Helix Mattress Review
January 27, 2023
Helix Mattress stands out from many of the other best mattresses in a box because of its emphasis on individualization, using a proprietary Helix Color-MATCH system to pair buyers with just the right mattress to fit their needs. This has made the Helix a popular brand across many demographics, including among seniors, who often require a customized mattress experience in order to get a good night’s sleep.
In this Helix review, we’ll take a deep dive into some of the pros and cons of the Helix mattress.
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Pros and Cons of the Helix Mattress
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Great for couples: One reason to consider a Helix Mattress is the dual comfort option. Each partner can take the Sleep Quiz, and you can get all your preferences rolled into a single mattress. | So-so warranty: Helix products come with a 10-year warranty. This is considered to be fairly standard within the industry. While it isn’t poor, other mattress companies do better. |
| Great for all sleep types: No matter whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or stomach sleeper, the Helix offers something for you. Different memory foam options provide plenty of options. | Limited edge support. The innerspring layer is meant to provide edge support, but its effectiveness is limited. As with other memory foam mattresses, the Helix sinks a little bit around the edges. The central core of the mattress tends to be more resilient. |
| Ease of customization: Shopping for a new mattress is sometimes intimidating, and it can be hard to know exactly what you want. The Sleep Quiz that Helix offers makes it simple and intuitive to find the best mattress for you. You don’t have to know any mattress jargon or have previous shopping experience. | New company: Helix is one of the newer players in the mattress industry. Thus far they have largely found positive consumer reviews, but they lack the business track record of other companies. Shoppers who want a more robust brand reputation may want to consider other options. |
| Excellent hybrid design: The Helix unites memory foam mattress materials with innerspring features, making it one of the top hybrid mattresses available today. This allows the Helix to deliver a high level of comfort and support, even for those with back pain or other forms of discomfort. |
The Helix Mattress - An Overview
- Material: Helix Memory Foam (either Memory Plus or Dynamic)
- Firmness: Choose between Plush, Medium, and Firm
- MA Score: 8.9/10
- Customer Rating: 4.6/5
- Trial Period: 100 days
- Warranty: 10-year limited return warranty
- Mattress Height: Choose between 12” and 14”
- Size/Dimensions:
| Twin | 39” x 75” |
| Twin Xl | 39” x 80” |
| Full | 54” x 75” |
| Queen | 60” x 80” |
| King | 60” x 80” |
| Cal King | 72” x 80” |
MA Score: The Mattress Advisor Score is a weighted score that takes into account 14 different factors related to the mattress’ performance, function, convenience and the brand’s social responsibility.
Helix Mattress Materials
Though the Helix sleep experience encompasses several different types of mattresses in a box, they all have essentially the same base. These mattresses differ primarily in the second layer, also called the comfort layer. This layer will be comprised of either Helix Memory Plus Foam or Helix Dynamic Foam. The former is generally better for side sleepers. The latter tends to be a better fit for back and stomach sleepers. Of course, your mileage may vary, and the Sleep Quiz will help you determine which option is best for you.
Because Helix offers several different products, the precise makeup of each may vary from mattress to mattress. Here is a general idea of what you’ll find inside a Helix mattress. This is based on the Helix Midnight, the company’s most popular model.
What’s Inside?
- Helix Top Layer: The Helix Mattress comes with a two-layer topper. This includes a stretchable upper layer, which is soft to touch. A lower level helps promote the breathability of the mattress.
- Memory Foam Comfort Layer: The Helix Midnight also comes with a 2” comfort layer. This falls just below that two-layer cover. The foam layer is where you’ll find either Helix Memory Plus Foam or Helix Dynamic Foam. For the Midnight, it’s Memory Plus Foam. This is where you’ll get those pressure relief points.
- Polyfoam Transition Layer: Below the Comfort Layer, you’ll find the Transition Layer. This 1” section of the mattress provides good ergonomic support.
- Body Shape Layer: Below the polyfoam is the Body Shape Layer. This part of the mattress is made from pocket coils that are individually packaged, designed to minimize the transfer of motion. A series of inner coils cradle the body, while the outer ones offer edge support.
- Dense Foam Base Layer: Finally, you’ll find a 1” Base Layer. This is some additional memory foam, providing an additional level of support for sleepers.
Helix Mattress Features
Color-MATCH
It’s hard to talk about the Helix sleep experience without discussing Color-MATCH. This is the algorithm Helix uses to correctly pair body types with the ideal mattress solutions. Color-MATCH was developed in part by a team of ergonomics professionals. As such, the algorithm is designed to support your natural sleeping posture.
When you order a Helix, you always start by taking the Sleep Quiz. This is a very short set of questions. You’ll specify your body type and sleep preferences. This Quiz will help the Helix algorithms match you with the more comfortable mattress.
