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The Purple Mattress Rating
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1. Comfort and Feel
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2. Spinal Alignment and Support
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3. Cooling and Breathability
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4. Edge Support
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5. Affordability
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6. Trial & Warranty
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7. Customer Service
Summary
In our Purple Mattress review, we break down how the GelFlex® Grid delivers cooling comfort, adaptive support, and pressure relief. Learn how it performs for back and side sleepers, its pros and cons, pricing, and whether this innovative design truly lives up to the hype.
PRODUCT DETAILS
Hyperelastic polymer grid, polyurethane foam
100 nights (21-night minimum)
Free; Fees to Alaska, Hawaii, & Canada
Medium-firm (6.5/10)
10-year limited
$1,000-$2,200
SLEEP REVIEW & RECOMMENDATION
☆ A short video highlighting what makes The Purple Mattress GelFlex Grid unique.
The Original Purple Mattress Review
An Innovation in Unique Comfort: Meet The Purple Essential Collection
Interested in a mattress that breaks the mold of traditional beds? The Purple Mattress, a pioneer in the bed-in-a-box market since 2016, introduces a unique hyper-elastic gel grid unlike anything on the market that promises cooling comfort and responsive support. But does it meet the hype the brand has built over the years?
In this review, we’ll explore the performance, materials, and value of the original Purple Mattress, now part of Purple’s Essential Collection, alongside the PurpleFlex and PurplePlus models. Using insights from buyers all over the net, we’re here to give you an informative read without opening dozens of tabs.
PERFORMANCE SCORE
How Did The Purple Mattress Perform?
Based on user reviews and trusted review sites.
Performance Score:
The Original Purple Mattress is part of Purple’s Essential Collection that also includes a Plus and Flex model option.
1. Comfort & Feel (Score: 4/5)
The Purple Mattress offers a medium-firm (6.5/10) feel with a unique “floating” sensation from its 2-inch GelFlex Grid, which adapts to curves while remaining supportive. Users praise its balance of squishy comfort and firmness, ideal for back and side sleepers under 250 pounds. Some find the floating experience of the grid polarizing—either loved or disliked—depending on preference for traditional sinking foam.
2. Spinal Alignment & Support (Score: 4.3/5)
The GelFlex Grid and foam layers excel at aligning the spine, particularly for back and side sleepers, by contouring to hips and shoulders. Lighter sleepers enjoy consistent support, but those over 250 pounds may notice slight sinking over time, especially in the original and Flex models.
3. Cooling & Breathability (Score: 4.2/5)
Designed for hot sleepers, the Purple Mattress features a breathable GelFlex Grid with over 1,400 air channels and open-cell foams to promote airflow. Users report neutral to cool sleep temperatures, with the Purple Plus outperforming competitors by 25% in cooling tests. The PurpleFlex maintains solid breathability for its price, though slightly less advanced than the Plus. Thicker bedding may slightly reduce cooling benefits across all models.
4. Edge Support (Score: 3.6/5)
A foam-encased perimeter provides decent edge support, sufficient for sitting or sleeping near the edge for lighter users. However, heavier individuals report noticeable sinking, particularly on the original and Flex models. The Plus offers marginal improvement due to its thicker foam layers, but still lags behind premium hybrids. Edge support is functional but not exceptional.
5. Affordability (Score: 3.6/5)
Priced from $999 for the PurpleFlex to $1,899 for the Plus, the Essential Collection spans budget to mid-range options. The original Purple Mattress is moderately priced for its innovative design ($999–$1,499), while the Flex offers strong value for budget shoppers. The Plus is pricier but adds luxury. Frequent sales on purple.com improve affordability, though the collection is less budget-friendly than basic foam mattresses.
6. Trial & Warranty (Score: 3/5)
The 100-night trial (with a 21-night minimum) may not feel long enough for such a unique bed. With free returns in the contiguous U.S. The 10-year limited warranty covers sagging and defects, which potential buyers may feel better about their purchase. Clear terms are appreciated, though claim processing can be slow. The trial and warranty are average for the industry, and not everyone will appreciate Purple’s insistence on a minimum of 21 nights before making a final decision.
7. Customer Service (Score: 3.5/5)
Purple’s Utah-based customer service earns mixed reviews. Many praise quick responses via phone or email, but complex issues like warranty claims or returns can face delays or inconsistent handling. User feedback on purple.com and third-party reviews note variability depending on the issue’s complexity. The direct-to-consumer model generally ensures clear communication, but experiences vary.
A CLOSER LOOK
A Closer Look at The Purple Mattress Materials
The Purple Mattress is a 9.25-inch all-foam hybrid featuring a proprietary GelFlex Grid and CertiPUR-US® certified foams, designed for cooling, durability, and adaptive support.
Let’s take a closer look:
- Cover: A SoftFlex cover (polyester, viscose, Lycra) promotes airflow and complements the grid’s breathability.
- Top Layer: GelFlex Grid (2 inches): Hyper-elastic polymer grid adapts to curves, relieves pressure, and channels air for cooling. Its durable design resists softening over time.
