Written by Sosha Lewis, Senior Staff Writer
In a time of fast trends and instant gratification, modern classics may be hard to find. However, by renaming the updated model of their flagship memory foam mattress, the Nectar Classic, the company believes this bed is worthy of a timeless name.
The new iteration of Nectar’s original mattress is slightly firmer than its predecessor. The Classic offers a supportive base for back and stomach sleepers. It’s also considerably cheaper than many competitors, making it a budget-friendly option. Let’s dive deeper and discover if this Nectar earns its new name or is just another passing fad.
This mattress is no longer available for purchase. To help you find your next mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses available on the market now.
Nectar Mattress Performance Ratings
How the Nectar Compares
Here at Sleep Advisor, we’ve tested over 150 different mattresses. Nectar’s new version of their basic memory foam model comes out swinging. It performs better than most other averages in overall performance, support, motion isolation, cooling, edge support, and compatibility for couples, and it costs considerably less than its competitors. Plus, it has a longer sleep trial and a slightly higher profile than the average bed.
| Test | Nectar | Average |
| Overall | 4.3 | 4.1 |
| Mattress Height | 12″ | 11″ |
| Sleep Trial | 365 Nights | 141 Nights |
| Price (Queen) | $1,099 (before discounts) | $1,695 |
| Pressure Relief | 4 | 4.3 |
| Support | 5 | 4.5 |
| Motion Isolation | 5 | 3.9 |
| Cooling | 4 | 3.9 |
| Bounce | 3.5 | 4 |
| Edge Support | 5 | 3.9 |
| Couples | 4 | 3.9 |
Watch Our Nectar Video Review
Editors note: We are working on updating our video review. For the most recent findings, please refer to our written review.
Who I Recommend the Nectar For:
- Those with restless partners – If your partner’s tossing and turning keeps you awake, the Nectar Classic’s superior motion isolation should help them keep their movement to themselves. My colleague, Corey Bryan, plopped down hard on the bed when I was on it, and had I not watched him do it, I would have never known he was even on it.
- Back sleepers – I was giddy about how this bed felt when I was on my back. The memory foam filled in around my lower back, and the supportive firmness kept my spine aligned.
- Firm mattress fans – If your mattress must-haves include memory foam and a firmer feel, you’ll be singing the Nectar Classic’s praises.
Who I Don’t Recommend the Nectar For:
- Side sleepers -Although this bed felt better than I expected when I was on my side, I still don’t think it’s the best choice for side sleepers. Pressure will likely begin to build around the shoulder and ribs because of how firm it is.
- Traditional memory foam lovers – The Nectar Classic doesn’t provide the slow, soft contouring of many memory foam mattresses. If that is what you’re looking for, this is not the best fit.
Customer Reviews of the Nectar Mattress
With over 50, 000 reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.
Testing the Nectar
Sleep Advisor’s Testing Methodology
Our mattress testing combines scientific data with hands-on evaluation, allowing us to provide the most comprehensive results. When I tested the Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress, I used equipment such as a temperature gun, pressure map, and seismograph app to test cooling, pressure relief, and motion isolation, respectively.
I also got on the bed to feel it and see if I agreed with the equipment’s findings. This hands-on testing also allowed me to gauge how this bed would perform in categories such as pressure relief, edge support, and bounce. My teammate, Corey, joined me to see how well this bed did at isolating motion when two people were on the bed, which is an important feature for couples.
For more on our testing methodology, visit our product review process page.
Firmness & Feel
Firmness Scale: 7.5/10
The Nectar Classic has a firmer-than-average feel, and I rated it 7.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale. Given that many memory foam mattresses tend to be around a 6 or 6.5, I was a little surprised by this, but I think the higher-than-usual firmness gives it a few unique advantages over some of its counterparts.
How Does the Nectar Mattress Feel?
