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8 Best Split King Mattresses for Couples

Because you both deserve a good night's rest!

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a white bed frame with a split king mattress in a bed room setting
GH Consumer Tester

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Considering a split king mattress? Whether you're investing in a split king adjustable bed or are sick of compromising with your partner when it comes to mattress shopping, we've got you covered. It's not quite as life-altering as a sleep divorce, but you'll be able to finally share the bed and have your own mattress.

Remember: A Split King mattress is comprised of two Twin XL mattresses. Not all mattress brands offer a Split King, but many carry Twin XL, so you can build your own Split King set.

Our Top Pick: Our top-tested Split King mattress is the Saatva Classic Mattress. It stands out for its breathable nature and excellent support, making it great for a wide range of users, and comes with full-service setup at no additional cost. If you prefer a boxed mattress to set up on your own time or are looking to spend under $500, we recommend the Allswell Luxe Hybrid.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has been testing home products (including the best mattresses) for over 120 years. Our expert analysts evaluate every aspect, from ordering and setup process to long-term comfort, support and perceived effect on sleep quality, with the help of hundreds of at-home consumer testers. Plus, we surveyed more than 10,000 mattress owners for added insight into the best bed for every type of sleeper.

    1
    Best Overall

    Saatva Classic Mattress

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    Pros

    • High scores for comfort and support
    • Excellent breathability
    • Free delivery and setup

    Cons

    • Runs firm

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Users looking for excellent support and breathability as well as free white-glove delivery and mattress removal.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Anyone who prefers a cushiony or cradling feel; this bed may feel too firm for their liking.

    Saatva's Classic Mattress delivers top-notch support without compromising on comfort. It's even designed with two different coil systems for maximum breathability.

    When we first tested this mattress, the edge support and breathability stood out; it felt well-constructed and offered solid support throughout, though it felt firmer than expected. If you're a side sleeper who likes a medium feel, I'd recommend the plush; the luxury firm felt too firm for a few users on our consumer panel.

    Still, over 100 people on our consumer panel praised the overall comfort, support and positive impact on their sleep quality. Long-time users highlighted the supportive edges, which made it easier to get in and out of bed. One of our consumer testers said, "I feel like I could spend the whole day lying in bed."

    Best of all, the brand provides classic white-glove delivery at no extra cost, which is rare nowadays: Most online brands ship their mattresses in a box for self setup. Plus, Saatva offers a generous 365-day sleep trial with a $99 return fee.

    Note that if you're planning on pairing the mattress with an adjustable bed, opt for the 11.5-inch variation, as the 14.5-inch model is incompatible.

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Saatva Classic Mattress Review

    Mattress typeInnerspring
    Height11.5 in. or 14.5 in.
    FirmnessPlush Soft, Luxury Firm, Firm
    Trial period365 days
    2
    Best Value

    Allswell Luxe Hybrid

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    Credit: Mike Garten

    Pros

    • Hybrid foam and coils design
    • Easy DIY setup
    • Users said it feels like an expensive hotel bed

    Cons

    • Lacks edge support

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Price-conscious shoppers looking to spend less without sacrificing comfort. In our tests, this bed was also favored by younger adults in their 20s.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Older users or those with limited mobility may find the edge support and DIY setup unideal.

    Mattresses have gotten notably more expensive in recent years (the average Queen size hybrid mattress in 2023 cost $2,050), but the Allswell Luxe Hybrid continues to excel in our tests, earning high scores for its pillowy yet sturdy feel, thanks to its cushiony foam and pocketed coil base. In fact, it's received glowing reviews year after year from our tester panel. One user called it called it "undeniably comfortable," while others compared it to a "plush hotel mattress."

    In our surveys, users appreciated the bed's comfortable feel, and many especially liked how the foam conformed to their bodies without sinking under their weight. Some also shared that it helped alleviate their back and neck pain. The medium firmness is also versatile; it's great for a variety of users and feels comfortable yet supportive.

    The Luxe Hybrid is fairly easy to set up, though boxed mattresses can be daunting (and plastic-heavy) if you haven't purchased one before. The caveat is that the edge support isn't great, which makes getting in and out of bed more difficult. But it's still a good deal for its price point. Even after testing hundreds of mattresses, we still haven't found a comparable mattress with the same quality construction and low cost.

    For this pick, purchase two Twin XL mattresses to achieve a Split King. (The pricing listed reflects the total cost.)