- Second Layer: Comfort Foam (3.5 inches): Medium-firm polyurethane foam cushions the grid, supporting spinal alignment and reducing motion transfer.
- Base Layer: Support Foam (4 inches): High-density polyurethane foam provides structure and durability, with a slip-resistant bottom cover.
Option: Purple Plus (11 inches)
- Adds a 2-inch comfort foam layer and enhanced grid for a softer feel (6/10) and 25% better cooling. Ideal for combination sleepers seeking luxury.
Option: PurpleFlex (8 inches)
- A budget-friendly model with a 1-inch GelFlex® Grid and simpler foam layers, offering a medium-firm feel (6/10). It delivers core cooling and support but with less cushioning than the Original or Plus, making it best for lighter sleepers on a budget.
PROS & CONS
Here is a list of the pros and cons of The Original Purple Mattress based on user reviews:
PROS
- Unique Gel Grid Comfort: The GelFlex Grid offers a responsive, floating feel, loved by those seeking a non-traditional mattress experience.
- Exceptional Cooling: Air channels and breathable foams keep sleepers cool, with the Plus excelling for hot sleepers.
- Great for Joint Pain: The adaptive grid relieves pressure on joints, making it ideal for back and side sleepers with mild pain.
- Versatile for Couples: Quiet with decent motion isolation, it suits couples, especially lighter sleepers. The grid allows for rapid adaptation to movement, with each grid cell responding individually.
CONS
- Not for Heavier Sleepers: The mattress may feel thin and lacking sufficient support to users over 250 pounds, with potential sagging within a year.
- Firmness May Disappoint: The grid’s firm, non-sinking feel isn’t for those who prefer plush memory foam. It’s a floating feeling that has to be experienced to be believed.
- Moderate Edge Support: Edges hold up for lighter users but may sink under heavier weights, limiting full bed use. Couples who like to utilize the whole surface of their bed may feel confined to the middle.
- Inconsistent Customer Service: Some report delays or variable support for returns and warranty issues.
FINAL SLEEP RATING ANALYSIS
Our Analysis
Launched in 2016, Purple revolutionized the mattress industry with its patented GelFlex Grid, inspired by gel-based shoe insoles for pressure relief. The brand’s $1.1 billion public merger in 2017 fueled its rise as a trendy bed-in-a-box option. The original Purple Mattress offers a medium-firm feel (6.5/10) with exceptional cooling and joint relief, ideal for back and side sleepers under 250 pounds. Made in the U.S., it arrives compressed in a box with minor off-gassing that dissipates within 24–48 hours.
Purple maintains its superstar status due to its individuality, with any controversy about the mattress’ feel building intrigue among potential buyers. No company is perfect, and while Purple is certainly adapting and moving with new models, it’s no surprise that such a large company has some trouble with customer service consistency. According to Purples’s average response to complaints, they know their beds are not for everyone and tend to do their best with returns or exchanges.
Customer Insights
The launch of these mattresses into the public created a divisive trend and hype, some say is overrated, while others insist it is completely valid. Those who love it attest to its balanced feel that eases pain while offering an extraordinary experience. Many who take the plunge on their first Purple are more than satisfied, insisting that it has solved all of their sleep woes. Those who get a taste of Purple tend to become loyal to the brand, upgrading or exchanging their mattress for something new and/or improved from the company.
Complaints include Purple’s inconsistent customer service, with the experience seemingly dependent upon the complexity of the issue and the mood of the representative. Heavier sleepers report sagging and durability issues within a year, with some noting that their body pain returned after the trial period. Off-gassing resolves quickly, but the non-flippable and extremely heavy design requires a solid base. Most Purple fans emphasize the importance of testing the mattress in a showroom, as the grid’s feel is highly subjective and not universally appealing.
The Final Verdict: 3.8/5
A Must to Try Before You Buy
The Purple Mattress sounds too good to be true, and for some, it could be. However, Purple now features a wide range of models in multiple collections that they will undoubtedly offer in exchange if you’re not happy with their Original flagship mattress. At best, The Purple Mattresses are a fun, innovative take on a place to sleep every night, providing perfect pressure relief and keeping you cool and comfortable all night. At worst, The Purple Mattress is a weird, overhyped nightmare that could break down sooner than later if you don’t have a compatible body type.
Taking a chance on a Purple mattress is like flipping a coin: there’s a 50/50 chance you’ll love it or…not. The strict warranty and short trial period could apply unwanted pressure to the decision-making process. No amount of reviews will prepare you for the feel of a Purple mattress. We strongly recommend finding a physical retailer that carries Purple mattresses to try them out for yourselves before placing an order, as their unique feel is not rated E for everyone.
MATTRESS SIZES & PRICES
(price may not include discount or sale items)
| Size | Dimensions | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | 38" X 75" | $799.00 |
| Twin XL | 38" x 80" | $999.00 |
| Full | 54" X 75" | $1,199.00 |
| Queen | 60" x 80" | $1,399.00 |
| Eastern King | 76" x 80" | $1,799.00 |
| California King | 72" x 84" | $1,799.00 |
| Split King | Two 38" x 80" pieces | $1,998.00 |
PRODUCT WARRANTY
Purple Warranty
The Purple Mattress comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Below, we outline the warranty details to help you understand its scope and limitations.