The Nectar Classic’s cover is made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that is soft and soothing, albeit a little slick. I immediately noticed how supported and secure I felt sitting and lying on this bed. Although it didn’t give me the deep, soft contouring of other memory foam mattresses, I liked how comforting and welcoming this bed was.
Sleeping Positions for Different Body Types
According to Nectar, a queen-size model can hold up to 1,000 pounds.
Side Sleepers
| Body Type | Weight Range | Tester Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Sleepers | Less than 130 pounds | The firmness of the Nectar Classic will likely make it too firm for lightweight side sleepers who could experience pressure build-up around their shoulders. |
| Average-Weight Sleepers | 130-230 pounds | As a part-time side sleeper, I wouldn’t want to sleep on this bed every night. I found it too firm around my shoulders and ribs. |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | More than 230 pounds | I spoke with a plus-size colleague who also tested this mattress. He said he felt pressure on his shoulder and hips when testing the Nectar Classic. |
Back Sleepers
| Body Type | Weight Range | Tester Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Sleepers | Less than 130 pounds | Lighter folks who enjoy a firmer feel should appreciate this mattress when sleeping on their back. |
| Average-Weight Sleepers | 130-230 pounds | I am a big fan of this bed for average-weight back sleepers. The foam filled the space around the lower back, bringing a melting sensation. |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | More than 230 pounds | A heavyweight mattress tester on our team said this was his favorite position for the Nectar Classic. |
Stomach Sleepers
| Body Type | Weight Range | Tester Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Sleepers | Less than 130 pounds | Most lightweight stomach sleepers will probably find this bed too firm to provide all-night comfort. |
| Average-Weight Sleepers | 130-230 pounds | I loved how my hips were elevated, and my spine remained straight when I was on my stomach. This position was comfortable for me, but I recommend using a low-loft pillow or no pillow at all. |
| Heavyweight Sleepers | More than 230 pounds | My plus-size co-worker said this mattress provided “decent” support when he was on his stomach. He thought that it would be better for average-weight stomach sleepers, and as someone who falls in the average-weight category, I agree. |
Pressure Relief
4/5
Given its firmness, I was pleasantly surprised by how much pressure relief this bed provided. In addition to noting how it made me feel, I also used a pressure map to see if there were areas where pressure was accumulating.
The pictures show mainly green and blue, indicating little pressure with some hints of yellow. That said, this is not a bed I would want to sleep on every night on my side, and I deducted a point because of this. However, side sleepers who like a firmer feel could get the best of both worlds with this bed.
Learn more about mattresses for pressure relief.
Is the Nectar Mattress Good for Pain Relief?
After testing this mattress, I think its supportiveness and firm yet contouring foam could help relieve back pain. However, I am a little more hesitant to recommend it to those with shoulder and hip pain as I think these folks may not find it soft enough to relieve pressure around these areas.
| Back Pain | The firmer memory foam and the top-notch support of this bed could help those with back pain. It contoured around my lower back and kept my spine aligned, and much of the tension in my back melted away on the Nectar Classic. Read more about mattresses for back pain here. |
| Hip Pain | People with hip pain may find this mattress too firm to ease their discomfort. Although the foam contours around the body, I don’t think it will be enough to ease pressure and pain in this area. Read more about mattresses for hip pain here. |
| Shoulder Pain | Like my thoughts on hip pain, I don’t think this is a bed I’d seek out if I had shoulder pain. The foam could push back too much against the shoulder, which may increase pain. Explore more mattresses for shoulder pain here. |
Support
5/5
With 12 inches of supportive foam, including an 8-inch stability layer, the Nectar Classic earns a gold medal in support. This base layer prevents you from sinking too far into the mattress, leading to excellent spinal alignment.
When I tested this bed for support, I was particularly impressed with how it kept my hips elevated on my back and on my stomach. I didn’t feel any awkward twists and turns of my spine. Corey stated that the supportiveness made him feel very secure as well.
