I will share my PPP in case that is helpful to anyone else in a similar boat.
Stats:
135lb single female
side sleeper
severe chronic pain/fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue syndrome
currently on a Zenhaven but finding it a little too supportive and not comfortable, even with a 1.5 talalay topper
In a nutshell, I would like to find a mostly organic/natural talalay mattress (and possibly topper since I love the fluff!) in a soft, supportive, side sleeper-friendly construction for $2k or less with good return options if needed and really helpful customer service.
What you prefer:
Microclimate, breathability and temperature control
Lots of breathability, neutral to slightly cool temperature
Slow or fast response materials and where in the range you prefer
Fast. Instant preferred.
Sleeping āonā vs āinā the mattress
Bit of both, like to feel sunk in enough to be stable on my side and well contoured, a little fluff to snuggle into.
Motion isolation with small and large movements
Single so donāt really care, but some might be nice for the future.
The ease of movement or movement restriction on the mattress for changing position and āother activitiesā
I want to be able to move and change positions quite easily.
Edge support for those who sit or sleep on the edge of a mattress
I have iffy edge support on my Zenhaven and am used to it now. I donāt want to feel like Iām rolling out of bed, but I donāt use the edge of the mattress much.
āRoll togetherā for those who sleep close together in the center of a mattress
Single! But feeling sucked into another part of the bed drives me nuts. I already feel like I roll a little to the middle of my Zenhaven.
Overall āfeelā (such as the difference between combinations that include the āfeelā of innersprings and/or different types of foam in the comfort or support layers)
I just donāt like memory foam. I want a low to no pressure feel. I like a layer of airy fluff on top of the bed.
Durability of materials in the mattress
Longevity would be nice although I imagine my needs will change over time. Whatās more important to me is that the foams arenāt degrading and being breathed in.
Durability of construction (such as one or two sided)
Important but not a deciding factor.
Quality and performance of materials and construction
I want the highest quality I can afford.
Ability to open the mattress and exchange layers or make changes after purchase
I think this would be a nice to have but also could be fixed with a topper.
Warranty and warranty exclusions (which are often more important then the warranty itself). You can read more about mattress warranties here .
I like that my Zenhaven has a half-inch indentation policy. An inch and a half is more standard, that seems like a lot!
Budget limitations and range
Up to ~$2,200, needs to include base and topper. Probably not less than $1k and my preferences seem to put me above $1500.
Price vs quality and ācommodityā value of materials
Obviously Iād like the highest quality for the lowest price available, but I definitely make considerations for cut corners. I donāt want to save because returned mattresses are thrown in a landfill, for example.
Mattress only or foundation included (and the type)
Prefer foundation available from same company but itās not a deal breaker.
Natural materials vs synthetic
As much natural and more importantly organic as possible. This IS very important to me.
The type of cover and quilting (if any) you prefer
Organic natural
Your choice of retailer or manufacturer:
I donāt care for our limited local options, so sells online and willing to work with me!
The different āvalue addedā options that go with the mattress (delivery, financing, bonuses like pillows or a protector etc).
Delivery and especially assisted delivery is really helpful but at the end of the day, icing.
Options after purchase
Free return with assistance moving the mattress is best, return available with some loss and packing required is acceptable but not ideal. I will not consider a mattress I canāt return. Layer exchanges are helpful, especially when free. Minimum 30 day trial or I wonāt consider it.
The knowledge and service of the outlet you buy from
I want someone that really knows their stuff and performs attentive, thorough customer service
The importance of supporting a particular retailer or manufacturer
I am swayed by retailers that take sustainability seriously, and have quick clear communication