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When it comes to selecting a new mattress, it is crucial to compare different brands and models. Each mattress is composed of distinct layers and materials that give it a unique feel. Your comfort level on a mattress depends on factors such as your body type, preferred sleep position, and desired firmness and thickness. In this comparative guide, we will closely examine Leesa and Nectar, two leading brands that offer mattresses in a convenient box.
Nectar Sleep’s flagship model, the Nectar Mattress, is designed with two comfort layers of memory foam and a transitional layer of memory foam. These components create a traditional memory foam sensation. The mattress conforms closely to the body, providing relief from pressure points. The support core is made of high-density polyfoam. In terms of firmness, the Nectar Mattress is considered medium firm, scoring a 6 on the 1-10 firmness scale. The brand has also introduced two other all-foam models, namely the Nectar Premier and Nectar Premier Copper, both of which offer a similar medium firm feel.
Leesa’s flagship model, the Leesa Original, features a comfort layer of polyfoam and a transitional layer of memory foam. With the polyfoam on top, the Leesa Original offers greater responsiveness compared to the Nectar Mattress and does not contour as closely to the body. The firmness level of the Leesa Original is considered medium, scoring a 5. Leesa’s latest addition, the Studio by Leesa, is another all-foam model. However, this mattress has a memory foam comfort layer over a layer of polyfoam, providing a closer body contour and minimizing surface-level bounce. Additionally, Leesa offers two hybrid mattresses. The Leesa Sapira Hybrid includes comfort layers of polyfoam and memory foam, along with a transitional foam and a support core of pocketed coils. The Leesa Legend features comfort layers of memory foam and polyfoam, a transitional layer of pocketed minicoils, and a support core of pocketed coils. Both the Leesa Sapira Hybrid and Leesa Legend are classified as medium firm.
When comparing Nectar Sleep and Leesa, you will discover similarities and differences between these two brands. We will delve into each Nectar and Leesa mattress to help you determine which model suits you best.
We have put in extensive effort to present you with the mattresses that are the perfect fit for you. Make sure to explore our comprehensive mattress guides listed below!
Price Range (Queen):
Firmness Options: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6)
Standout Features:
– Memory foam cushions and cradles the body to alleviate pressure points
– Excellent motion isolation for couples
– Responsive yet cushioning mixed-foam designs
– Ideal conformity and support for sleepers weighing up to 230 lbs.
Models
Trial Period and Warranty
- 365 nights
- Lifetime, Limited
- 100 nights (with a requirement of 30 nights)
- 10 Year, Limited
Customer Support
Exclusive Offer from the Sleep Foundation]:
33% off all products
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$700 discount on select mattresses, plus a complimentary mattress protector
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Before you choose a mattress, it’s important to consider the ideal size based on your bedroom dimensions, box spring or foundation, and whether or not you share your bed with a partner. There are six standard sizes available for mattresses sold today. These include twin, twin XL, and full for single sleepers, and queen, king, and California king for couples or more. Some models may offer additional sizes, such as split models for adjustable bed bases.
Another important factor to consider is the height of the mattress. Some individuals find that a low-profile mattress (less than 10 inches) provides the most comfortable sleeping experience, while others prefer the extra padding of a high-profile mattress (more than 12 inches).
Lastly, when ordering a mattress from a boxed mattress brand, it’s crucial to take weight into account. These companies deliver the mattress directly to your door, so you will need to carry the shipping box inside and set up the mattress yourself. If the box is excessively heavy, you may require assistance to lift and carry the mattress.
The weight, height, and available sizes for all Nectar and Leesa mattresses are listed below.
As you can see, Nectar and Leesa offer similar options in terms of size, weight, and thickness. Both brands provide their mattresses in all six sizes, except for the Leesa Legend which is not available in twin size. Split models or other additional sizes are not offered by either brand.
Typically, the all-foam models from Nectar and Leesa are lighter and easier to lift compared to the Leesa hybrids.
The material composition and overall design of a mattress can greatly affect its performance. A bed with layers that absorb and trap body heat will sleep warmer than a model constructed with breathable layers. A mattress designed with durable materials will likely last longer than a competing bed with quick-wearing materials. Construction also impacts factors such as pressure relief, motion isolation, and other performance categories, as well as the feel, firmness, and price of the mattress.
