Tuft and Needle started in 2012. Two friends, Daehee Park and John-Thomas Marino, founded the company. They were not happy with the mattress shopping experience.
So they created their own mattress company. The goal was simple. Make good mattresses at fair prices. Sell them directly to customers. Skip the middleman.
This review looks at what makes these mattresses special. We explore their good points and possible issues. Read on to learn if a Tuft and Needle mattress is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Unique Adaptive Foam Technology – Tuft and Needle uses special T&N Adaptive foam that combines the best qualities of memory foam and latex without the downsides
- Multiple Mattress Options – The company offers three main models: the Original, the Mint, and the Hybrid, each serving different sleep needs
- Temperature Regulation – All Tuft and Needle mattresses include cooling gel and graphite to help prevent overheating during sleep
- Medium-Firm Feel – Most Tuft and Needle mattresses have a medium-firm feel (around 6.5/10 on the firmness scale) that works for most sleeping positions
- No Fiberglass – Unlike some competitor brands, Tuft and Needle mattresses are completely free from fiberglass in all components
- Reasonable Price Point – Prices range from $645 to $1,995 for a queen size, making them more affordable than many premium mattress brands
- Generous Trial Period – The company offers a 100-night sleep trial allowing customers to fully test the mattress before committing
- Solid Warranty – Each mattress comes with a 10-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects and excessive sagging
- CertiPUR-US Certified – The foams used are certified to be free from harmful chemicals including formaldehyde, heavy metals, and flame retardants
- Excellent Motion Isolation – The Adaptive foam technology provides good motion isolation for couples who share a bed
The History of Tuft and Needle
Tuft and Needle has an interesting story. The company began in 2012. Daehee Park and John-Thomas Marino started it with just $6,000 of their own money. They met at Pennsylvania State University’s entrepreneur program. Their idea came from a bad mattress shopping experience.
They felt mattress stores charged too much. The shopping process was confusing. So they created an online mattress company. The focus was on simple, good quality mattresses. Fair prices. Clear information. Good customer service.
The company grew quickly. By the end of 2013, they had made $1 million in sales. Their success got the attention of bigger mattress companies. In September 2018, Serta Simmons Bedding bought Tuft and Needle.
Even after the buyout, Tuft and Needle kept its brand identity. It still focuses on customer needs. Quality mattresses. Fair prices. The founders’ vision continues to shape the company today.
Tuft and Needle Mattress Models
Tuft and Needle now offers several mattress models. Each serves different sleep needs. Here are the main options:
T&N Original Mattress
The Original mattress started it all. It has a simple design. Two foam layers. The top layer is 3 inches of T&N Adaptive foam. This special foam contours to your body. It gives support where needed. The bottom layer is 7 inches of support foam. This creates the base structure of the mattress.
The Original has a medium-firm feel. It works well for back and stomach sleepers. Some side sleepers like it too. It costs less than other models. A queen size costs about $895.
T&N Mint Mattress
The Mint mattress is more advanced. It has three foam layers. The top layer is 3 inches of T&N Adaptive foam. The middle layer is 2 inches of adaptive foam with extra graphite. This pulls heat away from your body. The bottom layer is 6 inches of support foam. The edges have extra reinforcement.
The Mint feels a bit softer than the Original. It works well for side sleepers and those who prefer more pressure relief. A queen size Mint costs about $1,295.
T&N Original Hybrid Mattress
The Original Hybrid combines foam and springs. The top layers use T&N Adaptive foam for comfort. Below are pocketed coils. These springs move independently. They provide more bounce and support. The coils also help with airflow. This keeps the mattress cooler.
The Hybrid works well for many sleep positions. It costs more than the all-foam models. A queen size is about $1,295.
T&N Mint Hybrid Mattress
The Mint Hybrid is the newest model. It combines the premium features of the Mint with coil support. It has more layers of adaptive foam. The coil system has two types of springs. This design gives both comfort and support. It works for all sleep positions.
