable feel, Coyuchi uses a special process to achieve a crinkled effect. As a bonus, it is made of GOTS-certified organic cotton and follows strict environmental standards.
LAB RESULTS: At-home users were blown away, with one describing it as “soft, luxurious, and yet crisp and cool.” The fabric was shrink-resistant in Lab laundering tests, so you can expect it to last.

Stay-Dry Wicking
Slumber Cloud Performance Sheet Set
$229 for Queen Slumber Cloud Performance Sheet Set
Credit: Slumber Cloud

Say goodbye to night sweats: Slumber Cloud blends temperature-regulating Outlast viscose with moisture- managing lyocell for an ultra-refreshing material that’s perfect for hot sleepers.
LAB RESULTS:
The smooth fabric didn’t pill in our tests, even after our abrasion machine rubbed it 1,000 times. A tester noted that it felt “cool to the touch and silky” during use.

Upscale Linen
Cultiver Linen Sheet Set
$385 for Queen Cultiver Linen Sheet Set
Credit: Cultiver

The unique airy texture of linen can sometimes feel rough, but this luxe material from Cultiver is prewashed for added softness. You can even order a free swatch to feel before you purchase online.
LAB RESULTS: It outperformed other linen fabrics we’ve evaluated, especially when it came to touch ratings from our testers. One user praised it for being “the perfect balance between crisp and soft.”

Clever Time-Saver
One Bed Luxe & Lazy Sheet Set
$169 for Queen One Bed Luxe & Lazy Sheet Set
Credit: One Bed

One Bed’s genius design will end bed-making struggles. The fitted sheet has labels on long and short sides and elastic straps to keep it in place, and a split corner makes tucking in the flat sheet a breeze.
LAB RESULTS:
Our panel loved the concept, with one saying, “Making my bed in the morning was a snap.” They also gave the cotton sateen high softness scores, and it resisted showing signs of wear in Lab pilling tests.

Soft & Crisp Blend
Sweave Tencel & Cotton Sheet Set
$99 for Queen 3-Piece Sweave Tencel & Cotton Sheet Set
Credit: Sweave

Sweave combines the popular feel of cotton with lyocell, a man-made fiber produced from tree pulp that feels incredibly smooth. The result is a super comfortable fabric that's also lightweight and breathable.
LAB RESULTS: The fabric was strong and pill-resistant in tests, while testers gave it high softness scores. One highlighted that a "thick band on the fitted sheet helps it stay on the mattress."

Sturdy Basic
Standard Textile Home Percale Sheet Set
$129 for Queen Standard Textile Home Percale Sheet Set
Credit: Standard Textile

Percale sheets are known for being breathable and crisp, but the fabric can often feel scratchy. Standard Textile Home uses a long-staple cotton to keep it soft without needing fancy weaves or finishes.
LAB RESULTS: The material held up to our strenuous durability tests, while at-home users said it kept them at a comfortable body temperature all night. One also noted it "softened up more after washing."

Responsibly-Made Hemp
Delilah Home Hemp Bed Sheets
$350 for Queen Delilah Home Hemp Bed Sheets
Credit: Delilah Home

Hemp sheets look similar to linen and are considered sustainable because the plant grows quickly without needing a lot of water. This certified organic set from Delilah Home is soft, thick and naturally temperature-regulating.
LAB RESULTS: Testers equally praised its appearance and feel, with one appreciating that "it could be used year round." It also washed well in the Lab with hardly any shrinkage.

Pampering Silk Cases

Indulgent Pillow Cover
GH Seal
Fishers Finery 25mm Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
From $47 Fishers Finery 25mm Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
Credit: Fishers Finery

The Fishers Finery fabric feels smooth and cool against skin, prevents bedhead and wrinkles, and is half the price of other silk cases.
LAB RESULTS:
Its silk proved strong and moisture-wicking in the Lab, while sleep testers praised its feel. One noted, “No creases in my skin.”

Ultimate Self-Care Set
Blissy Dream Set
From $120 Blissy Dream Set
Credit: Blissy

Achieve your best beauty sleep with Blissy’s silk pillowcase, sleep mask and scrunchies in two sizes. It’s the perfect gift box for a loved one or to get for yourself.
LAB RESULTS: The fabric impressed our pros with how well it washed, and users were instant fans, calling it “super smooth” and “substantial.”