This represents a unique approach to mattress customization. After taking the Sleep Quiz, you will receive a personalized recommendation. This recommendation will take into account different firmness levels, your pressure points and more. The goal is to help you find the mattress that will give you the best night’s sleep, relief from any back pain, etc. Better still? Helix offers several options that make the best mattresses under $1,000 list.
Ultra-Cool Knit Cover
Some sleepers tend to run a little bit hot. If you often find yourself waking up feeling sticky and sweaty, Helix offers a solution called the Ultra-Cool Knit Cover. This is an additional upgrade, which means it raises the price of your mattress, but for many sleepers, it will be more than worth it. Temperature regulation helps you sleep cool and soundly.
Great for Seniors
Helix Mattress products are made for a wide range of people but have been especially well-reviewed by seniors. That’s because, as we age, many of us find that we need more support and a mattress with a firm feel as we sleep. Helix provides this high level of support, allowing those in their golden years to get all the comfort and rest they need.
Firmness Options
When shopping for a new mattress, firmness can be a deciding factor. The Helix Mattress offers several different options. Made with different kinds of memory foam material, these mattresses make it easy for anyone to find the best mattress for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Plush Mattress Options
For sleepers who prefer something soft and yielding, the Helix sleep experience provides several plush options.
Helix Sunset
Made with Memory Plus Foam, this soft mattress is ideal for side sleepers. It offers outstanding support and pressure relief.
Helix Moonlight
The Helix Moonlight is made with Helix Dynamic Foam. It boasts a soft feel and ample support for the stomach and back.
Helix Plus
Formerly called Helix Nightfall. This is a specialty item, mostly intended for plus-size sleepers.
Medium Mattress Options
There are also some options that come between the Plush and Firm firmness levels.
Helix Midnight
The Helix Midnight mattress is made with Memory Plus Foam. It’s often recommended for side sleepers and is the most popular Helix overall.
Helix Dusk
Made with Helix Dynamic Foam, this one is great for back and side sleepers. It’s known for its balance and body contouring features.
Firm Mattress Options
For those who prefer a truly high firmness level, Helix mattresses offer some good picks.
Helix Twilight
Helix Twilight is made with Memory Plus Foam. This is for sleepers who don’t want any “give” to their mattress.
Helix Dawn
Another firm mattress, made with Helix Dynamic Foam. A supportive option for all types of sleepers.
Compatible Foundations
When shopping for a new mattress, it’s important to consider foundations. It’s worth noting that Helix sells a foundation of its own, along with an adjustable base. These are compatible with all of its mattress products. Additionally, you can use a bunkie board with a box spring. Really, anything with firm, thick slats should fit well with a Helix Mattress.
An important consideration is to not use anything with slats more than 5” apart. This could cause the mattress to sag. In turn, this might void your warranty.
Sleeping Positions Best for Helix
The Helix sleep experience is well-suited for all sleeping positions. This is due to its array of options, its Color-MATCH algorithm, and its emphasis on individualization. When you take the Sleep Quiz, you’ll find the mattress that’s most closely identified with your standard sleeping position.
Side Sleepers
The Memory Plus Foam options that Helix makes available are among the best mattresses for side sleepers. These include Helix Sunset, Helix Midnight, and Helix Twilight. The reason Memory Plus Foam is so well-suited for side sleepers is that it gives just the right level of support. Too much support can actually lead to some pain or discomfort. Memory Plus Foam gives side sleepers just enough to feel like their spine is properly aligned, but without any overly stiff feelings.
Back Sleepers
Compared with the Memory Plus Foam option, Helix Dynamic Foam offers additional support. This makes it a better option for back sleepers, who need that extra support to be comfortable. The Helix Moonlight, Helix Dusk, and Helix Dawn options all fit into this category.
Stomach Sleepers
Much like back sleepers, stomach sleepers need an added layer of support. Again, the Helix Dynamic Foam options provide that support, and ample comfort. Look into the Helix Moonlight, Helix Dusk, and Helix Dawn if this is your preferred sleep style.
More About Helix
The Helix Mattress company is primarily known for its algorithmic approach and its emphasis on customization. Here are a few additional points that help Helix stand out from the crowd.
Made in the USA
The Helix company is proudly U.S. owned and operated. It’s headquartered in New York, and actually has a showroom where you can see some of these mattresses up close and personal. Even if you can’t make it to New York, you can rest assured that all Helix products are made domestically, using U.S. materials and labor.
Break-in Period
When you buy a Helix product, you’ll be encouraged to give it a full 30 days before it’s properly “broken in.” After that, if you still think it’s a little too soft or a little too stiff, Helix will try to make things right. Reach out to them with your complaint and Helix will send you a new topper you can add to your mattress, augmenting the firmness level. This doesn’t void the warranty or interfere with your 100-day return window. In some cases, it may be just the little tweak that’s necessary to make your mattress perfectly comfortable.