The Mint Hybrid is the most expensive model. A queen size costs about $1,595 to $1,995.
Materials and Construction
What makes Tuft and Needle mattresses special? The materials and construction.
The main feature is T&N Adaptive foam. This is not regular memory foam. It’s a special polyurethane foam formula. It has some key advantages:
- It contours to your body without the sinking feeling of memory foam
- It responds quickly when you move
- It sleeps cooler than traditional memory foam
The foam contains cooling materials. Graphite pulls heat away from your body. Ceramic gel beads absorb and disperse heat. This helps you stay comfortable all night.
The cover uses a soft, breathable blend of polyester and polyamide. It allows airflow. This helps with cooling.
Tuft and Needle mattresses do not contain fiberglass. Many budget mattresses use fiberglass as a fire barrier. Instead, Tuft and Needle uses a knit blend of polyester and cotton. This fabric has a food-grade salt treatment. It meets fire safety standards without using harmful materials.
All foams are CertiPUR-US certified. This means they are free from:
- Harmful chemicals
- Heavy metals
- Formaldehyde
- Phthalates
- High levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
The hybrid models add pocketed coils. These are steel springs. Each spring is wrapped in fabric. This allows them to move independently. The coils provide support, bounce, and help with airflow.
Comfort and Feel
How does a Tuft and Needle mattress feel? The comfort level depends on the model. But they share some common traits.
Most Tuft and Needle mattresses have a medium-firm feel. On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being the firmest), they rate about 6-7. The Original is firmer. The Mint and hybrid models feel a bit softer.
When you lie on a Tuft and Needle mattress, you feel gentle cradling. Not too much sinking. Not too stiff. The Adaptive foam contours to your body. It gives support where needed. When you move, the foam responds quickly. You don’t feel stuck.
The Original works best for back and stomach sleepers. It provides good spinal alignment. The Mint offers more cushioning for side sleepers. It gives better pressure relief for shoulders and hips. The hybrid models add some bounce. They make moving and changing positions easier.
Temperature comfort is important. Many foam mattresses sleep hot. Tuft and Needle addresses this with cooling technology. The graphite and gel in the foam pull heat away. Most users find these mattresses sleep temperature neutral. Not too hot. Not too cold.
Edge support varies by model. The Original has acceptable edge support. The Mint and hybrid models have reinforced edges. This makes sitting or sleeping near the edge more comfortable.
Sleep Quality and Support
A mattress should help you sleep well. Tuft and Needle mattresses provide good support for most sleepers.
Support means keeping your spine aligned. The Adaptive foam creates an even sleep surface. It supports your body’s natural curves. This helps reduce back pain for many sleepers.
Pressure relief is important too. Especially for side sleepers. Side sleeping puts pressure on shoulders and hips. The Adaptive foam cushions these pressure points. The Mint and hybrid models offer better pressure relief than the Original.
Motion isolation is another factor. This matters for couples. When one person moves, the other shouldn’t feel it. Foam mattresses usually excel at motion isolation. Tuft and Needle’s Adaptive foam absorbs movement well. The Original and Mint have excellent motion isolation. The hybrid models have good isolation but less than the all-foam models.
Noise is rarely an issue with these mattresses. The all-foam models make no noise at all. The hybrid models might have slight sounds from the coils. But most users don’t notice this.
Sleep quality also depends on temperature. Overheating can wake you up. The cooling features in Tuft and Needle mattresses help prevent this. The graphite and gel regulate temperature. The hybrid models add airflow through the coil layers.
Durability and Longevity
How long will a Tuft and Needle mattress last? This is an important question. The answer affects the value you get.
Most Tuft and Needle mattresses should last 7-10 years with proper care. The company offers a 10-year warranty. This shows their confidence in the product.
Several factors affect durability:
- Material quality – Tuft and Needle uses high-density foams. These resist sagging better than low-density foams.
- User weight – Heavier individuals may see faster wear. The hybrid models may last longer for heavier sleepers.