Motion Isolation
5/5
If you, like me, sleep with someone who makes you feel like you’re on a Tilt-a-Whirl at the county fair, you need to add this bed to your cart immediately. I tested the motion isolation using a seismograph app, and the reading was close to a flat line. While the reading was impressive, it was the hands-on test that blew me out of the water.
While I was lying on the bed, Corey got on the other side like how your partner would slip into bed. I felt absolutely nothing. He then sat on the edge of the bed and bounced up and down, and had it not been for the sound of the bed compressing, I wouldn’t have known he was moving. Needless to say, the Nectar Classic received a 5 out of 5 in this category.
Temperature Regulation / Cooling
4/5
Memory foam beds, especially those not implementing cooling technology, aren’t typically known for their temperature-regulating prowess. So, I was extremely pleased with how the Nectar Classic performed on the cooling tests.
I first measured the mattress’s surface temperature, then took an additional reading after lying on the bed for five minutes and another one after another five minutes had passed. It only raised 8 degrees over the course of the testing.
I deducted a point because it wasn’t cool to the touch, and the temperature raised more than five degrees during testing. I think this is a solid choice for moderately hot sleepers — especially those who like memory foam.
Bounce
3.5/5
I tested this bed’s bounce by dropping a 10-pound medicine ball on it and observing whether the mattress sprung the ball back up. It didn’t. When the medicine ball hit the mattress, it sank and regained its original shape at a medium pace.
However, when I changed positions on it, I didn’t feel stuck in the bed like on other memory foam beds. The firmer foam allowed me to move about fairly easily, but I still wouldn’t make this a top choice for those with mobility issues or sexually active couples. These reasons are why I deducted 1.5 points.
Edge Support
5/5
The dense, firm foam of the Nectar Classic extends to the bed’s perimeter, giving sleepers a deep sense of security when lying or sitting on the edge. This feature benefits those experiencing mobility issues, allowing them to get in and out of bed more easily. It can also be great for couples because it lets them use the entire surface space without fear of rolling out of bed. I tested this by lying close to the edge and by sitting on the edge and bending over like I would when tying my shoes. I did each of these tests for a minute.
I noticed a slight sink when I sat on the bed, but it didn’t cause any issues. Also, the cover is a little slick, but that can be easily remedied with a fitted sheet. Neither the sinkage nor the slickness were enough for me to deduct any points, and the Nectar Classic earned a 5 out of 5 in edge support.
Accessibility
4.5/5
In the crowded mattress landscape, beds and manufacturers try to stand out by offering incentives to buy their mattresses. Nectar has outstanding policies, including a year-long sleep trial, a Forever warranty, and free shipping and returns.
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam bed has a removable cover featuring two zippers. This design makes it easy to remove the cover, but Nectar advises you only to spot-clean it and warns that removing it will void your warranty. Also, the Classic is fairly light but it doesn’t have handles like other Nectar mattresses and that is why I deducted half a point from its accessibility score.
Customer Service
4/5
Customer service reps are available seven days a week via live chat, a toll-free number, or email. After entering my name and email, I appreciated being connected to an actual person via the online chat. Additionally, when I asked a question that the representative I was chatting with didn’t know the answer to, they found someone who did and followed up with a detailed answer.
However, I deducted a point because the answer to my question wasn’t clear. I was actually more unclear after I got the answer. Sleep Advisor’s editor contacted another representative who provided a sufficient response.
Performance for Couples
4/5
Sleeping with a partner means that you need to pay more attention to areas such as motion isolation, edge support, and, if you’re sexually active, bounce. Also, couples usually need to find a bed with universally appealing firmness.
The Nectar Classic Memory Foam has excellent motion isolation and edge support. Couples shouldn’t be bothered by the other turning over or getting out of bed, and the superior edge support means that they can spread out across the bed without worry of falling out. However, the lack of bounce may make it difficult to change positions during sex, and the above-average firmness may mean it won’t work for both members of the couple. Although I think it will perform very well in several couple-centric categories, I deducted a point because of the firmness and lack of bounce.