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Allswell Mattress Review

    Mattress typeHybrid
    Height12 in.
    FirmnessMedium
    Trial period90 days
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    3
    Best for Side Sleepers

    Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud

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    $3,398 $2,379 at Tempur-Pedic
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    Credit: Mike Garten

    Pros

    • Tempur-Pedic foam at a lower price
    • Adapts and contours to your body shape
    • Pairs well with an adjustable base

    Cons

    • 10-inch height may feel too low for some users

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Side sleepers looking for just enough pressure relief for their hips and shoulders and those who want the unique feel of Tempur-Pedic's foam at a more affordable price point.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Sleepers, including stomach sleepers, who prefer a firmer surface instead of conforming memory foam.

    We've evaluated hundreds of mattresses, but no other foam mattress has been able to replicate the one-of-a-kind, tailored pressure relief and support of a Tempur-Pedic. What's best about the Tempur-Cloud is that it offers the brand's premium, proprietary foam at a more affordable price point as long as you're prepared to unbox the compressed mattress on your own.

    One tester said, "it contours to the body like no other," while other users told us that the luxurious, "cloud-like" feel lives up to the hype. The pressure-relieving foam also delivers precise support, cradling hips and shoulders to promote neutral alignment.

    Our testers, especially those who sleep on their sides, appreciated the gentle support, though some were surprised at how firm it felt initially. One shared, "It starts out very firm but gradually gets more and more comfortable." The drawback with this one is the short 10-inch height, which some users found a bit short. Still, this lower profile, in combination with the flexible foam, make it ideal for pairing with an adjustable base.

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud Review

    Mattress typeFoam
    Height10 in.
    FirmnessMedium
    Trial period120 days
    4
    Best Hybrid

    Bear Elite Hybrid

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    $4,282 $2,998 at Bear Mattress
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    Credit: Courtesy of Tester

    Pros

    • Ergonomic layout
    • Users reported improved sleep quality
    • Perfect comfort and support ratings from testers

    Cons

    • We couldn't validate the recovery claims

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Side and back sleepers, those suffering from back pain and anyone who has struggled to find a truly comfortable mattress.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Those who prefer firm innerspring mattresses or all-foam models.

    Bear's Elite Hybrid Mattress is the best hybrid mattress we've ever tested. It won over every user in our tests and impressed seasoned GH experts who've tested mattresses for over a decade. The ergonomic design provides extra cushioning around targeted areas like the hips and back for personalized comfort that helps promote a neutral spinal alignment.

    Nowadays, you'll see many brands boast about "zoned support" in their foam or coil layers, but the Bear Elite Hybrid was one of the first models we saw incorporate it to this level, having seven different zones throughout.

    Our consumer testers gave it top scores for every category from comfort and support to sleep quality. Several even dubbed it "nothing short of amazing." One said, "It feels like my entire body is being supported, regardless of my position." Plus, one of our experts even found herself sleeping through her alarms for the first time in years.

    Still, Bear makes some claims on its product listing that we weren't able to verify, specifically about how Celliant fibers use infrared technology to promote recovery.

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Bear Elite Hybrid Review

    Mattress typeHybrid
    Height14 in.
    FirmnessSoft, Medium, Firm
    Trial period120 days
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    5
    Best for Back Pain

    Nolah Original 10”

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    Pros

    • High praise from testers with joint pain
    • Pressure-relieving memory foam
    • Good scores for comfort and support

    Cons

    • Testers noted it took a few days to adjust to the new mattress

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Users with chronic pain (e.g., back, hip, neck and shoulder pain) in search of a pressure-relieving bed with solid support.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Stomach sleepers or those who prefer firm beds may not find this mattress firm enough.

    While no mattress will instantly cure your chronic back pain, the wrong mattress can make that pain undoubtedly worse. You'll want to maintain a neutral spinal alignment, and, for most people, a medium level of firmness is ideal. Compared to other mattresses we've tested, this pick from Nolah performed the best with users with chronic back and hip pain in our evaluations, receiving good scores for comfort and support.

    What stands out most about Nolah is its unique foam. Unlike standard memory foam, Nolah's is injected with extra pockets of air for a more breathable and responsive mattress that still provides pressure relief. Though designed for side sleepers, the versatile medium firmness has proven comfortable for back and combination sleepers too.

    One user told us, "[this mattress was] significantly helpful in relieving back pain for my husband who has scoliosis." Another highlighted how the mattress "offers support while still cradling pressure points." One tester with hip pain was surprised at how refreshed she felt after the first night on the all-foam hybrid model.