- Sleep position – Sleeping in the same spot every night can cause uneven wear.
- Foundation – Using the right foundation helps. Tuft and Needle recommends platform beds, slatted bases (with slats no more than 5″ apart), or box springs.
The most common durability issue is body impressions or sagging. All foam mattresses develop some impressions over time. The warranty covers indentations deeper than 3/4 inch.
Hybrid models may last longer than all-foam models. The coil support cores tend to maintain their structure better over time.
To improve longevity:
- Rotate your mattress every 3-6 months
- Use a mattress protector
- Keep the mattress on a proper foundation
- Avoid jumping on the mattress
Price and Value
Price is a major factor when buying a mattress. Tuft and Needle offers good value compared to many competitors.
Here are the approximate price ranges for a queen size:
- T&N Original: $895
- T&N Mint: $1,295
- T&N Original Hybrid: $1,295
- T&N Mint Hybrid: $1,595-$1,995
These prices are for the regular retail cost. Tuft and Needle often has sales. You might save 10-15% during promotional periods. Major sales happen around holidays like:
- President’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Labor Day
- Black Friday
- Cyber Monday
How do these prices compare to competitors? Tuft and Needle costs less than many premium brands. Brands like Tempur-Pedic or Purple often charge $2,000+ for similar mattresses. The Original model competes with budget brands but offers better quality.
The value equation includes more than just price. Consider:
- Sleep quality – How well you sleep affects your health and productivity
- Durability – A mattress that lasts longer provides better value
- Warranty – The 10-year warranty adds security
- Trial period – The 100-night trial reduces risk
Most customers find Tuft and Needle provides good value for the price. The Original offers the best value for budget-conscious shoppers. The Mint and hybrid models cost more but provide enhanced features.
Warranty and Trial Period
Buying a mattress online can feel risky. Tuft and Needle reduces this risk with their policies.
The company offers a 100-night sleep trial. This lets you test the mattress in your home. Sleep on it for weeks. See if it works for you. If not, you can return it for a full refund. The company asks that you try the mattress for at least 30 nights. This gives your body time to adjust to the new sleep surface.
Returns are simple. Contact customer service. They arrange pickup. You don’t need to keep the original box. You don’t pay return shipping. The returned mattresses don’t go to waste. Most are donated to charity.
The warranty covers your purchase for 10 years. This warranty is non-prorated. That means the coverage doesn’t reduce over time. It covers:
- Manufacturing defects
- Body impressions deeper than 3/4 inch
- Physical flaws in the foam
- Problems with the cover (seams, zippers)
The warranty doesn’t cover:
- Normal softening of the foam
- Comfort preference changes
- Damage from improper use or foundation
- Damage from stains or liquid
To use the warranty, contact customer service. They will ask for photos of the issue. You need proof of purchase. If you bought directly from Tuft and Needle, they have your order information.
These policies show the company’s confidence in their products. They also reduce the risk of buying a mattress online.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
What do real users say about Tuft and Needle mattresses? Customer reviews provide valuable insights.
Tuft and Needle generally receives positive reviews. On their website, the Original mattress has over 35,000 reviews. The average rating is about 4.6 out of 5 stars. Independent review sites show similar ratings.
Common positive points in reviews:
- Good value for the price
- Quick recovery from compression
- Reduced back pain for many users
- Good temperature regulation
- Easy setup process
- Responsive customer service
Common complaints in reviews:
- Too firm for some sleepers, especially lighter side sleepers
- Edge support on the Original could be better
- Some users report early sagging
- Slight off-gassing smell when first unpacked
Back and stomach sleepers tend to give more positive reviews. Side sleepers have mixed experiences. Lighter side sleepers often find the Original too firm. The Mint or hybrid models work better for them.
Couples often praise the motion isolation. This feature helps one partner sleep undisturbed when the other moves.
Many reviews mention good customer service. When issues arise, the company generally responds well. This adds to customer satisfaction even when problems occur.
