Developed in the 1960s, memory foam mattresses definitely aren’t a new invention, but many still consider them a top mattress type today. With pressure point relief in the lower back and an added comfort level, memory foam mattresses use viscoelastic material to provide better support and help relieve common aches like back pain. Many of these beds help align your spine throughout the night and keep your joints in the right position.

Latex mattresses can be the right choice for sleepers and the environment. Known for their great motion isolation and natural resistance to dust mites and allergens, a latex mattress uses latex foam (and sometimes polyurethane foam) to provide better temperature regulation and durability. Check out our partner brand, Birch Living, to learn more about organic latex mattresses.

While not technically a distinct type of mattress, pillow tops on mattresses are popular enough among consumers to warrant listing on this round up. Pillow-top mattresses refer to mattresses that have a soft top layer sewn onto the top of the actual mattress. They can be added to any type, including foam, hybrid and spring mattresses. Pillow-tops can vary quite a bit, so do your research on all actual mattress types before just blindly buying any mattress with a pillow top.

With a better support system for your lower back and hips, a hybrid mattress can provide better contouring and reduce motion transfer throughout the night. This can be an ideal choice for couples—unlike some mattress types, moving around or adjusting your position throughout the night is unlikely to disturb your partner. It’s decidedly the most versatile and complete mattress type on the market.

Although they may not be as popular as they once were, plenty of people still choose to sleep on a waterbed. Modern-day waterbeds are designed to prevent sagging over time and support your body weight. One of their biggest advantages is durability. While some mattresses may only last seven to ten years, waterbeds often have lifespans of twenty years.

Having been around for centuries, the traditional innerspring mattress (or coil mattress) now uses steel coils to provide a more restful sleep. Depending on the number of coils and the coil gauge, these mattresses can range from medium-firm to extra-firm.

Gel memory foam mattresses, which may feel similar to a memory foam bed, have an open-celled structure that expels your body heat rather than retaining it. As a result, these mattresses tend to feel more breathable while still providing all the support you would find in a memory foam bed.

Futons might be a popular choice for college dorm rooms or studio apartments, but these adjustable beds don’t need to be limited to the college years. Typically with a wooden or metal frame, futons can fold up when you aren’t using them and double as a couch. They are not recommended for every night sleeping, but aren’t a bad choice if you have guests staying over.