    The downside is that some of our reviewers, especially those used to firm beds, took longer to adjust to it, despite the benefits.

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Nolah Original Mattress Review

    Mattress typeFoam
    Height10 in.
    FirmnessMedium
    Trial period120 days
    6
    Best Cooling

    Purple Mattress

    Mattress
    Credit: Courtesy of Tester

    Pros

    • Airy grid-like layer on top
    • Good motion isolation and responsive feel
    • Users said it feels like a perfect balance of soft and firm

    Cons

    • Hard to maneuver despite low-profile height

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Hot sleepers, couples looking for a responsive bed with good motion isolation or people who want to try something new.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Cold sleepers or anyone who prefers a tall mattress (this is our shortest pick at 9.25 inches). Those who prefer to use a mattress pad or topper also won't feel the grid's cooling effects or unique feel.

    Purple mattresses are in a category of their own, thanks to their unique material that provides a feel that's both cradling (like foam) yet responsive (like latex). While this model doesn't have pricey cooling technology, the GelFlex grid layer provides exceptional breathability. Some hot sleepers even told us it was too cold in the winter.

    In our tests, it was the clear winner when it came to temperature regulation and easily outperformed several mattresses with specialty cooling materials. Our testers agreed, saying it felt notably cooler than other beds they'd owned, which ultimately led to better sleep. Beyond that, multiple panelists called it "the perfect balance of soft and firm," and some compared it to "sleeping on air."

    Other users also liked how they couldn't feel their partners moving throughout the night due to its motion isolation. Though the setup experience is similar to most boxed mattress, the Purple Mattress felt heavier and was more difficult to maneuver as the polymer grid lacks rigidity and structure.

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Purple Mattress Review

    Mattress typeFoam with polymer grid
    Height9.25 in.
    FirmnessMedium Firm
    Trial period100 days
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    7
    Best Organic Latex

    Avocado Green Mattress

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    Pros

    • Certified organic materials
    • Comfortable and firm support
    • Year-long trial period

    Cons

    • Medium and Soft firmness levels cost extra

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Eco-conscious consumers who prefer organic materials to memory foam or those who enjoy the springy, floating feel of latex. It's also a great choice for those who like a firmer feel.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: Shoppers who prefer the cradling, pressure-relieving feel of memory foam.

    Organic mattresses can be hit or miss, but Avocado's Green Mattress proves you don't need to sacrifice comfort for sustainability. The resilient and bouncy latex contours beautifully to your body without sinking in like memory foam.

    Latex excels in providing comfortable yet firm support. A few panelists highlighted how it helped evenly distribute body weight and commended how well it's lasted over the years, noting no presence of dips or indents. One user shared, "I like that it is supportive and I don't wake up in pain as I have with other mattresses."

    We appreciate the brand's commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality backed up by its notable certifications from the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and the Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS). Still, the mattress is pricey, since latex is more expensive than memory foam, and the Medium and Soft firmness levels cost a bit extra. However, Avocado offers a generous year-long sleep trial.

    For this pick, purchase two Twin XL mattresses to achieve a Split King. (The pricing listed reflects the total cost.)

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Avocado Green Mattress Review

    Mattress typeLatex hybrid
    Height11, 13 or 15.5 in
    FirmnessPlush, Medium or Firm
    Trial period365 days
    8
    Best in a Box

    Casper Original Mattress

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    Credit: Mike Garten

    Pros

    • Easy ordering and DIY setup
    • Users said it maintains its shape over time
    • Excellent customer service

    Cons

    • Pricier than other boxed mattresses

    WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Shoppers who prefer the pressure-relief of memory foam and don't want to wait around for someone to set up their new mattress.

    WHO SHOULD AVOID IT: People who dislike the cradling feel of foam. It was also less well-liked by testers over 40.

    Compared to other foam bed-in-a-box mattresses you'll find, the Casper Original features zoned support to promote spinal alignment with extra give where you need it the most. While this makes it pricier than other boxed foam beds, we think it's well-worth the splurge for the extra support.

    This model was one of the most popular amongst our panelists. And of the more than 250 users who own it, many called attention to how easy it was to order and set up, as well as the brand's excellent customer service.

    Even more praised the approachable, not-too-tall and not-too-short height. One user highlighted how well the bed "conforms to your body." Users also said it maintains its shape over time. Another said, "It helps with motion transfer much more than the old innerspring mattress I had."