The reviews highlight the importance of choosing the right model for your sleep needs. Your weight, sleep position, and comfort preferences affect which model will work best for you.
Who Should Buy a Tuft and Needle Mattress?
Tuft and Needle mattresses work well for many sleepers. But they’re not perfect for everyone. Let’s look at who should consider these mattresses.
The Original works well for:
- Back and stomach sleepers
- Those who prefer a firmer feel
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Hot sleepers who want cooling features
- Couples who need motion isolation
The Mint works better for:
- Side sleepers
- Those who want more pressure relief
- Sleepers who find the Original too firm
- People willing to pay more for enhanced comfort
- Those who want better edge support
The hybrid models suit:
- Sleepers who want more bounce
- Heavier individuals (over 230 pounds)
- Those who want the best temperature regulation
- People who like the responsive feel of coils with foam comfort
- Those planning to use their mattress for many years
You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You prefer a very soft, plush feel
- You want a traditional memory foam “hug”
- You’re a very lightweight side sleeper
- You need specialized support for medical conditions
- You’re looking for the absolute lowest price point
Your personal comfort preferences matter most. The 100-night trial lets you test the mattress with little risk. This helps ensure you get a mattress that works for your needs.
How to Set Up Your Tuft and Needle Mattress
Setting up your new Tuft and Needle mattress is simple. Here’s what to expect.
The mattress arrives compressed in a box. Queen and king sizes are heavy. You might need help moving the box. Once in your bedroom:
- Unbox the mattress – Remove it from the box while it’s still wrapped
- Position on your foundation – Place the rolled mattress on your bed frame
- Remove the plastic wrap – Carefully cut the plastic (avoid cutting the mattress)
- Let it expand – The mattress begins expanding immediately
- Wait a few hours – Allow 2-3 hours before sleeping on it
- Full expansion – The mattress may take up to 72 hours to fully expand
You might notice a slight smell when first unpacking. This is normal with foam mattresses. It’s called off-gassing. The smell comes from the manufacturing process. It should disappear within a few days. Opening windows helps reduce the smell faster.
You can sleep on the mattress the same day it arrives. But it might feel firmer at first. The full comfort develops as the mattress fully expands.
The mattress works with most foundations:
- Platform beds
- Slatted bases (slats no more than 5″ apart)
- Box springs
- Adjustable bases
Tuft and Needle also sells compatible bed frames and foundations.
No flipping is required. These mattresses have a specific top and bottom. However, rotating the mattress every 3-6 months helps with even wear.
FAQs About Tuft and Needle Mattresses
Is Tuft and Needle owned by Serta?
Yes. Serta Simmons Bedding acquired Tuft and Needle in September 2018.
Do Tuft and Needle mattresses contain fiberglass?
No. Tuft and Needle mattresses do not contain fiberglass in any components.
How long do Tuft and Needle mattresses last?
With proper care, Tuft and Needle mattresses typically last 7-10 years.
Are Tuft and Needle mattresses good for side sleepers?
The Mint and hybrid models work well for side sleepers. The Original may be too firm for some side sleepers.
How firm are Tuft and Needle mattresses?
On a scale of 1-10, the Original rates about 7 (medium-firm), and the Mint about 6 (medium).
Can I try a Tuft and Needle mattress in a store?
Yes. Tuft and Needle has physical stores in some cities. Their mattresses are also available at some retail partners.
Do Tuft and Needle mattresses sleep hot?
No. The graphite and gel infusion help regulate temperature better than traditional memory foam.
What foundation should I use with a Tuft and Needle mattress?
Any solid foundation works. This includes platform beds, slatted bases with slats less than 5″ apart, and box springs.
Do Tuft and Needle mattresses have a break-in period?
Yes. Allow 30 days for your body to adjust to the new mattress.
Will Tuft and Needle remove my old mattress?
No. The company does not offer old mattress removal with standard delivery.