Most mattresses are composed of the same core components, including a comfort layer for cushioning and conforming to the body, a transitional layer to prevent excessive sinkage, a support core for reinforcing the comfort layers and providing stability to the bed, and a cover to encase the entire mattress. Below, we will discuss the designs and materials used in all Nectar and Leesa mattresses.
The flagship Nectar Mattress features a 2-inch comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam. This layer provides moderate and evenly distributed contouring to support the body without excessive sinking.
Although the mattress has a medium firm feel, it offers a deep, pressure-relieving cradle as the foam gradually adapts to your body shape. This sensation is typical for memory foam beds and is best described as sleeping “in” rather than “on” the mattress. The top layer is infused with cooling gel to promote a cool sleeping environment, although some testers found that the Nectar Mattress still sleeps somewhat warm.
The Nectar Mattress also includes a 3-inch transitional polyfoam layer, followed by a 7-inch thick high-density foam support core. These materials are durable and provide good overall stability for the mattress, especially around the edges where sinkage may occur when getting in and out of bed. The Nectar Mattress offers above-average perimeter support compared to other all-foam models.
With a thickness of 12 inches, the Nectar Mattress falls between medium- and high-profile models. Nectar Sleep’s other beds, the Premier and Premier Copper, have thicknesses of 13 and 14 inches, respectively. Similarly to the Nectar Mattress, each of these models provides a medium firm feel.
Both the Premier and Premier Copper feature memory foam comfort layers infused with gel and phase-change material, which disperses heat and helps regulate excessive warmth. The Premier Copper also incorporates copper fibers in its cover for additional cooling. If you tend to sleep hot, you may want to consider the Premier or Copper Premier over the flagship Nectar.
The flagship Leesa Original is a hybrid mattress consisting of a 2-inch polyfoam comfort layer and a 2-inch memory foam transitional layer. Compared to the Nectar Mattress, the Leesa Original offers less conformity due to its polyfoam being more responsive than memory foam. However, it still provides good body cushioning. In terms of firmness, the Leesa feels noticeably softer than the Nectar.
The Leesa Original includes a 6-inch support core made of high-density polyfoam. However, it lacks the same level of edge support, which may result in excessive sinking when getting on and off the mattress. This is mainly due to the Leesa Original’s softer medium feel.
The Studio by Leesa is the brand’s newest all-foam model. It features a more traditional memory foam design with a 1.5-inch memory foam comfort layer over denser polyfoam in the transitional and base layers. Like the Nectar Mattress, the Studio by Leesa has a medium firm feel, but it contours closely to the body. Both the Leesa Original and Studio by Leesa come with covers made from a polyester-blend fabric. These mattresses have a thickness of 10 inches.
The Leesa Sapira Hybrid combines polyfoam and memory foam comfort layers, each measuring 1.5 inches. It also includes a transitional polyfoam layer, a 6-inch pocketed coil support core, and an additional layer of base polyfoam. The Leesa Sapira Hybrid has a medium firm feel and provides excellent support, making it most comfortable for people weighing at least 130 pounds. Additionally, the coils promote steady airflow, ensuring a comfortable temperature. Consequently, you can expect cooler sleep on this mattress compared to the Leesa Original, Studio by Leesa, or any of Nectar’s mattress models. The Leesa Sapira Hybrid has a thickness of 11 inches.
The Leesa Legend, another hybrid mattress, begins with a 1-inch layer of aerated polyfoam that enhances surface airflow, followed by 1 inch of memory foam. The third layer, measuring 1.5 inches, consists of dense polyfoam with microcoils for extra support to the lower back and hips while cradling lighter areas. A transitional polyfoam layer sits below the microcoils for added reinforcement.
The Leesa Legend also features a 6-inch pocketed coil support core and a base polyfoam layer. Like the Leesa Sapira Hybrid, it has a medium firm feel. Its coil-on-coil design provides excellent responsiveness and springiness. The cover is crafted from a premium fabric blend that includes recycled polyester, merino wool, cotton, and spandex. With a thickness of 12 inches, the Leesa Legend is both the thickest mattress from the company and their most expensive model.