    For this pick, purchase two Twin XL mattresses to achieve a Split King. (The pricing listed reflects the total cost.)

    Note: We are currently testing The One model (pictured here), which is similar to the Original without the zoned support. However, you can still buy the Original (which we've extensively tested) on Amazon.

    READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Casper Mattress Review

    Mattress typeMemory foam
    Height11 in.
    FirmnessMedium Firm
    Trial period100 days
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    More split king mattresses to consider

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    We've rounded up the best split king mattresses that we've tested, but here are other great performers from our evaluations to keep in mind.

    • Best on Amazon: While you'll need to buy two Twin XL models, the Tuft & Needle T&N Original Mattress is great for those who need a mattress quickly. It's an all-foam mattress, but our panelists and testers appreciated how supportive and firm it feels compared to the typical cushiony memory foam.
    • Best Adjustable: Ever buy a mattress and wish it were a tad bit softer or firmer? Sleep Number's P6 Smart Bed offers customizable firmness at the touch of a button with a selection of compatible bases (including adjustable options).
    • Best Firm: Our reviewers who prefer firm mattresses praised the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress for its firm feel (offered in both a standard and a pillow-top version) and excellent support.
    • Best Soft: For those who like a soft, pillow-top feel without compromising on support, the Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress won't disappoint. Our testers have compared it to sleeping on a cloud.
    • Best Split Head: Bedgear's M3 Performance Mattress comes in Split Head King and pairs easily with its matching adjustable base, so you're able to elevate your head separately from your sleeping partner without the cost of two separate bases. The mattress is modular, so you'll still have excellent motion isolation without separate mattresses.

    How we evaluate Split King mattresses

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    The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has been testing home products for over 120 years, so it's no surprise that we've reviewed our fair share of mattresses, including Split King beds. As the online mattress industry has boomed over the last decade, our analysts have stayed up-to-date with the latest innovations and tried-and-true models, constantly testing both new and classic styles to see if they're worth the investment.

    In recent years, we've surveyed over 10,000 mattress owners (with different sleep preferences, body types and lifestyles) and worked with consumer testers to review hundreds of models firsthand. Over the past year alone, we've tested over 150 mattresses. Additionally, we leverage our scientific backgrounds and categorical expertise when evaluating everything from materials and structure to brand reputation.

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    a person cuts open a rolled up and compressed mattress
    Good Housekeeping/Jillian Sollazzo

    Assessing long-term feedback from thousands of panelists and testers rewards us with invaluable insight into each mattress. We're able to learn how the experience with one mattress can vary between a wide range of users to better inform you of what truly matters about each model and who it's best-suited for.

    Here's a preview of some key aspects we take into account from our feedback surveys:

    • Ordering and delivery: We ask users to rate and comment on the ease of ordering, how quickly the mattress arrived and whether there were any issues throughout these steps.
    • Setup: Whether the mattress comes with DIY setup or white-glove delivery, users rate how easy the process was and whether the mattress took shape quickly.
    two hands pushing on a foam mattress
    Jill Sollazzo
    • Firmness level: Often, the firmness reported by the brand doesn't match the personal experience of many users. This is why we ask users to rate the firmness of their beds, which helps us understand how soft or firm the mattress feels in real life.
    • Edge support: Users share whether the bed sinks when they sit on the edges or if it holds the shape well under weight.
    • Comfort and support: Reviewers weigh in on whether they liked sleeping on the mattress initially and again later in the review period. They also provide comfort and support ratings as well as detailed comments.
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    a split king mattress in the home of a consumer tester
    Carolyn Forte/Good Housekeeping
    • Temperature: We ask whether respondents stayed at a comfortable body temperature throughout the night on the bed and note whether any cooling features were observed.
    • Sleep quality: Reviewers let us know if the mattress has any effect on their sleep, including whether they wake up sore and whether they are satisfied with the mattress overall. They also compare the mattress with other models they've owned.
    • Additional feedback: Testers also share any specific likes, dislikes and further comments about their experiences.

