WIRED Tests Cooling Mattresses to Tackle Night Sweats and Sleep Disruption

WIRED has published an updated guide identifying the best cooling mattresses for hot sleepers, drawing on extensive testing by its reviews team. The publication’s latest assessment, titled "The 10 Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers (2026)", evaluates models from brands including Bedgear, Wolf, Awara, Leesa, Brooklyn Bedding, Purple, Bear, and Nolah. The guide details specific cooling technologies employed by each manufacturer, ranging from gel-infused foams and phase-change materials to breathable coil systems and moisture-wicking covers.

The testing methodology employed by WIRED involves staff sleeping on each mattress for a minimum of one week, with many models assessed over a fortnight or longer. Tests were conducted across different seasons and with various bedding types to evaluate temperature regulation, edge support, and motion transfer. Crucially, the guide notes that mattresses were tested by WIRED staff who identify as "hot sleepers" to accurately gauge heat retention and cooling efficacy. The publication also reviewed climate-control devices, such as the BedJet 3, and several budget-friendly options from Wayfair.

Scientific context underpinning the guide cites a study from the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, which indicates that heat exposure increases wakefulness and reduces time spent in deep sleep and REM sleep. This biological factor drives the demand for mattresses designed to optimise airflow and draw heat away from the body. The guide highlights that heat retention is a common issue with dense all-foam mattresses, prompting manufacturers to integrate materials like wool, rayon, copper-infused foam, and GelFlex layers to mitigate this effect.

Recent updates to the guide, implemented in November 2025, saw the addition of the Bear Elite Hybrid and Nolah Evolution Hybrid to the top picks list, alongside the removal of certain models from honourable mentions. The Bear Elite Hybrid features breathable, copper-infused memory foam and pocketed coils, with an optional Celliant cover designed to absorb heat and moisture. The Nolah Evolution Hybrid utilises AirFoam, a proprietary breathable memory foam, combined with gel-infused foam and pocketed coils to maintain a neutral sleeping temperature.

Pricing for the featured mattresses varies significantly, reflecting differences in materials and construction. The Bedgear H Performance Mattress ranges from $1,799 for a twin to $2,899 for a split head California king, while the more affordable Bedgear S Performance starts at $750 for a twin. The Wolf 12-Inch Memory Foam Hybrid Essential is positioned as a value option, ranging from $749 for a twin to $1,099 for a king. Budget selections from Wayfair, such as the 12-Inch Medium Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, are priced at $500, offering green tea-infused gel memory foam and breathable designs for cost-conscious consumers.

WIRED emphasises that its reviews are unbiased, with some mattresses provided as samples and others purchased by the publication. The guide serves as part of a broader suite of sleep product reviews, which also covers organic mattresses, bed sheets, and sleep trackers. The publication retains top picks for long-term durability testing in the homes of staff and family members, while other models are donated locally. The updated guide aims to help consumers navigate a crowded market of cooling technologies to find a solution that prevents night sweats and supports restorative sleep.