What the Warranty Covers
- Sagging or Indentations: The warranty covers visible indentations greater than 1 inch compared to surrounding areas, provided the mattress is used on a proper, supportive foundation (e.g., a solid platform, box spring, or slatted base with slats no more than 3 inches apart). This ensures compensation for significant structural failures that impact sleep quality.
- Manufacturing Defects: Defects in materials or workmanship, such as cracks, splits, or degradation in the GelFlex Grid, comfort foam, or base foam layers, are covered when occurring under normal, properly supported use. This includes issues with the structural integrity of the mattress components.
- Replacement Terms: Purple offers full replacement at no cost, including shipping fees within the contiguous U.S., for valid claims throughout the 10-year warranty period. The company may replace the mattress with a comparable model if the original is discontinued, ensuring long-term support for customers.
What the Warranty Does Not Cover
- Normal Wear and Tear: Minor softening or impressions less than 1 inch, common during the initial break-in period, are considered normal and not covered. Changes in foam firmness over time due to regular use also fall outside the warranty.
- Improper Use or Support: Damage from using an improper foundation (e.g., slats spaced more than 3 inches apart or a sagging box spring) voids the warranty. Issues caused by abuse, neglect, or misuse—such as jumping on the mattress, tears, cuts, burns, stains, odors, unsanitary conditions, insect or rodent damage, or liquid/fluid exposure—are excluded.
- Non-Defect Issues: Personal comfort preferences, such as finding the mattress too firm or soft, are not covered, as the warranty focuses on manufacturing defects, not subjective satisfaction. Initial off-gassing odors, which typically dissipate within 24–48 hours, are also excluded.
Non-Original Purchasers or Resold Units: The warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is void if the mattress is resold, gifted, or transferred. Removal or damage to the law tags also invalidates the warranty. - Third-Party Retailers: Mattresses purchased through third-party retailers may have different warranty terms, and Purple advises checking with the retailer. Damage during shipping by third parties is not covered.
- Geographic Limitations: While replacements are free in the contiguous U.S., additional shipping fees may apply to Alaska, Hawaii, or international locations, depending on the claim.
Additional Notes
To file a claim, customers must contact Purple’s Utah-based support team via phone or email, providing proof of purchase (e.g., receipt or order confirmation) and photos of the defect.
Purple may require inspection of the mattress or foundation to validate claims, which can occasionally lead to delays.
The company strongly recommends using a breathable, waterproof mattress protector to prevent stains or damage that could void the warranty.
Mattresses should be placed on a supportive, solid base, as improper foundations are a common reason for claim denials.
Value Comparison
The Original Purple Mattress, priced between $1000 and $2,500, offers a compelling value for its unique GelFlex Grid technology, which delivers exceptional cooling and pressure relief, setting it apart from traditional memory foam mattresses like the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt.
Compared to budget-friendly bed-in-a-box options like the Casper Original, Purple’s innovative grid justifies its slightly higher cost for hot sleepers and those seeking joint pain relief. However, it’s less affordable than basic foam mattresses like the Zinus Green Tea, which lack Purple’s advanced cooling and durability. Its 100-night trial and 10-year warranty align with industry standards, matching competitors like Nectar, but its feel may not suit those preferring a plush, sinking sensation.
REFERENCES
Purple. (n.d.). The Original Purple Mattress. Purple. https://purple.com/mattresses/purple-bed
Sleepopolis. (2025). Purple Mattress review. Sleepopolis. https://sleepopolis.com/mattress-reviews/purple-mattress-review/
U.S. News & World Report. (2025). Purple Mattress review. U.S. News 360 Reviews. https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/sleep/mattress/purple-mattress
Cnet.com. (2025, March 25). I’ve tested every Purple Mattress out there. Here are my honest thoughts. CNET. https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/purple-mattress-review/ Currie, D. (2024, April 4). Purple Mattress review: Tested for 2025. National Council on Aging. https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/sleep/purple-mattress-review/
Knoder, J. (2023, December 26). Purple Mattress review: The original GelFlex mattress is a revelation in comfort and cooling. TechRadar. https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/mattresses/purple-mattress-review
Mattress Clarity. (2025). Purple Mattress review. Mattress Clarity. https://www.mattressclarity.com/reviews/purple-mattress/
Mattress Nerd. (2023, October 14). Purple Mattress review (2025). Mattress Nerd. https://www.mattressnerd.com/purple-mattress-review/
Nelson, J., & Hamilton, R. (2025, July 31). Purple Original mattress review. Tom’s Guide. https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/purple-original-mattress
Sleep Like The Dead. (2019). The Purple Mattress review you can actually trust: Ratings and comparisons for Original, New, 2, 3, 4. Sleep Like The Dead. https://www.sleeplikethedead.com/mattress-reviews-purple.html