Most Comfortable Covers

Deluxe Down Comforter
GH Seal
The Company Store Alberta Down Comforter
From $379 for Queen The Company Store Alberta Down Comforter
Credit: The Company Store

Nothing compares to the soft coziness of The Company Store’s responsibly-sourced down. With three warmth levels and five colors to choose from, you can use it by itself or inside a duvet cover.
LAB RESULTS:
The fill didn’t shift, poke out or lose its shape during use, and the cotton cover felt smooth and comfy. One tester told us, “I never want to take it off my bed!”

Fan Favorite Fluffy Fill
The Buffy Cloud
$159 for Queen The Buffy Cloud
Credit: Buffy

Unlike comforters with clusters on the inside, Buffy uses a 3D web of down-alternative fibers that stay evenly spread out without clumping. Its smooth lyocell cover doesn’t make a crinkly noise when you move.
LAB RESULTS: Analysts and editors have used this for years, describing it as making the bed “a hotel-like experience” and feeling “like you’re sleeping on a cloud.” Our pros also appreciate its 30-day trial.

Ultra-Warm Down Alternative
Riley Home Extra Warm Down Alternative Comforter
$299 for Queen Riley Home Extra Warm Down Alternative Comforter
Credit: Riley Home

Synthetic down typically isn’t as warm as the real thing, but this Riley Home option keeps you toasty while feeling lightweight. The microfiber fill helps trap heat, while the cotton cover is soft and crisp.
LAB RESULTS:
All testers commented on how well-made it looked and how warm it felt to lie under. One highlight: “It was completely quiet, and the fill did not shift.”

Natural Alpaca Insert
Alpaca Duvet Insert
$379 for Queen Alpaca Duvet Insert
Credit: Avocado

Avocado uses sustainable, temperature-regulating alpaca fibers inside soft cotton fabric, resulting in a luxurious and certified organic duvet. The unique fill, available in lightweight or all-season, stays in place evenly.
LAB RESULTS:
Our team applauded the top-quality construction, and it was a favorite among testers. One said it felt “soft, substantial and comfortable to sleep under.”

Creative Couple Saver
Ervét Split Duvet Bundle
$199 for Queen Ervét Split Duvet Bundle
Credit: Ervét Bedding

Whether you prefer different temps or struggle with cover hogging, this Ervét split duvet is an easy way to keep the peace between sleeping partners. Each side gets its own warmth level, and it includes covers that attach via magnets.
LAB RESULTS:
Testers slept well, with one happily telling us, “We both got what we wanted.” Beyond the design, the materials felt comfy.

Superb Quality Construction
Vero Linens Light Warmth Baffle-Box Down Comforter
$405 for Queen Vero Linens Light Warmth Baffle-Box Down Comforter
Credit: Vero Linens

With a genuine down fill and a unique baffle box system to keep it evenly in place, Vero Linen's comforter is built to last. As a bonus, it's machine-wash safe.
LAB RESULTS: 
Our experts were impressed with its overall construction, while our panel gave it top marks across the board. One user called it "soft, fluffy and cloud-like" and said this "light" version felt surprisingly warm.

Best Blankets

Exquisite Lightweight Quilt
Brooklinen Lightweight Quilt
$249 for Queen Brooklinen Lightweight Quilt
Credit: brooklinen

Intricate details on the Brooklinen cotton quilt look elevated, but it’s functional for year-round use, either as a top layer or on its own.
LAB RESULTS: Users loved both its appearance and its comfort. One noted, “Even though it’s lightweight, it still managed to be warm.”

Cost-Effective Chic Coverlet
Mellanni Bedspread Coverlet Set
$45 for Queen Mellanni Bedspread Coverlet Set
Credit: Mellanni

A quick, affordable bed makeover, Mellanni's three-piece set is sized generously and light for easy layering, and it comes in 15 colors.
LAB RESULTS: The stitching was secure, its polyester fabric got softer over time and an analyst confirmed, “It looks more expensive than it is.”

Stylish Cozy Throw
ChappyWrap Harborview Herringbone Blanket
$135 ChappyWrap Harborview Herringbone Blanket
Credit: ChappyWrap

For your bed, the sofa or on the go, the ChappyWrap blanket is both handy and comfortable, and it comes in lots of gorgeous prints.
LAB RESULTS: The cotton-blend fabric stayed soft and pill-free after washing. Users loved its versatility, calling it “perfect for snuggling up.”