This mattress is no longer available for purchase. To help you find your next mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses available on the market now.
Preference-Based Features
Hybrid Version Available
The Nectar is an all-foam mattress, but there’s also a hybrid version of this bed: the Nectar Classic Hybrid.
White Glove Delivery
Shoppers can opt for white glove delivery, which means Nectar will help set up your new mattress and remove your old one. White glove delivery costs an additional $199.
Adjustable Base Compatible
If you have your eye on an adjustable base, the Nectar mattress should work well with a moveable frame. The company even offers frames designed specifically for their mattress.
Find our picks for the best adjustable beds here or explore the Nectar Adjustable Bed Frame
Construction: What’s Inside the Nectar Classic Memory Foam Mattress?
The Nectar Classic Memory is 12 inches tall and covered in breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that fights bacteria with an antimicrobial treatment.
- The first layer is 1 inch of memory foam, providing a soft contouring feel.
- Sitting below the memory foam is a 3-inch support foam that promotes spinal alignment.
- The tallest layer is an 8-inch thick conventional foam that helps stabilize the bed and delivers overall body support. This foam layer also helps enhance motion isolation.
- The Shift-Resistant Lower Cover sits at the bottom and helps keep the upper layers in place.
Unboxing & Off-Gassing
The Nectar comes in a box, which means it’s compressed and rolled into a smaller size to fit a small package. Once it arrives, you should carry the box to where you want to place the mattress before opening it. When you open and unroll the bed, you’ll notice that it’s much thinner. This is because of the compression, and it’ll usually take about 24-72 hours for it to decompress.
You may notice an odor after unboxing your new Nectar mattress. This is called off-gassing and is pretty common for bed-in-a-box mattresses. Allow the Nectar to rest in a well-ventilated room for the time it takes to reach its full size. By the time it decompresses, the smell should be gone too.
Certifications
- CertiPUR-US® – The foams in this bed are CertiPUR-US® certified. CertiPUR-US® is a third-party program that ensures the foams meet rigorous health and safety standards. This means they don’t contain harmful substances like ozone depleters, PBDEs, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates. They should also have low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions.
Noteworthy Updates
This new Nectar model was recently updated with different construction layers, and it is now fiberglass-free. This Nectar mattress now has a thinner memory foam layer but a thicker support base, which likely explains its firmer feel than before.
Coupons, Trials, Warranties, and Shipping
| Shipping | Delivery is free within the contiguous United States, or it can be shipped to Hawaii and Alaska for an additional $250. |
| White Glove Delivery | Optional white-glove delivery and mattress removal are available for an additional $199. The removal of your previous mattress is at the discretion of the provider, though, and may not be available in some areas for safety reasons. |
| Trial | Keep this bed for 365 nights risk-free. If you are unsatisfied in any way, you can return it and claim a full refund. |
| Warranty | Those who order a Nectar mattress receive a Forever warranty. However, the deal is only effective for the original purchaser. |
| Return Policy | Returns are free as long they’re within the sleep trial. |
Nectar Mattress Prices & Sizes
| Size | Dimensions (inches) | Price (w/o discount) |
| Twin | 38” x 75” x 12” | $699 |
| Twin XL | 38” x 80” x 12” | $899 |
| Full | 54” x 75” x 12” | $949 |
| Queen | 60” x 80” x 12” | $1,099 |
| King | 76” x 80” x 12” | $1,399 |
| Cal King | 72” x 84” x 12” | $1,399 |
| Split King | 38” x 80” x 12” (per side) | $1,798 |
Nectar Mattress FAQS
What are the pros and cons of a Nectar mattress?
The Nectar Classic brings unparalleled motion isolation, and its firm foam layers provide excellent full-body support. This bed also excels in edge support, and it cools remarkably well for a memory foam bed. When it comes to return on investment, the Nectar Classic’s quality materials and low price make it a best-in-class.