Referral Program
Helix is a relatively new company in a competitive field, so naturally, they are keen on spreading the word. If you help them generate buzz, there’s a small reward in it for you. If you refer a friend who ends up buying a Helix Mattress, you’ll be sent $50 in Amazon gift money. Your friend, meanwhile, will get $50 off their Helix purchase.
Free Shipping
If you order a Helix Mattress from anywhere in the United States, the company will deliver it straight from their factory to your front door, without any fees. (In Canada, it costs $150 to ship a Helix product.) The shipping is handled via UPS Ground, and Helix mattresses typically arrive within four to eight days of the order being placed. The mattresses are rolled into a box that’s 16” x 16” x 48”, and it’s pretty easy to unpack.
Other Sleep Accessories Sold by Helix
As you consider your Helix Mattress options, it may also be worth checking out some of these other products.
|
Adjustable Base
|
Foundation
|
Ultra-Cool Pad
|
Weighted Blanket
|
|---|---|---|---|
| This easy-to-assemble base offers zero-gravity and memory settings. This makes it ideal for pain and pressure relief. | Helix has a special foundation, designed to provide these mattresses with optimal support. These are built to be sturdy and durable. | Do you run hot in the night time? Stay cool all night long with this add-on. This technologically advanced pad helps absorb and mediate extra body heat. | Whether you’re looking to snuggle or just feel secure, you’ll want to check out this soothing weighted blanket. |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Helix Mattress FAQ
- Can I finance my Helix mattress?
Helix offers financing solutions through a program called Klarna. This service makes loans available for rates as low as zero percent APR. Using Klarna is very easy. At the Helix website, just select Klarna from the payment options, and a series of prompts will guide you through the rest of the process.
- How long will it take for my Helix mattress to be delivered?
Helix products are shipped directly from the manufacturing center to your front door, using UPS Ground. For shoppers in the United States, Helix products typically arrive within four to eight days of the initial purchase.
- How does the sleep trial work?
Each Helix customer has a 100-day window in which they get to decide whether their Helix product is right for them. This trial period starts the day the mattress is delivered. If, during this window, you decide you don’t like the mattress, you can contact the Helix customer support center. A service representative will walk you through the return process. Mattresses are typically donated to local charities or shelters, and Helix will arrange to have someone come pick it up from your home. There is no need to package the mattress or cram it back into the box.
- Is it necessary for me to flip my Helix Mattress?
While some mattress products benefit from a semi-regular flip, Helix Mattresses don’t require it. In fact, it’s advised that you not flip your mattress. That’s because each one is customized to provide the necessary comfort and support, something it achieves through a unique combination of layers. If you invert the top layer and the base layer, for example, your Helix sleep experience won’t be as comfortable.
- How quickly do I need to unbox my Helix Mattress?
It’s important to open and set up your Helix Mattress within two weeks of its delivery. If it remains in its box for too long, that can adversely impact its resilience. This might mean the mattress is unable to attain its intended shape. Also note that your 100-day trial period begins the day your mattress arrives, so you’ll want to start the break-in as soon as possible.
- How do I clean my Helix Mattress cover?
The Helix Mattress cover cannot be removed from the mattress itself. However, if there is a small spill or minor stain, you can spot-clean it. Additionally, Helix makes a mattress cover protector available, which can prevent these issues from happening in the first place.
Conclusion
There are a number of reasons why the Helix Mattress has become one of the best mattress brands, but the big selling point is the level of customization available here. The Sleep Quiz is an innovative way to isolate your unique sleeping style and mattress preferences, while the Color-MATCH algorithm does an admirable job of pairing each buyer to the correct mattress. Helix does a good job at avoiding the one-size-fits-all approach, and they also demystify the mattress-buying process. For those who have never bought a mattress of their own or just want to make sure they’re getting it right, Helix certainly offers a good process.
This focus on customization also means that the Helix product line offers a little something for everyone. Side sleepers, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers can all get just the level of support they need for a solid night of sleep. Couples who have vastly different mattress preferences can both get their way, thanks to the dual comfort options. The plus-size mattress choices are also welcome, and worth highlighting.
The 10-year limited warranty that Helix offers is one of its less impressive features. While 10 years isn’t awful, it’s also not quite at the top of the industry standard. The company largely makes up for this with its agreeability to send additional mattress toppers to help you tweak your Helix experience. And, getting rid of a mattress you don’t like is very easy. As a bonus, Helix sends these unwanted mattresses to shelters and charities, which helps them make a positive social impact.
On the whole, Helix Mattress products are recommended for anyone who’s looking for something truly customized to the way they sleep. As you seek a mattress that gives you exactly the right kind of support, Helix makes it easy for you to find what you’re after. Check out more Helix mattress reviews to learn more about the company and its products, but from our point of view, Helix clearly warrants a thumbs-up.
About the Author Josh Hurst
Josh Hurst lives and writes in Knoxville, TN. A recovering insomniac, he has a long-standing appreciation for the power of a good night's sleep.
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