Each mattress performs differently in various categories based on its firmness, thickness, and material composition. To assess performance, we evaluate each mattress using testers belonging to different weight and sleep position groups. This allows us to determine how well the mattress will suit different individuals. Below, you’ll find our ratings for Nectar and Leesa mattresses. But first, let’s delve into what each category means and how we evaluate mattresses for it.
Durability: On average, a mattress will remain functional for six to eight years before replacement becomes necessary. Over time, the comfort, transitional, and support materials may wear out, resulting in reduced support in specific areas. This can lead to deep sagging and surface-level body impressions. To extend your mattress’s lifespan, we recommend rotating it head-to-foot every three to six months. However, beyond the eight-year mark, it’s unlikely that the average mattress will provide sufficient comfort and support.
Motion Isolation: Mattresses that feel responsive and bouncy tend to create movements across the surface when someone enters or exits the bed or changes sleep positions. This motion transfer can disrupt the sleep of other individuals sharing the mattress. Alternatively, less responsive mattresses can absorb a sleeper’s movements and confine them to specific areas, reducing the chances of sleep disturbances for others.
Sex
While opinions may differ, the majority of couples prefer responsive mattresses for intimate activities. A resilient surface with a generous bounce allows for fluid movement and prevents the feeling of sinking or being constrained. However, when couples maintain a single position for extended periods, a level of conformity is needed to ensure satisfactory traction. Additionally, strong edge support enables the use of the entire mattress, eliminating any isolation to the center for optimal enjoyment.
Temperature Neutrality
Certain mattress materials, particularly polyfoam and memory foam, have a tendency to absorb and retain body heat, leading to uncomfortable warmth. On the other hand, other materials offer enhanced breathability and promote consistent airflow, facilitating a comfortable temperature throughout the night. These materials include ventilated foam and latex layers, open coil systems, and covers blended with cooling fibers such as organic cotton and Tencel lyocell. For those who experience excessive heat during sleep, considering temperature neutrality is crucial when selecting a mattress.
Pressure Relief
The ideal mattress for pressure relief depends on your sleeping position and body type. It should provide support to areas that carry more weight, such as the midsection and hips, while comfortably cradling lighter areas to maintain proper alignment. Side sleepers require additional cushioning to ensure even spinal alignment and alleviate pressure on the lower back. In contrast, back and stomach sleepers require less padding and more support to prevent excessive sinking in heavier areas.
Off-gassing
After unpacking your mattress, you may notice an initial scent resembling rubber or plastic. This is common with mattresses that feature polyfoam or memory foam layers. Typically, these odors will dissipate within a few days, but in some cases, denser foams may retain a slight odor for a week or longer. If the smell persists, simply place the mattress in a well-ventilated room for an additional day or two.
Ease of Movement
Densely sinking mattresses can impede movement, making it challenging to get in and out of bed and change positions comfortably. This sinking sensation may even give the impression of being trapped by the mattress. Firmer and more responsive mattresses facilitate easier movement. It’s worth noting that individuals weighing over 230 pounds may experience more sinkage, especially if the mattress already has a softer feel.
Edge Support
Most mattresses exhibit some degree of sinkage around the edges when getting in and out of bed. However, certain mattress materials offer enhanced responsiveness and rebound to prevent excessive sinkage. Conversely, others may sink considerably, particularly for individuals weighing over 230 pounds. Mattresses with weak edge support provide less stability, resulting in a confined sleeping area and potential discomfort for you and your partner. It’s important to note that over time, edge support can deteriorate with the natural wear of mattress materials.
Several factors can influence the price of a new mattress. For instance, the size of the mattress plays a significant role, with larger sizes generally costing more. Additionally, the type of mattress and its materials can affect the price, as some designs and materials are more expensive than others. On average, an all-foam queen-size mattress ranges from $900 to $1,200, while a hybrid mattress in the same size can cost between $1,600 and $2,200. Furthermore, mattresses with additional padding layers tend to be pricier due to their increased thickness.
