Hi jm66,
Welcome to the Mattress Underground and joining as a new MUGster!
Residing on the East Coast, I don’t have many firsthand recommendations in the Los Angeles area, but one that stands out is Custom Comfort.
If you’re willing to venture a couple of hours north or south, you have Trusted Members like Mattress Makers, and independent mattress manufacturers such as Spencer’s Ventura Mattress, and Santa Barbara Mattress. Checking out RoyalPedic’s website might also yield options within a short distance of Ontario.
You’ll find a variety of Trusted Members here at TMU offering nationwide delivery. While legacy brands might catch your eye, it’s wise to proceed with caution. Through research, you’ll likely discover that independent mattress manufacturers offer better price-to-value ratios, providing longevity, and higher customer satisfaction. Some Bed-in-a-Box (BinB) brands also provide quality mattresses within your budget and preferences. You will need to proceed with caution regarding the BinB’s. Look for ones who make their mattresses within their own factories, made here in America, and who are obvious not marketing companies posing as mattress companies.
As you continue your search, you’ll come across suggestions for various types of mattresses, including all-latex mattresses, hybrid mattresses blending latex and springs, hybrids incorporating synthetic foams and pocket springs, and mattresses incorporating natural fibers like wool, cotton, and even horsehair. Each of these can be viable options, as long as their construction is carefully considered and well-executed.
Key components to look for include a supportive spring layer, preferably in the high 12 to low 14-gauge range, and high-density foam ranging from a minimum of 1.8 to 2.8 lbs. If you must use memory foam, at least 4lb and 5lb density. Latex and natural fibers offer long term durability and overall comfort. For someone such as yourself, I would try and look for densities over 2lbs, but overall construction and layout is important.
Remember, a mattress is only as good as its weakest layer. I advocate for edge-to-edge springs over perimeter foam encasement for long-term support.
It’s essential to know what’s inside a mattress; transparency matters. If a company hesitates to disclose specifications, it’s a red flag. Moving on is wise in such cases.
For Bed-in-a-Box options, consider the DLX Classic Hybrid and Premier Hybrid, both designed to accommodate individuals of your size. Alternatively, consult with other Trusted Members who can help you find a mattress matching your needs from a distance.
If you do find a legacy brand that suits you, Magic Sleeper Mattress offers a system to duplicate it, ensuring your comfort using materials they would be willing to discuss and be transparent about.
You can always refer to the plethora of tutorials we offer here at TMU. The Five Steps to the Perfect Mattress is a short version tutorial that offers a long of information in a compact format.
If you have a question for a specific Trusted Member Expert you can look here and just add the @ symbol as a prefix to the Trusted Member you have questions for.
Good luck on your continued search,
Maverick