    What to consider when shopping for a Split King mattress

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    Whether shopping online or in-store, mattresses are tough to decide on. After all, there's no single mattress that's best for everyone. Here's what to think about as you search for a new bed:

    ✔️ Firmness level: When looking through our survey data, the biggest concern for users was finding a mattress with the right firmness level. If you're unsure what firmness is best for you, here are some factors to consider in addition to any personal preferences:

    • Sleep position: A mattress that keeps your spine in a natural, neutral alignment is ideal and can help prevent you from waking up in pain. More often than not, stomach sleepers benefit from a firm bed, side sleepers need a softer mattress and back or combination sleepers are best off somewhere in the middle for optimal alignment.
    • Body type: Heavy people may benefit from a firmer bed for support, while those with lightweight body types are best suited to a softer mattress. Remember: It's important to consider both your size and sleep position when deciding on the right firmness level.

    ✔️ Back pain: A pressure-relieving mattress, like an all-foam or hybrid style, can help provide relief from joint pain. When we interviewed medical experts, many recommended a medium level of firmness for a balance of cushioning and support.

    ✔️ Temperature: Hot sleepers or anyone experiencing night sweats can benefit from a mattress with cooling properties. Some materials like memory foam are known for trapping heat, so if you're set on a foam mattress, choose one with cooling technology like phase change materials, copper particles or gel. A hybrid model is another option since it also uses coils for ventilation. In comparison, innerspring and latex beds tend to feel cooler, thanks to their breathable design and materials.

    ✔️ Trial period: Even if you stop by a mattress store or showroom to lie on your new bed first, it's difficult to know whether a mattress is a good fit without actually sleeping on it for a few months. Because of this, most mattress companies offer an any-reason return period of at least 90 nights, so you can try your bed risk-free. But remember to check whether there are any hidden return fees and how the return process works before purchasing, just in case.

    ✔️ Certifications: You'll likely see a few different emblems when shopping. Here are the most common certifications and what they mean:

    • CertiPUR-US certifies that any foam used in the mattress is made without certain harmful chemicals and has been tested to ensure low VOC emissions.
    • The Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX verifies that any fabric component of the product (such as the outer cover) has been tested to ensure there are no unsafe levels of known harmful chemicals.
    • The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certifies that the mattress follows strict standards throughout the entire production process. GOTS is considered the gold standard for organic mattresses and bedding but may be misused by some brands. Take note that GOTS only certifies whole products and not just one component (e.g., an organic cotton outer cover). If you're on the fence, you can always check the GOTS public database to be sure a brand's claim is accurate.
    • The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) is similar to GOTS but focuses on latex. These two organic certifications are often used together for organic latex mattresses, toppers and pillows.
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    Do I need a special type of mattress for a Split King adjustable bed?

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    Yes. While it's important to use a Split King mattress (or two Twin XL mattresses), you also need to make sure the mattress is compatible with an adjustable bed base. Compatible mattresses are available at any firmness level or price point for the most common mattress materials.

    Note that certain types, such as adjustable air, memory foam, latex and hybrid mattresses, can be more compatible due to the flexibility and durability of their materials. Many innerspring mattresses can also be a good fit, as long as they have individually pocketed coils.

    Also take into account the depth of the mattress, as some bases cannot be used with taller beds (e.g., those above 14 inches in thickness). To make sure you'll be able to use a mattress with an adjustable base, it's best to contact the manufacturer.

    READ MORE: The Best Mattresses for Adjustable Beds

    My partner and I prefer different firmness levels and types of mattresses. Is a Split King mattress the answer?

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    Yes and no. Oftentimes, mattresses only come in one firmness. Even if a brand offers multiple firmness levels, not all Split King mattresses allow you to select different firmness levels for each side. In this case, you may have to buy two Twin XL mattresses at two different firmness levels instead of a Split King to ensure each person has their preferred firmness.

    We recommend sticking to the same mattress model at different firmness levels if you're going the Twin XL route. If you opt for two completely different mattresses, pay close attention to the thickness. They should be the same, otherwise, your bed may look uneven.

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    What are the best sheets to use with a Split King mattress?

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    Split King beds are equivalent to two Twin XL mattresses, so look for a Split King sheet set, which includes two Twin XL fitted sheets, one King-size flat sheet and two King-size pillowcases.

    If sheets don't come in a Split King size, check to see if they're available in Twin XL, which works in a pinch, especially if you plan to forgo the flat sheet, or look for a brand that lets you build your own set by purchasing each component separately.

    Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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    Grace Wu is a textiles product review analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She regularly evaluates mattresses and adjustable beds, coordinates consumer testing and writes about beds for every type of sleeper. Prior to joining GH, Wu earned a Master of Engineering in materials science & engineering and a Bachelor of Science in fiber science from Cornell University.

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    Headshot of Grace Wu
    Grace Wu
    Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst

    Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

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