Where you purchase your mattress can also impact the price. Physical stores often have higher costs due to their operational expenses, resulting in higher prices. On the other hand, online brands lack the overhead associated with brick-and-mortar locations, allowing them to offer more affordable options. It’s worth noting that few mattress-in-a-box brands offer free shipping to Alaska and Hawaii, and delivery fees to these areas can be quite substantial.
Below are the prices for all Nectar and Leesa mattress models in each available size.
Sleep Foundation Special Offer:
33% off everything.
Get $700 off on select mattresses plus a free mattress protector.
Looking at the tables, Leesa’s foam mattresses are more budget-friendly compared to the Nectar models. The Studio by Leesa has a below-average price compared to other foam mattresses, while the Leesa Original falls within the industry average. The Nectar Mattress is also similar in cost to other foam beds, but the Nectar Premier and Premier Copper have higher-than-average prices. However, all of these mattresses offer great value and excel in areas like motion isolation and pressure relief.
The price of the Leesa Sapira Hybrid aligns with the average hybrid model, while the Leesa Legend is considerably more expensive than the Leesa Sapira Hybrid.
You have 100 nights to try out the mattress (with a minimum requirement of 30 nights).
Nectar offers free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S., but customers in Alaska and Hawaii will have to pay additional delivery charges. This is a standard policy for online mattress brands. Leesa also provides free ground shipping to all 50 states and even offers delivery to international locations like Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany for an extra fee.
If you choose ground delivery, your mattress will be compressed, vacuum-sealed, and shipped in a compact box. The mattress will be left at your doorstep, eliminating the need for you to sign or be home during delivery. Once the mattress arrives, simply bring the box into the room where you’ll be using it and unbox it there. The mattress should fully expand within 48 hours.
Nectar also offers White Glove delivery for an additional $149. This service includes in-home assembly of the mattress and optional removal of your old mattress. Leesa offers the same White Glove service for a flat fee of $150. If you select White Glove delivery, the mattress will not be compressed for shipping. You or another adult will need to be present at home to receive the delivery, and the courier will schedule a date and time window beforehand.
Most online mattress companies provide a sleep trial so you can test out the mattress and return it if you’re not satisfied. Sleep trials are especially helpful since online brands lack physical stores where you can try out different mattress models.
Nectar offers an expansive 365-night sleep trial, one of the longest in the industry. It does require a 30-night break-in period, but after that time, you’re free to initiate a return if the mattress doesn’t meet your expectations. Nectar will arrange for couriers to pick up the mattress at your home, with no extra charge, and either recycle or donate it.
Leesa’s sleep trial lasts for 100 nights. There’s no mandatory break-in period, but Leesa does encourage you to test the mattress for at least 30 nights. If you decide to return the mattress, Leesa will issue a full refund and coordinate a free pickup for customers in the contiguous U.S. The company also arranges pickups for customers in Alaska and Hawaii, though they must pay a $100 return fee.
Warranty coverage is provided by manufacturers to address defects and other issues. If repairs or replacements are needed, the warranty ensures that the associated costs are mostly, if not completely, covered. Most mattresses sold today come with warranties lasting at least 10 years.
Nectar mattresses come with a “Forever” lifetime warranty, meaning the mattress is covered against defects for as long as you own it. This warranty is completely non-prorated. If any defects arise in the first 10 years, Nectar will repair or replace the mattress at no cost to you. After 10 years, you’ll be responsible for $100 in transportation fees, but Nectar will cover the remaining expenses.
The Leesa warranty covers each mattress for 10 years, also with non-prorated coverage. If your Leesa mattress develops a defect, you’ll need to pay for shipping and transportation fees, but all repair and replacement costs will be covered by the company.
There are slight differences in the covered defects for each brand. For Nectar, sagging and body impressions measuring 1.5 inches or deeper are considered defects. Under the Leesa warranty, these impressions must measure 1 inch or deeper. Both warranties cover physical flaws in the mattress that cause premature deterioration of materials. Other issues may not be considered defects.
Remember, mattress warranties are not transferable. You are eligible for warranty coverage if you purchase the mattress directly from the manufacturer or an authorized retailer. If you buy or receive the mattress from the original owner or a non-authorized retailer, the warranty will not apply.