However, the firmness of this bed may not appeal to most folks. After testing it, I wouldn’t recommend it for side sleepers, as I think they will experience pressure build-up. Although couples will love how it prevents movement from transferring, I think sexually active partners may find that the lack of bounce could provide for some awkward repositioning.
Are Nectar mattresses really worth it?
Unequivocally, yes! Nectar mattresses are priced remarkably low for a bed constructed of durable, supportive materials. Additionally, many Nectar mattresses offer cooling properties found in beds that cost twice as much. Nectar shows that it believes in its product by offering a lifetime warranty.
Is the Nectar a good mattress?
Yes, Nectar mattresses are excellent beds. They fight above their weight class in materials, features, and policies, and finding an opponent who can match them at their price point is tough.
How thick is the Nectar mattress?
The Nectar mattress is 12 inches thick.
How long should a Nectar mattress last?
The Nectar should last seven to 10 years, which is standard for most quality memory foam beds. Our Senior Editor, Jill, has had a Nectar for three years now and says it’s held up well. She hasn’t noticed any premature sagging or noticeable dents in her Nectar mattress.
Do I need a box spring with my Nectar mattress?
You don’t need a box spring with your Nectar mattress, but you can use one if you want. The Nectar is compatible with multiple foundation types, including an adjustable base for those who like to customize their beds a bit more.
Is the Nectar mattress flippable?
The Nectar mattress isn’t flippable. Flipping this bed would make bottom layers come first, changing how the Nectar performs regardless of your preferred sleeping position. Instead, you can rotate the mattress to reduce potential wear and tear.
If you’re looking for a flippable option, explore our picks for the best double-sided mattresses
Nectar vs. Other Brands
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| Nectar Mattress | Saatva Mattress | Puffy Cloud Mattress | |
| Rating | |||
| Firmness | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6/10 |
| Material | Foam | Innerspring | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — | |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 365 nights | 365 nights | 101 nights |
| Best For | Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Kids |
Who I Recommend Saatva For
- Hot sleepers
- Heavier people
- Luxury shoppers
Learn more in our Saatva Mattress Review.
Who I Recommend the Puffy For
- Hot sleepers
- Restless sleepers
- Lightweight people
Interested? Read our full Puffy Mattress Review.
Nectar Classic Memory Foam vs. Other Nectar Models
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| Nectar Mattress | Nectar Classic Hybrid | Nectar Premier Mattress | |
| Rating | |||
| Firmness | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
| Material | Foam | Hybrid | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — | |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping minus HI and AK | Free shipping |
| Trial Period | 365 nights | 365 nights | 365 nights |
| Best For | Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples | Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers |
Who I Recommend Nectar Classic Hybrid For
- Those with restless partners
- Folks who sleep hot
- Back Sleepers
Check out our full Nectar Hybrid Mattress Review.
Who I Recommend Nectar Premier Hybrid For
- Pressure relief seekers
- Hot sleepers
- Those who like deep-contouring
Explore our Nectar Premier Mattress Review.
My Verdict of the Nectar Mattress
After spending time with the Nectar Classic, I think it will stand the test of time. Classics tend to know you don’t have to be flashy to be worthy. The updated model of the Nectar flagship uses solid construction and quality materials to bring a budget-friendly bed that seems as if it should cost more.
I recommend this bed for couples and think it is a great match for most back sleepers. Side sleepers will likely find this bed too firm and may be better suited for the Nectar Premier, giving them some added pressure relief. The Nectar Classic was one of my favorite affordable memory foam mattresses. My final score for this bed is 4.3 out of 5.
This mattress is no longer available for purchase. To help you find your next mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses available on the market now.
Sosha Lewis
Senior Staff Writer
About Author
Sosha Lewis is a senior staff writer for Sleep Advisor. Lewis is happy that she is able to combine her love of sleep with her love of writing.
Combination Sleeper
Education & Credentials
- Certified Sleep Science Coach