Top Weighted Blankets

Sleep-Inducing Hug
Gravity x Modernist Cotton Weighted Blanket
From $205 Gravity x Modernist Cotton Weighted Blanket
Credit: Gravity

Pressure from this Gravity blanket releases serotonin to help you relax. It is filled with dense glass beads and has a removable cotton cover.
LAB RESULTS: Testers said the fabric felt soft and comfy to lie under, and that the fill was well distributed to provide even pressure.

Trendy Calming Solution
Bearaby Cotton Napper
From $249 Bearaby Cotton Napper
Credit: Bearaby

Most weighted blankets look and feel the same, but Bearaby’s unique style is a chunky knit that gets its weight from organic cotton fabric.
LAB RESULTS: Users “loved the appearance and style” and the fact that there was no fill to shift around. Because it’s an open knit, you’ll feel more pressure if you layer it.

Easy-Care Velvet
Dream Theory Luxury Velvet Machine Washable Weighted Blanket
$100 Dream Theory Luxury Velvet Machine Washable Weighted Blanket
Credit: Dream Theory

Dream Theory uses a cozy velvet fabric that's filled with glass beads for weight. It's entirely machine washable and dryer safe so it doesn't need a separate cover.
LAB RESULTS: Testers loved its softness, warmth and appearance on the bed, and said "the fill was evenly distributed and did not shift around."


Exceptional Accessories

Crisp & Comfy Linen Sleepwear
Serena & Lily Positano Linen Pajamas
$148 Serena & Lily Positano Linen Pajamas
Credit: Serena & Lily

Breathable and roomy with a relaxed look and feel, Serena & Lily’s long-sleeved PJ’s set uses linen fibers with natural temperature regulation for year-round wear. It gets softer with each wash.
LAB RESULTS
: It laundered well, and testers loved the wide, long pant legs. They were surprised by how much they enjoyed wearing it, calling it “comfortable and flattering.”

Soothing Sleep Mask
Nodpod Weighted Blanket for Your Eyes
$34 Nodpod Weighted Blanket for Your Eyes
Credit: Amazon

This weighted eye cover from Nodpod offers comforting pressure while blocking light to help you fall asleep and stay that way. It’s two-sided, so you can choose between smooth cotton and plush microfleece.
LAB RESULTS:
“It really works!” raved a user. Weighted masks that secure behind the head tend to shift, but this one is a long strip that provides great coverage for side sleepers.

Convenient Duvet Cover
Kotn Duvet Cover Set
$170 for Queen Kotn Duvet Cover Set
Credit: KOTN

A solid basic with great attention to detail, the Kotn cotton cover includes ties to attach the duvet insert and pearlized closure buttons for a luxury finish. Each set also includes two matching shams.
LAB RESULTS: It fared well in strenuous strength tests, and analysts were impressed by its tightly woven material. Testers loved its “soft, crisp fabric” and the way it looked on the bed.

Spillproof Protector
Home Decorators Collection Extreme Cool Protector
$70 for Queen Home Decorators Collection Extreme Cool Protector
Credit: Home Decorators Collection

Keep your mattress safe from spills with this waterproof Home Decorators Collection layer. It even feels cool to the touch on top and has fitted edges around the sides so it will stay secure on your bed.
LAB RESULTS: A tester swore it saved her mattress from a child’s accident and said it was “easy to stretch over the bed.” It also stood up to repeated washing in our Lab tests.

Posture-Perfect Leg Pillow
Noble Lower Body Pillow
From $269 Noble Lower Body Pillow
Credit: Noble

To alleviate back and lower-body pain, the Noble triangular pillow goes between your legs (for side sleepers) or under them (for back sleepers) to keep you aligned. Choose a latex or wool filling or a mix of both.
LAB RESULTS:
Our panel said it eased discomfort and was useful in various positions. One also loved that “it didn’t take up too much room on the bed.”

Beautiful Bed Wrap
Standard Textile Home Circa Bed Wrap
$139 for Queen Standard Textile Home Circa Bed Wrap
Credit: Standard Textile Home

A modern upgrade from messy bed skirts, Standard Textile Home’s wrap features a smooth look around the base. It's also easier to install, since you don’t need to lift the mattress, and comes in several neutral colors.
LAB RESULTS:
Testers loved the way it fit their frames, saying it looked “super clean and sleek,” especially compared with traditional skirts. With two people, it was a breeze to set up.


preview for Testing The Best Bedding of 2021
Headshot of Lexie Sachs
Lexie Sachs
Executive Director, Strategy & Operations

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.